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When thinking of perfect mountain destinations, many people may picture the Swiss Alps or the majestic peaks of the Himalayas. However, for those looking for a closer but equally impressive experience, Asturias in northern Spain is home to what many consider to be ‘the perfect mountain’. With its green landscapes, towering peaks, and connection to nature, this place is a hidden paradise worth discovering – check out our private tours here!
Join us in this exploration of why the perfect mountain is closer than you think, and why Asturias should be your next destination if you are a nature and adventure lover.
Asturias: a natural paradise between mountains and sea
Asturias is a privileged region for its scenic diversity. Here, the mountains are just a few kilometres from the sea, creating a unique combination of landscapes. This contrast allows you to enjoy the majesty of the mountain peaks in the morning and relax on fine sandy beaches in the afternoon.
The Picos de Europa National Park is the best example of the beauty of the Asturian mountains. With peaks reaching over 2,500 metres in altitude, its meandering trails offer spectacular views and challenges for all levels of hikers. From easy routes to more demanding trails, the Picos de Europa has it all for hikers and nature lovers.
In addition, the local wildlife, which includes emblematic species such as the Cantabrian brown bear and the Iberian wolf, adds a wild touch to the experience. The combination of mountains, fauna and flora will make you feel as if you were in an adventure film.
Naranjo de Bulnes: the icon of the Asturian peaks
If we are talking about perfect mountains, it is impossible not to mention the Naranjo de Bulnes, or Picu Urriellu, as it is known in Asturian. This limestone colossus is one of the most famous peaks in Spain and a point of reference for climbing enthusiasts. Its imposing figure stands out among the surrounding mountains, and it’s challenging verticality attracts climbers from all over the world.
Despite its fame among expert climbers, it is also accessible to hikers looking for an unforgettable experience. The routes around the Naranjo de Bulnes offer breathtaking views and the opportunity to feel immersed in a landscape that looks like something out of a fairy tale.
One of the most recommended experiences is to climb up to the Urriellu refuge, from where you can admire the imposing Naranjo in all its splendour. The climb, although demanding, rewards those who dare with unbeatable panoramic views.
Somiedo: the wildest corner of Asturias
For those looking for a quieter experience away from the tourist hustle and bustle, the Somiedo Nature Reserve is the ideal place. This park, declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, is one of the most unspoilt spots in the region. Here, the deep valleys and rugged mountains create an ideal setting to lose yourself in nature.
Somiedo Park is also home to the last Cantabrian brown bears, making it a place of special interest for wildlife lovers. Its landscapes, which combine green pastures, glacial lakes and lush forests, offer hiking routes that will make you feel in harmony with nature.
One of the most popular routes is the one that leads to the Saliencia Lakes, a set of glacial lakes surrounded by mountains, whose landscape looks like something out of a painting. Here, tranquillity is absolute, and it is easy to understand why many consider this place to be one of the most beautiful and peaceful in the whole of Asturias.
Cares: the jewel of hiking in Spain
Another route not to be missed on your visit to Asturias is the famous Cares Route. This impressive 12-kilometre trail runs along the Cares River gorge, one of the most spectacular gorges in Europe. The path, carved into the rock, offers stunning views and an adrenaline-filled route, especially in some of its narrower sections.
The Cares Route connects the villages of Poncebos, in Asturias, and Cain, in León, and is one of the busiest routes in the Picos de Europa. Although it can be a challenge for some, the reward is the views of dizzying cliffs, waterfalls and a crystal-clear river that accompanies you all the way.
Hiking in Asturias is an unbeatable experience, and the Cares Route is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic. Its fame is no coincidence: few places offer such an impressive natural spectacle.
The perfect mountain is not an abstract concept or a distant myth. It exists, and it is in Asturias. With its challenging peaks, unspoilt landscapes, and deep connection with nature, this corner of northern Spain is the ideal destination for those seeking adventure, tranquillity, and natural beauty. From the imposing Picos de Europa to the wild Somiedo Park, every corner of Asturias offers something unique. At Tour Travel & More we invite you to discover this natural gem and enjoy the mountains at their purest, Asturias awaits you!
