Trekking and wildlife spotting in Picos de Europa

Picos de Europa is a Natural Park in Spain, in Asturias region. It is a mountains region (Picos de Europa is spanish for Peaks of Europe), with peaks as high as 2600m!

^{Here one of the most famous peaks, Naranjo de Bulnes}

For me one of the main attractions of the park is the amazing amount of hiking trails that exist; they are all very well signaled, and they fit all difficulty levels, from 30 minute hikes almost without inclination, to trails that go over 40-50km and probably can't be done in just one day. On this post I'm sharing some photos about one of my favourite hiking trails there: Ruta del Cares!

This trail has a little bit over 11km, and goes a long a canyon that follows the river Cares. It's not a circular path, it starts in a little town called Caín, finishing in Poncebos. In peak tourist times, there are buses that can bring you back to your starting point. If you wanna do it the tough way, like I did... you do the path both ways! :) Note: It helps in the decision if you don't go in the turistic time, there are no buses, only taxis that are more than willing to take you back... for a small fee of 50€!

The view during all the hike is amazing, with mountain on both sides and a gorge where the river flows.

Although not everytime, the trail can be a little more on the narrow side sometimes. I'm not a big fan of heights, especially if you don't have anything to hold on to, but I didn't find it distressing.

In any case, do pay attention! it's easy to get distracted with all the amazing views, and the fall is pretty steep! Especailly if you, like me, are always scouting for wildlife ;)

^{Juvenile water lizard -Lacerta schreiberi}

^{Black Redstart, male - Phoenicurus ochruros}

The hike doesn't have a lot of steep inclinations, and it's overall easy, but it's over 22km back and forth, so a little physical preparation does help. But trust me, if you like nature trails, this is a must do if you go to the region! If you feel 22k or 11k aren't your thing, don't worry: as I said in the beggining of the post, you have a lot of trails to choose from!

I started in Caín side; at the end of the trail, there's a small cafe and a place to rest.

There you can gather your strengths, and then enjoy the wonderful view once again on the way back! A word of caution: weather in the mountains can change pretty quickly, and being caught in a storm in a route like this is not funny at all! Try to do a bit of homework before, and always carry something rainproof and a flashlight. I know this may seem a little dumb, but it can save you a lot of trouble!

Ah, and if I recall correctly, most of the trail doesn't have cell phone coverage. So, see it on the bright side... relax and enjoy the moment!

Photos taken with Canon SX50 HS