Cycling & Walking Holidays in the Picos de Europa
Self-guided Walking & Bike Tours
Designated a National Park, the Picos de Europa are hidden gems amongst the mountain landscapes of Europe. A mountain wonderland bursts from the surrounding plains, reaching its jagged peaks to the deep-blue skies. The limestone peaks give way to stunning open meadows, brimming with wildflowers and drop down to spectacular gorges cut through the mountains by icy turquoise rivers.
9-day Picos de Europa MTB Challenge Holiday
FAQs
You can get to the Picos de Europa by train or flying into Santander, Oviedo or Bilbao, then driving or taking public transport to towns like Potes, Cangas de Onís, or Arenas de Cabrales. If you come from Santander and you want to reach the cabrales area, you can reach Unquera by bus but you will then need to arrange a private taxi (around 45 mins).
The weather in the Picos de Europa can be unpredictable, with cool temperatures and sudden changes — even in summer. In the higher areas, you might get more sun, as you're often above the clouds (around 1000m). Spring to early autumn is also a great time to visit, but always come prepared for rain. Check out more about the climate here and what to pack here.
Around the Picos de Europa, and even within the National Park, you'll find a wide range of accommodation options — from fully-rentable rural houses to more luxurious hotels. Most places to stay are small, family-run hotels, and many of them serve homemade dishes in their own restaurants.
If you're after a more rugged, mountain-style experience, you can enjoy the many refuges in the area — some easy to reach, others more remote.
The Lakes of Covadonga and the Cares Gorge are two of the most iconic spots in the Picos de Europa. The lakes offer peaceful trails and picture-postcard corners with stone-built shepherd refuges, while the Cares Gorge is one of the most spectacular hikes in Spain, with a dramatic path carved into the rock.
There are plenty of hiking options in the Picos de Europa, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. You can choose from shorter, relatively simple routes, or longer ones with no difficulty, like visiting the Bulnes hamlet, which is only reachable by foot or funicular. If you're looking for a more special adventure, the Anillo Vindio hut-to-hut trek is a great option for experienced hikers. It's a challenging circular route that connects several mountain refuges, offering stunning views and a true mountain experience.
The Picos de Europa is a fantastic destination for families. Along with a wide range of hiking routes suited for all levels, you'll find other activities like canyoning, canoeing, and horse riding that your kids will absolutely enjoy. If you choose to stay in one of the hamlets in the area, you can relax while your kids play with the local children in the square, with almost no traffic or risks.
The Picos de Europa National Park, established in 1918, is one of Spain’s oldest protected areas and the fisrt national park. Its history is shaped by local communities, shepherds, and farmers who have lived in harmony with the land for centuries. The park is a blend of rich natural beauty and cultural heritage. Learn more about its history here.
Yes, the Picos de Europa is home to diverse flora and fauna. there are brown bears and wolves, but you are really, really luicky if you can spot a wolve or a bear track. If you like birds, there is a great variety of birds of prey such as eagles and vultures. The park also hosts unique plants and wildflowers adapted to its rugged terrain. It’s a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9:00am – 6:00pm (CET)
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9:00am – 6:00pm (CET)