Attractions and Places To See in Picos De Europa - Top 20

Picos de Europa is renowned for its dramatic natural beauty. Key landmarks include the stunning glacial Lakes of Covadonga (Lago Enol and Lago Ercina), nestled amidst lush meadows. The emblematic Picu Urriellu (Naranjo de Bulnes), an international climbing icon, offers a distinctive silhouette visible from various viewpoints. Additionally, the spectacular Desfiladero de la Hermida (La Hermida Gorge) provides a breathtaking scenic drive through towering cliffs.

Yes, Picos de Europa offers several family-friendly options. The Fuente Dé Cable Car is a popular choice, ascending over 750 meters in just four minutes to offer spectacular panoramic views that children and adults alike will enjoy. The El Cable Viewpoint at the top station is also considered family-friendly. Gentle walks around the Lakes of Covadonga are also suitable for families.

The region is rich in history and culture. The Sanctuary of Covadonga, with its Basilica and Holy Cave, holds significant spiritual and historical importance. The charming town of Cangas de Onís, the first capital of Asturias, features a famous Roman bridge and the ancient Chapel of Santa Cruz. In the eastern part, the medieval town of Potes is known for its cobbled streets and historic architecture.

Picos de Europa boasts numerous viewpoints offering stunning vistas. The El Cable Viewpoint, accessible via the Fuente Dé Cable Car, provides expansive views of the central massif. Other notable viewpoints include Mirador del Pozo de la Oración, offering views of Naranjo de Bulnes, and Mirador de la Princesa, overlooking Lake Enol.

Absolutely. The Dwarves' Tunnels on the Cares Trail are a series of 71 man-made tunnels carved into the rock face, providing a unique passage along the Cares River. The Ruins of the Shepherds’ Settlement on the Ruta del Cares also offer a glimpse into the region's past, set in a dramatic canyon landscape.

Picos de Europa is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for various sports. For road cycling, explore challenging loops like the 'San Antolín de Bedón Beach – Holy Cave of Covadonga loop' or the 'Historic center of Potes – Fuente Dé Cable Car loop'. Runners can tackle trails such as the 'Lakes of Covadonga Circular Trail' or the 'Ring of Picos (3 Massifs)'. Mountaineers have options like the 'Viewpoint – Horcados Rojos loop from Fuente Dé'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Road Cycling Routes, Running Trails, and Mountain Hikes guides for Picos de Europa.

The best time to visit Picos de Europa generally depends on your preferred activities. For hiking and enjoying the natural landscapes, late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (July-August) is popular but can be busy, especially around major attractions like the Lakes of Covadonga and the Cares Trail. Winter brings snow, making it ideal for winter sports but limiting access to some higher-altitude areas.

Yes, the region is dotted with picturesque villages. Potes, in the eastern part, is a medieval gem known for its cobbled streets and historic stone houses. Bulnes, accessible by funicular, offers a unique, isolated mountain experience. Mogrovejo is recognized as one of Spain's most beautiful villages, and Sotres is the highest village, famous for its Cabrales cheese.

The Ruta del Cares, often called the 'Divine Gorge,' is considered one of the most spectacular hikes in northern Spain. The section known as 6 km on the Ruta del Cares, particularly from Cain, offers breathtaking views of nature in its full splendor within a rocky gap over 2,000 meters deep. The trail navigates tunnels, caves, and bridges, providing an unforgettable experience through the Cares Gorge.

As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Picos de Europa National Park is rich in diverse flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for iconic species such as the Cantabrian brown bear, Iberian wolf, and Cantabrian chamois. The area is also home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching.

Yes, the Picos de Europa region is famous for its artisan cheese production, particularly the strong and flavorful Cabrales cheese. Many villages offer opportunities to discover local cheese dairies and sample traditional products. You'll also find traditional Asturian and Cantabrian cuisine in the local restaurants and cafes.

The Picos de Europa range is divided into three distinct massifs, each with its own characteristics. The Western Massif (Cornión) is home to Covadonga and its famous lakes. The Central Massif (Urrieles) features the highest concentration of vertical peaks, including Naranjo de Bulnes, and impressive gorges. The Eastern Massif (Ándara) is characterized by gentler landscapes with green valleys and forests, suitable for quieter walks.