Picos de Europa Hiking

Top 5 Picos de Europa Hiking Trails

1. Pandescura Peak
From the village of Canales, head through open farmland up to Collado de los Buitres before beginning the ascent to the base of Pandescura Peak. This distinctive limestone peak stands inside the western massif and during the hike you’ll ascend on goat tracks and through pretty meadows before tackling the summit. The final push to the top is worth the effort in return for the views across the valley and the western massif. This is one of the more tranquil and quieter treks in the Picos de Europa, where the only sounds you’ll hear are goat bells, and griffin vultures soaring overhead.

2. Main Range
Tielve village is the starting point for this hike. To reach the summit of the Main Range, where you’ll find one of the best viewpoints in the entire Picos de Europa, you’ll hike through peaceful woodland where you’re hugged by ancient hazel and beech trees. The track gradually steepens as you ascend to the summit of the Main Range. From this classic vantage point, you’ll be greeted with uninterrupted views of the central massif and the valleys below.

3. Lakes of Covadonga
This is one of the more challenging hikes in the national park, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. En route, it’s worth visiting the Covadonga Sanctuary, which consists of a holy cave built into the mountains, a grand basilica, a museum and a church. Continuing your hike, the trails are enveloped by awe-inspiring scenery that lead to the glacial lakes of Enol and Ercina. These natural wonders form the Lakes of Covadonga and in the warmer months when they thaw, a third lake named Bricial is created. Framing each of the lakes you’ll find dramatic peaks and lush landscapes covered in wildflowers.

4. Twin summits of Mancondiu
The trek to the twin summits of Mancondiu is one of the most demanding in the Picos de Europa mountains and they stand over 6,000 feet high. Much of the route follows old mining tracks that wind through dramatic scenery dominated by the western massif which looms over verdant valleys below. On reaching the summits of Mancondiu, the most arresting vista of the eastern and central massifs open up. Although there is the opportunity to cross between the two peaks, there is a steep drop below the exposed ridge which can be extremely daunting for anyone that doesn’t have a head for heights.

5. Cares Gorge Hike
Also known as the Divine Gorge, the Cares Gorge hike follows an engineered track around the rockface and is considered one of the most spectacular in the Picos de Europa. As well as the beautiful scenery, there are thrilling adventures around every twist and turn. During the trek you’ll be blessed with immense views of the limestone peaks, and you’ll cross over impressive bridges along the river trail. There’s also the opportunity to explore the mountain caves and tunnels, and you might even encounter a wild goat or the rare creeper bird on your journey.

Where is Picos de Europa?

The Picos de Europa is a mountain range located in northern Spain, spanning the regions of Asturias, Cantabria, and Castilla y León. It is part of the larger Cantabrian Mountains and lies close to the northern coast of Spain, near the Bay of Biscay. The range is renowned for its dramatic limestone peaks, deep gorges, and lush valleys, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The Picos de Europa also holds the distinction of being one of Spain’s first national parks, established in 1918.

Does Picos de Europa have good hiking?

Yes, the Picos de Europa is renowned for its excellent hiking opportunities. The region offers a diverse range of trails that cater to all levels of hikers, from beginners to seasoned adventurers. The landscape is marked by dramatic limestone peaks, deep gorges, and lush valleys, providing stunning scenery along every path.