Picos de Europa Hiking Adventure

Typical Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrive in Arenas de Cabrales

   Make your own way from Bilbao, Santander or Oviedo airport to Arenas de Cabrales, a charming gateway town surrounded by rugged limestone peaks.

2. Day 2: Circular Walk from Arenas

   Today, embark on a gentle walk through the meadows and farming hamlets between Arenas and Poo de Cabrales. Follow quiet tracks past stone-walled fields, grazing cattle and traditional grain stores.

   There is an option to extend the hike to Humones Col for sweeping valley views.

   Walking distance: 12 km | Ascent: 560 m | Descent: 560 m

3. Day 3: Walk from Tielve to Sotres

   The day begins with a transfer to Tielve. From here, the path climbs steadily into an enchanting landscape of heather and beech forest. Near Valfríu, the trail passes close to caves still used for the ageing of Cabrales cheese.

   The route crosses open moorland before reaching a high pass at 1,240 metres, before a gradual descent leads to Sotres.  

   Walking distance: 9 km | Ascent: 575 m | Descent: 250 m
    

4. Day 4: Exploring the Eastern Massif on foot

   Set against a backdrop of sharp ridges and vast limestone slopes, today’s circular walk explores the Eastern Massif.

   The path ascends through pale-grey terrain, before the descent passes through narrow gullies before returning to Sotres. It is possible to climb higher, with an optional route to Pico San Carlos, where the view extends across the peaks of the Central Massif. 

   Walking distance: 12 km | Ascent: 550 m | Descent: 840 m

5. Day 5: Walk from Sotres to Vega de Urriellu

   After a transfer to Pandébano Col, walk into the heart of the Picos. The trail climbs steeply on a stone path into a dramatic highland.

   At the head of the valley lies the mountain refuge of Vega de Urriellu, directly beneath the sheer orange walls of Picu Urriellu.

   Once you have reached the refuge, time here is best spent resting among the rocks and soaking in the views. Your return route retraces your steps as you descend to Sotres.

   Walking distance: 18 km | Ascent: 1,000 m | Descent: 1,000 m
    

6. Day 6: Hike from Sotres (3 options)

   There are three walking options to decide between today.

   - Wander the Capercaillie Route through quiet beech forest near Tresviso

   - Follow the wide glacial valley of Áliva beneath limestone cliffs

   - Enjoy a short, peaceful circuit from Sotres itself

   The options vary from 6 km to 19 km, allowing today to be as leisurely or as strenuous as you like.

7. Day 7: Trek Texu Gorge to Poncebos or Cares Gorge

   Today, there are two hiking options: 

   Texu Gorge: The day begins with a climb from Sotres up to open pastures, before the path drops steadily, winding down through alpine meadows towards the isolated hamlet of Bulnes.

   After a short rest, the route continues through the narrow Texu Gorge, before reaching Poncebos.

   Distance: 13 km | Ascent: 425 m | Descent: 1,100 m 

   Cares Gorge: Request to transfer with your luggage and be dropped off in Poncebos. From here, follow a trail through the renowned Cares Gorge.

   This hiking route leads you past jagged peaks and deep into the limestone canyon, and is considered one of Spain’s most dramatic walks.

   Distance: 26 km | Ascent: 600 m | Descent: 600 m    
    

8. Day 8: Journeys end

   After breakfast, your holiday comes to an end; make your own way to the airport or your onward destination. Transfers can be arranged for a supplement. 

   If you wish to extend your holiday, our travel consultants can offer an extension in either resort to embark on extra hikes, or for time at leisure.

   Contact us to discuss your options.