Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Featured Snippet
- Why Hike the Ruta del Cares?
- Best Areas to Stay Near Ruta del Cares
- Best Hotels and Places to Stay
- Essential Hiking and Safety Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Introduction
The spectacular Ruta del Cares is one of the most famous hiking routes in northern Spain. Running through the dramatic limestone landscape of the Picos de Europa, the trail follows the Cares River through a spectacular gorge and connects the areas around Poncebos and CaÃn.
The route is famous for its narrow paths carved into sheer cliffs, stone tunnels, bridges, and dramatic views over the surrounding mountains. Although the scenery is extraordinary, completing the route requires good preparation, comfortable footwear, sufficient water, and careful attention to weather conditions.
Choosing where to stay for Ruta del Cares is equally important. Staying in Arenas de Cabrales, Poncebos, or another nearby mountain community allows hikers to begin their day early and return to a comfortable hotel after several hours outdoors.
The surrounding region also provides plenty of opportunities to experience traditional Asturian cuisine, local Cabrales cheese, cider houses, mountain villages, and other attractions across the Picos de Europa.
Featured Snippet
The best places to stay for the Ruta del Cares include Arenas de Cabrales and the surrounding mountain villages on the Asturias side, as well as accommodation around Camaleño and Fuente Dé for travelers exploring the wider Picos de Europa. Arenas de Cabrales provides convenient access to Poncebos, while Fuente Dé is ideal for visitors combining the Cares Gorge with the famous cable car and southern mountain routes.
Why Hike the Ruta del Cares?
The Ruta del Cares is one of the most remarkable hiking experiences in the Picos de Europa.
The trail follows the Cares River through a dramatic limestone gorge, with towering mountain walls rising above the path. Stone tunnels, narrow sections, bridges, and panoramic viewpoints make the route particularly memorable.
The scenery changes throughout the hike. Some sections pass close to the river, while others climb above the gorge and provide extraordinary views across the surrounding mountains.
The route is also culturally significant because it connects remote communities that have historically relied on the mountain valleys and passes for communication and agriculture.
For travelers interested in outdoor adventure, the Ruta del Cares provides an opportunity to experience one of northern Spain’s most impressive natural landscapes without requiring technical climbing skills.
Best Areas to Stay Near Ruta del Cares
Arenas de Cabrales
Arenas de Cabrales is one of the most convenient bases for hikers approaching the route from the Asturias side.
The town offers restaurants, accommodation, shops, and access to Poncebos by road.
Best For: Hikers, couples, families, first-time visitors, and travelers who want convenient services.
Poncebos
Poncebos provides the closest practical base to the northern trailhead.
Accommodation is more limited than in Arenas de Cabrales, but staying nearby can be useful for travelers who want to begin the hike as early as possible.
Best For: Serious hikers, early risers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Camaleño
Camaleño and the surrounding valleys are useful for travelers exploring the Cantabrian side of the Picos de Europa.
This area works well when combining Ruta del Cares with Fuente Dé and other mountain attractions.
Best For: Road-trippers, hikers, and visitors planning a broader mountain itinerary.
Fuente Dé
Fuente Dé is particularly attractive for travelers who want to combine the Cares Gorge with the famous cable car and high-altitude hiking routes.
Best For: Mountain enthusiasts, photographers, and active travelers.
Best Hotels and Places to Stay
1. Hotel Mestas
Location: In the Cabrales area, surrounded by green mountain landscapes.
Highlights: Hotel Mestas offers a traditional mountain accommodation experience with a practical location for exploring the Picos de Europa. Its atmosphere is particularly suitable for travelers who prefer smaller-scale hospitality.
Best For: Hikers, couples, solo travelers, and budget-conscious visitors.
Nearby Attractions: Poncebos, Ruta del Cares, mountain viewpoints, and Cabrales villages.
Why Stay Here: It provides a convenient and relaxed base for exploring the northern side of the mountains.
2. Hotel Villa de Cabrales
Location: Central Arenas de Cabrales.
Highlights: Hotel Villa de Cabrales provides comfortable accommodation in a convenient location close to local services, restaurants, and mountain routes.
The central position makes it particularly useful for hikers who want access to shops and dining before and after their trek.
Best For: First-time visitors, families, couples, and independent travelers.
Nearby Attractions: Poncebos, Ruta del Cares, Cabrales cheese producers, and mountain trails.
Why Stay Here: Its central location provides an excellent balance between convenience and access to the mountains.
3. Valle la Fuente
Location: In the wider Picos de Europa gateway area.
Highlights: Valle la Fuente provides practical accommodation for travelers exploring multiple parts of the mountain region.
The property works particularly well for visitors who value straightforward facilities and a convenient base for day trips.
Best For: Digital nomads, solo travelers, couples, and road-trippers.
Nearby Attractions: Mountain trails, Bulnes, Poncebos, and regional villages.
Why Stay Here: Its practical location makes it possible to combine several Picos de Europa attractions within one itinerary.
4. Hotel Naranjo de Bulnes
Location: Arenas de Cabrales.
Highlights: Hotel Naranjo de Bulnes is an established mountain hotel that provides easy access to local hiking routes and the surrounding countryside.
Its location in Arenas also means guests are close to restaurants and regional services.
Best For: Backpackers, hiking groups, solo adventurers, and active couples.
Nearby Attractions: Ruta del Cares, Poncebos, Sotres, and Cabrales mountain trails.
Why Stay Here: It offers a useful social base for travelers who want to spend their days hiking and exploring the mountains.
5. Hotel Restaurante La Casa de Juansabeli
Location: In a peaceful rural setting outside Arenas de Cabrales.
Highlights: Hotel Restaurante La Casa de Juansabeli provides a more secluded rural environment with traditional character and an emphasis on regional food.
The countryside setting is ideal for relaxing after a long mountain hike.
Best For: Couples, food lovers, luxury-minded travelers, and visitors seeking tranquility.
Nearby Attractions: Ruta del Cares, Cabrales villages, mountain viewpoints, and rural walking routes.
Why Stay Here: The combination of countryside atmosphere and regional gastronomy makes it an appealing mountain retreat.
6. Hotel Torrecerredo
Location: Near Arenas de Cabrales in the Asturian mountains.
Highlights: Hotel Torrecerredo offers a scenic base for travelers interested in hiking and outdoor activities. Its location provides convenient access to several routes across the Picos de Europa.
Best For: Mountaineers, hikers, adventure travelers, and small groups.
Nearby Attractions: Poncebos, Bulnes, mountain viewpoints, and hiking trails.
Why Stay Here: It provides an excellent starting point for active travelers exploring the northern Picos de Europa.
7. Parador de Fuente Dé
Location: Fuente Dé, at the end of the mountain valley.
Highlights: Parador de Fuente Dé offers a spectacular mountain setting with immediate access to the surrounding high-altitude landscape.
The hotel is particularly attractive to travelers who want to combine Ruta del Cares with other Picos de Europa experiences.
Best For: Luxury travelers, families, hikers, and mountain enthusiasts.
Nearby Attractions: Fuente Dé Cable Car, high-altitude trails, mountain viewpoints, and alpine valleys.
Why Stay Here: It provides a memorable mountain retreat and an excellent base for exploring the wider Picos de Europa.
Essential Hiking and Safety Tips
The Ruta del Cares is spectacular, but preparation is important because the trail includes exposed sections and remote mountain terrain.
- Bring Enough Water: Do not rely on finding shops or reliable water sources along the route.
- Wear Proper Hiking Footwear: Sturdy shoes with good grip are essential on uneven and rocky sections.
- Check the Weather: Mountain conditions can change rapidly, so check forecasts before leaving.
- Start Early: An early start helps you avoid the strongest midday heat and some of the busiest periods.
- Stay Away From Cliff Edges: Keep to the established route and avoid unnecessary risks near exposed sections.
- Carry Food and Snacks: A full-day hike requires sufficient energy, particularly during warm weather.
- Bring Sun Protection: Large portions of the route can be exposed to direct sunlight.
- Keep Your Phone Charged: Mobile coverage can be inconsistent in mountain areas, so carrying a power bank is useful.
- Tell Someone Your Route: Let your accommodation know your hiking plans, particularly if you are traveling alone.
- Respect the Mountain Environment: Take all waste with you and avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Ruta del Cares?
The route is often considered accessible to experienced walkers because much of the path is relatively moderate in terms of gradient. However, the length, exposure, uneven surfaces, and lack of continuous services mean that good preparation is essential.
How long does the Ruta del Cares take?
A full route can take several hours depending on your starting point, walking speed, weather, and how frequently you stop to enjoy the scenery.
Is the Ruta del Cares suitable for families?
It can be suitable for older children and experienced family hikers, but the exposed cliff sections require careful supervision. It is generally not recommended for very young children who cannot reliably follow safety instructions.
What is the best area to stay for hiking Ruta del Cares?
Arenas de Cabrales is one of the most practical options for travelers using the Asturias side of the route because it provides restaurants, accommodation, and easy access to Poncebos.
Can I complete the route without a car?
Yes, but transportation planning is important because the trail is not a simple loop. Travelers should arrange how they will reach the trailhead and return from the opposite end if they do not want to retrace the route.
When is the best time to hike Ruta del Cares?
Late spring and early autumn are often attractive periods because temperatures are more comfortable and conditions can be quieter than in peak summer. Summer can also be enjoyable, but an early start is especially important.
What should I bring on the hike?
Bring plenty of water, food, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, weather-appropriate clothing, a charged phone, and basic hiking supplies.
Can I combine Ruta del Cares with other Picos de Europa attractions?
Absolutely. The hike can be combined with Bulnes, Fuente Dé, the cable car, Cabrales villages, and other mountain routes to create a longer Picos de Europa itinerary.
Conclusion
Choosing the right place to stay for Ruta del Cares can make a major difference to your mountain adventure. A convenient base reduces morning travel time and gives you a comfortable place to recover after spending several hours hiking through the spectacular Cares Gorge.
Arenas de Cabrales is particularly practical for travelers approaching from Asturias, while Poncebos offers greater proximity to the trailhead. Travelers exploring the wider Picos de Europa can also consider Fuente Dé and surrounding mountain valleys.
The accommodation options range from practical village hotels such as Hotel Villa de Cabrales and Hotel Naranjo de Bulnes to peaceful rural properties and the impressive Parador de Fuente Dé.
Plan your route before setting out, check mountain conditions, carry enough water, and allow plenty of time for the hike. With the right preparation and a well-chosen base, Ruta del Cares can become one of the most unforgettable hiking experiences in northern Spain.
