The Picos de Europe (“Peaks of Europe”) are a little-known gem of a mountain range in Northern Spain and a mecca for hikers and climbers. Explore this wild and exciting landscape on foot and enjoy the nature, culture, and gastronomy of the region.

The limestone peaks form a jagged skyline whilst the deep valleys and green pastures support abundant wildlife including bears, wolves, chamois, golden eagle, lammergeier vultures, the alpine newt, and yellow-flashing salamanders. You also will enjoy the stunning coastline, staying in the beautiful medieval coastal town of Llanes, with its superb range of restaurants and delightful beaches.

The area is also steeped in history; ancient man lived here as did the Romans, Celts, and others, and it is here at the Royal site of Covadonga deep in the mountains in 722 when the Christian Spanish began to fight back against the Moorish invaders to establish the Kingdom of Asturias, the first Christian realm founded after the Muslim conquest.

Highlights:

• Explore charming Picos towns: Potes, Riano & Cangas de Onis
• Stay a night in the heart of the mountains in comfortable refuge accommodation
• Unspoiled national park with bears, wolves, chamois, deer, and more
• Varied and stunning day trails: Cares Gorge, Majadas, Horcados Rojos Summit & Fuente Dé

Seasonal Notes: This ‘intermediate’-level hiking adventure can take place from spring to autumn. Please note we have multiple departures available – see all dates listed under “COVID Precautions”.

Spain is known for its high temperatures and dry climate, but the lush green valleys and abundant wildlife of the Picos are thanks to a higher rainfall than other areas of the country. Rainfall is higher from late Autumn to early spring, resulting in warm, drier days, and depending on your altitude, the possibility of cooler mornings and evenings.

For access to the higher trails, the best time to visit the Picos is from June to September so we have taken this into account in deciding when to run departures. Autumn is particularly breathtaking in the woodlands, hills, and mountains due to the changing colors so we recommend considering the September dates available.

As we all know, weather can be unpredictable regardless of the season and is very changeable in mountain areas, so we recommend dressing in layers, and bringing waterproof sunscreen and a sun hat (we provide you with a packing list).