The best mountain hikes in Asturias

Asturias offers a wide array of mountaineering opportunities, with over 10 routes detailed in this guide alone. The region's diverse landscapes, from the Picos de Europa to Somiedo Natural Park, provide countless options for exploration.

While many routes in Asturias are challenging, there are some options suitable for those new to mountaineering. For example, the View of the Picos de Europa loop from Arenas de Cabrales is rated as moderate, offering a good introduction to the region's stunning scenery without extreme difficulty. It's always recommended to choose routes that match your experience level and fitness.

Mountaineering in Asturias primarily involves dramatic limestone massifs, deep gorges, and glacial valleys, especially within the Picos de Europa National Park. You'll encounter varied terrain, from rocky paths and steep ascents to high-mountain traverses. Areas like Somiedo Natural Park also feature pristine lakes and traditional 'brañas' (highland pastures).

Yes, you can access the base of the iconic Picu Urriellu, also known as Naranjo de Bulnes. A challenging route like the Collado Valleju – Picu Urriellu loop from Fuente del Monte will take you to its impressive base. This peak is a symbol of Spanish mountaineering, known for its formidable vertical faces. For more information on its significance, you can visit Wikipedia.

While not directly included in this guide's specific mountaineering routes, the Lakes of Covadonga (Lago Enol and Lago Ercina) are a popular hiking destination within the Picos de Europa National Park, offering numerous trails. You can explore these beautiful glacial lakes, such as Lago Enol and Lake Ercina, as a separate excursion.

The dramatic Cares Gorge, often called 'the Divine Gorge,' is a must-see. The Tunnels on the Ruta del Cares loop from Estaciòn inferior Poncebos (Funicular de Bulnes) is a challenging mountaineering route that leads through this spectacular canyon, featuring tunnels carved into the rock and breathtaking views. Be aware that some sections are not suitable for those with a fear of heights.

Yes, many of the mountaineering routes in Asturias are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Bulnes Village loop from Estaciòn inferior Poncebos and the Sotres – El Cable Viewpoint loop from Sotres, which offer varied distances and elevations.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Mountaineers often praise the dramatic landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding trails, and the sense of immersion in pristine nature, particularly within the Picos de Europa. The diverse terrain and stunning viewpoints are frequently highlighted.

While many mountaineering routes in Asturias are demanding, some areas offer family-friendly options. For instance, the Senda del Oso (Bear's Path), though not a high-mountain mountaineering route, is a popular rail-trail suitable for families, featuring lush forests and a bear enclosure. When choosing a mountaineering route, always check the difficulty and elevation profiles to ensure it's appropriate for all family members.

Asturias offers routes with significant elevation gains. For example, the Picu Urriellu – Collado Valleju loop from Estaciòn inferior Poncebos involves an ascent of over 1,700 meters, providing a substantial challenge and access to high-mountain environments. Another demanding option is the Peña Ubiña – Refugio del Meicín loop from Tuíza, with over 1,100 meters of elevation gain.

Many natural parks in Asturias, including parts of the Picos de Europa, have regulations regarding dogs, often requiring them to be on a leash to protect wildlife. It's advisable to check specific park rules or local signage for each route. Generally, dogs are welcome on many trails, but responsible pet ownership is crucial.

Absolutely! Many routes provide spectacular views of the Picos de Europa. The View of the Picos de Europa loop from Arenas de Cabrales is specifically designed to showcase these breathtaking vistas. Other routes, such as those leading to Bulnes Village or the base of Picu Urriellu, also offer panoramic views of the massif.

The best time for mountaineering in Asturias is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally more stable, and trails are free of snow at lower to mid-altitudes. Summer offers longer daylight hours, but also more crowds. Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out, as mountain weather can change rapidly.