Walking the Picos de Europa
Experience Overview
Explore a mountainous landscape ruled by golden eagles and griffon vultures on a walking adventure through the Picos de Europa in northern Spain. Guided by an expert tour leader, we trek through limestone peaks and lush valleys, summiting mountains to gaze over the oldest national park in the country. In the evenings, we return to our welcoming base: the family-run Hotel Torrecerredo, where we can marvel at the highest peaks from the bar and restaurant.
If you want to test yourself, join one of our Activity Level 5 (Challenging) departures. See the Itinerary and Dates & Prices tab for more details.
Profile
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (Hotel Torrecerredo) — Five days centre-based walking; one free day — Group normally 4 to 15, plus local leader. Minimum age: 16 — Altitude maximum 7,264ft (2,214m); average: 3,281ft (1,000m) — Challenging departures available on selected dates — Reasonable fitness required — Option to travel by train to your adventure
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 7 Classic nights (Hotel Torrecerredo) — Five days centre-based walking; one free day — Group normally 4 to 15, plus local leader. Minimum age: 16 — Altitude maximum 7,264ft (2,214m); average: 3,281ft (1,000m) — Challenging departures available on selected dates — Reasonable fitness required — Option to travel by train to your adventure
Trip For You
This trip is Activity Level 3 (Moderate) with five walking days. For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
The walking is varied and spectacular, with superb scenery at the higher levels.
Over the course of the week, we tackle two classic gorges and one peak in each of the three massifs in the Picos de Europe. Most of the walking is on shepherds’ paths, disused mining paths and some sections of Roman roads, although final ascents can be quite rough underfoot.
We will be walking mountain paths throughout, and this trip is not advised for severe vertigo sufferers or those uncomfortable with steep drops.
The majority of the trip departures are Level 3 (Moderate). However, we also offer a selection of departures at Activity Level 5 (Challenging), if you wish to ascend the higher peaks. It is important to be assured of your fitness on these departures.
Level 5 ( Challenging departure) - 14 June 2025.
As in all mountain ranges, the weather is unpredictable and this may affect several walks. With changeable weather, it should be expected that on rare occasions higher-level walks may not be available. Your leader will always try to find a suitable alternative.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, five picnic lunches and six dinners are included.
The region has several delicious specialities to try. The area is known for producing gold medal-winning blue cheese, queso Cabrales, which is matured in some of the thousands of deep limestone caves that dot the hills. Lesser known, but equally appealing, is the local lamb cordero al la menta and a wholesome bean stew, fabada Asturiana. Fresh fish comes from the coast at Llanes and Ribadesella, a 30-minute drive away. The local wine is very drinkable, though a glass of local cider can be more refreshing.
Breakfast: fruit juice, tea, freshly ground coffee, cereals, bread, cold meats, cheeses and a selection of local fruit (depending on season) offered buffet-style. There are also eggs cooked to order, sponge and anise cake.Lunch: generally includes a large bread roll, with a choice of fillings daily, chocolates and fresh fruit.Dinner: a homemade four-course meal usually consists of soup or salad to start, a choice of three main courses (meat, fish or vegetarian) and a homemade dessert.Wine: to accompany the evening meal, the hotel has a reasonably comprehensive wine list.
Over the years, the hotel has developed tasty vegetarian alternatives. Please let us know in advance if you are vegetarian or have any other special dietary requirements.
Transportation
Transport, including airport transfers, is usually by private air-conditioned minibus.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel Torrecerredo, Vega de Barrio, s/n, 33554 Las Arenas, Asturias
Phone: +34 985 84 66 40
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing around 5pm, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Bilbao (BIO)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately a 2hr 20min drive from Bilbao Airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
You can reach the start hotel by public transport. From Bilbao, take the bus to Llanes, the nearest main bus stop to Arenas de Cabrales. The journey is about three hours from Bilbao (€13). Then take a taxi from Llanes to the hotel, which will cost approximately €50.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales consultant if you wish to join.
If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales consultant to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
There can be snowfall in the Picos as late as May, and the area is subject to rain at all times of the year (although this typically falls in the evening and rarely affects the walking). From early June to early October, the weather should be very pleasant for walking, though it is rather unpredictable and mists can come in from the coast. Those wishing to join the Picos departures at the beginning and end of the trek season should go prepared for cooler weather. In early June and late September, there may be snow on the upper reaches of the trek.
Spending Money
For lunch and dinner on the free day you should allow about €25‐€50 for both; however, this varies depending on which restaurant you choose.
You will also need local currency for extra snacks, drinks and souvenirs bought during the week (about €100 should be sufficient).
Optional excursions
During the free day (numbers/transport permitting) you should have the opportunity to go:
— Canoeing (€45) — Canyoning (€45) — To the beach (approximately €16)
Tipping
Although optional, a tip for the leader at the end of the trip is greatly appreciated. As a guideline we recommend a contribution of between €15-€20 per client. It is also customary to leave a tip for the driver and the local staff at the hotel. This can be handed in to your leader at the end of the trip. For the local staff we recommend €10-€15 per person.
Highlights
— Diverse walks in and around the oldest national park in Spain — Incredible wildlife including chamois, golden eagles and griffon vultures — Traditional mountain villages in the valleys of Green Spain — Family-run hotel with stunning panoramic views
Trip Details
Product Code: 4403
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: minibus.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: TSQ
Starts: Arenas de Cabrales, Picos de Europa
Finishes: Arenas de Cabrales, Picos de Europa
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
— All breakfasts, five picnic lunches and six dinners — All accommodationAccommodation
Hotel Torrecerredo, a family-run hotel in Arenas de Cabrales, AsturiasHotel Torrecerredo is a 19-room, family-run hotel in the rural village of Arenas de Cabrales. It is ideally situated for our adventure: a 30 minute drive to the Picos de Europa mountains and a five-minute walk from the village centre. It has a garden terrace attached to the cafe-bar and the restaurant has views of the Picos mountains. The hotel also has a residents lounge with lots of comfortable seating, where you can enjoy more mountain views. Every evening, owners Pilar and Jim serve home-cooked traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, which you can enjoy with a glass or two of local wine. Amenities Restaurant serving traditional Asturian dishesBar/cafeteria for light snacks and drinks (open every day)Residents lounge to relax in the evenings Worth knowing Single accommodation is available on request. Paying for a single supplement only guarantees a room for single use and does not under normal circumstances mean a twin or a double for sole occupancy will be provided.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2,370 ($296 /day)
Itinerary
The small but endearing town of Arenas de Cabrales acts as a major gateway to the Picos de Europa. It’s here we gather at the hotel. When everyone’s arrived, we’ll have a welcome briefing – an excellent chance to meet the group and leader. Alternatively, if you'd like a little time to settle into the adventure, speak to us about booking hotel nights before the trip begins
The walk begins directly from our hotel. After leaving the village, a path leads us up to the pastures of Vanu with the most famous peaks of Picos de Europa visible on sunny days. We continue onwards where the scenery changes and we can view across the main valley of Cabrales. In spring, it’s possible to see a large variety of flowers. Looking skywards it is also possible to spot some vultures soaring above. For lunch, we will approach the village of Inguanzo before completing the final part of the walk. This section is more undulating and provides us with fresh views; a comfortable last mile takes us back to Arenas de Cabrales. Most of this first day’s walk follows wide easy tracks for warming up with some steep ascents. There is only a short section of downhill walking. Distance: 10mi (16km); ascent: 2,395ft (730m); descent: 2,395ft (730m); duration: seven hours; highest point: Los Fresnos col at 2,362ft (720m) above sea level
A short transfer takes us to the village of Canales. The first part of the day follows farm tracks before a short climb up to the Collado de los Buitres. If you are lucky, you may see griffon vultures soaring above. We then follow open terrain, slowly ascending to the base of the Pandescura peak. A simple ascent to the top will lead us to an ideal lunch spot with superb views of the western massif peaks. We then descend through green hills to the village of Demues. Distance: 9mi (14km); ascent: 1,804ft (550m); descent: 1,903ft (580m); duration: six hours; highest point: Pandescura peak at 3,281ft (1,000m) above sea level
The Cares Gorge trail has been described as the jewel in the crown of Spanish hiking. For 7.5mi (12km), the engineered path has been blasted into the rock face. Originally built in the 1940s as part of a hydroelectric scheme, it is now one of the most popular walks in the country. In places, the surrounding peaks rise more than 6,562ft (2,000m) above the path and, if we're lucky, we glimpse the rare and beautiful wall creeper bird. The path eventually emerges in the village of Cain, where we lunch before returning along the same path to Puente Poncebos. Transport will be waiting here to take us back to our hotel in Arenas. The walk is relatively flat with a gradual ascent of just 1,148ft (350m) from Puente Poncebos to Cain. Distance: 15mi (24km); ascent: 1,804ft (550m); descent: 1,804ft (550m); duration: seven hours; highest point: Los Collaos at 1,673ft (510m)
Today is free for you to visit the coast, self-guided canoeing, or canyoning. Our local staff can help organise any of these activities.
Starting close to the village of Tieve, we walk up into the Main range and summit Peña Main, one of the classic viewpoints in the Picos. We walk to Collado de Pandebano and then begin our descent. Distance: 7mi (11km); ascent: 3,445ft (1,050m); descent: 2,428ft (740m); duration: seven hours; highest point: Cabeza la Mesa at 5,288ft (1,612m)
At 6,562ft (2,000m), the twin summits of Mancondiu are the highest point we reach during the week. Most of the walking, apart from the last 656ft (200m), is on disused mining tracks. The top offers fantastic views of the central and eastern massifs and is a fantastic end to a diverse week of walking. Distance: 7mi (11km); ascent: 2,411ft (735m); descent: 2,411ft (735m); duration: five hours; highest point: Macondiu peak at 6,562ft (2,000m)
After one final breakfast, you’ll begin your return journey home. Of course, if you’d like to continue the adventure, you can always speak to your sales consultant and extend your hotel stay.
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Dennis Samuel - Traveled, June 2022
Beautiful Picos A great trip – fantastic scenery and a great little village with an even better hotel. Wonderful guide and ten fantastic walking partners made this trip quite memorable. Several days of rain tampered the mood but that’s what walking is all about. Most Inspirational Moment The last day was perfect. Weather was amazing following three days of rain. Climbed two peaks - Mancandiu and San Carlos - with breathtaking views. Just great walking with a fabulous group and leader. Thoughts on Group Leader Nacho (Ignacio) was wonderful. Great sense of humor and very organized. A pleasure to walk with and I always felt like he had things in control. Advice for Potential Travellers I did the level 5 departure, and having done several of these, I felt this one to be less strenuous. I felt like these were level 3 walks with some extra mileage added. Although the scenery was fabulous, only on the last day did it feel like it was challenging due to some exposure and scrambling. If you're going for the scenery and to see the Picos, by all means do it. If you're specifically looking for some challenging walking, other level 5 trips may be more appropriate. Suggestions The hotel's owners Jim and Pilar, and their staff really made this trip memorable. Obviously well accustomed to lodging walkers, they are very knowledgable regarding everything in the area. The food was top notch and I probably haven't eaten better on any trip I've done. Our guide Nacho was top notch. The village of Arena de Cabrales is also very enchanting and not too tourist laden. I spent the free day touring the village and some cheese caves and never felt for lack of things to do.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/19/2022
Richard Cooke - Traveled, September 2023
A fabulous mountain adventure I went with limited expectations, and had only seen a few Google photos and some YouTube videos. I knew it would rugged and mountainous, and quite probably wet. The forecast was 7 days rain, and we had a wet welcome. However, Uriel, the local sun god, smiled on us and we had a mostly dry week with some pretty wet moments. The walking is spectacular. There is predictably a lot of going up and coming down, and a fair bit requires poles and some attention as toy where you place them. It is green, and rugged rock. We were tested in terms of what we could do but I was lucky and we had a group of 7 who were pretty similar in our capabilities. Louis the guide is local, knowledgeable, professional and friendly, an absolute star. The hotel was basic but provided all our needs, lots of hot water, a drying room and excellent food. The views from your door are amazing. Most Inspirational Moment I simply can’t pick one, each day provided a new peak. The Carres gorge is pretty amazing Thoughts on Group Leader Louis was excellent, see above Advice for Potential Travellers You need poles, sensible walking gear, multiple layers ( at the worst point, at the peak of one mountain I had 5 on, but needed to strip them as we descended.) Be prepared for all weathers. Personally, I’d take a hydration bladder. Suggestions Go!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
James Brown - Traveled, September 2023
A very enjoyable week walking the Picos A very enjoyable trip. The Hotel Torrecerrado is a pleasant hotel just a few minutes walk from Arenas De Cabrales. The rooms were basic but comfortable, there is a well stocked bar with a terrace that offers incredible views of the mountains. The staff are friendly and helpful. The evening meals were of exceptional quality, I really wasn’t expecting food to be so good. Lewis our guide was super friendly and took us on some very enjoyable walks. The Picos area is huge, we only scratched the surface of what’s on offer. Honestly, I had never even heard of the Picos de Europa before seeing it on the Exodus website, it’s an absolute gem that offers huge potential. Most Inspirational Moment Our guide showed us round his family home, a renovated farm building in an abandoned village, that was really special and unexpected. Thoughts on Group Leader Lewis is a really nice chap. He is hugely knowledgeable about the area, not just the walking trails but also the history, flora and fauna. He's also a very considerate and safe guide who ensured we had an enjoyable time. 10/10 for Lewis! Advice for Potential Travellers We were lucky with the weather, sun all week (end September). However the area is prone to rain so bring suitable gear. The walking was tougher than I had expected, some member of the group struggled a bit. Suggestions I think this trip represents good value.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/17/2023
Gary Brooks - Traveled, August 2023
Fabulous Trip! One of the best Exodus holidays I have been on! The hotel was excellent, with the best view ever, very friendly and helpful owners and staff, and the food was the best I’ve ever had on any of your trips! Our guide Luis was an exceptional young man, with the most amazing knowledge of the area, historically, geographically and flora and fauna-wise! He is a gem and Exodus should keep him as a treasure in their chest! The scenery in the Picos way surpassed my expectations, and the Cares Gorge walk, although 7.5miles each way is one of the wonders of the World and well worth it! Most Inspirational Moment Summiting 2 of the 3 peaks that we were led up by Luis, felt very proud! The 3rd one on the last day I did get to within 75 metres pf the top but then vertigo prevented me from going any further. Luis was very supportive throughout and was pleased that we knew our limitations. Thoughts on Group Leader As I have said previously, he was THE BEST!! Advice for Potential Travellers You need to be quite fit for this trip, and walking poles are really needed for some of the steeper ascents and descents. Do not worry if you are a mild vertigo sufferer as it is really only the last peak on the last day that will really challenge you, and Luis always provides a nice comfortable area in a col to wait while the braver ones attempt the climb. Suggestions The day off trip to the coast is well worth it! The walk that Jim (Hotel owner) points out on a map he gives to one of the people going, is absolutely wonderful! The stunning bays and cliff coastline, with the mountains framing it all is well worth it. For those who do not wish to do that walk, they are dropped in Llanes where we all meet up at 4pm after a wonderful day at the seaside. You can swim in the bay at Llanes and there are lots of little restuarants in which to have/buy lunch.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/01/1823
Peter Williams - Traveled, February 2023
Exactly that Better than walking in the Dolomites. Great variety and three climates in one mid-May week including snow. Hotel Torrecerredo is an ideal walkers hotel, clean, easy going, relaxed and good varied menu. Most Inspirational Moment Visiting our guide Luis's home and sampling local cider and wine. Thoughts on Group Leader Luis the leader was terrific, friendly, patient but confident at all times. Full of knowledge about the plants and local area. Advice for Potential Travellers Some of the walks graded moderate although straight forward and easy would be rated strenuous in UK.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/12/2023
Peter Barrie - Traveled, April 2023
Picos de Europa,Spain Lovely week walking in the Picos with our great guide Luis.Very friendly family run hotel.Great food. Most Inspirational Moment The second day,warm and sunny with fantastic views from a summit for miles around Thoughts on Group Leader Great leader,young,very enthusiastic,extremely knowledgeable about nature- all the flowers,trees,birds etc .Very unassuming and mature for his age Advice for Potential Travellers Even in early may take warm coat,gloves,hat etc as one day in the mountains it was almost a blizzard and 3 degrees Suggestions We have enjoyed 7 Exodus trips and this was one of our best
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/10/2023
Phillip Burrows - Traveled, June 2022
Spectacular Picos de Europa- 11th - 18th June 2022 Based in Arenas de Cabrales, known as the gateway to the Picos de Europa, a group of 15 explored the region which offered a varied terrain through forests, shepherds paths, green valleys, a gorge, river paths as well as being among limestone peaks. There was beautiful wild flowers such as orchids and blue thistle as well as wildlife where we spotted griffon vultures, chamois, brightly coloured butterflies as well as cows with their bells clanging around their necks. The Hotel Torrecerredo was our base for all our days walking. It’s a small family run hotel with staff that went above and beyond to make our stay a welcoming and memorable one. The restaurant served delicious traditional 4-course meals and the bar stocked all our post walk requirements at very affordable prices. Five minutes from the hotel is the village Arena de Cabrales. This is a picturesque village which offers many bars and restaurants offering tasty meals and a few souvenir and outdoor shops as well as local produce shops selling their famous Cabrales cheese. Most Inspirational Moment Walking the 12km Cares Gorge. This engineered path, built in the 1940's, is part of a hydroelectric scheme. It wasn't too crowded and you could walk on your own taking in the surrounding peaks that rise over two thousand metres above the path. I was lucky enough to film two vultures flying quite low. At Cains, the village where we had lunch, rather than walking back 12km along the gorge some of us booked an off road jeep that would explore hard to reach places and return us back late to our hotel - shaken but not stirred. Thoughts on Group Leader Nacho was our leader. He was very patient and informative. He was passionate about the culture, flora and fauna of the region and imparted his knowledge in an enthusiastic way. He also had a good sense of humour. The temperatures on some of days reached 38 degree, which was unprecedented even for North Spain, so Nacho had to alter the itinerary to make the walking more bearable. One day he started walking an hour earlier and another day incorporated a forest and river walk where we had opportunities of cooling down in the river pools.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/30/2022
Teresa Thiel - Traveled, May 2022
Traditional Asturias So pleased I was able to join this trip last minute as it exceeded my expectations. A stunningly beautiful traditional mountainous part of Spain. Great hotel staff and location. Food outstanding. Our walking group was good company and fun to be with. Most Inspirational Moment The whole area was inspirational, but the extensive wild flowers and views of snow on mountain tops were highlights. Thoughts on Group Leader Ignacio was very knowledgeable and passionate about this area. He was supportive and motivational on the walks. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for all weathers. It was already quite hot in June. Some places require a good head for heights and encounters with cattle and goats on narrow paths. Suggestions Bilbao is a manageable airport to arrive and be transferred to this rural area mostly frequented by Spanish tourists.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/02/2022
Charlie Ong - Traveled, May 2022
A Fab Choice A trip planned for 2020 finally came about. The location, trail routes, accommodation, group leader (Silvia), hotel staff (Jim and Pilar) and other hotel support staff were just amazing. I did not think I could manage my usual level 3 hikes post Covid (caught this a couple of months before) and managed to participate 3 out of 5 hiking days. My favourite trek was Cares Gorge – views were stunning, do not forget to look back (shodows cast by the mountains along the gorge by the morning sun). During our free day I went to Llanes, a lovely seaside village/town, and a nearby beach with a few members of the group. We had a great day out. Most Inspirational Moment The Arenas de Cabrales cheese goes very well with the local cider - total Zen experience! Thoughts on Group Leader Silvia was great - informative, attentive and helpful. She was easy to get on with and has a great personality. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for rain - bring your waterproof gears - and watch out for ticks post hike. Bring insect repellent (DEET and Picaridine effective). Suggestions Amazing dinners cooked by Jim and Pilar - I always look forward to dinner time!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/05/2022
Vishakha Phatak - Traveled, September 2019
Trip and group leader review Absolutely wonderful trek with stunning scenery each day. The whole trek was very well organised. The accommodation was good and the staff were really amazing, always ready to help with a smile on their face. The food that Jim, Pilar and the team served was delicious! Had not expected to be served 4 course dinner everyday ! Saw plenty of vultures, mountain goats,horses and of course the cows with cowbells! Would definitely recommend the trip. Most Inspirational Moment There were so many ! Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader Nacho was the best group leader amongst all the treks I have done with Exodus. Nacho had excellent knowledge of the local area, and had fantastic organisational skills. I would definitely vote for him for the star Leader award !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/11/2019
David Bennett - Traveled, July 2019
Good This was our first trip with Exodus and was excellent in some ways and a little disappointing in others. The hotel was excellent, clean if small rooms, superb staff and food of the highest quality. Arrangements at the beginning and end of the trip were smooth with no transfer problems. The disappointment of the trip was the walking which for three days lacked any inspiration as we trudged through rolling hills or woods with very little views. The Cares Gorge walk was excellent as was our final day where we actually walked in the high mountains. More of this was needed. We cannot understand why we were not actually in these high mountains more. Most Inspirational Moment The Cares Gorge walk which was not only long but also spectacular. The food every night was of the highest quality but the salmon dish stood out. Thoughts on Group Leader Our leader was very pleasant with good knowledge of the local area. He catered for the diverse walking abilities of the group very well and I always felt safe with him. His English whilst adequate was not fluent and so frequently he misunderstood us or took rather too long to give us information as he searched for the correct word. We thought it rather poor that he did not eat with us on the first night when information could have been imparted. Advice for Potential Travellers Choose your walking grade carefully. We spent 7hrs walking 7miles one day which was ridiculous! Suggestions We will be going with Exodus again but will research the walking grades and itinerary a lot more before booking.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/23/2019
Anthony Dickinson - Traveled, July 2019
Walking trip feedback Stunning limestone scenery and whilst we got close to the highest mountains we were a little dissappionted we could not get closer and maybe stay a night in one of the Refugios as part of a linear route. Not sure our trip merited a ‘challenging’ rating. The hotel staff were helpful and the food was superb throughout. Could do with fans in the rooms and/or flyscreens on then windows to keep out the nasty biting bugs. Most Inspirational Moment The walk over Pene de Main to Bulnes with views to El Narranco and Torre Cerredo and the wonderful walk down Canal del Texu. A good day out. The wlak of the Carres Gorge on day 1 was also a highlight. Thoughts on Group Leader Friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Advice for Potential Travellers We did the trip in July but maybe the weather would be less mixed in September of early October. The downside is you would see less flora than in June or July.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/11/2019
Kerry Clough - Traveled, June 2019
Beautiful and peaceful Picos Spent a glorious week walking the unspoilt, peaceful and beautiful Picos. The weather was perfect for walking with only 1 day of light drizzle, breaking the otherwise dry and sunny week. We did a mixture of walks ranging from summiting twice at just over 2000 metres above the tree line through to a coastal walk to Llanes. Alfonso our guide was a true man of the mountains, born in the Region and with a real love and passion for the Picos as well as having a really calm and peaceful persona. The hospitality and home cooking at the hotel was excellent throughout the week and each day you can admire the glorious views of the Picos over breakfast and dinner, cloud cover permitting. I felt throughout the week that I was off the beaten track as the area is so large and un-touristy that on most days you don’t come across many other walkers, with the exception of the Cares gorge which was busier, but not in an unpleasant way. I loved the whole week. Most Inspirational Moment Summiting at 2000 meters on a warm sunny day and admiring the glorious 360 degree views of the Picos. The only sound was the wind blowing and we sat there watching vultures and buzzards high above us searching for prey down below. Thoughts on Group Leader Alfonso was superb. He was born in the Region and his love for the mountains shone through. He has a calm and peaceful nature and his knowledge of the local wildlife, trees and flowers was excellent. Advice for Potential Travellers If you love unspoilt mountain walks away from the crowds, good food in the evening, a well run and friendly hotel with excellent views of the mountains, then go. Everything is made so easy for you and being based in the same hotel all week makes for a really relaxing, stress free week. Walks start at 9 and finish by 5 so there’s plenty of downtime before dinner at 7:30 to do your own thing. It’s a 5 minute walk into the quiet town if you want to do more walking and absorb the local way of life.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/07/2019
Colin Spence - Traveled, June 2019
Wonderful trip to the Picos Our Third trip with Exodus and certainly our best. Magnificent scenery and some great walking. Combined with a hotel with a beautiful setting and Michelin star quality food. Most Inspirational Moment The final walk with a spectacular summit Thoughts on Group Leader Nachos was excellent with great knowledge of the local environment. He took great care to ensure we were all safe and ensured everyone in the group was made welcome. Also a great sense of humour! Advice for Potential Travellers Try and incorporate some Hill walking in your preperation! Suggestions Don’t hesitate book this trip and you will not be disappointed
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/11/2019
Malcolm Duesbury - Traveled, June 2019
Walking the Picos de Europa - a very special part of Spain We all think that Spain is an arid country with every town heaving with tourists, music blaring from every club, drunks roaming the street !! Well think again. The Picos de Europa is the northern mountain range in Spain, with lush flora; fantastic gorge and mountain views; small villages and hamlet, and a so very different part of Spain. We spent the last week of June on this trip and enjoyed every minute. The hotel may only be 1 star, but is comfortable, has fantastic buffet breakfasts (cereal, fruits, drinks, meats, cheese, bread, etc), ample packed lunches (with choices of baguette filling, chocolate and muesli bars), and sublime 4 course evening meals (with 3 choices of main course). The tour leader Nacho (Ignachio) was extremely proficient and friendly, ready with useful information and, very much, part of the group. The variety of landscape, local flora, long gorges, wonderful mountain peaks lead to some great experiences and unbelievably beautiful views. One of our best Exodus trips so far, and so close to the UK Most Inspirational Moment Scrambling up to the peaks on day 7 to the summits of Mancondiu, meeting Chamois enroute, and taking in the unbelievable views in all directions Thoughts on Group Leader Nachio (Ignachio) was a great tour leader, kept everyone well informed, gave timely advice on the need for water, appropriate clothing, electrolyte and mineral replacement (isotonic additives), suntan lotion, and the need for 'pacing' the walks to avoid exhaustion. He juggled the programme to suit both the prevailing and forecast weather, and ensured everyone stayed safe. He was very much 'part of the group'. Advice for Potential Travellers The weather can be unpredictable, and whilst we did not need to layer up, nor did we need wet weather gear, the humble umbrella can be a useful bit of kit to be used in rain or searing sunshine. The tour leader on both this trip, and previously in Austria, have recommended one as almost essential. Trekking poles, and stout walking boots are very suited to the terrain. There are very few ' mountain huttes' for toilet facilities ( so a 'toilet' kit - hand sanitiser etc. is useful) and few places to buy drinks en route in this part of Spain. There are quite a few opportunities to fill water bottles from springs, and whilst we were assured that the spring water is safe, some people might feel safer using water purifier systems. You do need to make sure that you have sufficient bottle capacity (about 2 litres) so that it will last betwenn refills. We did canoeing on the free day; it was 40 euros per person, includes transport to and from the hotel, a packed lunch, canoe or kayak, double ended kayak paddles (no single blade paddles available, nor left handed paddles) and gives you between 3 and 4 hours of paddling with many opportunities to 'beach' for a break. The river has a few very tame grade 1 'rapids', and you are paddling with the current. The river can be very busy at the launching ramp, usually the school trips, but soon thins out a you progress down stream.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/22/2019
David and Jennifer Douglas - Traveled, June 2019
An Amazing Week Walking in the Picos de Europa We spent an amazing week in the Picos de Europa from 25th May to 1st June 2019 and both enjoyed it immensely. Even though our fitness levels were different, we were both able to benefit from the varied levels of the walks, some of which had optional climbs at a more challenging level. The scenery was stunning and was further enhanced by our leader Ignacio/Nacho’s local knowledge and ability to judge the walk to suit the weather. This ensured we gained the most benefit from the scenery as some walks would have otherwise been spoiled by the mist due to their altitude. We enjoyed the many sightings of vultures, eagles, Asturian Mountain Cattle, goats, sheep, horses and chamois. The family run hotel Torrecerredo was very much understated as the food and service were exceptional with a very homely atmosphere. It is a credit to Jim and Pilar for such a well run hotel. We were presented every evening with a four course evening meal of Michelin Star quality. Picnic lunches were individually prepared to order and wrapped for us ready to take on our walk. The staff at the hotel were extremely friendly and accommodating. The beds were very comfortable and the hotel also offers a laundry service which most of the group availed of. We were very fortunate to be part of a fantastic group of 16 people who got on extremely well together and encouraged and supported each other throughout the week. The hotel bar was great to relax in after a day’s walking with a bottle of local cider, beer or gin and tonic. Most Inspirational Moment For me (David) it would have to be the climb to the top of Mancondiu peak at 2000m as you had to scramble to get to the top where the view was magnificent. Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader, Ignacio/Nacho was exceptional in every way and was humerous, informative, patient and helpful. He was genuinely a very nice person who looked after everybody irrespective of their ability. He was able to evaluate everybody's individual strengths and weaknesses and advise accordingly. Advice for Potential Travellers A few weeks practice hill walking with walking poles beforehand would make the whole experience more enjoyable. Don't hesitate to book this holiday as we both found it amazing and thoroughly relaxing.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/25/2019
Mark Brookes - Traveled, June 2019
Picos de Europas What a fantastic trip, loved it. Probably the best group I’ve ever walked with, stunning location and not what you would normally associate with Spain. The Hotel Torrecerrado was brilliant, lovely family atmosphere, Jim and the gang were excellent and couldn’t do enough for us. The food was sensational, high end restaurant quality, innovative and delicious. Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this trip to others. Most Inspirational Moment Tackling my fear of heights, did a couple of scrambles, walked through a stunning canyon with a properly vertical drop, a good few metres down, but the group and guide were great, really looked after me. Thoughts on Group Leader Nacho was great, really entertaining, spoke a lot about the history of the area and very considerate to the not so able members of the group, possibly to the detriment of the fitter people within the group as it was hard to walk at our own pace, but this is a minor detail. Advice for Potential Travellers The walk is graded as a moderate 3, but in my opinion it was slightly more difficult in certain places, possibly a 3-4, which some of the group struggled with. Oh and take some ear plugs, most of the cows have bells which can get a bit tiresome when your trying to sleep at night, but please do not be put off by this.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/16/2019
Rachel Speight - Traveled, May 2019
Pico's May 2019 An amazing trip assisted by the complete gelling of the group…everyone put in 100% from day 1 to make it a great success Most Inspirational Moment Climbing the peaks with the encouragement of the group and the tour leader...….amazing views and sense of achievement Thoughts on Group Leader Superb!! Well informed and aware of the local environment - ensured that everyone was safe at all times and answered all questions and queries Nothing was too much trouble Advice for Potential Travellers Take ear plugs for the cow bells if you are a light sleeper!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/05/2019
Matthew Butcher - Traveled, May 2019
Food was excellent Food was well above the standard I expect. Well presented and varied menu. Lovely views and good company. Shame we had rain on the gorge walk Most Inspirational Moment Walking over the snow drifts Thoughts on Group Leader Managed the various speeds of the walker well Advice for Potential Travellers Take walking sticks. First time i used them but made life much easier
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/09/2019
Dave Johnson - Traveled, June 2019
Fantastic experience! The Picos de Europa is a great National Park to experience wonderful mountain ranges at a moderate hiking grade. We were very fortunate to have an excellent tour guide in Nacho who really looked after us and filled the days with great facts on the local area and wildlife. The walking group was a wonderful mix of ages and backgrounds and we bonded from Day 1. The hotel accommodation was good but I have to highlight the excellent customer service from Jim/Pillar and their team. The food each night was simply fantastic…4 courses which would grace any London establishment. Also, a great bar to socialise in after the walks! Thanks everyone! Most Inspirational Moment Taking in the wonderful mountain range of the Picos. Thoughts on Group Leader Nacho was a great group leader...full of wonderful local facts, history and knowledge of the surrounding wildlife.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/03/2019
Share a personalized trip brochure!
Why Choose Us?
We Work for You
Our goal to make you happy! That means ensuring our travel consultants have the best product knowledge and excellent customer service. A positive customer experience is our #1 goal!
Our Products
We offer an broad selection of travel products, including all-inclusive vacation packages, pre-packaged tours, custom travel itineraries, destination weddings, and luxury vacations.
Escapes Cares
We believe in giving back. When you book with us, you are contributing to tree planting through our partners at Veritree, as well ocean conservation though Oceana Canada.
