Ruta del Cares
Also known as: Garganta del Cares
The Ruta del Cares - a spectacular carved-ledge gorge path through the heart of the Picos de Europa
The route
The line through Picos de Europa, Spain - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Season & conditions
Year-round (best spring-autumn)
Heat and no shade in summer; ice/rockfall in winter
Open year-round; can be icy/rockfall-prone in winter; very busy summer weekends. Confirm.
On the trail
A carved cliff path (the "Divine Gorge") with tunnels high above the Cares river
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
Extremely popular
Turn around anywhere; walk one-way with a shuttle
Getting there & staying
Poncebos (or Caín)
Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed
Day route - none needed
Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies
Services in Poncebos / Cangas de Onis; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
No permit; Picos de Europa NP
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Exposed drops (no railings in places), rockfall, heat, crowds
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.