The best walks and hikes in Ancares - Courel
4.3
(209)
1,498
hikers
24
hikes
Hiking in Ancares - Courel, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in northwestern Spain, offers access to rugged highland landscapes, deep river valleys, and pristine forests. The region features significant peaks like Pico Cuiña and Pico O Mostallar, with elevations ranging from riverbeds at 984 feet to mountain peaks of 6,348 feet. Ancient oak, chestnut, and beech woodlands, including the Devesa da Rogueira, characterize the terrain, alongside high-altitude grasslands and moorlands. Deep river valleys, sculpted by the Ancares, Burbia, and Cúa rivers, form a crucial part of its geography.
Best hiking trails in Ancares - Courel
- The most popular hiking route is Pico O Mostallar – circular from Piornedo – Sierra de Ancares, a 8.1 miles (13.0 km) trail that takes 4 hours 44 minutes to complete. This difficult route offers expansive panoramic views over Galicia and León.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Pico dos Tres Bispos Loop Trail, a difficult 11.8 miles (18.9 km) path. This trail provides stunning mountain vistas across the Ancares range.
- Local hikers also love the Devesa da Rogueira Trail, a 7.6 miles (12.2 km) trail leading through diverse ancient woodlands, often completed in about 4 hours 42 minutes.
- Hiking in Ancares - Courel is defined by rugged highland landscapes, deep river valleys, and ancient woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate to difficult.
- The routes in Ancares - Courel are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. More than 600 hikers have used komoot to explore Ancares - Courel's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
3.8
(5)
48
hikers
13.0km
04:44
830m
830m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.7
(7)
29
hikers
18.9km
05:59
770m
770m
Hike the difficult 11.8-mile Pico dos Tres Bispos Loop Trail in Sierra de los Ancares, gaining 2537 feet with stunning mountain views.
Sign up for free
5.0
(6)
26
hikers
12.2km
04:42
890m
880m
Hike the Devesa da Rogueira Trail, a moderate 7.6-mile route in the Courel Mountains UNESCO Global Geopark, known for its diverse forests an
5.0
(1)
3
hikers
17.2km
05:35
780m
780m
Hike the difficult 10.7-mile Lagoa da Lucenza Route in Serra do Courel, featuring a glacial lake, Pico Formigueiros, and waterfalls.
2
hikers
16.5km
05:07
610m
610m
Hike the difficult 10.3-mile Route of Gold and Iron through Montañas do Courel Geopark, exploring mining history and cultural landmarks.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The hostel is abandoned but it is a good place to park.
0
0
In the place of Margaride de Lor, visitors will find what is known as 'Covas do Medo', within what is known as 'Complexo Aurífero do Medo', a set of remains of the mining activity of the Romans in this region of Lugo, nestled in the Courel Mountains Xeopark.
11
0
This church was mostly built in the 17th century, a building of humble dimensions and characteristics. It has a central nave covered with two waters and a chancel with a wooden structure. On the façade we can see how a humble belfry with two bays rises. Inside, the semicircular arch that leads to the presbytery stands out and is reminiscent of a Romanesque past, then we see a major altarpiece from the late 18th century of Baroque invoice with the sculptures of Santiago Apóstol (on horseback) Saint Peter and the Angel de la Guardia, this church also has a side altarpiece in neoclassical style. The church was formerly attached to the commission of San Xoán and later to that of Barxa de Lor.
10
0
The ancient mines of Medo are a site of the Roman Empire located in Margaride, a town located on the banks of the Lor River, between the Augalevada mountain range and the Aldriz hill. The purpose of these mines was to modify the water flows in the area in order to break the ground through the galleries and extract the mineral.
2
0
Small and humble temple built in the 17th century consisting of a central nave covered with two waters and a main chapel with a wooden structure.
3
0
Accommodation to sleep in the heart of the Os Ancares Natural Park.
1
0
At an altitude of 1,794 meters, at the point where Galicia delimits Castilla and León, the top of Pico dos Tres Bispos offers beautiful views over the Serra dos Ancares.
4
1
At the highest point of the Courel mountain range is the Formigueiros peak, at an altitude of 1,639 meters. The ascent through low difficulty trails leads to the top where you can see a beautiful panoramic view of Teso das Papoulas, Pico Polín and Devesa da Rogueira.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Ancares - Courel?
Ancares - Courel offers a diverse network of over 20 hiking trails. These range from easy strolls to challenging mountain expeditions, ensuring options for various fitness levels and preferences.
Are there any easy hiking routes suitable for beginners or families in Ancares - Courel?
Yes, Ancares - Courel has 5 easy hiking routes perfect for beginners or families. These trails allow you to experience the region's natural beauty without overly strenuous climbs. While specific easy routes are not listed in the provided data, the region's diverse terrain ensures accessible options.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Ancares - Courel?
Hikers in Ancares - Courel will encounter a stunning variety of landscapes. The region is characterized by rugged highland scenery, deep river valleys carved by rivers like the Ancares, Burbia, and Cúa, and extensive ancient woodlands. You'll find oak, chestnut, and beech forests, high-altitude grasslands, and moorlands, with dramatic peaks like Pico Cuiña offering expansive views.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Ancares - Courel?
Yes, the region offers several circular routes. For a challenging experience with panoramic views, consider the Pico O Mostallar – circular from Piornedo – Sierra de Ancares. Another difficult option with stunning mountain vistas is the Pico dos Tres Bispos Loop Trail.
What are some notable natural attractions or landmarks I can see on a hike?
Ancares - Courel is rich in natural and cultural landmarks. You can discover the unique biodiversity of the Devesa da Rogueira Trail, known for its ancient woodlands. For geological wonders, look for the spectacular Campodola-Leixazós fold. You might also encounter the Deer Spring Waterfall or the ancient Ancient Chestnut Tree in Ramil.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls in Ancares - Courel?
Yes, you can find waterfalls in the region. The Lagoa da Lucenza Route, a challenging hike, features a glacial lake and waterfalls. Additionally, the Deer Spring Waterfall is a notable natural highlight in the area.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Ancares - Courel?
The best time to hike in Ancares - Courel is generally during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons offer more favorable weather conditions for exploring the rugged terrain and enjoying the lush forests and mountain views. Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn showcases vibrant fall colors in the ancient woodlands.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Ancares - Courel?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 80 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil wilderness, the authenticity of the experience, and the stunning panoramic views from peaks like Pico O Mostallar. The diverse forests and traditional villages also contribute to a memorable hiking experience.
Can I explore the region's cultural heritage while hiking?
Absolutely. Ancares - Courel is rich in cultural heritage. Many trails pass through traditional villages like Piornedo and O Cebreiro, where you can see distinctive thatched 'pallozas' and stone architecture. The region also features ancient paths, some of which were used since medieval times, including sections of the French Way to Santiago.
Are there any challenging multi-day hiking options in Ancares - Courel?
While the provided data focuses on day hikes, the rugged terrain and extensive network of trails in Ancares - Courel make it suitable for challenging multi-day adventures. The region's historical isolation and low visitor density provide an authentic wilderness experience for those seeking longer expeditions.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter in Ancares - Courel?
Ancares - Courel is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a refuge for diverse wildlife. Hikers might have the chance to spot emblematic species such as brown bears, wild wolves, roe deer, wild boar, and capercaillie, especially in the more remote forested areas and high-altitude grasslands.
Are there any trails that explore the region's history?
Yes, the Route of Gold and Iron is a notable trail that explores the region's mining history and cultural landmarks, offering insights into its past industries and heritage.
Most popular routes in Ancares - Courel
Most popular attractions in Ancares - Courel
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
