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Experience the walking highlights of Northern Spain on this carefully planned guided tour encompassing the Atlantic Coast, Bilbao and the breathtaking Picos de Europa. This dramatic limestone range, with its proximity to the sea and mild climate, bursts with vibrant flora, creating the perfect backdrop for walking. Each step reveals stunning landscapes-from lush meadows and serene woodlands to crystal-clear rivers and awe-inspiring gorges. Starting in Bilbao, we transfer to the edge of the Picos de Europa National Park, to explore the iconic Ruta del Cares, a renowned trail carved into the cliffs. Then, transition to the green coastline as you walk along the historic Camino del Norte, meandering from village to village past hidden coves and pristine beaches, immersing yourself in the authentic spirit of the Camino. Indulge in Northern Spain's culinary treasures with curated food experiences: a pintxos tour in vibrant Bilbao, an espicha feast at a traditional cider house, a gourmet tasting menu in Arenas, and a seafood dinner by the coast. Delight in picnic lunches featuring fresh, local ingredients, all while soaking in the region's beauty. Each evening, unwind in charming 3- to 4-star accommodations, including a stay at a beautifully restored monastery in Llanes, for a truly immersive cultural experience.
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23kg of CO2-e PP per day
(162kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Bilbao
On arrival in Bilbao, make your way to the joining hotel. The day is free to explore the attractions of vibrant Bilbao including the extraordinary Güggenheim museum. Meeting with the group and your guide at 4.00pm in the hotel lobby where you will have a short briefing. We then set off for a guided pintxos tour through the city centre to embrace the local finger-food culture. We'll sample 6 pintxos in 3 different bars, which may include Bilbao favourites Gilda (olive, a chili pepper and an anchovy on a skewer) and codfish omlette. Overnight Bilbao
Meals: D
Day 2
Transfer to Cabrales and the Picos de Europa for a first walk (3hrs)
This morning we transfer 2.5hrs to Ortiguero, one of the 13 villages that make up the municipality of Cabrales. At a local shop we will stop for coffee and the guide will purchase lunch provisions before we set off for our first walk of approximately 3- 3,5 hrs to the village of Asiego; a picturesque village known for its stunning mountain views, and its rich dairy farming heritage, particularly its production of the famous Cabrales cheese. A short transfer takes us to our comfortable 3-star hotel in Arenas de Cabrales, our base for the next 3 nights. Dinner this evening is at a cider restaurant where we will sample local delicacies such as the typical blue-veined Cabrales cheese. Walk: 8km/5mi, +380m -350m
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
View the famous peak Picu Urriellu on a walk from Tielve to Sotres, visit to a cheese farm (4hrs)
After a short morning transfer, we begin a lovely mountain walk from Tielve, one of the most authentic villages in this part of the Picos. First you ascend to the summer meadows and cabins above Tielve, enjoying magnificent views over the Picos. You then climb steadily through a fairytale landscape of heather, old beech trees and streams to arrive in Sotres (1050m), one of the highest villages in the Picos de Europa. After having arrived in Sotres you’ll visit a Cheese producing farm including the natural cave where these cheeses are stored for a minimum of 4 months in order to become a ‘blue’ delicacy. You will learn all the ins and outs of the production process of this cheese. Return to Arenas where dinner will be at leisure leaving you free to choose your own restaurant. Walk: 9 km/5.6mi, +575m, -250m
Meals: B,L
Day 4
Walk through the Cares Gorge or optional loop hike to Bulnes (3.5 or 7.5hrs)
Today you walk through the Cares Gorge, the most famous hike of the Picos. This 12km footpath was built as the maintenance path of a small channel that provides hydroelectric power to Poncebos. It was built between 1905 and 1910, and was literally carved out of the rock. Alternatively we will walk to Bulnes through another, shorter gorge and do a loop walk to this panoramic mountain before taking the funicular back (ticket not included). Both walks require short transfers in the morning and afternoon. For dinner, we have a special treat enjoying a gourmet tasting menu at the best local restaurant. Either 5-12km/3-7.5mi; +625,-300m or 22km/13.75mi; +650m, -650m Transfers: both walks require short transfers of 10 min both morning and afternoon
Day 5
Transfer to the Atlantic Coast, walk a section of the Camino del Norte (3.5 or 5.5hrs)
Today we leave the Picos behind to explore a section of the Atlantic coast near Llanes. From the authentic rural hamlet of Posada la Vieja, walk the beautiful beach of San Antolin; a surfers paradise with two small beach cafés. Continue along the pilgrims’ way “Camino del Norte” along surfaced and un-surfaced country lanes, passing at least 6 more coves and beaches before arriving in Llanes. In this medieval fisherman’s town, you’ll stay in a renovated convent from the 17th century; now a comfortable hotel with a restaurant where we will dine this evening. Either 5-11.5km/3-7mi, +150m, -150m or 18km/11mi, +275m, -275m
Day 6
Walk along the coast from Pendueles or Vidiago back to Llanes (4 or 6 hrs)
A relaxing start this morning before we take a local train to either Pendueles or Vidiago, two villages on the E-9 coastal hiking path. This trail travels through green pastures right on top of the limestone cliffs and past some beautiful coves. You’ll share the route with pilgrims from all over the world on their way to Santiago, following one of the oldest variants of St James’ Way, the Northern Way or Camino del Norte. Arrival in Llanes on foot. With our hotel close to a number of great restaurants, tonight is free for you to choose your dining experience. Either 11km/7mi, +360m, -400m or 17km/10.5mi, +490m, -530m
Day 7
Walk from Nueva to Ribadesella following either the fishermen’s trail or the Camino del Norte (4 or 5.5hrs)
After a short drive to Nueva, we will begin a spectacular coastal walk along the fishermen’s trail or an easier inland route along the Camino del Norte. Both routes end in the atmospheric beach town of Ribadesella, where you could visit the Museum Tito Bustiello (interesting reproductions of the pre-historic cave paintings; also the only museum in Asturias which is completely bilingual) or just stroll along the boulevard of this coastal town before we transfer back to Llanes. Tonight we have a farewell dinner in a Cider house specialising in seafood. Either 12km/7.5mi, +265m, -315m or 15.6km/10mi, +500m, -550m
Day 8
Transfer to Bilbao, trip concludes
After breakfast, there will be a transfer back to central Bilbao with an expected arrival at midday.
Meals: B
What's included
What's not included
The walks follow rural tracks, both surfaced and unsurfaced, footpaths and animal trails. Some surfaces might have loose rock or be muddy and slippery in wet weather.
GRADE 2 - This is a guided walk with average daily stages of 3 to 7.5 hours, with options to take longer hikes on some days depending on group ability and weather or size of group (groups of 10 or more will have the option of a easier or harder walk). The trip is graded introductory to moderate as it is mainly on well defined mountain and coastal trails. At times you will walk through areas of low vegetation (heather and gorse, which might make leg protection necessary). You will also be doing some steep ascents or descents (paths may be muddy and slippery). The use of a walking stick(s) is recommended. For those who suffer from vertigo there are some walks which may not be suitable, and we can provide alternative routes where necessary. A reasonable level of fitness is required. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise – swimming, cycling, and jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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