Create an account sign-up-diamond

Start your adventure today.

Already a member? Login

8-day Picos de Europa Mountain Trek

Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!

8-day Picos de Europa Mountain Trek
From $675USDBook Now
Your itineraryDates & pricesReviews
8 days from $675USD
Easy quote
8-day Picos de Europa Mountain Trek
Lifetime deposit
Never lose your deposit if you have to cancel your trip.
Personalized Service
Let our experienced travel advisors plan your perfect adventure

The Picos de Europa Mountain Trek is an 8-day trekking adventure in northern Spain’s Picos de Europa National Park. This condensed version of the 12-day Picos de Europa mountain trek is the perfect adventure for those looking to explore the highlights of the mountain range at their own pace over the course of a week.

The Picos de Europa (Peaks of Europe), without a doubt, earn the title of Spain’s most impressive mountains. Three sensational peaks rise from the unspoiled landscapes of the Picos de Europa National Park, providing breathtaking vistas for the adventurous trekkers conquering its peaks.

Setting out from Arenas, you’ll traverse idyllic landscapes, trekking rolling pastures, sprawling glacier valleys, rushing rivers, and spectacular limestone mountains in the national park. Scenic day walks are interspersed with challenging climbs, taking you to exhilarating altitudes that afford unparalleled views.

The Picos de Europa Mountain Trek will immerse you in the stark beauty of the natural landscape of this region and pave the way for authentic local experiences in small mountain villages in the provinces of Asturias, Cantabria, and Castile and León. Discover traditional mountain culture and enjoy regional gastronomic specialties as you stay at comfortable hotels, hostels, and mountain huts.

The Picos de Europa Mountain Trek is the hiking adventure of a lifetime. The three peaks await!

Spain, Europe
Happiness promise

8-day Picos de Europa Mountain Trek

Spend 8 unforgettable days trekking in Spain’s Picos de Europa National Park
4.80
(85 reviews)
8 days from $675USD
Easy quote
Duration
8 days
Season
May-Oct
Activity
Walking
Type
Self-guided, Private
Accommodation
Hotels, Hostels, Mountain Huts
Difficulty
Hard (4/5)
From $675USD (see prices for this tour)
Get a quote
Got any questions?
Ask a question
National Geographic
Guardian
FodorsTravel
Time
Backpacker
National Geographic
Guardian
8-day Picos de Europa Mountain Trek
Personalized Service
Let our experienced travel advisors plan your perfect adventure

The Picos de Europa Mountain Trek is an 8-day trekking adventure in northern Spain’s Picos de Europa National Park. This condensed version of the 12-day Picos de Europa mountain trek is the perfect adventure for those looking to explore the highlights of the mountain range at their own pace over the course of a week.

The Picos de Europa (Peaks of Europe), without a doubt, earn the title of Spain’s most impressive mountains. Three sensational peaks rise from the unspoiled landscapes of the Picos de Europa National Park, providing breathtaking vistas for the adventurous trekkers conquering its peaks.

Setting out from Arenas, you’ll traverse idyllic landscapes, trekking rolling pastures, sprawling glacier valleys, rushing rivers, and spectacular limestone mountains in the national park. Scenic day walks are interspersed with challenging climbs, taking you to exhilarating altitudes that afford unparalleled views.

The Picos de Europa Mountain Trek will immerse you in the stark beauty of the natural landscape of this region and pave the way for authentic local experiences in small mountain villages in the provinces of Asturias, Cantabria, and Castile and León. Discover traditional mountain culture and enjoy regional gastronomic specialties as you stay at comfortable hotels, hostels, and mountain huts.

The Picos de Europa Mountain Trek is the hiking adventure of a lifetime. The three peaks await!

rating
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
Trip highlights

Explore scenic pastures, sprawling glacier valleys, flowing streams, and limestone mountains in the Picos de Europa National Park.

Trek pristine rural areas in northern Spain, discovering mountain villages and unspoiled natural landscapes.

Find unforgettable vistas as you ascend marvellous peaks and take in the impressive mountain scenery.

Feel a sense of accomplishment as you trek all three massifs of the Picos de Europa mountain range.

We are Australian
We know Adventure
10Adventures only does Hiking, Cycling and Adventure Holidays. Its our mission to help you explore the world!

Trip map

Travellers love 10Adventures

View all
Day by day itinerary
Expand all days
Day 1
See more
Arrive and Unwind
The start point of your epic mountain trek in Picos de Europa begins today in Arenas de Cabrales, located in Asturias, a province of northern Spain. After settling into your accommodations, set out on an optional walk where you’ll have the chance to visit an ancient Roman church and also peruse the local shops for any last-minute items you may need for your trek. This evening, unwind on a cozy terrace within the town while sipping on a traditional local cider.
Distance Flexible
Overnight Location Hotel in Arenas
Included Meals None
Day 2
See more
Circular walk from Arenas
Ascent to the summer meadows of Nava, situated 500 m above the Cares River with excellent views of the Picos. A strenuous but very rewarding walk, especially in early summer when the meadows display a multitude of brightly coloured flowers. Option of doing an alternative shorter walk through the shady countryside at a lower elevation.
Distance Regular route: 3.5-4 hours, 10km, 380m of ascent, 380m of descent Extended route: 5 hours, 10.5 km, 650m of ascent, 650m of descent
Overnight Location Hotel in Posada de Valdeón
Included Meals Breakfast, dinner
Day 3
See more
From Tielve to Sotres
Short transfer to Tielve, one of the most authentic villages in this part of the Picos. Walk to Valfríu, where residents still produce the famous local blue cheese, Queso de Cabrales. A gradual ascent through a fairy-tale landscape of heather, old beech woods and streams to a pass at 1240 m, then down to Sotres (1050 m), one of the highest villages in the Picos de Europa.
Distance 3.5-4 hours, 9 km, 575m of ascent, 250m of descent
Overnight Location Hostel in Espinama
Included Meals Breakfast, dinner
Day 4
See more
The Eastern Massif
Circular walk through the Eastern Massif of Picos, an area exploited by mining industries in the 19th century. A limestone landscape of sharp ridges, deep depressions and bottomless shafts. Brightly coloured alpine flora among the rocks. Good chance of seeing chamoix, vultures and different types of eagles. Optional ascent to Pico San Carlos. <strong>Overnight Location:</strong> Hotel in Sotres Optional ascent to Pico San Carlos: + 6 km, + 3 h, + 500 m ascent and descent <strong>Meals:</strong> Breakfast, dinner
Distance
Overnight Location 5.5 hours, 12.5 km,  550m of ascent, 840m of descent
Included Meals
Day 5
See more
From Sotres to Vega de Urriellu
This spectacular route takes you up to the mountain hut at Vega de Urriellu, situated at the foot of the impressive ‘Picu Urriellu’ – also called ‘el Naranjo de Bulnes’. You start off with a transfer to Pandébano Col (elevation 1240 m). From there you begin a steep ascent along a stone footpath, into a lunar landscape of outstanding beauty. This is the very heart of the Picos de Europa, home to chamois, vultures and alpine choughs. Once at the hut, after a well-deserved rest and time to properly admire the Peak, you retrace your steps - down to Pandébano Col - and continue walking back to Sotres. *In spring and autumn, snow may prevent you from doing the walk up to the refuge. In that case, today and tomorrow you will choose from the walking routes offered for Day 6. <strong>Overnight Location:</strong> Hotel in Sotres
Distance Breakfast, dinner
Overnight Location 6.5 hours, 18 km, 1000m of ascent, 1000m of descent
Included Meals
Day 6
See more
Choice of walks from Sotres
Today you choose from three different walks. The first option is The Capercaillie Route, an adventurous and varied circular walk through meadows and beech woods near Tresviso, with views deep down into the Urdón Gorge and quiet woodlands where you might hear the call of this rare bird - the ‘urogallo’. Valle de Áliva is a technically easier walk to the summer meadows of Áliva and back, exploring an interesting glacier valley at elevations of up to 1650 m, beneath impressive limestone walls of the Central and Eastern Massifs. Half-way you can stop for a rest on the terrace at the Hotel Refugio de Áliva, enjoying extraordinary views. The last option is a Circular walk from Sotres, a relaxing shorter walk, which starts directly from your hotel and takes you through woodlands and fields in the peaceful area around Sotres. <strong>Overnight Location:</strong> Hut at Picu Urriellu Valle de Áliva: 6.5 hours, 19 km, 6.5 hrs, 635 m ascent and descent Circular walk from Sotres: 2.5 hours, 6 km, 2.5 hrs, 300 m ascent and descent <strong>Meals:</strong> Breakfast, dinner
Distance
Overnight Location Capercaillie Route: 6-6.5 hours, 14 km, 500 m ascent, 700 m descent
Included Meals
Day 7
See more
Trek to Bulnes via the Camburero Gorge
Your last day will be spent doing a short ascent up to Pandébano Col, followed by a long descent on all kinds of footpaths. This beautiful route takes you from Sotres up to the pass, then down to Bulnes. This authentic village, nestled among peaks, can only be reached on foot or (since 2001) by funicular railway. Once in Bulnes you can either take the funicular down to Poncebos or continue another 1,5 to 2 hours on foot - through the spectacular Texu Gorge. Optionally, you can spend the day walking the Cares Gorge - a mainly flat, there-and-back walk. <strong>Overnight Location:</strong> Hotel in Arenas<br /><strong>Distance: </strong>Bulnes: 5 - 6 hours, 13 km, 425 m ascent, 1100 m descent Cares Gorge: 6.5 - 7 hours, 23 km, 6.5 - 7 hrs, 600 m ascent and descent <strong>Meals:</strong> Breakfast
Distance
Overnight Location
Included Meals
Day 8
See more
Depart Arenas
The time has come to depart Arenas as your mountain trek in the Picos de Europa comes to an end. Enjoy one final breakfast before making your way to the airport to depart!
Distance None
Overnight Location None
Included Meals Breakfast

Why book with 10 Adventures?

We know adventure

Founded by experienced travellers, active and adventure vacations are all we do.

Experience the trip of a lifetime organized by a team of travel specialists who combine knowledge and passion for adventure travel.

Self-guided specialists

With over 600 tours across 30+ countries, we specialize in self-guided tours.

Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of your logistics are taken care of.

Packed with value

Get everything you need for your next vacation with one easy booking.

We take care of accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - so you can focus on making memories.

World Class support

Get unbeatable support at every step of your journey.

Whether you are planning or travelling, no matter what your question, a real human is always a call or click away.

Hassle free bookings

Have peace of mind for when travel plans change.

Explore our flexible booking, payment, and cancellation options, as well as our Lifetime Deposits program.

Reviews
5
68
4
15
3
1
2
1
1
4.80 (85 reviews)
Sort by: Newest
Dates and prices
👇 Prices below are per person

Solo Traveller

Single Room (2+)

Double/Twin Room

Triple Room

DatesSolo TravellerSingle Room (2+)Double/Twin RoomTriple Room
May 10, 2025 to Jun 28, 2025$995USD$925USD$675USD$675USD
Jun 29, 2025 to Jul 26, 2025$995USD$995USD$725USD$725USD
Jul 27, 2025 to Aug 31, 2025$1,125USD$1,050USD$775USD$775USD
Sep 1, 2025 to Sep 15, 2025$995USD$995USD$725USD$725USD
Sep 16, 2025 to Oct 15, 2025$995USD$925USD$675USD$675USD
Optional Extras:
Optional transfer Santander airport (SDR)- Arenas de Cabrales (1-4 travellers):$195USD
Optional transfer Arenas - Oviedo airport (OVD) (1-4 travellers):$295USD
Optional transfer Oviedo airport (OVD) - Arenas (1-4 travellers):$295USD
Optional transfer Bilbao airport (BIO) - Arenas de Cabrales (1-4 travellers):$395USD
Optional transfer Arenas de Cabrales - Bilbao airport (BIO) (1-4 travellers):$395USD
Optional transfer Arenas- Santander Airport (1-4 travellers):$225USD
Optional transfer Arenas - Bus stop Unquera (1-8 travellers):$95USD
Optional transfer Bus Stop Unquera - Arenas (1-8 travellers):$95USD
Optional luggage transfer Days 2, 3 & 4:$725USD
*Please note that the prices depend on the size of your group
What’s included

Meals

7 breakfasts and 5 dinners are included.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 7 nights is included.

Transportation during the Tour

Shared transfers on Day 2 are included. On this day, the transfer will take you to Poncebos and your luggage will continue on to Sotres.

Transfer on Day 3  (Hotel El Tombo - Posada de Valdeón) is also included, as well as transfer on Day 5. Luggage transfers on Day 2 (Arenas to Sotres) and Day 7 (Sotres to Arenas) are included. Luggage transfers on other days can be booked in advance as a supplement (please see ‘Optional Extras’).

Note on day 7 you'll have to take a bus from the trail end to Arenas (approx 1.55 EUR). In cases where the bus is not available, a transfer will be provided.

Also Included

  • Digital route notes and maps
  • GPS App
  • 24-hour telephone assistance

Not included

  • Flights to and from Spain
  • Cable car ticket on Day 4
  • Bus ticket on Day 4 and 7
  • Optional taxi transfers
  • Visas if required
  • Travel insurance
  • Tourist taxes if applicable
  • Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
  • Fees not mentioned as 'included'
  • Guide services

Optional Extras

  • Activities and excursions unless otherwise mentioned as included
  • Luggage transfers not already included
  • Airport transfers
  • Any additional nights before or after the tour
  • Printed tour materials (in addition to digital)

Accommodation for 8-day Picos de Europa Mountain Trek

This tour is based in 2-star hotels and hostels and a mountain hut. The hotels and hostels offer private rooms and basic amenities. The mountain lodge offers shared dorms in a spectacularly unique and remote setting.

In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
See pricing details for pricing if you are a solo traveller or require single rooms in your group.

Frequently asked questions

How hard is the Picos de Europa Mountain Trek?

We rate this tour a 4/5. Hikers should expect challenging hiking in mountainous areas. Daily hikes range from 5-7 hours and travellers should be capable of such distances for several days in a row.

Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.

Are meals included on the Short Picos de Europa Mountain Trek?

7 breakfasts and 5 dinners are included on this tour.

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.

How do I get to Arenas de Cabrales to start this tour?

Arrive at either Oviedo Airport (OVD), Santander Airport (SDR), or Bilboa Airport (BIO). From all three airports, you can make your way to Arenas via public bus. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer in advance as a supplement or arrange your own private transfer from your arrival airport.

Where does the Short Picos de Europa Mountain Trek end?

The trek ends in Arenas de Cabrales. You can take a public bus to your departure airport or book a private transfer as a supplement in advance. Alternatively, you can arrange your own private transfer to your departure airport.

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Spain?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Spain?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

When is the best time to travel to Spain for this tour?

The best time to travel to Spain for this tour is June-September when the weather is warmest and driest.

Back to top
Why travellers choose this tour
At 10Adventures, it’s easy to make memories with the following six optional inclusions on this tour:
We're Canadian
Book with a Canadian company whose mission is to help you travel the world.

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter