PICOS PEAKS & GORGES

The Picos de Europa is Spain's third highest mountain range, lower only than the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada. It is a spectacular range of limestone peaks, ridges and deep valleys. The high ground is a 'moonscape' of dramatic rocky terrain almost devoid of vegetation, while the lower valleys (locally known as 'Green Spain') are full of beautiful wildflowers in spring. Its terrain, tranquillity and inaccessibility make the Picos a walker's favourite. Bears, wolves and boars all still survive here, chamois are often spotted, and due to a total hunting ban are not shy and allow us to approach well within camera range. Fire salamanders, golden eagles and griffon vultures are all often seen, along with many other species. We walk from our small family-run hotel into the heart of this beautiful range, Europe's largest National Park, returning each night for one of the many home-cooked specialities on offer. The scenery, walking, hotel, food, climate and wildlife make this a great week's walking.