The walks were lovely and the scenery very varied. The hotel is comfortable and serves great food... Olive McEntagart, 2018 See more reviews
Fabulous, well-planned walks through amazing landscapes. Your feet may feel a little well-used by... Liza Walker, 2018 See more reviews
What a wonderful trip to the Picos in Spain. Hotel and food was excellent. Our guides (Nacho and... Nicola Matthew, 2018 See more reviews
Just returned from a fabulous week in the mountains in Northern Spain. We had 5 exciting walks... Joanna Marsh, 2017 See more reviews
My first exodus holiday was fantastic.The picos were simply beautiful, the hotel was great, the... wendy clarke, 2017 See more reviews
An excellent holiday with a lovely group in beautiful surroundings, and a very friendly hotel. Tiggy Sawbridge, 2017 See more reviews
The Picos de Europa is an area of outstanding scenery and has well defined walking paths. Every... Stephen Low, 2017 See more reviews
This was my first walking holiday and first trip with Exodus. I would highly recommend it to... Oliver Miles, 2017 See more reviews
Itinerary Include flights Expand all Day 1 Fly to Bilbao; transfer to Arenas de Cabrales. Meals included: Dinner Day 2 Visit the Arenas de Cabrales valley; pastures of Vanu and spectacular views- Moderate departure (level 3) 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 are able to view across the main valley of Cabrales. During Spring time, it is 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 of the walk is more undulating and provides us with fresh views and 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 during today's walk. Walking approx. 16km/ 10 miles; duration 7 hours; ascent +730m; descent -730m. Highest point (Los Fresnos col): 720m. Classic Cares Gorge Walk, one of the most popular walks in Spain- Challenging departure (level 5) See day 4 of Moderate (level 3) itinerary description for further details. Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 3 Ascent to Pandescura peak with superb views of the Western Massif- Moderate departure (level 3) 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 Bovia. Walking approx. 14km/ 9 miles; duration 6 hours; ascent +550m; descent -580m. Highest point (Pandescura peak): 1000m. Up to the high pastures of Nava; on to the summit of Juan Robre; descend back to Arenas de Cabrales- Challenging departure (level 5) The walk begins directly from our hotel. After leaving the village, an ancient Roman path leads us up to the high pastures of Nava, which in the months of May and June are alive with a sea of flowers. We continue up where the scenery changes to one more reminiscent of the Yorkshire Dales, with limestone outcrops jutting out of the landscape. Looking skywards it is possible to spot a variety of eagles and vultures roaming the thermals. The path leads us to the summit of Juan Robre, which rewards us with commanding views of Arenas de Cabrales far below and the jagged peaks of the central massif in the distance. The descent is via the Juan Robre ridge, which brings us back to Arenas de Cabrales and an opportunity to sample a refreshing glass of cider to cool us down. This walk may be done in the opposite direction according to the weather conditions. Walking approx. 14km/ 9 miles; duration 7 hours; ascent +750m; descent‐750m. Highest point: Cabeza Juan Robre 871m. Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 4 Classic Cares Gorge walk, one of the most popular walks in Spain- Moderate departure (level 3) The classic Cares Gorge has been described as the jewel in the crown of Spanish hiking. For 12 km, 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 Spain. In places, the surrounding peaks rise over two thousands metres above the path and if we're lucky, we may catch a glimpse of the rare and beautiful wall creeper bird. The path eventually emerges in the village of Cain, where we have lunch before our return along the same path to Puente Poncebos. Transport will be waiting here to take us to back to our hotel in Arenas. The walk is relatively flat with a gradual ascent of just 350m from Puente Poncebos to Cain. Walking approx. 24km/ 15 miles; duration 7 hours; ascent +550m; descent -550m. Highest point (Los Collaos): 510m Summit Main range; descend to the area of the Pandebano Col then to Bulnes- Challenging departure (level 5) We start the walk by Tielve village (located 650m above sea level). An ascent of 1000m through hazel and beech woods surrounded by limestone will take us to one of the classic viewpoints of the Picos; the summit of Main range. From the summit, we descend to the area of the Pandebano Col with fantastic views of the Central Massif of Picos de Europa and its northern valleys. From here we start the second part of the descent into the small hamlet of Bulnes, which is nestled in the shadow of vast cliffs and its only communications to the exterior used to be old donkey tracks until 2001, when a funicular railway was constructed. Those wishing to end the walk here can take the train to the bottom (approximately EUR 17 per person), whilst those wishing to continue will follow a small and narrow valley down to the old bridge. Walking approx. 16km/ 10 miles ; duration 10 hours; ascent +1150m; descent ‐1500m. Highest point (Cabeza La Mesa): 1612m Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 5 Free day. Optional activities include caving, canoeing, canyoning or a trip to the coast- Moderate (level 3) & Challenging (level 5) departures Today is free for you to visit the coast or try a spot of caving, canoeing or canyoning. Our local staff will be able to help organise any of these activities. Meals included: Breakfast Day 6 Summit of Peña Main, one of the classic viewpoints of the Picos; continue on to Pandebano Col- Moderate departure (level 3) Starting close to the village of Tieve, we walk up into the Main range and summit Peña Main, one of the classic viewpoint in the Picos. We walk to Pandebano Col and then begin our descent. Walking approx. 11km/ 7 miles; duration 7 hours; ascent +1050m; descent -740m. Highest point (Cabeza La Mesa): 1612m Lakes of Covadonga; Majada de Belbin & Peak Pandescura- Challenging departure (level 5) Today we head west to the lakes of Covadonga, making a short stop at the Covadonga Sanctuary before following a winding road to the lake. The first part of the day is a loop around the traditional mountain farming area near the lakes. It is a really beautiful part of the Picos and is wonderful to visit during good weather. After walking past the lakes we soon descend into the Majada de Belbin, where cheese is still produced using traditional methods during the summer. After filling our water bottles, we will then join an ancient Roman path that takes us down to the foothills of the Western Massif for an ascent of Peak Pandescura (1004m). From the peak we will walk along the green hills and will descend into the Cabrales valley where we will finish the walk at the hamlet of Canales. The transfer back to the hotel will be around 10 minutes. Walking approx. 17km/ 11 miles; duration 7 hours; ascent +550m; descent ‐1250m. Highest point (Majada Las Bovias): 1270m Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 7 Walk up to the twin summits of Mancondiu offering fantastic views of the Central and Eastern Massifs- Moderate departure (level 3) At 2000m, the twin summits of Mancondiu are the highest point we reach during the week. Most of the walking apart from the last 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. Walking approx. 11km/ 7 miles ; duration 5 hours; ascent +735m; descent -735m. Highest point: Macondiu peak 2000m Twin summits of Mancondiu; on to San Carlos Peak- Challenging departure (level 5) At 2000m, the twin summits of Mancondiu will be one of the first highest points we reach today. Most of the walking apart from the last 200m is on disused mining tracks. The top offers fantastic views of the Eastern Massif and is a fantastic end to a varied week of walking. There is the option to traverse between the two peaks across an exposed ridge, but this is not recommended for those who are uncomfortable with steepdrops. From Mancondiu, we are able to see the next peak we will climb, San Carlos. This ascent is easier but longer than Mancondiu and we will enjoy views over the next valleys and ranges to the south of Picos.We will then backtrack for approximately one hour before we reach an alternative footpath that will take us back to the beginning of the walk. Walking approx. 17km/ 11 miles; duration 9 hours; ascent +1180m; descent ‐1180m. Highest point: San Carlos or Sagrado Corazon peak 2212m. Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 8 To Bilbao; fly to London. Meals included: Breakfast
Hotel Torrecerredo Our base for the week is the lovely Hotel Torrecerredo, a small family-run hotel in Arenas de Cabrales, It has a pleasant garden terrace attached to the café bar and the panoramic restaurant gives views right up to the mountains peaks. All rooms have en suite facilities along with TV and Wi-Fi. The hotel is situated in a rural setting, five minutes’ walk from the centre of the village, which is well serviced with banks, cafes and shops. The hotel's restaurant serves delicious traditional meals all cooked with locally sourced ingredients. Single accommodation is available (on request).
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Reviewed July 2018 Olive McEntagart Trip: Walking the Picos de Europa Excellent walking ! The walks were lovely and the scenery very varied. The hotel is comfortable and serves great food : ) you'll never go hungry. V well organised and the tour guide was great. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Seeing the amazing views of all the mountains and looking down on clouds! What did you think of your group leader? Excellent, really organised. All the walks were at a good pace. Couldn't have done more - really nice. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Possibly only to bring poles for extra stability when walking. The hotel provide an excellent lunch with lots of snacks so no need to bring any extra snacks. Is there anything else you would like to add? Brilliant trip in a beautiful part of Spain.
Reviewed June 2018 christine Grove Trip: Walking the Picos de Europa Book it. The tour is brilliant, book it. The hotel is lovely, all the staff were very helpful and owners not only speak English but were Leaders themselves so they know all about the walks and the area. The hotel food was excellent and there is a drying room, and washing line, so you can wash/dry clothes and boots. My room had a bath and a shower, heaven after a long days walk. Magnificent views from the South facing pretty garden terrace ( and the bar and restaurant) and drinks very reasonably priced. Guide , excellent, knew the mountains very well, even when covered with snow! Very reassuring. Long walks but very quiet, we hardly saw anyone each day, which was lovely (apart from Carres Gorge - take a hat as no shade) we were well off the main “highway” fantastic views every step. And no hidden costs as a full breakfast, packed lunch provided and a 3 course evening meal. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? . What did you think of your group leader? fun
Reviewed June 2018 Liza Walker Trip: Walking the Picos de Europa Mountain Loveliness! Fabulous, well-planned walks through amazing landscapes. Your feet may feel a little well-used by the end of the week but it is SO worth it! At the end of May, we had fantastic weather, beautiful wild flowers and wild life in plenty - so many birds! The hotel is really well located with great views, lovely views, delicious food and nice beer - and only minutes from the village, which has outdoor clothing, cafes and souvenirs. I really can't recommend this week highly enough! What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Too many moments to mention. What did you think of your group leader? Our guide was excellent - well informed, interesting, patient and good humoured. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? At the end of May, it may rain, or be cloudy and misty - it's pot luck. I was very lucky! I'm pretty fit but hadn't done much ascent recently and all the walks were within my capability, with some folk opting for easier sections when available. Is there anything else you would like to add? Go!
Reviewed May 2018 Nicola Matthew Trip: Walking the Picos de Europa A wonderful walking holiday in Spain. What a wonderful trip to the Picos in Spain. Hotel and food was excellent. Our guides (Nacho and Jairo) were brilliant. I couldn't fault anything. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? All of it! Possibly not some of the muddy conditions, but otherwise everything! What did you think of your group leader? Excellent!
Reviewed October 2017 Joanna Marsh Trip: Walking the Picos de Europa Walking the Picos de Europa Just returned from a fabulous week in the mountains in Northern Spain. We had 5 exciting walks up to 2000m with optional scrambling to the peak on our last walk. Suited us (mum and 16 year old son) brilliantly for Half term. Wonderful guide, fellow walkers, hotel etc. It was a really relaxing way to holiday as there was zero stress (nothing to organise) but physical challenge each day. The canoeing on the free day was a rest from walking, however 15km of upper body workout.....and lots of fun. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Amazing scenery, getting to know fellow travellers, physical challenge and sharing all of this with my youngest son on his 16th birthday. What did you think of your group leader? He was great. Nacho is an experienced guide and was able to judge our group and lead us for the week, seeming to know what each person would require from him. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Do plenty of walking to prepare for the holiday. Being fit enough means you will enjoy the walks more. We went in October which was end of season. I suspect the walks might be very hot in the height of summer so consider whether you can cope with exertion in heat.
Reviewed September 2017 Mary-Ann Preston Trip: Walking the Picos de Europa Picos de Europa, Spain A wonderful week walking in the stunning Picos. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Being away from all the noise, polution and demands of daily life, and being able to enjoy such beautiful landscapes. What did you think of your group leader? Nacho was really lovely. Very personable, relaxed and friendly, and knowledgable about the area and it's history. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Just enjoy your escape, the exercise and the views. Is there anything else you would like to add? Apart from the wonderful walking, our hotel, Torrecerreno, was a really great place with a very relaxed atmosphere - comfortable simple accommodation with plentiful and delicious food and such friendly staff.
Reviewed September 2017 wendy clarke Trip: Walking the Picos de Europa excellent first experience My first exodus holiday was fantastic.The picos were simply beautiful, the hotel was great, the company (my fellow travellers) were great fun and my experience was much, much better than I had anticipated. If you are nervous of travelling alone ,like I was, then dont be. It is well worth pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. Go enjoy! What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Coming down from Mancondui peak, walking through a beautiful alpine meadow, the trail blazers were well ahead and the chatty ones well behind and I had ten minutes of peaceful blissful solitude just to.......be. What did you think of your group leader? What can I say? Alvaro is one in a million. A really nice guy whose passion and knowledge shines through. The holiday would not have been the same without him.
Reviewed August 2017 Tiggy Sawbridge Trip: Walking the Picos de Europa Picos de Europa An excellent holiday with a lovely group in beautiful surroundings, and a very friendly hotel. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Too many to mention! What did you think of your group leader? Alvaro is an exceptional leader and he clearly knows the area inside out. He was also able to predict the weather with extraordinary accuracy and I'm surprised he hasn't been headhunted by the Spanish Meteorological Agency! Alvaro was also very encouraging and we all enjoyed his mischievous sense of humour: 'if I return with 80% of you, it's not perfect, but it's not bad...' Do you have any advice for potential travellers? The weather is unpredictable so if you're wondering what to pack, bring everything just in case! However, I didn't wear a raincoat or fleece all week. Is there anything else you would like to add? The food was superb, plentiful and varied, and the hotel is very good at coping with all dietary requirements. I recommend the coastal walk to Llanes on the day off and you will (hopefully) be rewarded with an ice cream van on arrival. I had the best orange ice lolly ever - it was like freshly squeezed orange juice on a stick.
Reviewed August 2017 Stephen Low Trip: Walking the Picos de Europa Excellent walks in a stunning location! The Picos de Europa is an area of outstanding scenery and has well defined walking paths. Every walk during the holiday had it's own distinct 'feel' and all were excellent! The accommodation was relaxed, staff were friendly and the food was very good. Our group got on very well with each other so everything combined to make this an excellent holiday! What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The short scramble to the summit of one of the mountains was fun and the views were awesome! What did you think of your group leader? Alvaro was an excellent leader - he had outstanding local knowledge and this was combined with a genuine desire to make sure everyone in the group was comfortable and enjoying themselves. Top marks!!! Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Bilboa can be easily reached from the airport by a frequent bus service, so if you have time before or after the trip, it's a nice place to visit! Is there anything else you would like to add? Most of the group participated in a coastal walk on the free day which was very nice - I would recommend it!
Reviewed July 2017 Oliver Miles Trip: Walking the Picos de Europa Walking the Picos de Europa - Challenging week This was my first walking holiday and first trip with Exodus. I would highly recommend it to anyone reasonably fit (Challenging week). Accommodation was great and food amazing - lots of options for veggies and good selection at breakfast. All the staff in the hotel are very helpful - for example the owner, Jim, went out of his way to drop two of us in central Bilbao on the day of the return flight, instead of having to kill time at the airport. Other trip members were very sociable and friendly and made it an incredible week. Our guide, Alvaro, was superb - lots of interesting local knowledge about the wildlife and region. He also ensured that the walks avoided crowded times/cloud. The Picos itself is a beautiful region to visit. Day off allowed a trip to the coast, Llanes, which has good restaurants and lovely beach. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The view of the Narnjo de Bulnes in the valley in the last day, between Sotres and Tielve. What did you think of your group leader? Excellent
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