Parque Nacional de Picos de Europa is a wild land of rocky heights, green valleys, and shining lakes from Northern Spain.
It not only sets an example of the kind of beauty nature can forge but also serves as the destination for fellow adventurers who have been drawn to the whispering call of the wild. So join us as we strap on the walking boots and pack the digital bags in this Picos de Europa National Park Travel Guide, where we will walk you through everything that one would need to know before heading over to this beautiful landscape!
How to get to Picos de Europa National Park?
Air
- The nearest airports to it are located in Santander (Cantabria) at around 49 km and in Asturias (Oviedo) at a distance of 127 km. To access the park from these airports, one may use a rented car or board a bus, as it will offer full flexibility to explore adjoining areas.
Road
People say that touring the Picos de Europa via scenic roads provides the best access. The park is linked by main roads and highways from the cities of Santander, Oviedo, and León. Car rental services are available in those cities to air passengers.
For Car Rentals: Economy Bookings is Reliable and Highly Recommended!
Bypass additional transfers and rent your car directly at the airport, railway station or port. With detailed car descriptions and user ratings on Economy Bookings, selecting the perfect vehicle is not only straightforward but also reliable and user-friendly.
Seasons in Picos de Europa National Park
Spring
- (March – May): When the snow starts melting, Picos de Europa really comes to life in the spring. This is probably the best time for all those who have a great flair for hiking, as the higher up ones would still have snow leftover. This is just perfect weather, perfectly cool, and set for all types of outdoor activity without the hustle and bustle of summer.
Summer
- (June–August): In the summer, this park typically showcases its full bloom, often under a clear sky and with relatively warm temperatures. In summer, this would be the best season for activities like trekking, climbing, and panoramic sightseeing from the highest peaks in the park. The area of excellence par excellence is the route of Cares, with its breathtaking cliffs and gorges. However, prepare for more visitors and higher accommodation prices.
Autumn
- (September-November): Bright colors of orange, red, and yellow paint the entire landscape.
The cool temperatures and reduced visitation. During this season create the ideal environment for enjoying the tranquility and possible sightings of the park’s wildlife.
Winter
- (December – February): The coldest season ushers the park into a wonderland of snow. Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and other such activities. While only certain areas are accessible, experiencing the serene beauty of solitude amidst snow-covered mountains is truly remarkable.
Navigating the Wilderness
Here are the how-tos of planning a trip: where to go, how to get there, where to bed down, how to fuel your adventures, and of course, how and where to leave footprints without leaving a carbon trail.
Trail whisperers: The park offers its visitors a variety of trails that cover every type of hiker. Cares route is following the river. This trail is an example of a trail for one who does not have much experience in trekking but still would like to get excellent views without getting dizzy.
Where to stay in Picos de Europa National Park?
Potes
The head town near the park, this is the best place from which to explore Picos de Europa. It has a selection of every kind of lodging, from hotels to even apartments and guesthouses. The village has a delightful atmosphere on its cobbled streets between the historic edifices and the great local life, like from a fairy tale.
Cangas de Onís
Another town of repute near the national park is Cangas de Onís. The very pretty town is best known for a Roman bridge and a market that is always bustling. Accommodation facilities range from inns to modern hotels that are easily accessible from the park’s trails.
Fuente Dé
Staying at the very heart of Picos de Europa is even possible from Fuente Dé, known for its remarkable cable car up to the mountains to enjoy panoramic views. You’ll find a few hotels and rural guesthouses here, ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
Activities in Picos de Europa
The climbing park has it all, right from challenging routes, and others suitable for sport climbing and traditional (trad) climbing. One of the best and most common climbs of the park is Naranjo de Bulnes (Picu Urriellu). With its entries and so hard ways. The area is also filled with many multipitches. Some are bolted, all for a mixture for the climbers between adventure and beauty.
Sport climbers may find it rewarding to explore the southern reaches of the park near Valdehuesa. Here, major summits are concentrated, with short approaches from parking facilities. On the other hand, adventurers who are less technically inclined but with plenty of rewards to gain. Explore a wide range of scrambles and mountaineering routes across the major summits in the park.
The best time to practice rock climbing in Picos de Europa usually varies from June to September, when the weather is most inviting. Climbers must be prepared for weather changes and possess the necessary skills and knowledge for the chosen route.
Practical Information
Tipping
In the picturesque Picos de Europa, tipping is appreciated but not strictly expected as elsewhere. When dining, consider leaving 5-10% if satisfied with the service, though it’s often unnecessary with included service charges. For taxi drivers and hotel staff, a modest tip is a kind gesture but remains entirely at your discretion.
Passport & Visa
Travelers from the EU can enter Spain using a national ID card. Visitors from other countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, will need a passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay. Typically, these visitors can stay visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. If you’re planning a longer visit or coming for purposes other than tourism, such as work or study, a visa may be required.
Useful Contacts
- Emergency Services: For immediate assistance, dial 112, the universal European emergency number, which can be accessed free of charge from any phone.
- Local Police: For non-urgent matters, you can contact the local police station in Cangas de Onís at +34 985 84 80 00.
- British Consulate in Madrid: +34 913 342 194
- American Embassy in Madrid: +34 915 872 200
- Tourist Help Center: Picos de Europa Visitor Center in Sotama, find maps, brochures, and expert guidance for maximizing your visit. They can be reached at +34 942 736 610.
Conclusion
Picos de Europa National Park beckons you to write a chapter in your life story. Embrace the opportunity to contribute to its epic saga with love and care. In this sanctuary, where mountains and rivers communicate poetically, we serve as ambassadors of its pristine vision. As you journey through Picos de Europa, marvel at its splendor and honor the harmony of the wild.
10 Most Magnificent National Parks in Europe: Discover the Most Gorgeous National Parks in Europe
