About the destination
Picos de Europa is a National Park and the largest limestone mountain range in western Europe. It is located in Asturias, northern Spain, and it features a huge variations in altitude, with more than 2,500 m between the highest peaks and bottoms of the valleys. In Picos, you will find deep canyons and gorges as well as some of the most unique karst landforms in Europe.
The Ercina and Enol lakes are one of the most popular natural landmarks in Spain, a must-stop in your journey across stunning forests, high mountain peaks, enchanting villages and superb gastronomy. Wildlife is also booming in Picos with iconic mammals like the wolf, birds of prey or endemic Cantabrian species of flora and fauna.
There is also plenty of livestock and shepherds activity in the area, making the perfect combination for some of the best artisan cheeses in Spain.
Ecotourism experiences
Together with our certified ecotourism members in Picos de Europa, you will live fantastic experiences in the area. The best way to discover the region is to enjoy a guided tour in the Covadonga lakes to learn the origin and formation of the landscape. You can also visit La Vega, a spot where shepherds make the famous Gamoneu cheese and finish your day at La Reina viewpoint to learn more about an inspiring project of the bearded vulture bird.
Another great experience not far from Picos and away from the crowds is the secret spot of the Gorges of the rivers of Ponga. The best option to enjoy this lesser known area is with a guided tour to discover landscapes of great ecological interest and impressive rural villages like the Casielles and Viboli. You will stop at the local bakery to make and taste homemade bread with your hosts.
The best time to visit Picos de Europa and these guided tours is autumn or spring. You will enjoy mild climate conditions and beautiful landscape colours. Bring your all-weather clothes though, as you are in Asturias!
For further information and bookings
You can live this experience together with our local ecotourism host. Please enquire to GenuineSpain on WhatsApp +34 677 658 595 or by email at info@genuinespain.es to check availability and your preferred dates.
This experience is part of the 2022 Ecotourism Escapes Brochure (only in Spanish)
The Ecotourism Club in Spain groups together destinations and companies which guarantee, by fulfilling a series of requirements, their commitment to conservation and local sustainable development. That is why it has created its own brand “Ecotourist in Spain” and the website www.ecotouristinspain.com, where you can find protected areas, accommodation and companies which offer their tourism services, as well as experiences and activities committed to the preservation of the area in which they take place.
