DISCOVER THE SOUTH FACE OF THE PICOS DE EUROPA MONTAÑA DE RIAÑO & MONTAÑA PALENTINA
The Southern side of the Picos de Europa may have a different climate to the Cantabrian seaward side and, along with the Western Massif, approached from the South, offer many different perspectives. The first part of the trip takes you into the heart of the Riaño mountains south of the Picos.
There you will immediately feel the expansive grandeur of these Alpine like peaks mirrored in the still water of the lakes beneath them. The villages too are small, intimate and pretty. There are very few hill walkers and tourists in this area, adding to that sense of tranquillity that will make this tour an exceptional experience.
On the second part, we will move to the Natural Park of Fuentes Carrionas. The natural, landscape, fauna and botanical value of the Montaña Palentina led to its declaration as a Natural Park under the name of Fuentes Carrionas and Fuente Cobre in the year 2000.
The Montaña Palentina is a highly sensitive space, the natural habitat of the brown bear and the capercaillie, as well as various botanical species specific to these places.
The Montaña Palentina is located to the north of the province of Palencia, it has complex tectonics and an extremely interesting landscape, the result of the action of
both karstic phenomena (Cueva del Cobre, Sumidero del Sel de la Fuente) and glaciers, which is reflected in cirques, valleys and lagoons (Lago de las Lomas, Lago de Ves, Pozo
Curavacas). El Curavacas (2,525m.), El Espigüete (2,450m.) and Las Lomas (2,451m.) are the highest peaks of the Montaña Palentina.
We also stay at Parador Nacional de Fuentes Carrionas, an amazing hotel with magnificent views and restaurant.
PRICES PER PERSON
Twin or Double room € 1,150
Single room € 1,275
WHAT DO YOU NEED TO BRING?
Hiking Equipment
- Water Bottle. Take at least a 1-litre personal water bottle.
- Sunglasses.
- Sun Hat, High Factor Sun Cream/Block & Lip Salve (Factor 15 or more)
- Walking Boots or trekking shoes.
- Trekking poles (we can provide these if desired)
- Waterproofs Breathable
- Down Jacket After sunset,
- Thick jumper/fleece jacket
- Shorts and long trousers. Shorts are very comfortable to walk in, but also you must carry long pants.
- Backpack 30-40 litres.
Other
- Universal travel plug adapter.
- Power bank.
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel Insurance documents.
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment).
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear, etc)
WHAT´S THE WEATHER LIKE?
The weather in Montaña de Riaño and Montaña Palentina can be very changeable, so be sure to packfor all weathers. Although, it tends to be dry and sunny on the south face and at high altitudes over 1,500m.
The maximum temperature is around 20 degrees, and the minimum is around 8-12 degrees. Perfect trekking temperatures!
HOW MUCH SHOULD I TIP?
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion and are non-compulsory on this trip. Of course, if you feel that your guides provided an exceptional experience, then you are welcome to tip as much as you feel appropriate. You should factor in tipping 10% on top of the bill in any bars and restaurants during the trip.
WHAT TIME IS DINNER?
Dinner (la Cena) is generally eaten between 9 p.m. and midnight. On this trip, we usually eat dinner at 20.30, but before that time is not possible as work shifts start at 20.00.
As we will have a packed lunch, dinner will include starters, main course and dessert. It also includes bread and water.
WHAT DO I DO ABOUT DRINKING WATER?
The water in the Picos de Europa and Riaño mountains is safe to drink, and you are able to fill up freely at each accommodation that you stay.
GUIDING
Supporting you on your holiday will be a local, English speaking Spanish guide who is qualified to lead walkers in the mountains and knows this area like the back of his hand! . Our speaking is not perfect, but make sure that we understand your needs and the standard that you expect.
POSITIVE IMPACT TRAVEL
We are focused on maximising the positive impacts of every adventure taken through us. Here are a few basic best practices we are following:
- Minimising our environmental footprint.
- Provide a robust waste system and encourage travellers to participate.
- Find alternatives to single-use plastic water bottles/cutlery/packaging etc.
- Promote careful water consumption when resources are scarce.
- Ensure vehicle size is appropriate for the environment.
- Ensure animal welfare is a top priority for all working animals.
