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Things to do in Picos de Europa

Discover the best attractions and experiences Picos de Europa has to offer

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Historic Monuments

Explore enduring landmarks that tell the human story of the Picos de Europa region, from ancient bridges to sacred sites.

Santuario de Covadonga

A sacred site with a basilica and royal chapel, set high in the green hills and rich in history.

Puente Romano de Cangas de Onís

An iconic stone bridge over the Sella River, dating from Roman times and a gateway to the mountains.

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Museums

Learn about local culture, geology and gastronomy through small but informative museums around the valleys.

Museo del Queso Cabrales

Discover the story of Cabrales cheese with demonstrations of traditional cheesemaking.

Centro de Interpretación Tito Bustillo

Exhibits about Paleolithic art and the Tito Bustillo caves near Ribadesella.

MUJA - Museo del Jurásico de Asturias

A popular museum offering insights into dinosaurs and the Jurassic period in the region.

Religious Monuments

Religious sites that punctuate the landscape, from sanctuaries to ancient monastic foundations.

Santuario de Covadonga

A revered pilgrimage site with a dramatic setting tied to Asturian legend.

Monasterio de Santo Toribio de Liébana

Historic monastery in Cantabria famed for its relic and architectural presence in the region.

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National & Theme Parks

The dramatic landscape of the Picos de Europa offers one of Spain’s premier national park experiences.

Parque Nacional de los Picos de Europa

Spain’s oldest national park, spanning Asturias, Cantabria and León with dramatic peaks.

Lagos de Covadonga (Enol y Ercina)

Picturesque glacial lakes set in the heart of the park, perfect for easy hikes.

Teleférico de Fuente Dé

Cable car to a high mountain plateau offering sweeping views.

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Neighborhoods

Small towns and villages that anchor the Picos region and invite day trips.

Cangas de Onís

Historic town and gateway to the Picos, with traditional streets and markets.

Arenas de Cabrales

Rural municipality known for its cheese and mountain scenery.

Potes

Picturesque Cantabrian town providing access to the Picos via scenic routes.

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Free Things to Do

Experience the landscape and culture without an entry fee.

Ruta del Cares

A spectacular, mostly flat hike through the gorge linking Bulnes and Poncebos.

Miradores del entorno

Many viewpoints around Covadonga and the valleys offer free photo opportunities.

Exploring villages and viewpoints

Stroll through mountain hamlets and photograph the landscapes at your own pace.

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Gastronomy

Seasonal mountain flavors and Asturian classics to savor after a day outdoors.

Queso Cabrales

Blue cheese made in the Cabrales valley, a local specialty.

Fabada Asturiana

Hearty bean stew that’s a staple of the regional cuisine.

Sidra Asturiana

Traditional cider poured from a bottle and enjoyed with meals.

Pote Asturiano

Thick bean and potato stew with chorizo—a comforting mountain dish.

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Nightlife

Relaxed evenings with local drinks and simple, friendly venues.

Sidrerías de Cangas de Onís

Casual cider houses offering local bites and a lively atmosphere.

Tapas bars in Potes

Casual spots for tapas and regional drinks after hiking.

Local taverns in Arenas de Cabrales

Rural pubs with mountain character and live music on select nights.

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Entertainment

Cultural experiences and guided explorations to deepen your visit.

Tito Bustillo Cave Center visits

Guided tours and exhibitions related to prehistoric art in the region.

Cave exploration near Ribadesella

Responsible tours to explore nearby caves with ancient drawings.

Theater and cultural events in Cangas de Onís

Seasonal performances celebrating local traditions and stories.

Sports

Energetic pursuits in the mountains for every level of adventurer.

Hiking the Cares Gorge

A renowned long-distance hike through dramatic gorge scenery.

Naranjo de Bulnes ascent (Urriellu)

Iconic peak popular with experienced hikers and climbers.

Lagos de Enol y Ercina hikes

Accessible lake hikes featuring alpine landscapes and wildlife.

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Off the Track

Hidden gems and slow adventures beyond the main trails.

Cheese route in Cabrales valley

Visit small dairy farms to learn cheese making and tasting.

Rural village strolls in the Cabrales and Onís valleys

Leisurely walks through traditional stone houses and orchards.

Stargazing in the park

Clear mountain skies provide excellent conditions for night sky viewing.