The Picos de Europa is a national park stretching across the regions of Asturias, Cantabria and Castile and León - in northern Spain. The area is known for its pristine, green nature, and beautiful rock formations. Features include the Naranjo de Bulnes, a mountain peak that stands out for its unusual shape. But the various green plateaus, mountain lakes and authentic villages also make the Picos de Europa special. Unlike the Pyrenees or the Alps, the Picos de Europa are less known, so they retain an unspoilt feel. And that brings beautiful things with it; for instance, you will still find a great diversity of flora and fauna here. You share the area with wolves, chamois, wild boar and even bears! By the way, you need to be very lucky to spot these beautiful animals; they are afraid of humans and usually hear you (and your bike) coming from afar.
As a cyclist, you can indulge in several tough climbs here, including the Lagos de Covadonga. This is perhaps one of the most beautiful climbs in the region. The views of the beautiful lakes of Covadonga at least offers a fine diversion. This is also a classic in the Vuelta a España. Incidentally, there is more special experience here for cyclists - besides conquering tough climbs. A must-do, for example, is cycling through the Desfiladero de la Hermida, Spain's longest gorge.
And whether you like to cycle, or prefer to grab the gravel or mountain bike; cycling in Picos de Europa is a must for every cyclist.
Spring (March to May):
In spring, temperatures in the Picos de Europa are between 10°C and 18°C. Nature becomes greener again and the snow on the higher peaks begins to melt. Rainfall averages 10 to 15 days per month and there are 7 to 10 sunny days.
Summer (June to August):
It rarely gets extremely hot in this area. On average, temperatures stay around 18°C to 25°C in the lower areas. In the mountains, it remains slightly cooler. Precipitation is less frequent, with an average of 5 to 8 rainy days per month. There are 15 to 20 sunny days, making this period popular for cyclists. However, the nice weather also brings more tourists. But; it is still a lot less touristy here than in the Pyrenees and Alps.
Autumn (September to November):
In autumn it is around 12°C and 20°C. Precipitation is more frequent, with 10 to 14 rainy days per month. But with an average of 7 completely sunny days per month ánd beautiful autumn colours, a cycling holiday in this region in autumn is definitely recommended!
Winter (December to February):
Winter temperatures range from 4°C to 12°C in the valleys. In the mountains, frost and snowfall occur regularly. Precipitation peaks, with 15 to 20 rainy days per month. There are 4 to 6 sunny days per month. Although it can be cold, the lower elevations offer beautiful cycling with views of the snow-capped peaks. Mountain bikers and gravel bikers can cycle beautifully on unpaved trails on the snowline.
Length: 10 kilometres
Altimeters: slightly more than 1,000 metres
Average gradient: 10,4%.
Description: The climb to Salto de la Cabra can definitely be called tough! As the asphalt is not in great shape - and in some places even looks more like gravel - this climb is best done on a gravel bike. It is a fantastic climb for gravel lovers who like to get off the 'beaten track'. The views over the 'Picos' are fantastic.
Length: 14 kilometres
Altimeters: 1040 metres
Average gradient: 7,3%
Description: This has to be one of the most beautiful climbs in the region. The mountain lakes of Covadonga offer a good distraction during the final kilometres. This climb has featured more than once in the Tour of Spain; that too makes it an absolute must-do!
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