Picos de Europa
Natural parkThe Picos de Europa reach 2,648 m at Torre de Cerredo, under 30 km from the sea. Nowhere in Spain does high mountain stand so close to the coast.
What it actually is
A limestone massif shared by Asturias, León and Cantabria, and Spain’s oldest protected area: the law of 24 July 1918 created the Parque Nacional de la Montaña de Covadonga. It covers 66,030 ha.
What most visitors do
The easy version is the Lagos de Covadonga, two glacial lakes up a steep road. Private cars are barred for most of the summer; park below and take the bus. The harder version is the Ruta del Cares, 12 km through the gorge.
Frequently asked questions
How far are the Picos from the coast?
About an hour from Llanes to Covadonga; the summit is under 30 km from the sea.
Can I drive up to the lakes?
Not in high season. The road closes to private cars; take the official bus from below.
Is the Cares walk for everyone?
No. It is 12 km each way on a narrow, exposed path with drops and no shade.
Explore more of the Costa Verde
the Picos de Europa is one of many destinations on the CostaMap interactive map — browse beaches, coves, castles and viewpoints across the coast.