Walking the river Cares Gorge – Picos da Europa, Spain

Walking the river Cares Gorge – Picos da Europa​, Spain

The Cares Gorge Walk is the most iconic Picos da Europa, Spain.

 

Nestled near Posada de Valdeon, the largest village in Picos da Europa National Park, this walk is an unforgettable experience.

Located between the autonomous communities of Castile and León, the park offers many trails, but none rival the Cares Gorge Walk.

Walking the river Cares Gorge - Picos da Europa​, Spain

Starting Point: Posada de Valdeon to Caín

Begin your journey in Posada de Valdeon and head to Caín, where the trail starts.

The map shows the Cares River flowing from Caín to Poncebos, cutting through a mountain range with peaks over 2,000 meters high.

Despite the rugged terrain, a well-maintained trail allows you to walk this stunning gorge.

Walking the river Cares Gorge - Picos da Europa​, Spain

The Trail: Caín to Poncebos

This 12 km (7.5 mi) trail from Caín to Poncebos is relatively flat, with minimal elevation changes.

The path is 1.5 meters wide, providing a comfortable walking space.

Along the way, you’ll see remnants of history. Between 1915 and 1921, the “Sociedad Electra de Viesgo” constructed a canal to direct the Cares River’s waters to the Poncebos hydroelectric plant.

Today, you can observe the canal’s 71 tunnels, with water appearing and disappearing throughout the journey.

Walking the river Cares Gorge - Picos da Europa​, Spain

Historical Significance

Due to conservation issues, a new canal and trail were built between 1945 and 1950.

This is the path you walk today, with glimpses of the old trail visible below.

The engineering marvels along the route add a layer of historical intrigue to your hike.

Walking the river Cares Gorge - Picos da Europa​, Spain

The End: Poncebos and Local Delicacies

After completing the 12 km trail, you’ll reach Puente de Poncebos.

Reward yourself with a cold beer and local tapas, especially Cabrales cheese, a unique blend of sheep’s, goat’s, and cow’s milk with an intense flavor.

Join the Adventure

Experience this breathtaking walk with one of my guided tours.

I’ll be waiting to share the beauty of the Cares Gorge Walk in Picos da Europa with you.

For this adventure or any other from my repertoire, you can contact me via my travel agency, Iberactive.

Stay safe, enjoy your adventures, and show respect for nature.

David Monteiro