Picos de Europa Travel Guide: Spain’s Wild Mountain Paradise

Nestled in northern Spain, the Picos de Europa National Park is a breathtaking blend of rugged peaks, green valleys, glacial lakes, and remote mountain villages. Less commercialized than the Pyrenees or the Alps, it remains one of Europe’s most authentic natural paradises.
 

As your guide, let me show you why the Picos should be at the top of your Spain adventure list — whether you’re a hiker, wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking to reconnect with nature.

📍 Where Is Picos de Europa?

Location: Northern Spain, spanning the regions of Asturias, Cantabria, and Castile and León

Part of: The Cantabrian Mountains

Nearest Cities: Cangas de Onís, Potes, and Llanes

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve: Yes

🏞️ Highlights of Picos de Europa

1. Covadonga Lakes (Lagos de Covadonga)

Glacial lakes Enol and Ercina, located in the western massif

A must-visit for first-timers — accessible via a scenic mountain road

Surrounded by pastoral meadows and grazing cows

2. Fuente Dé Cable Car

In the central massif (Cantabria side), this cable car ascends 753 meters in just 4 minutes

Offers panoramic views over the Liébana Valley and snow-capped peaks

Base for many trekking routes and summit climbs

3. Cares Gorge (Ruta del Cares)

The most iconic hike in the park

Carved between steep limestone cliffs, this 12 km route follows the Cares River from Caín to Poncebos

Considered one of the most spectacular walks in Europe

4. Naranjo de Bulnes (Picu Urriellu)

The park’s most famous peak, standing at 2,519 meters

A vertical limestone monolith popular among experienced climbers

Visible from multiple points and a great photo spot

🚶‍♂️ Top Hiking Trails in Picos de Europa

Whether you’re a casual walker or a serious trekker, there’s a trail here for everyone:

✅ Beginner-Friendly

Senda del Arcediano – Follows an ancient Roman road with gentle elevation

Vega de Ario Route – Panoramic views of the lakes and surrounding peaks

Covadonga Lakes Circular Trail – Easy route with interpretive panels

✅ Intermediate

Ruta del Cares – 12 km one-way; flat but long; stunning cliffside walk

Vega de Urriellu from Sotres – Moderate ascent to the base of Naranjo de Bulnes

✅ Advanced

Peña Vieja from Fuente Dé – High mountain hike with steep, rocky sections

Refugio Jou de los Cabrones Trail – For experienced mountaineers

🐏 Wildlife and Nature in Picos de Europa

The park is rich in biodiversity:

Chamois (rebeco) – Agile mountain goats often seen on high cliffs

Cantabrian brown bears and wolves – Rare and elusive residents of the remote forests

Griffon vultures and golden eagles – Commonly spotted circling the skies

Beech, oak, and yew forests – Flourishing in the valleys and gorges

Spring and early summer are ideal for wildflowers and active wildlife.

🏘️ Charming Villages to Visit

🏡 Cangas de Onís (Asturias)

Gateway to the Covadonga Lakes

Home to the iconic Roman Bridge with the hanging Victory Cross

Excellent base for visitors arriving from Oviedo or Gijón

🏡 Potes (Cantabria)

Medieval mountain village surrounded by peaks

Narrow cobbled streets, stone bridges, and traditional taverns

Access to Fuente Dé cable car and the eastern massif

🏡 Bulnes (Asturias)

Remote village accessible only via funicular or hiking trail

No cars, just stone houses, grazing sheep, and peace

Perfect for those seeking total tranquility

🛌 Where to Stay in Picos de Europa

🏨 Luxury

Parador de Cangas de Onís – Historic monastery turned luxury hotel

Hotel del Oso (near Potes) – Rustic elegance with mountain views

🛏️ Mid-Range

Hotel Rebeco (Fuente Dé) – Right next to the cable car station

Hotel La Cepada (Cangas de Onís) – Panoramic views and great dining

🏡 Budget / Rural

Casa Rural Peña Sagra – Affordable countryside guesthouse

Camping Lagos de Somiedo – For outdoor lovers and budget travelers

🍴 Local Food to Try

Picos de Europa is a gastronomic destination in its own right, famous for hearty mountain cuisine:

Queso de Cabrales – Strong blue cheese aged in mountain caves

Fabada Asturiana – Rich bean stew with chorizo and black pudding

Lechazo (roast lamb) – Local specialty in Castile and León

Cachopo – Large breaded veal with ham and cheese

Sidra Asturiana – Traditional cider poured from a height

Many local eateries are family-run and serve dishes based on time-honored recipes.

🚗 How to Get to Picos de Europa

By Car

From Oviedo: ~1.5 hours

From Santander: ~2 hours

From León: ~2.5 hours

A car is highly recommended for flexibility and access to remote areas

By Public Transport

Buses run from Oviedo, Santander, and León to towns like Cangas de Onís and Potes

Access to inner parts of the park may require taxis or hikes

🌦️ When to Visit

☀️ Summer (June–September)

Best weather, especially for high-altitude hikes

Popular with tourists, especially in August

🌸 Spring (April–June)

Lush landscapes, blooming wildflowers, fewer crowds

Some high trails may still have snow

🍂 Autumn (September–October)

Beautiful foliage, mild temperatures

Great for photography and food festivals

❄️ Winter (November–March)

Snow-covered peaks and tranquil scenes

Limited trail access; best for snowshoeing or remote stays

📸 Best Viewpoints in Picos de Europa

Mirador del Cable (Fuente Dé) – From the cable car station

Mirador del Rey (Covadonga Lakes) – Overlooking Enol and Ercina

Mirador de Piedrasluengas – Panoramic views of Liébana Valley

Mirador de Ordiales – Spectacular overlook above the Vega de Enol

🎉 Local Culture and Festivals

Fiesta del Pastor (July) – Shepherd celebration in Covadonga

Feast of Our Lady of Covadonga (Sept 8) – Major pilgrimage event

Cheese festivals – Held in Cabrales and surrounding villages

🏕️ Tips for Visiting Picos de Europa

Pack layers – Weather can change rapidly in the mountains

Bring good hiking boots – Trails range from easy to alpine-grade

Start early – Popular spots like Covadonga get crowded by late morning

Respect local customs – Many villages are traditional and quiet

No plastic – Carry reusable bottles and reduce waste in this fragile ecosystem

🌄 Final Thoughts: Why Visit Picos de Europa?

The Picos de Europa is more than just a national park — it's a wild and soulful escape into Spain’s untamed natural heart. Whether you're summiting a peak, tasting cave-aged cheese, or gazing across a glacial lake in solitude, you’ll find yourself humbled and inspired by this lesser-known gem.

Add the Picos de Europa to your itinerary and discover why it’s one of Europe’s best-kept secrets for nature lovers and hikers alike.