A spectacular hiking day on the Ruta del Cares in the Picos de Europa!

Monday, April 20, was all about adventure! We, or more precisely I, packed our hiking boots and set off on an unforgettable experience. Our destination: the Ruta del Cares, one of the most impressive hiking routes in the Picos de Europa, Spain. We started in Posada de Valdeón, ready for an extensive tour.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

The sun was shining brightly over the picturesque village of Posada de Valdeón when we set off at 09:45 in the morning. The sky was bright blue and the majestic mountains provided a breathtaking backdrop.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

A large part of the path leads through impressive rock tunnels carved into the stone. I walked along the path here and was able to enjoy the special atmosphere. The adventure began right at the start with narrow paths and the smell of damp earth and fresh mountain air.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

The Picos de Europa mountains revealed themselves in all their splendor. The paths led us through narrow gorges, over impressive bridges and along steep rock faces.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

The view of the waterfalls pouring over the rocks like fine curtains was particularly spectacular. The mist rising from the masses of water cooled the air pleasantly and made for a unique natural experience.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

The path winds along the spectacular aqueduct, offering breathtaking views time and time again.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

The narrow paths led us through rugged rock formations. The sun shone through the gorges and it was simply breathtaking to experience this force of nature.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

The route took us through the impressive gorge and offered great views time and again.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

The crystal-clear water of the river was perfect for a refreshing dip.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

Sometimes we also went through short tunnels where we could see the beauty of the mountains up close.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

A short stop for refreshment in one of the clear mountain pools.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

The path wound its way through the breathtaking landscape.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

After a while, a well-deserved break to recharge our batteries for the rest of the route.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

A few kilometers further on, a signpost. The "Ruta del Cares" was a bit strenuous, but worth every single step.

Posada de Valdeón, Spain | 4/20/2026

The hike was an unforgettable experience that I can recommend to any nature lover. The impressive villages such as Caín, the paths along the spectacular aqueduct and the breathtaking landscape of the Picos de Europa made this day something very special.