Picos de Europa & Coastal Combo

Our meeting point is in the coastal village of Llanes, on the eastern coast of Asturias, and well situated for bus and train arrival connections.

Depending on your arrival time in Llanes, there is time to wander through the old medieval quarter of this historical town.

Later that same day we are transported by minibus taxis to our base  in the heart of the Picos de Europa. We spend 3 nights here. The Picos de Europa National Park has been declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, and is a marvel of towering limestone mountains, valleys and rivers with various peaks reaching over 2500m. Arenas de Cabrales lies in a valley, surrounded by mountains with a magnificent view of el Naranjo de Bulnes, o Picu Uriellu as Asturians know it. It is an iconic peak, with almost mythical magnetism for climbers from around the globe.

We will undertake two different hikes (and not the aforementioned climb!): the choice of route will depend on the weather & walker’s fitness. However, none of the walks are particularly taxing if one is used to mountain hiking.

Free time can be spent visiting a number of local artisanal cheese makers. Arenas de Cabrales is known throughout Europe for its quality and quantity of cheese. The Cabrales blue cheese is protected by its Denomination of Origin certification. In fact, Asturias produces more than 40 varieties of cheese, mostly artisanal!

After our two days in the Pico’s, we return to the coastal town of Llanes where we have time to rest and explore the Costas Verde’s many beautiful beaches and coves, dramatic cliffs and green fields, beneath the Sierra del Cuera mountains.

The rest of our days are spent following the Camino de Santiago (Northern Way) and branching off to walk on lesser known coastal trails, shepherds and fisherman’s paths. There is plenty of time to swim in one of the many beaches and coves we pass.

Can’t remember the last time you rode a bicycle?! On the last day there is the option to cycle, which is highly recommended as the section we cover is not very long, and free of vehicles.

We will spend 4 nights in quiet rural hotels and apartments in small hamlets along the way. Luggage is delivered to your accommodation.