Picos de Europa

The Picos de Europa are among the most dramatic mountains in Spain, a compact national park of soaring grey limestone peaks, deep gorges and green valleys close to the wild northern coast. Possibly named the peaks of Europe as the first sight of Europe for ships arriving from the Americas, they offer spectacular walking, the famous Cares Gorge trail and a cable car soaring up sheer cliffs at Fuente De.

Highlights

• The Fuente De cable car - the ride up sheer cliffs to a high viewpoint.
• The Cares Gorge - the famous trail cut into the walls of a deep gorge.
• The Covadonga lakes - the mountain lakes and the shrine at Covadonga.
• The green valleys - the villages and pastures beneath the peaks.

When to go

Summer, from June to September, for the best walking weather and open trails; the north is wet and cloud can shroud the peaks any time. Spring brings green valleys and waterfalls.

Practical notes

The northern climate is wet and changeable, so cloud and rain can hide the peaks even in summer. It is walking and mountain country, so a car and some effort are needed to enjoy it. The famous spots like Covadonga can be busy and access sometimes limited in peak season.

Nearby

The green Asturian and Cantabrian coast is close; Oviedo and Santander are within reach.

Key facts