Walking the Picos de Europa
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the enchanting landscapes of the Picos de Europa. This immersive journey takes you from the charming town of Arenas de Cabrales to the breathtaking peaks and valleys that define this iconic region. Each day offers a new adventure, from scenic hikes and panoramic vistas to cultural encounters and leisure activities. With comfortable accommodations and expert guidance, this tour promises a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, leaving you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Included
All breakfasts, five picnic lunches and six dinners are included.
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.
Breakfast: fruit juice, tea, freshly ground coffee, cereals, bread, cold meats, cheeses and a selection of local fruit (depending on season) offered buffet-style. There are also eggs cooked to order, sponge and anise cake.
Lunch: generally includes a large bread roll, with a choice of fillings daily, chocolates and fresh fruit.
Dinner: a homemade four-course meal usually consists of soup or salad to start, a choice of three main courses (meat, fish or vegetarian) and a homemade dessert.
Wine: to accompany the evening meal, the hotel has a reasonably comprehensive wine list.
Over the years, the hotel has developed tasty vegetarian alternatives. Please let us know in advance if you are vegetarian or have any other special dietary requirements.
vegetarian, vegan, meat
Transport, including airport transfers, is usually by private air-conditioned minibus.
Hotel Torrecerredo is a 19-room, family-run hotel in the rural village of Arenas de Cabrales. It is ideally situated for our adventure: a 30 minute drive to the Picos de Europa mountains and a five-minute walk from the village centre.
It has a garden terrace attached to the cafe-bar and the restaurant has views of the Picos mountains. The hotel also has a residents lounge with lots of comfortable seating, where you can enjoy more mountain views. Every evening, owners Pilar and Jim serve home-cooked traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, which you can enjoy with a glass or two of local wine.
Amenities
Restaurant serving traditional Asturian dishes
Bar/cafeteria for light snacks and drinks (open every day)
Residents lounge to relax in the evenings
Worth knowing
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.
Tour leader throughout
5 days centre-based walking; 1 free day
Group normally 4 to 16, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs
Altitude maximum 2214m, average 1000m
Challenging departures available
Reasonable fitness required
Destinations
LlanesMap
Attractions
Casino of Llanes
Peña TúDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Arenas de Cabrales
Day 1: Arrival in Arenas de Cabrales
- Puerto de Pandetrave
- More
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Picos de Europa, the quaint town of Arenas de Cabrales welcomes you as the gateway to your adventure. Upon arrival, settle into your cozy accommodation at a local hotel (or similar). As the sun sets, join your fellow travelers for a welcome briefing, setting the tone for the exciting days ahead. This is your chance to meet your guide and fellow adventurers, and to immerse yourself in the spirit of exploration.
Day 2 – Day 2: Trekking Through Cabrales
- Llanes
- More
- Nueva (Asturias)
- El Chorco de los Lobos
- More
Embark on a scenic trek directly from your hotel, ascending through lush pastures with the iconic peaks of Picos de Europa as your backdrop. As you traverse the landscape, marvel at the vibrant spring flora and the graceful vultures soaring above. Pause for a delightful lunch in the charming village of Inguanzo, before completing your loop back to Arenas de Cabrales. This invigorating hike offers a perfect blend of gentle trails and challenging ascents, setting the stage for the adventures to come.
Day 3 – Day 3: Ascend to Pandescura
- Llanes
- More
- Parque Natural del Malecón
- Collado de Llesba
- More
A short transfer brings you to the tranquil village of Canales, where your day's journey begins. Traverse farm tracks and ascend to the Collado de los Buitres, where griffon vultures may grace the skies. Continue your ascent to the summit of Pandescura Peak, a perfect lunch spot with panoramic views of the western massif. Descend through verdant hills to the village of Demues, completing a day filled with breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes.
Day 4 – Day 4: Explore the Cares Gorge
Day 4: Explore the Cares Gorge
- Casino of Llanes
- More
Embark on the renowned Cares Gorge Trail, a marvel of engineering carved into the rock face. As you traverse this iconic path, be awed by the towering peaks and the possibility of spotting the elusive wall creeper bird. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the village of Cain before retracing your steps to Puente Poncebos. A comfortable transport awaits to return you to your hotel in Arenas, concluding a day of awe-inspiring natural beauty.
Day 5 – Day 5: Leisure and Adventure
Day 5: Leisure and Adventure
Today is yours to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to visit the nearby coast, embark on a self-guided canoeing adventure, or try your hand at canyoning, the possibilities are endless. Our local staff is on hand to assist in organizing your chosen activities, ensuring a day of relaxation or exhilaration tailored to your preferences.
Day 6 – Day 6: Summit Peña Main
Day 6: Summit Peña Main
- Collado de Llesba
- Peña Tú
- More
Begin your ascent from the village of Tieve, venturing into the heart of the Picos de Europa. Reach the summit of Peña Main, a classic viewpoint offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding peaks. Descend via the Collado de Pandebano, completing a day of exhilarating climbs and rewarding panoramas.
Day 7 – Day 7: Conquer the Mancondiu Peaks
Day 7: Conquer the Mancondiu Peaks
- Fayéu Peloñu
- More
Embark on a journey to the twin summits of Mancondiu, the highest point of your week-long adventure. Traverse disused mining tracks, culminating in a final ascent that rewards you with breathtaking views of the central and eastern massifs. This triumphant climb marks a fitting conclusion to a week of diverse and unforgettable hiking experiences.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure
Day 8: Departure
Savor one last breakfast in Arenas de Cabrales before beginning your journey home. Should you wish to extend your stay and continue exploring, our team is ready to assist with arrangements, ensuring your adventure doesn't have to end just yet.
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