2025 Picos de Europa Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

Tucked away in the northern regions of Asturias, Cantabria, and Castile and León, the Picos de Europa are a wild, dramatic mountain range that took me completely by surprise. Unlike the Pyrenees or the Alps, these peaks feel undiscovered, raw, and utterly majestic — nature on its own terms. The first time I laid eyes on the limestone cliffs rising sharply against deep green valleys, I was speechless. Hiking here is not just scenic — it’s soul-stirring. Trails like the Ruta del Cares take you through deep gorges, across high bridges, and along cliffside paths that make you feel both tiny and incredibly alive. And yet, you don’t need to be a hardcore trekker to enjoy it — there are plenty of accessible viewpoints and cable cars, like the one at Fuente Dé, offering stunning panoramas. What truly made the experience magical for me were the contrasts: alpine meadows one moment, glacial lakes the next, and then tiny stone villages like Sotres or Bulnes, where time seems to pause. Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn offers the best weather for hiking and views, though early summer brings wildflowers and fewer crowds. Location Tip: Base yourself in Potes or Cangas de Onís for easy access to trails and charming local hospitality. #PicosDeEuropa #SpainUnfiltered #MountainEscape #HikingSpain #RutaDelCares #NaturalSpain #HiddenSpain #AsturiasAdventures #CantabriaCalling #EpicEurope

The Pasá del Picayo trail in the Picos de Europa is not for the faint of heart, but if you have the right skills and stamina, the rewards are absolutely worth it. The path is more demanding, with steep ascents and rocky terrain that require focus and determination. 🧗🏔️ Despite the difficulty, the views along the way were absolutely breathtaking. As I climbed higher, the panoramas of jagged peaks, green valleys, and deep ravines became more and more spectacular. The sense of accomplishment when reaching the top made every step of the challenging trail completely worth it. 🌄 If you're an experienced hiker looking for a true adventure in the Picos de Europa, I highly recommend the Pasá del Picayo trail. It’s a tough route, but the stunning landscapes and the feeling of conquering the challenge will stay with you forever. #celebrateit

Embarking on the hike to Vega de Ario in the Picos de Europa was an unforgettable experience. The trail led me through stunning landscapes, with dramatic cliffs, lush meadows, and clear blue skies. As I made my way up, the views of the surrounding peaks became more and more breathtaking, making every step feel like part of a grand adventure. 🏔️🌿 Vega de Ario itself is a peaceful and serene refuge, offering a chance to rest and soak in the beauty of the mountains. The natural beauty of the area is simply mesmerizing, and I found myself completely immersed in the tranquility of the surroundings. 🌄 If you're an outdoor enthusiast and find yourself in the Picos de Europa, I highly recommend this hike. It's a perfect combination of challenging terrain and jaw-dropping views, and reaching the Vega de Ario refuge is a rewarding experience you'll cherish. 🌟🇪🇦🌄 #celebrateit

If you're looking for the perfect summer adventure or thinking on how to celebrate this summer vacation, the Picos de Europa are a dream come true! 🏔️ These majestic mountains, often called "Spain’s Switzerland," offer breathtaking landscapes that feel untouched by time. I hiked the Ruta del Cares, a stunning trail carved between towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear rivers. The views? Absolutely mind-blowing! 🤯 Every step along the rugged path was a reminder of nature’s raw beauty, with soaring peaks and endless green valleys. But it's not just about the scenery—the peace and tranquility here are unmatched. 🍃 Far from the crowds, the fresh mountain air fills your lungs, making you feel truly alive. The small villages scattered across the region add a rustic charm, making it the perfect spot to disconnect and recharge. ✨ If you're looking for an escape this summer, forget the usual tourist hotspots—Picos de Europa is Spain’s best-kept secret! 🌍 #celebrateit

Highly Recommended The road leading to Hehuanshan is not for the faint hearted and unskilled drivers. It is steep, winding and very narrow (read -> one lane two way traffic). It s best to hire a good driver or join a tour if you ever decide to visit the place. Which is what we did exactly. We were the only ones on this tour package as such we had our personal driver. He called hinself Meng You "Dream". It was disappointing to travel all the way up only to be "blessed" by very foggy weather. The beautiful scenery is completely covered by thick cloud. The cold weather was great however! Next stop lunch was fantastic. Many great dishes unfirtinately I dont know how to describe. 😅 We the made our way to Cingjing farm. This is a very nice tourist farm with a great sheep stage show. We akso visited a couple of other attraction scattered on the mountsin e.g Carton palace (and yes everything is made out of carton paper boxes), Swiss garden. I will recommend this package to have a safe and enjoyable trip. #summervacation