Epic Hikes of the World ( PDFDrive )

© Matt Munro
corn drying by the road
PICOS DE EUROPA CIRCUIT
The unforgettable nine-day circuit of the Picos de Europa covers the range’s
extraordinary river gorges, alpine lakes, depressions, dense beech woods, narrow
canals, cliffhanging trails and peaks with breathtaking views. For reasons of ease
and safety – some sections should not be attempted in reverse – this hike is done
in a clockwise direction from and to Lago de la Ercina, incorporating Vega de Ario,
the villages of Cain and Bulnes La Villa, the glacial Vega Urriellu, Refugio Diego
Mella/Collado Jermoso, Cordiñanes village, the campsite at the Vega Huerta and
the Refugio Vegarredonda. Bring a map and compass as it’s easy to get
disoriented if fog settles, be aware that rain sometimes makes steep sections too
dangerous to tackle and refugios are often full in August, so carry a tent with you.
It’ll be worth it as you visit national park villages, explore the Garganta del Cares
gorge and walk through high green pastures against a backdrop of stunning
mountains.
Start/End // Lago de la Ercina
Distance // 65 miles (104km)