Walking in the Picos De Europa

walking in the picos de europa

A UTracks active holiday is all about exploring Europe your way. It’s about walking or cycling the incredible trails of Europe and becoming completing immersed in your travel experience. Since we began in 2006, UTracks has been the leader in active European holidays. Our itineraries have always been creative, rewarding, and very affordable. With over 450 active trips across the continent, UTracks offers unique opportunities explore europe your way to discover an untrodden Europe that spans postcard‑perfect landscapes, centuries‑old cultures, rural lifestyles and tempting gastronomic delights. You can choose to set your own pace on a flexible self guided journey or enjoy the benefits of an experienced local guide on a small group tour. We cater to all fitness abilities with our honest graded system that defines our trips from introductory to challenging. Plus we offer exceptional value with many inclusions on all our trips, allowing you more freedom to enjoy the natural and cultural wonders of Europe. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2‑star or 4‑star, small group or self guided, land, river or sea – UTracks helps you explore Europe exactly theBay way of you want. Biscay TRIP COST TRIP NAME: WALKING IN THE PICOS DE EUROPA Joining Arenas de TRIP CODE: PDE France Cabrales from : $1130 Las Arenas Black Sea TRIP DURATION: Adriatic Sea Trip Concludes: 8 DAYS Bulnes Tielve Arenas de Cabrales GRADE: MODERATE ‑ 3 All prices are per person Spain

OPTIONS & ACTIVITY: Madrid Tyrrhenian SELF GUIDED WALK Aegean Sea SUPPLEMENTS Sea L. Tuz ACCOMMODATION: 6 NIGHTS IN 2‑3 STAR HOTELS, Discount for 1 less 1 NIGHT MOUNTAIN HUT Mediterranean Sea night in Sotres: $-50 Ionian DATE DETAILS: Sea Supplement For DAILY FROM 15 APR TO 25 OCT Hotel in Sotres on Day 6: $100 highlights H - High Season Exploring the unique countryside with its mysterious woods, wide glacier valleys and limestone Surcharge: $130 rock formations, including the famous Picu Urriellu Mediterranean Sea Staying at friendly, family run hotels in authentic Spanish villages with opportunities to sample Single Supplement: $350 delicious Cabrales blue cheese and sparkling Asturian apple cider Single Traveller Suitable for families (3‑4 person rooms available) Surcharge: $460 Dead Sea

As the trip price is based on twinshare, the trip a single supplement is payable if Rising from the ocean, the Picos de Europa is one of the most striking mountain ranges on the you are not sharing with a friend / family member ‑ or a single traveller Iberian Peninsula. Just 40km long and 20km wide, the jagged limestone peaks rise to 2600m and supplement if you are travelling solo*. contrast sharply with the lush valleys dotted with small hamlets far below. Rich in wildlife such as Please refer to the price options for costs or ask our office for details. chamois, hedgehogs and wild boar and an abundance of wildflowers, the national park is a delight. Note regarding single rooms ‑ The Perhaps the most striking feature of the Picos is the deep gorges and rivers which divide the range single supplement guarantees the into three distinct massifs. The focus of this walk is between the central massif (Macizo Central), privacy of your own room, however, rooms can at times be small and in home to the highest peak Torre de Cerredo (2648m) and the eastern massif (Macizo Oriental). some places may not enjoy the same Highlights include walking in the wide glacier valleys overlooked by the limestone peaks, the authentic facilities as double/twin rooms. villages and the ascent to the base of Naranjo de Bulnes’ west face, considered to be the signature *The single traveller surcharge is only available on trips deemed suitable peak of the region. At night stay in small family run hotels in Arenas and Sotres with opportunities for solo travellers. It is usually more to sample local specialties such as the famous blue cheese, Queso de Cabrales. expensive than the single supplement due to the extra cost for luggage transfers and organisation. IMPORTANT NOTES H - High Season

DN1 - High season is from 10 Jul to 15 Sep and a supplement applies. itinerary at a glance DN2 - Departures before mid June may not be able to ascend to the mountain Day 1 Arrive Arenas de Cabrales refuge due to snow conditions and an alternative route will be suggested. Day 2 Walk to the summer meadows of Nava above the Cares River (5.5 or 4hrs) Sotres hotel supplement applies. Day 3 Transfer to Tielve and walk through beech forests to Sotres (4hrs) Day 4 Walk the eastern massif of the Picos (5.5 or 8.5hrs) Day 5 A loop walk around Tresviso (5.5hrs or choice of walks 2.5 to 6.5hrs) Day 6 Ascend to the foot of the west face of Naranjo de Bulnes (5.5hrs) Day 7 Descend to Bulnes and walk through gorges (5hrs) Day 8 Trip concludes

detailed itinerary Note: *Departures before mid June and during October may not be able to ascend to the mountain refuge on day 6 due to snow conditions. There is also an option to stay in Sotres on this night – supplement applies in either case. High season is from 11 July to 15 September and a supplement applies. DAY 1 Arrive Arenas de Cabrales On arrival in Arenas de Cabrales, make your way to your hotel located in the centre of the village. We recommend you try the local cider on one of the terraces, visit the parish church with its Romanesque portal and paintings or head to the “Cueva del Queso” Museum, where you get a brief explanation of how the local blue cheese is made. Dinner in the hotel is served from 8:30pm until 10pm, in typical Spanish style. meals: D DAY 2 Walk to the summer meadows of Nava above the Cares River (5.5 or 4hrs) Today’s walk takes you up to the summer meadows of Nava, situated 500m above the Cares River, with excellent views down to the river and towards the high peaks of the Picos the Europa. This is a strenuous but very rewarding walk, especially in early summer when the meadows display a multitude of brightly coloured flowers. There is an option of doing an alternative shorter walk through shady countryside at a lower elevation. Overnight in Arenas. Walking: 5.5hrs option: 11.5km/7.1mi, 650m/2132ft ascent and descent or 4hr options: 10km/6.2mi, 410m/1345ft ascent and descent) meals: B,D DAY 3 Transfer to Tielve and walk through beech forests to Sotres (4hrs) After a short transfer, you will start 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 the pass at La Caballar (1240m), then down to Sotres (1050m), one of the highest villages in the Picos de Europa. Today’s route also includes a walk to Valfríu, where the local famous blue cheese, Queso de Cabrales, is produced. Overnight in Sotres. Walking: 4hrs, 9km/5.6mi, 575m/1886ft ascent, 250m/820ft descent meals: B,D

DAY 4 Walk the eastern massif of the Picos (5.5 or 8.5hrs) Today there is a circular walk of the eastern Andara massif of the Picos, an area exploited by mining industries in the 19th century. After a short transfer to Hitu Escarandi, the walk begins through surprisingly varied terrain. Initially there is a steep ascent along a former mining track and along some rocky paths. You then walk around an impressive limestone peak in the heart of the massif, later following cattle trails through woods, fields of heather and pastures back to Sotres. This is a wonderful way to explore the strange moon-like landscape of karst, with views to the Cantabrian Sea on a clear day. You’ll enjoy spotting all types of alpine flora, and there is a good chance of seeing chamois, vultures and different species of eagles. There are several options to shorten or extend your walk. Overnight in Sotres. Walking: 5.5hrs option: 12km/7.5mi, 550m/1804ft ascent, 840m/2755ft descent or 8.5hrs option: 18.5km/11.5mi, 1045m/3428ft ascent, 1335m/4379ft descent meals: B,D DAY 5 A loop walk around Tresviso (5.5hrs or choice of walks 2.5 to 6.5hrs) Today you can choose from three walks depending on the weather and your personal preference. There’s a 20 minute transfer (included) before a 5.5 hour walk through the meadows and beech woods of the neighbouring village of Tresviso, where the rare Urugallo, or local Capercaille, lives. A technically easy but longer walk of about 6.5 hours starts with a short transfer (included) then it’s up and down to the summer meadows of Áliva to 1650m through an interesting glacial valley in the shadow of the impressive limestone walls of the central and oriental massifs. Half way you can take a rest at the Hotel Refugio de Áliva, which has extraordinary views from the terrace. Or there’s a quiet 2.5hr stroll along farming tracks near the hotel. Overnight in Sotres. Walking: 2.5 to 6.5hrs, 6 to 18.5km/3.7 to 11.2mi, 300 to 755m/984 to 2477ft ascent/ descent meals: B,D DAY 6 Ascend to the foot of the west face of Naranjo de Bulnes (5.5hrs) The most spectacular walk of the trip leads you to the Vega de Urriellu, reaching an elevation of 2000m, at the foot of the impressive Picu Urriellu, also known as the Naranjo de Bulnes. You start from the hotel and first walk quietly along tracks and footpaths through the meadows to the wide saddle Collado Pandebano at 1240m. From here the climbing gets serious. A stone footpath takes you up in 2.5-3 hours to a lunar landscape of outstanding beauty, right in the heart of the Picos de Europa and the home of chamois, vultures and choughs. Overnight in mountain hut. Walking: 5.5-6hrs, 11.8km/7.3mi, 1085m/3559ft ascent, 180m/590ft descent Note: Departures before mid June and during October may not be able to ascend to the mountain refuge due to snow conditions. In this case, you will booked to stay another night in Sotres with walking options as per day 5. At other times you can choose to stay in Sotres tonight and do a day walk to/from the refuge (subject to weather) - 7hrs, 19km/11.8mi. A supplement applies to stay in Sotres. It is also possible to stay one less night in Sotres (becomes a 7 day trip) - discount applies. meals: B,D

DAY 7 Descend to Bulnes and walk through gorges (5hrs) Your last walking day will be spent on a long descent along various paths. A very beautiful but rather strenuous walk, especially for your knees, will lead you via Pandébano Col to Bulnes, an authentic mountain village with no road access. On arrival in Bulnes (650m) after approx. 4.5hrs of walking, you can either take the funicular (ticket not included), or continue on foot for another 1.5 to 2 hrs down and along the spectacular Texu gorge, to Poncebos. Here a taxi (included) will take you in the early evening to Arenas de Cabrales and your hotel. Walking: 5hrs: 12km/7.7mi, 335m/1099ft ascent, 950m/3117ft descent Another option that can be arranged locally for today is to book an extra transfer for this morning and spend the day walking the Cares Gorge, a long but mainly flat return walk. At the end of the day, the driver will pick you up in Poncebos for the return to Arenas de Cabrales. If you’ve stayed overnight in Sotres you leave town follow farming tracks up to Pandebano Pass (1245m), before descending along an ancient footpath through natural meadows and low vegetation to Bulnes, and continue as above (5-7hrs, 13 or 23km). meals: B,D DAY 8 Trip concludes The arrangements conclude after breakfast. meals: B inclusions 7 breakfasts, 7 dinners. Dinner is usually a set menu. Water and wine are always included (up to ‘normal’ consumption of 1 bottle for every 3‑4 persons); please remember that you must pay for any extras (other drinks, extra wine and coffee or tea) when you leave. Breakfast is generally served between 8.30 and 10.00am. It normally includes coffee, tea, milk or hot chocolate, bread and/or toast, cake, butter, marmalade and cheese or ham. Please note in Spain dinners are generally served between 8.30pm – 10.00pm 6 nights in 2‑3 star hotels on a twin share basis, 1 night in a mountain hut (or extra night in hotel ‑ small supplement applies) Transfers as described Luggage transfers except day 6 (your main luggage is transferred to Arenas whilst you need to carry your overnight requirements including a sleeping sheet) Information pack including route notes & maps per room booked (GPS Tracks available on request) Emergency hotline items not included Travel to and from Arenas de Cabrales Sightseeing and entrance fees Meals not included in the itinerary and all drinks (outside of the dinner and breakfast set quantity) Items of a personal nature Storage of luggage Travel insurance Optional funicular ticket from Bulnes to Poncebos on day 7 (allow EUR 17) getting there BY CAR Driving routes can be accessed via the following websites: www.viamichelin. com BY TRAIN Arenas is not on the train line. If you are travelling by train you should reach Oviedo or Bilbao and then follow the instructions below.

BY AIR Your closest airports are Oviedo, Santander or Bilbao and you will then need to take a bus or taxi to Arenas. Full details are provided on booking. We can assist with a transfer if required ‑ please ask for our rates. BY BUS There are buses from Bilbao to Llanas (around 4hrs) or Unquera where you need to change to another bus to arrive at Arenas. You can also take a taxi between Llanas or Unquera and Arenas on weekends and public holidays when there are limited buses operating. We can assist with a transfer from Unquera to Arenas ‑ please ask for our rates. There are direct buses from Oviedo to Arenas which take 2 hrs 10 mins. The frequency of public transport reduces significantly on public holidays and on the weekend. If you are arriving into Arenas by public transport we recommend you travel to and from on a non public holiday weekday. Visit http://www.alsa. es/en/ for details of the timetable. trip grading - moderate MODERATE – GRADE 3 This is a self guided walk with average daily stages of 4 to 5.5 hours. The trip is graded moderate as it is mainly on well defined mountain trails, with a few off path sections only. 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 have provided 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. dietary requirements Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering these medications. a note on our self guided adventures Self guided walking or cycling requires individuals to use problem solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. On self guided cycling tours it is expected that you will know how to repair punctures and make minor adjustments to gears, handlebars and seats. For anything more serious, our local partner will be able to assist. It is recommended that you are comfortable map reading, referring to route notes and that you have a good sense of direction (or are willing to work on improving this!) Sometimes route finding, losing your way, finding it again and asking the locals for help is all part of the adventure. If you’ve never been on a self guided trip, after the first couple of days you will get the hang of it as the vast majority of our first time travellers attest. Please be assured that our written material issued to you for route finding is updated regularly and we provide a 7day service hotline in the event of any problems. Using directions and maps can be more difficult for solo travellers as often two heads are better than one when it comes to finding your way. There is a certain level of the unknown that comes with self guided trips, however with a methodical approach potential problems will be averted. The freedom of a self guided trip is something that, once experienced, is sought time and time again.

DURING TOUR During the trip you will be accommodated at a charming 3 star hotel in Arenas. The hotel has been completely renovated, with well appointed rooms, bathrooms and a private swimming pool, small garden and big lounge. In Sotres, we use a family run rural hotel with wonderful views of the Picos and one night will be spent in the Refugio de la Vega de Urriello at the base of the Naranjo de Bulnes in dormitory style accommodation. Should you wish to stay only in hotels a small supplement applies and the itinerary is slightly different on days 6 and 7. fast facts COUNTRIES VISITED Spain VISAS Visas not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www. schengenvisainfo.com/schengen‑visa‑countries‑list/ for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements. CLIMATE Although the climate in the Picos de Europa is generally mild, the weather can change very rapidly and you must be prepared for anything (rain, mist, wind and even hail or snow at any time of year). In summer it can be quite hot and springs may dry up, so you must remember to carry plenty of drinking water (at least 2 litres per person). Good sun protection is essential (sun cream, sunglasses, hat). At higher elevations, temperatures can be much colder, so you must carry a fleece and a rain parka. MIN GROUP SIZE 1 MOBILITY REQUIREMENT This trip is not suitable for people with limited mobility. SPECIALIST GEAR REQUIRED Sunscreen, sleeping sheet, walking boots, outer layer including rain jacket, day pack and sun hat – walking sticks are recommended.(A detailed packing list will be provided upon confirmation of your booking). vehicles & safety At UTracks we are concerned about client safety. If your programme includes transfers, please remember to use your safety belt at all times. Most of our local suppliers and taxi drivers collaborate with our partner S‑cape Travel on an on‑going basis. They are familiar with our programmes and the safety standards sought by us. Should you feel at any time that proper safety practices are not being observed, please contact S‑cape Travel and / or UTracks.

© World Expeditions Travel Group - Dana Garofani 11/29/2019 9:13:18 AM Page 6 walking in the picos de europa how to book To book a UTRACKS trip, complete our booking form which is found at the back of our brochure or can be downloaded from our website www.utracks.com. On completion, fax or post the form to your nearest UTRACKS or World Expeditions office or Travel Agent along with full payment by cheque or credit card (note: surcharges apply for credit card payments). A deposit only is required for participants of guided trips. UTRACKS/World Expeditions has access to pre and post accommodation and competitive airfares to Europe. Call your nearest UTRACKS/World Expeditions office or travel agent for assistance with your travel arrangements including flights, travel insurance and additional accommodation. follow us https://www.facebook.com/UTracks https://www.instagram.com/utrackstravel/ https://twitter.com/UTracks_Travel There’s even more tips and ideas on our blog at http://www.utracks.com/discover

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IMPORTANT NOTE THESE TRIP NOTES REPRESENT THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION AVAILABLE FOR THIS ITINERARY, AND SUPERSEDE ANY INFORMATION DETAILED IN THE CURRENT BROCHURE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE ITINERARY AND PRICE. talk to us If you require any further assistance regarding this trip or any other adventure, please contact your nearest UTRACKS or World Expeditions office.

AUSTRALIA CANADA - OTTAWA UTracks UTracks Level 5, 71 York St 47 William St Sydney NSW 2000 Ottawa, Ontario T: (02) 8270 8488 Canada F: (02) 8270 8489 K1N 6Z9 Toll free: 1300 303 368 T: 613 241 2700 [email protected] F: 613 2414189 Toll Free: 1-800-567-2216 Feel free to visit our World Expeditions [email protected] offices in:- • Melbourne • Brisbane UNITED KINGDOM • Adelaide (Thor Travel) UTracks For address and office phone numbers visit 1B Osiers Road www.worldexpeditions.com Wandsworth London SW18 1NL NEW ZEALAND T: 0845 241 7599 F: 020 8870 7014 UTracks T: 1800 946 258 (Ireland) Level 1, 59-67 High St [email protected] Auckland CBD PO Box 106-275 Auckland City 1143 T: (09) 368 4161 UTracks is a division of the F: (09) 368 4162 Toll Free: 0800 350 354 World Expeditions Travel Group [email protected]