Open Travel Guide
Hiking in Asturias

Asturias Hiking & Trekking Guide 2026

Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Asturias.

This guide covers 8+ hiking trails in Asturias — Ruta del Cares (Cares Gorge), Ruta de las Xanas (Xanas Gorge) and Ascent to Pico Urriellu (Naranjo de Bulnes) top the list. Every recommendation carries its practical details: typical costs, the best time to visit, and what to know before you commit.

Asturias is an autonomous community on Spain's rugged northern coast, bordered by the Cantabrian Sea to the north and the Cantabrian Mountains to the south. Known as the 'Natural Paradise,' the region combines dramatic cliffs, emerald valleys, medieval villages, and the towering peaks of Picos de Europa National Park. Its Celtic heritage, distinctive cider culture, world-class seafood, and UNESCO-listed pre-Romanesque monuments make it one of Iberia's most rewarding destinations for independent travelers.

Top trails

Routes worth lacing up your boots for.

  1. 1

    Ruta del Cares (Cares Gorge)

    21 km round trip (10.5 km one way)4–6 hours round trip+/- 200m; gorge path between 500–700m altitude

  2. 2

    Ruta de las Xanas (Xanas Gorge)

    7.6 km round trip3–4 hours+/- 300m

  3. 3

    Ascent to Pico Urriellu (Naranjo de Bulnes)

    Varies; 12–18 km depending on approach6–9 hours (experienced hikers only)2,519m summit; 800m+ elevation gain from Bulnes

  4. 4

    Circular de Somiedo (Valley of the Saliencia Lakes)

    14 km circular5–7 hours1,450m–2,000m; elevation gain ~550m

  5. 5

    Ruta de los Molinos del Río Lena

    8 km circular2.5–3.5 hours+/- 150m; easy forest trail

  6. 6

    Ruta del Alba (Río Alba Gorge)

    12 km return4–5 hours+/- 200m

  7. 7

    Coastal Path: Cabo de Peñas Loop

    10 km circular3–4 hoursCoastal path; minimal elevation change

  8. 8

    Ruta del Bosque de Muniellos

    16 km circular (restricted access)5–7 hours600m–1,050m; moderate ascent

Trail difficulty levels

Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.

Easy

Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.

Moderate

Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.

Hard

Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.

Expert

Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.

Local hazards

What to watch out for on the trail.

High

Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.

Medium

Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.

Medium

Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.