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Start of the Ruta del Cares (Cares Route)

Start of the Ruta del Cares (Cares Route)

Highlight • Trail

Start of the Ruta del Cares (Cares Route)

Hiking

4.8

(318)

Running

5.0

(5)

This Highlight is in a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Parque Nacional de Picos de Europa

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Location: Cabrales, Cangas De Onis, Asturias, Spain

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Ana- Remoteana

June 28, 2022

Hiking

The beginning of the Ruta del Cares. Possibly one of the busiest routes in all of Spain in summer. This does not detract from the charm of this incredible area. Perfect to do on foot in a stage or, as part of the Ring of Peaks.

Spectacular views and a history that captivates anyone.

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JavierCR 🇪🇸

April 8, 2022

Hiking

The Cares route or path is a hiking route in northern Spain located in the Picos de Europa National Park —PR-PNPE 3 Short-Distance Path—, the busiest route in the entire Cantabrian Mountains.

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E. Berends

February 18, 2021

Hiking

Ruta del Cares is a beautiful gorge walk. The walk itself is not technical or difficult. Some parts do run along a steep abyss. With a mild form of fear of heights (I speak from experience) this is fine to do. The gorge offers truly fantastic views.

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Nearby routes

Best routes near Start of the Ruta del Cares (Cares Route)

4.9

(796)

4,935

hikers

#1.

Route of Cares from Poncebos to Caín

23.1km

07:28

990m

The Ruta del Cares plunges you into a landscape that seems otherworldly, a trail carved into the walls of a gorge that will leave you breathless. You'll hike between imposing cliffs and tunnels excavated from the rock, with the Cares River winding far below and the sharp peaks of the Picos de Europa dominating the horizon. It's common to encounter mountain goats as you enjoy this "Divine Gorge," an experience that combines human engineering with natural majesty.

For this challenging 14.4-mile (23.1 km) hike with 3246 feet (989 meters) of elevation gain, which will take you approximately 7 hours and 28 minutes, good planning is crucial. If you start in Poncebos, be prepared for a significant initial ascent. Bring sturdy hiking footwear and a headlamp for the tunnels. Given its popularity, especially in summer, I recommend arriving early to secure parking and enjoy the route with more tranquility.

What makes the Ruta del Cares so special is its history and location. Originally built for a hydroelectric power plant, this engineering marvel connects the regions of Asturias and León through a dramatic landscape. It is considered one of Spain's most spectacular hiking routes, offering a complete immersion in the wild nature of the Picos de Europa, a true treasure for mountain lovers.

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Hard

4.3

(30)

141

hikers

#2.

Senda Fluvial del Cares — circular in the Parque Nacional Picos de Europa

6.31km

02:02

250m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Moderate

4.7

(115)

569

hikers

#3.