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Perfect walking holiday in Spain, third highest mountain range, the Picos de Europa is a region of dramatic limestone peaks, lush valleys and stunning visual backdrops in limestone mountains. picos de Europa is the best destination for a short hiking holiday. Join Us for upcoming trip.
Picos de Europa Trek: Europe’s Hidden Himalayan Gem
Walking Picos de Europa unlocks some of Spain’s most dramatic mountain culture and landscapes—culminating in an unforgettable hike to the base of the iconic Naranjo de Bulnes (Picu Urriellu). The crown jewel? Trekking along breathtaking cliff-cut pathways through the divine Cares Gorge—a spectacular 1000m-deep, 12-kilometre canyon carved through towering limestone peaks, with sweeping views that rival anything you’ll find in the Himalayas.
The Picos de Europa holds a special place in Spanish history—it was Spain’s first National Park, established in the early 20th century. This dramatic limestone massif rises dramatically from the northern coast, reaching heights of 2,648m. Shaped by millennia of glacial erosion and river valleys cutting through ancient stone, the mountains create a natural barrier to Atlantic weather systems. What makes it truly special? Unlike most of Spain, the Picos are lush and green—forested foothills burst with extraordinary biodiversity. It genuinely feels like stepping into the Himalayas, yet with far fewer crowds and a refreshingly authentic Spanish charm.
The variety of walks here is remarkable: from gentle foothills strolls to challenging peak routes. What’s remarkable is the solitude—some days you won’t meet another soul on the trail. Many classic routes were historically the only access to remote villages 30 years ago. Today, these ancient pathways wind through beautifully preserved villages and hidden valleys, offering a fascinating window into Spanish mountain life unchanged for generations. Between walks, you’ll discover:
Our yearly Picos de Europa group tours blend adventure with authentic culture, leisurely meals, and genuine connections. You’ll trek alongside like-minded adventurers, creating friendships that last. Our itineraries are carefully structured with rest days and leisure time—this isn’t a grueling endurance test; it’s a balanced walking holiday designed for real people seeking real adventure.
Whether you’re an experienced trekker or discovering mountain travel for the first time, the Picos de Europa offers the perfect blend of challenge, beauty, and discovery.
Ready to experience Europe’s Himalayan secret? Join us.
Itinerary
Picos de Europa Hiking Adventure Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival – The Beginning
Upon arrival at Santander Airport, participants will be met and transferred to Espinama, our base camp for the Picos adventure. Overnight accommodation is arranged at Hostel Navandi, a welcoming family-run guesthouse. In the evening, we gather for a welcome dinner and trip introduction.
Day 2: Fuente Dé – First Hiking Day
After a short 5-minute transfer from Espinama, we reach Fuente Dé, the base station of the famous cable car. The ride takes us 500 meters higher into the mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views. At the summit, with café and restroom facilities available, we prepare our gear and begin our hike. Today’s trek lasts approximately 4–5 hours. Our accommodation tonight is in the charming village of Sotres, where we stay in a traditional guesthouse.
Day 3: Sotres to Pico Urriellu
From Sotres, we transfer to the hamlet of Pandébano and begin our ascent to Collado Vallejo (1,500 m). Here, the impressive silhouette of Naranjo de Bulnes (Pico Urriellu, 2,519 m) comes into view—the most iconic peak of the Picos de Europa. We continue to the mountain refuge at its base (2,000 m), where we pause for lunch and the chance to watch climbers attempting its vertical face. In the afternoon, we retrace our steps back to Pandébano, where transport will return us to Sotres for the night.
Day 4: Exploring the Village of Bulnes
Today’s route is a gentle downhill walk to the picturesque village of Bulnes. The trek takes around 3 hours, though wet weather may make the trail more challenging. Upon arrival, we enjoy a hearty riverside lunch, followed by time to relax or explore the village on foot. Overnight stay in a beautiful guesthouse in Bulnes.
Day 5: The Ruta del Cares – Bulnes to Caín Village
One of the highlights of the trip, today we hike the famous Ruta del Cares, also known locally as Garganta del Cares. This spectacular 14 km trail follows the dramatic gorge between Poncebos (Asturias) and Caín (León). The path is carved into the rock, winding through tunnels, crossing bridges, and tracing the wild Cares River, with towering cliffs on either side. The hike offers unforgettable scenery and one of the most iconic routes in Spain. Tonight, we stay at a guesthouse in the charming mountain village of Caín.
Day 6: From Caín to Espinama
We ascend from Caín, crossing a scenic mountain pass on our way back to Espinama. The day’s hike offers rewarding views of the high peaks and valleys before we return to Hostel Navandi for a comfortable evening and warm hospitality.
Day 7: Coastal Escape – San Vicente de la Barquera
After breakfast, we enjoy a relaxed 3-hour morning hike, finishing around noon. From here, we transfer to the coastal town of San Vicente de la Barquera for an afternoon of seaside leisure. Options include paddle boarding, swimming, or simply relaxing on the beach. In the evening, we gather for a farewell dinner celebration by the sea. Overnight in San Vicente.
Day 8: Departure
Following breakfast, we transfer to Santander Airport for your onward journey back to Dublin.
Price includes
- 1 arrival dinner
- Arrival night dinner.
Price excludes
- Flights tickets from Dublin and return
- Insurance of any kind
- Extra or early night hotels accommodation
- Drinks(alcohol)
- Pack lunch
- Cable car fare.(11 euro)
- No dinners except on arrival night.
- Tips to the guide.
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