Current as of: April 25, 2025 - 12:23
Hike Spain’s Picos de Europa Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group
- Destination: Spain
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
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Activity Level:
3 out of 7 - Moderate
- 8 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 16+
- Trip Code: TSQ2
- Carbon Footprint: 13kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Hike the most scenic trails in the peaks of northern Spain, while staying in an authentic mountain town
Go deeper into the Picos de Europa than ever before, hiking rugged mountains watched over by golden eagles and griffon vultures and staying in the heart of an authentic mountain town. Guided by an expert tour leader, we trek through limestone peaks and lush valleys, summiting mountains to gaze over the oldest national park in Spain. Our hotel in Arenas de Cabrales is in the perfect spot to explore the town, while our friendly hosts and tour leader can show us the local people’s favourite restaurants and bars.
Most departures of this adventure are rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate). However, if you want to test yourself, join one of our Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures. See the Itinerary and Dates & Prices tab for more details.
At a Glance
- Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (Hotel la Riviera)
- Five days of walking
- Group normally 4 to 15, plus local leader. Minimum age: 16
- Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures available on selected dates
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
Highlights
- Enjoy cinematic walks in and around the oldest national park in Spain
- Search for chamois, golden eagles and griffon vultures with the help of your tour leader
- Hike through traditional mountain villages in the valleys of Green Spain
- Stay at a welcoming hotel in the heart of Arenas de Cabrales
Is This Trip for You?
Most departures for this trip are rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate). However, we also offer a selection of departures at Activity Level 5 (Challenging), if you wish to ascend the higher peaks. It is important to be assured of your fitness on these departures – check the itinerary and Dates & Prices tab for more details.
For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please contact us.
Itinerary: Over the course of the week, we tackle two classic gorges and one peak in each of the three massifs in the Picos de Europe. Most of the walking is on shepherds’ paths, disused mining paths and some sections of Roman roads, although final ascents can be quite rough underfoot.
Terrain: We walk on mountain paths throughout, and this trip is not advised for severe vertigo sufferers or those uncomfortable with steep drops.
Climate: As in all mountain ranges, the weather is unpredictable and this may affect several walks. With changeable weather, it should be expected that on rare occasions higher-level walks may not be available. Your leader will always try to find a suitable alternative.
Adult min age: 16
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 15
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Arenas de Cabrales
- End City: Arenas de Cabrales
Land Only Itinerary
All departures: Begin the adventure in Arenas de Cabrales
Begin your adventure in Arenas de Cabrales, a small but endearing town that acts as a gateway to the Picos de Europa.
At 6pm, say hola to your tour leader and fellow travellers, when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead.
Your tour leader then ensures a big Spanish welcome by arranging dinner.
Want to explore Arenas de Cabrales further? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.
Activity Level 3 (Moderate) departures: Visit the Arenas de Cabrales valley; pastures of Vanu and spectacular views
The walk begins directly from our hotel. After leaving the village, a path leads us up to the pastures of Vanu with the most famous peaks of Picos de Europa visible on sunny days.
Continue onwards, where the scenery changes and we can view across the main valley of Cabrales. In spring, it’s possible to see a large variety of flowers. Looking skywards it is also possible to spot vultures soaring above.
For lunch, we approach the village of Inguanzo before completing the final part of the walk. This section is more undulating and provides us with fresh views; a comfortable last mile takes us back to Arenas de Cabrales.
Most of this first day’s walk follows wide easy tracks for warming up with some steep ascents. There is only a short section of downhill walking.
Distance: 10mi (16km); ascent: 2,395ft (730m); descent: 2,395ft (730m); duration: seven hours
Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures: Classic Cares Gorge Walk, one of the most popular walks in Spain
The Cares Gorge trail has been described as the jewel in the crown of Spanish hiking. For 7.5mi (12km), the engineered path has been blasted into the rock face. Originally built in the 1940s as part of a hydroelectric scheme, it is now one of the most popular walks in the country. In places, the surrounding peaks rise more than 6,562ft (2,000m) above the path and, if we’re lucky, we glimpse the rare and beautiful wall creeper bird.
The path eventually emerges in the village of Cain, where we lunch before returning along the same path to Puente Poncebos. Transport will be waiting here to take us back to our hotel in Arenas. The walk is relatively flat with a gradual ascent of just 1,148ft (350m) from Puente Poncebos to Cain.
Distance: 15mi (24km); ascent: 1,804ft (550m); descent: 1,804ft (550m); duration: seven hours; highest point: Los Collaos at 1,673ft (510m)
Activity Level 3 (Moderate) departures: Ascent to Pandescura peak with superb views of the western massif
A short transfer takes us to the village of Canales. The first part of the day follows farm tracks before a short climb up to the Collado de los Buitres. If you are lucky, you may see griffon vultures soaring above. We then follow open terrain, slowly ascending to the base of the Pandescura peak. A simple ascent to the top leads us to an ideal lunch spot with superb views of the western massif peaks. We then descend through green hills to the village of Demues.
Distance: 9mi (14km); ascent: 1,804ft (550m); descent: 1,903ft (580m); duration: six hours; highest point: Pandescura peak at 3,281ft (1,000m) above sea level
Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures: Up to the high pastures of Nava; to the summit of Juan Robre; descend back to Arenas de Cabrales
The walk begins directly from our hotel. After leaving the village, an ancient Roman path leads us up to the high pastures of Nava, which in May and June are alive with a sea of flowers. We continue up where the scenery changes, with limestone outcrops jutting out of the landscape. Looking skywards, we may spot eagles and vultures riding the thermals.
The path leads us to the summit of Juan Robre, which rewards us with commanding views of Arenas de Cabrales far below and the jagged peaks of the central massif in the distance. We descend via the Juan Robre ridge, which brings us back to Arenas de Cabrales and an opportunity to sample a refreshing glass of cider.
This walk may be done in the opposite direction according to the weather conditions.
Distance: 9mi (14km); ascent: 2,461ft (750m); descent: 2,461ft (750m); duration: seven hours; highest point: Cabeza Juan Robre at 2,858ft (871m) above sea level
Activity Level 3 (Moderate) departures: Classic Cares Gorge walk, one of the most popular trails in Spain
The Cares Gorge trail has been described as the jewel in the crown of Spanish hiking. For 7.5mi (12km), the engineered path has been blasted into the rock face. Originally built in the 1940s as part of a hydroelectric scheme, it is now one of the most popular walks in the country. In places, the surrounding peaks rise more than 6,562ft (2,000m) above the path and, if we’re lucky, we glimpse the rare and beautiful wall creeper bird.
The path eventually emerges in the village of Cain, where we lunch before returning along the same path to Puente Poncebos. Transport will be waiting here to take us back to our hotel in Arenas. The walk is relatively flat with a gradual ascent of just 1,148ft (350m) from Puente Poncebos to Cain.
Distance: 15mi (24km); ascent: 1,804ft (550m); descent: 1,804ft (550m); duration: seven hours; highest point: Los Collaos at 1,673ft (510m)
Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures: Summit Main range; descend to the area of the Collado de Pandebano then to Bulnes
We start the walk by Tielve village (2,133ft/650m above sea level). An ascent of 3,281ft (1,000m) through hazel and beech woods surrounded by limestone takes us to one of the classic viewpoints of the Picos; the summit of Main range. From the summit, we descend to the area of the Collado de Pandebano with fantastic views of the central massif and the northern valleys.
From here, we start the second part of the descent into the hamlet of Bulnes, which is in the shadow of vast cliffs and its only communications to the exterior used to be old donkey tracks until 2001, when a funicular railway was constructed. Those wishing to end the walk here can take the train to the bottom (approximately €17 per person), while those wishing to continue will follow a small and narrow valley down to the old bridge.
Distance: 9mi (14km); ascent: 3,773ft (1,150m); descent: 4,921ft (1,500m); duration 10 hours; highest point: Cabeza la Mesa at 5,288ft (1,612m)
All departures: Free day. Optional activities include self-guided canoeing, canyoning, or a trip to the coast
Today is free for you to visit the coast, self-guided canoeing, or canyoning. Our local staff can help organise any of these activities.
Activity Level 3 (Moderate) departures: Summit of Peña Main, one of the classic viewpoints of the Picos; continue to Collado de Pandebano
Starting close to the village of Tieve, we walk up into the Main range and summit Peña Main, one of the classic viewpoints in the Picos. We walk to Collado de Pandebano and then begin our descent.
Distance: 7mi (11km); ascent: 3,445ft (1,050m); descent: 2,428ft (740m); duration: seven hours; highest point: Cabeza la Mesa at 5,288ft (1,612m)
Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures: Ascent to the high pastures of Tordin and descend on the Camino de Caoru
A very short transfer takes us to the start of the walk. We initially start walking on a steep farm track for 1mi (1.5km), which then becomes a winding footpath passing through woodland until we reach the open pastures known as Bierru. This is where the local blue cheese (queso Cabrales) is produced. The route then continues steeply up through more woodland until reaching the highest point of the day, the beautiful pastures of Tordin and the imposing entrance to the Cueva la Grayera (Magpie Cave). After, the route starts to gently descend across open terrain to the pastures of Tambrin. From here, we follow the partly cobbled Roman footpath, Camino se Caoru, down into Arenas.
Distance: 9mi (14km); ascent: 3,608ft (1100m); descent: 3,600ft (1,095m); duration: eight hours; highest point: Collado de fuentes viña at 4,012ft (1,223m)
Activity Level 3 (Moderate) departures: Walk to the twin summits of Mancondiu for fantastic views of the central and eastern massifs
At 6,562ft (2,000m), the twin summits of Mancondiu are the highest point we reach during the week. Most of the walking, apart from the last 656ft (200m), is on disused mining tracks. The top offers fantastic views of the central and eastern massifs and is a fantastic end to a diverse week of walking.
Distance: 7mi (11km); ascent: 2,411ft (735m); descent: 2,411ft (735m); duration: five hours; highest point: Macondiu peak at 6,562ft (2,000m)
Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures: Twin summits of Mancondiu; to San Carlos Peak
At 6,562ft (2,000m), the twin summits of Mancondiu are the highest point we reach during the week. Most of the walking, apart from the last 656ft (200m), is on disused mining tracks. The top offers fantastic views of the central and eastern massifs and is a fantastic end to a diverse week of walking. There is the option to traverse between the two peaks across an exposed ridge, but this is not recommended for those who are uncomfortable with steep drops.
From Mancondiu, we can see San Carlos, the next peak we climb. This ascent is easier but longer than Mancondiu and we enjoy views over the valleys and ranges to the south of the Picos. We then backtrack for approximately one hour before we reach an alternative footpath that takes us back to the beginning of the walk.
Distance: 9mi (15km); ascent: 3,871ft (1,180m); descent: 3,871ft (1,180m); duration: nine hours; highest point: San Carlos or Sagrado Corazon at 7,257ft (2,212m)
All departures: Adventure ends in Arenas de Cabrales
After one final breakfast, you begin your return journey home. Of course, if you’d like to continue the adventure, you can always speak to your sales representative and extend your hotel stay.
Ascents, descents and distances: All ascents, descents and distances listed in the daily itinerary have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. However, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these Trips Notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
Hotel la Riviera, Arenas de Cabrales
Our base for this walking adventure is right in the heart of Arenas de Cabrales, a town well-known among the hiking community for acting as the gateway to the Picos range. Rooms are spacious and clean, with views of either the mountains or countryside, while breakfasts are taken communally in the dining room.
With a centrally located spot, we’re able to immerse ourselves in village life, visiting the local people’s favourite restaurants and bars. Our tour leaders know all the top spots, like Café Cares, where you can enjoy a drink with incredible mountain views, or El Rai Tan, a local hotspot with a garden bar and often music.
Worth knowing
- Room upgrades available on a first-come, first-served basis
- Single accommodation is available on request. Paying for a single supplement only guarantees a room for single use and does not under normal circumstances mean a twin or a double for sole occupancy will be provided.
Single supplement from £ 250
Food & Drink
The region has several delicious specialities to try. The area is known for producing gold medal-winning blue cheese, queso Cabrales, which is matured in some of the thousands of deep limestone caves that dot the hills. Lesser known, but equally appealing, is the local lamb cordero al la menta and a wholesome bean stew, fabada Asturiana. Fresh fish comes from the coast at Llanes and Ribadesella, a 30-minute drive away. The local wine is very drinkable, though a glass of local cider can be more refreshing.
Please let us know in advance if you are vegetarian or have any other special dietary requirements.
Transport
Transport, including airport transfers, is usually by private air-conditioned minibus.
Weather & Seasonality
There can be snowfall in the Picos as late as May, and the area is subject to rain at all times of the year (although this typically falls in the evening and rarely affects the walking). From early June to early October, the weather should be very pleasant for walking, though it is rather unpredictable and mists can come in from the coast. Those wishing to join the Picos departures at the beginning and end of the trek season should go prepared for cooler weather. In early June and late September, there may be snow on the upper reaches of the trek.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing around 5pm, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Bilbao (BIO)
Getting to the hotel
The hotel is approximately a 2hr 20min drive from Bilbao Airport. We provide one group transfer from the airport to the hotel, which you can join at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s one group transfer to the airport, which you can join at no extra cost. Please speak to your sales representative for the time of the transfer. If the group transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Arenas de Cabrales
Location end: Arenas de Cabrales
What To Take
Essential Equipment
In addition to your ‘normal’ daily clothes, you will need the following:
- Backpack (25 litre to 30 litre capacity)
- Large refillable water bottle (tap water is safe to drink)
- Walking boots with good ankle support and a strong sole
- Waterproof/windproof jacket (preferably Gore-Tex) and waterproof trousers
- Sunglasses
- Warm two-season jacket or sweater/fleece
- Sun hat, sunscreen and lip salve
- Sandals or slippers for indoors
Optional Equipment
- Warm hat and gloves for departures in spring and autumn
- Walking poles
Practical Information
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Spain
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Spain. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/spain
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/spain
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Spain.html
Vaccinations and Health
Spain
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Local Time
Spain's time zone: Europe/Madrid (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
Spain's electricity: Plug type F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Spain's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
There is an ATM available in Arenas de Cabrales and most places take major credit cards, though cash is generally easier.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
For lunch and dinner on the free day you should allow about €25‐€50 for both; however, this varies depending on which restaurant you choose.
You will also need local currency for extra snacks, drinks and souvenirs bought during the week (about €100 should be sufficient).
Optional excursions
During the free day (numbers/transport permitting) you should have the opportunity to go:
- Canoeing (€45)
- Canyoning (€45)
- To the beach (approximately €16)
Tipping
Although optional, a tip for the leader at the end of the trip is greatly appreciated. As a guideline we recommend a contribution of between €15-€20 per person. It is also customary to leave a tip for the driver and the local staff at the hotel. This can be handed in to your leader at the end of the trip. For the local staff we recommend €10-€15 per person.
Sustainability and Impact
As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.
We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.
This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony though practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.
Important Information
Water safety
This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call us and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Seatbelts
All vehicles used by us should be equipped with working seatbelts, except where approved by us based on the vehicle type or journey. Wherever seatbelts are available, we require our customers to use them for their own safety, even where it may not be a legal requirement.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.