Hike Spain’s Picos de Europa

Experience Overview

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.
Profile
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (Hotel la Rivera) — 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
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (Hotel la Rivera) — 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
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.
Eating Drinking
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.
Transportation
Transport, including airport transfers, is usually by private air-conditioned minibus.
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.
Weather Information
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.
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.

Highlights