THE CARES ROUTE

The Cares Route runs along the “Garganta Divina,” the Divine Gorge of the Cares River. The source of the Cares River is at the “Freñana” fountains between the “Panderrueda” and “Pandetrave” mountain passes. It is an 11 km long and 2 m wide easy hiking route, located at medium altitude, where you’ll be able to discover beautiful landscapes and awesome wilderness between the villages of Caín (Province of León) and Poncebos (Province of Asturias). The route may take you around 4 hours to hike in one direction and 8 hours for a round trip.

WHY THE RUTA DEL CARES WAS BUILT

The Cares Route was built in 1918 and improved after the Spanish Civil War, serving as a communication way between the Asturian lands of Cabrales and Valdeón in León. Today, it is one of the most popular trails of Picos de Europa, breaking through the rocks with tunnels, bridges, and paths carved into the rock.

Starting from Caín, a village of shepherds, farmers, and hunters, we will cross two bridges and walk through tunnels carved into the rock. After passing through the tunnels, we will arrive at the bridge of “los Rebecos,” the chamoises. This metal-frame bridge has a military style, and if you look underneath it, you can still see the old wooden bridge called “Trescamara.” Throughout the route, it is recommended to walk close to the wall due to the risk of falling rocks caused by animals.

Continuing further, the next bridge is called “Bollín,” followed by the area of “Culiembro,” which is approximately the midpoint of the route. Here, we can observe the beauty of the beech trees and walnuts, surrounded by peaks and mountains. The green color of the Cares River and the pure air add to the charm, while birds like eagles and vultures fly freely in the sky, and goats and chamoises roam freely, climbing the rocks.

As we enjoy the landscapes, we will reach the last part of the route, where the path ascends for a while before descending to the end in Poncebos.

TIPS AND ADVICE

• Bring water and some food or snacks to recover energy along the route.
• Do not drink water from the river or the canal.
• Ensure you bring warm clothes and comfortable shoes.
• Carry a cell phone with you.
• Take care of the environment and respect the animals.
• Never throw rocks into the river.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult.
• The route is not recommended if you suffer from vertigo.
• Be extremely cautious when taking pictures or approaching the edge of the path.

For those planning to embark on the Ruta del Cares, there are two options depending on your accommodation. Alternatively, you can join us for a 4×4 route from Cangas de Onis to Cain, then hike the Ruta del Cares from Cain to Poncebos. At Poncebos, we’ll arrange transportation to take you back to Cangas de Onis. This is the option:

OPTION 1 FOR THE CARES ROUTE WITH TRANSPORTATION:

For those staying in Cangas de Onis, you can join us for a 4×4 journey from Cangas de Onis to Caín. From there, hike the Cares Route from Caín to Poncebos. In Poncebos, you will be picked up and brought back to Cangas de Onis.

4×4 OFF-ROAD ROUTE FROM CANGAS DE ONIS AND THE ROUTE OF CARES

For those who prefer to hike from Poncebos to Cain in the morning and be picked up in Cain, we offer the perfect option: a return route to Poncebos through the Picos de Europa. This is the ideal choice for an adventurous day out:

OPTION 2 FOR THE CARES ROUTE WITH TRANSPORTATION:

For those who prefer to hike from Poncebos to Caín, you can walk the Cares Route in the morning. Upon reaching Caín, you will be picked up and taken back to Poncebos in a 4×4 vehicle.

ROUTE OF THE CARES 4X4 ROUTE FROM CAIN TO PONCEBOS

The 4×4 vehicles are shared; they are not available for exclusive rental. If you would like to have a vehicle at your disposal, there is an option for a private tour on our website.

PICOS DE EUROPA PRIVATE TOUR

Dogs must weigh 7 kilograms or less and must travel in a carrier. The carrier cannot be left in the vehicle afterward.

Pregnant women and children under 8 years old cannot participate in the 4×4 activity or the Cares Route.

A minimum of 6 people is required to run the activity (except in July and August).