Guide Backpacking Los Picos de Europa in 7–8 Days (Camping or Refuges)

Tackle one of Europe’s most rugged and underrated treks with this 100–115km (65–75mi) loop through Spain’s Picos de Europa National Park. Whether you choose to wild camp in remote alpine meadows or stay in cozy high-mountain refuges, this guide provides everything you need for an unforgettable 7–8 day adventure through the park’s three dramatic massifs—Ándara, Urrieles, and Cornión. Expect technical terrain, towering peaks, limestone plateaus, deep gorges, and some of the wildest backcountry in Europe.

Important Update (November 2025)
    •    Terrain across several stages, especially on day 1, is rougher and more technical than many hikers expect. Even experienced hikers found progress slower due to loose gravel, uneven footing, and steep sections. Plan shorter days if you’re not used to this type of terrain.
    •    The climb over Collado de Valdominguero is significantly more demanding than the earlier version of this guide suggested. Just before the top, there is a 5 m rope-assisted wall followed by another 10–15 m steep, unassisted scramble. The section is fully exposed and requires careful movement with three points of contact at all times — a misstep here could be serious.
    •    Turning around once at the rope section is difficult, as much energy has already been spent reaching it. This can be especially challenging when low on water or in hot conditions.
    •    Some local guides reportedly use fixed ropes for participants in this section, indicating that additional caution is warranted.
    •    The description for this part of the route will be expanded in the next update, and difficulty ratings will be refined to better account for terrain quality and exposure rather than only distance or elevation gain.

Special thanks to Peter for his detailed notes and constructive feedback based on his recent experience following this route.

This guide includes:

• Two complete versions: wild camping and refugio-based

• Day-by-day itinerary with elevation, shortcuts, and key highlights

• GPX tracks & custom Google Maps with 100+ waypoints

• Camping rules, water sources, resupply info, weather, and transport

• Technical sections, wildlife, and logistics explained in detail

Watch the full film at YouTube.com/HarmenHoek