Transcendent beauty
Picos de Europa National Park is a natural wonder that stands as a symbol not only of the Principality of Asturias but also of Cantabria and Castilla y León. Covering 67,000 hectares, this park is a breathtaking expanse of rugged peaks, lush valleys, and deep gorges, with its highest point at Torre Cerredo, soaring to 2,648 meters. Established in 1918 as one of Spain’s first national parks, under the name Parque Nacional de la Montaña de Covadonga, Picos de Europa is a sanctuary for both nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Picos de Europa: The Wonder of Asturias
The Picos de Europa mountain range is notable for its concentration of peaks that rise over 2,500 meters, just 15 km from the Cantabrian Sea. This unique geography results in a dramatic landscape where towering mountains and deep valleys coexist with lush meadows and pristine lakes. The park is divided into three distinct massifs, each offering its own unique geological features:
Eastern Massif: Although this area has the lowest mountains in the range, it still offers breathtaking landscapes, including the Silla del Caballo Cimero at 2,436 meters and the expansive Ándara Lake.
Western Massif: The largest of the three, this massif lies between the Sella and Dobra Rivers to the west and the Cares Gorge to the east. This area includes the iconic Covadonga Mountain and its famous lakes, Enol and Ercina.
Central Massif: Known for its concentration of vertical peaks, this area between the Cares Gorge and the Duje River boasts 38 peaks over 2,500 meters. Among them is Urriellu, also known as Naranjo de Bulnes, an iconic peak standing at 2,519 meters.
The Lakes of Covadonga
The Lakes of Covadonga are among the most iconic features of Picos de Europa National Park. When the park was first established in 1918, it centered around the Covadonga Mountains and Lakes, highlighting the area’s unique flora and fauna. The Lakes of Covadonga, Enol and Ercina, are glacial lakes located at over 1,100 meters above sea level. Visitors reach these lakes via a challenging 14.5 km road that begins near the Covadonga Basilica, a significant historical and religious site that commemorates the start of the Reconquista.
- Lake Enol: Situated at 1,070 meters above sea level, Lake Enol is known for its emerald-green waters, which deepen in color during the winter months.
- Lake Ercina: At 1,108 meters above sea level, Lake Ercina sits higher than Lake Enol. Its waters have been altered by a dam built at one end to supply a local mine, adding an element of human history to this natural wonder.
What Else to Visit in Picos de Europa
While the Lakes of Covadonga are the most visited area, Picos de Europa offers many other stunning sites:
- Urriellu/Naranjo de Bulnes Peak: This often fog-shrouded peak is a must-see, especially for experienced hikers and climbers seeking a challenge.
- The Village of Bulnes: Located in the remote parish of Cabrales, Bulnes is accessible by a cable car and serves as a main access point to the park for hikers and climbers.
- Cares Trail: One of the most popular hiking trails in Asturias, this route follows the Cares Gorge, originally designed to supply a small hydroelectric plant.
- La Hermida Canyon: Carved by the Deva River, this magnificent gorge connects the towns of Peñamellera Baja and Tresviso in Cantabria, with narrow, jagged walls covered in lush vegetation.
- Sotres: The highest village in Asturias, located at 1,050 meters above sea level in the parish of Cabrales, Sotres is famous for its production of Cabrales cheese.
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Hiking in Picos de Europa: Fun for All
Picos de Europa offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from challenging routes like the Cares Gorge to more family-friendly options. Here are some top picks:
- Senda del Arcediano (The Archdeacon’s Trail): This 28 km trail is divided into two sections. The first stretch, from Puerto del Pontón to Soto de Sajambre, is an easy-to-moderate walk, while the second stretch to Amieva is more demanding.
- Desfiladero de Los Beyos: Following the banks of the Sella River for 12 km, this trail offers a 32 km round-trip hike through stunning scenery.
- Pueblos de Sajambre: This 11 km circular hike takes you through the main villages of the Sajambre area, showcasing the region’s agricultural traditions and environmental sustainability.
- La Vega de Llos: This 13 km circular footpath winds through the Valley of Valdeón, offering some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Picos de Europa.
For families with young children, there are also numerous less strenuous hikes, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the park’s transcendent beauty.
Conclusion
Picos de Europa National Park is a place of transcendent beauty, where nature’s grandeur is on full display. From the soaring peaks and serene lakes to the rich cultural heritage of the surrounding villages, this park offers an unparalleled experience for visitors of all kinds. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, Picos de Europa promises to leave you in awe.
