Ruta del Cares

Ruta del Cares (Cares Trail) is a famous day hike in Picos de Europa, running along the Cares River through the Cares Canyon. The route follows a mid-height footpath that clings to limestone walls, with tunnels and bridges built into the gorge setting.

The hike links Puente Poncebos (Asturias) and Caín (León). Most people treat it as a one-way walk and then return the same way for an out-and-back total.

From a fitness standpoint, it’s typically described as moderate: the path is mostly flat overall, but you still need steady stamina for a long gorge day. Reported one-way hiking time is around 3.5 hours, with about 6.5–8 hours for the full round trip.

The trail is set high above the river and you’ll spend extended stretches exposed to the drop into the canyon. The gorge tightens and the walking feel stays cliff-adjacent, so a focused approach helps, especially where the path narrows.

Route character is defined by engineered passages through the rock (tunnels) plus multiple river crossings via bridges. Expect that sections near and inside tunnels can be damp, with water dripping from the overhead rock.

Historically, the path was opened in the rock along the Cares River canyon to provide maintenance access for hydroelectric operations at Camarmeña–Poncebos, and it was later improved and expanded.

Practical planning matters because services along the route are limited. The usual approach is to start with enough water and food for the day, then plan lunch around Caín if you’re doing a one-way out and back.

More information: Wikipedia, How To Hike The Ruta del Cares Trail, Spain (Map ..., Cares Gorge | Best Hike In The Picos De Europa Spain