walking in the picos de europa

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1 A UTracks holiday is all about exploring Europe your way. It s about U + the walking tracks and cycling trails you want to discover. Since we began in 2006, UTracks has quickly become known as the leaders in active European holidays. Our itineraries are creative and very affordable. Set your own pace on a flexible self guided trip or enjoy the benefits of an experienced local guide on a guided tour. Together with our sister company Sherpa Expeditions, we offer over 400 active tours across the continent and it s many exotic islands. There s an active holiday idea everyone including families, culinary enthusiasts, history buffs, experienced alpine walkers or those that just want to see Europe differently. The physical demands range from introductory to challenging with all offering unique opportunities to discover the untrodden Europe, spanning postcard landscapes, centuries old cultures, rural lifestyles and tempting culinary delights. Compare the price and you will see that we offer exceptional value active programs that are virtually all inclusive, giving you more time to enjoy the natural and cultural wonders you ve come to experience. Whether you prefer cycling or walking, 2 star or 4 star, small groups or self guided, land, river or sea UTracks can help you to explore Europe exactly the way you want. explore europe your way TRIP COST Joining Arenas de Cabrales low season: $740 Trip Concludes: Arenas de Cabrales All prices are per person OPTIONS & SUPPLEMENTS supplement for hotel in Sotres on Day 6: $70 H - high season surcharge: $90 Single Supplement: $210 Single Traveller Surcharge: $280 As the trip price is based on twinshare, a single supplement is payable if a single room is required or a single traveller supplement if you are travelling solo*. Please refer to the price options for costs or ask our office for details. Note regarding single rooms The single supplement guarantees the privacy of your own room, however, rooms can at times be small and in some places may not enjoy the same facilities as double/twin rooms. *The single traveller surcharge is only available on trips deemed suitable for solo travellers. It is usually more expensive than the single supplement due to the extra cost for luggage transfers and organisation. IMPORTANT NOTES H - High Season DN1 - High season is from 10 Jul to 14 Sep and a supplement applies. TRIP NAME: TRIP CODE: TRIP DURATION: WALKING IN THE PICOS DE EUROPA PDE 8 DAYS GRADE: MODERATE 3 ACTIVITY: SELF GUIDED WALK ACCOMMODATION: 6 NIGHTS IN SIMPLE HOTELS, 1 NIGHT MOUNTAIN REFUGE DATE DETAILS: walking in the picos de europa DAILY FROM 22 APR TO 25 OCT Las Arenas Bulnes Tielve Spain Madrid France highlights Exploring the unique countryside with its mysterious woods, wide glacier valleys and limestone rock formations, including the famous Picu Urriellu Staying at friendly, family run hotels in authentic Spanish villages with opportunities to sample delicious Cabrales blue cheese and sparkling Asturian apple cider Suitable for families (3 4 person rooms available) the trip Rising from the ocean, the Picos de Europa is one of the most striking mountain ranges on the Iberian Peninsula. Just 40km long and 20km wide, the jagged limestone peaks rise to 2600m and contrast sharply with the lush valleys dotted with small hamlets far below. Rich in wildlife such as chamois, hedgehogs and wild boar and an abundance of wildflowers, the national park is a delight to walk through. Perhaps the most striking feature of the Picos is the deep gorges and rivers which divide the range into three distinct massifs. The focus of this walk is between the central massif (Macizo Central), home to the highest peak Torre de Cerredo (2648m) and the eastern massif (Macizo Oriental). Highlights include walking in the wide glacier valleys overlooked by the limestone peaks, the authentic villages and the ascent to the base of Naranjo de Bulnes west face, considered to be the signature peak of the region. At night stay in small family run hotels in Arenas and Sotres with opportunities to sample local specialties such as the famous blue cheese, Queso de Cabrales. Page 1

2 DN2 - Departures before mid June may not be able to ascend to the mountain refuge due to snow conditions and an alternative route will be suggested. Sotres hotel supplement applies. itinerary at a glance Day 1 Arrive Arenas de Cabrales Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7 Day 8 detailed itinerary Walk to the summer meadows of Nava above the Cares River (5.5 or 4hrs) Transfer to Tielve and walk through beech forests to Sotres (4hrs) Circular walk of the Eastern Massif of the Picos (5hrs) A loop walk around Tresviso (three walks to choose from 2.5 to 7 hrs) Ascend to the foot of the west face of Naranjo de Bulnes* (5.5 or 6hrs) Descend to Bulnes and walk through gorges (5 or 6hrs) Trip concludes Note: *Departures before mid June and during October may not be able to ascend to the mountain refuge due to snow conditions and an alternative route will be suggested. There is also an option to stay in Sotres on the night of day 6 supplement applies. High season is from 11 July to 15 September and a supplement applies. DAY 1 Arrive Arenas de Cabrales On arrival in Arenas de Cabrales, make your way to your hotel located in the centre of the village. We recommend you try the local cider on one of the terraces, visit the parish church with its Romanesque portal and paintings or head to the Cueva del Queso Museum, where you get a brief explanation of how the local blue cheese is made. Dinner in the hotel is served from 8:30pm until 10pm in typical Spanish style. meals: D DAY 2 DAY 3 walking in the picos de europa Walk to the summer meadows of Nava above the Cares River (5.5 or 4hrs) Today s walk takes you up to the summer meadows of Nava, situated 500m above the Cares River with excellent views down to the river and towards the high peaks of the Picos the Europa. This is a strenuous but very rewarding walk, especially in early summer when the meadows display a multitude of brightly coloured flowers. There is also an option of doing an alternative shorter walk through shady countryside at a lower elevation. Overnight Arenas (.55hrs, 9.5km/5.9mi, 750m/2461ft ascent and descent or 4hrs, 9.5km/5.9mi, 380m/1247ft ascent and descent) Transfer to Tielve and walk through beech forests to Sotres (4hrs) After a short transfer, you will start a lovely mountain walk from Tielve, one of the most authentic villages in this part of the Picos. First you ascend to the summer meadows and cabins above Tielve, enjoying magnificent views over the Picos. Then you climb steadily through a fairytale landscape with old beech trees to the pass at La Caballar (1235m), then down to Sotres (1050m), one of the highest villages in the Picos de Europa. Today s route also includes a walk to Valfríu, where residents still produce the famous local blue cheese, Queso de Cabrales. Overnight Sotres (4hrs, 9km/5.6mi, 575m/1886ft ascent, 250m/820ft descent) Page 2

3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 DAY 7 DAY 8 Circular walk of the Eastern Massif of the Picos (5hrs) Today there is a circular walk of the Eastern Massif of the Picos, an area exploited by mining industries in the 19th century. After a short transfer, the walk begins through surprisingly varied terrain. Initially there is a steep ascent along a former mining track and along some rocky paths. You then walk round an impressive limestone peak in the heart of the massif, later following cattle trails through woods, fields of heather and pastures back to Sotres. This is a wonderful way to explore the strange moon-like landscape of karst, with views to the Cantabrian Sea on clear days! As you walk, you ll enjoy spotting all types of brightly coloured alpine flora, and there is a good chance of seeing chamoix, vultures and different types of eagles. There are also several options to shorten or extend your walk. Overnight Sotres. (5hrs, 12.5km/7.7mi, 550m/1804ft ascent, 900m/2953ft descent) A loop walk around Tresviso (three walks to choose from 2.5 to 7 hrs) Today you can choose from three walks: an adventurous and varied semi circular walk of 4.5 hours through the meadows and beech woods of Tresviso - this walk begins with a 20 minute transfer from the hotel; another technically easy but longer walk of 6.5 hours up and down to the summer meadows of Áliva, also with a short 10 minute transfer to the start of the walk; or a short stroll of 2.5 hours along farming tracks in the surroundings of Sotres - a true circular walk. During the first walk you can look deep down into the gorge of the river Urdón and may hear the sound of the very rare Capercaille. The second walk takes you up to a very interesting glacial valley at 1650m altitude in the mountains, in the shadow of the impressive limestone walls of the central and oriental massifs. Half way you can take a rest at the terrace of the Hotel Refugio de Áliva, with extraordinary views. Overnight Sotres. (2-6.5hrs, 6 to 18.5km/3.7 to 11.2mi, 325 to 875m/1066 to 2871ft ascent) Ascend to the foot of the west face of Naranjo de Bulnes* (5.5 or 6hrs) The most spectacular walk of the entire trips leads you to the Vega de Urriellu, at the foot of the impressive Picu Urriellu, also known as the Naranjo de Bulnes. You start at the door of the hotel and first walk quietly along tracks and footpaths through the meadows to the wide saddle Collado Pandebano at 1240m. Then the climbing gets serious. A stone footpath takes you up in 2,5-3hours to a lunar landscape of outstanding beauty, right in the heart of the Picos de Europa; the home of chamois, vultures and choughs. Overnight mountain hut. (5 ½- 6hrs, 11km/6.8mi, 1120m/3675ft ascent, 165m/541ft descent) Descend to Bulnes and walk through gorges (5 or 6hrs) Your last walking day will be spent descending at least 1250m along all kinds of footpaths. A very beautiful but rather strenuous walk, especially for your knees, which will lead you to Bulnes, an authentic mountain village with no road access. When you arrive in Bulnes (650m) after 4.5hrs of walking, you can take the funicular to Poncebos or continue down on foot for another 1.5 to 2 hrs, right along a spectacular gorge. Afterwards, a taxi will take you from Poncebos to Arenas de Cabrales and your overnight hotel. (5.5hrs, 11.5km/7.1mi, 335m/1099ft ascent, 950m/3117ft descent) Trip concludes The arrangements conclude after breakfast. meals: B Page 3

4 inclusions 7 breakfasts, 6 dinners. Dinner is usually a set menu. Water and wine are always included (up to normal consumption of 1 bottle for every 3 4 persons); please remember that you must pay for any extras (other drinks, extra wine and coffee or tea) when you leave. Breakfast is generally served between 8.30 and 10.00am. It normally includes coffee, tea, milk or hot chocolate, bread and/or toast, cake, butter, marmalade and cheese or ham. Please note in Spain dinners are generally served between 8.30pm 10.00pm 6 nights in simple hotels on a twin share basis they are small family run hotels and rooms have private facilities, 1 night in a mountain refuge on a dormitory share basis (or extra night in hotel room small supplement applies) Transfers as described Luggage transfers except day 6 (your main luggage is transferred to Arenas whilst you need to carry your overnight requirements including a sleeping sheet) Emergency hotline Route notes and maps per room booked items not included Travel to and from Arenas de Cabrales Sightseeing and entrance fees Meals not included in the itinerary and all drinks (outside of the dinner and breakfast set quantity) Items of a personal nature Storage of luggage Travel insurance getting there BY CAR BY TRAIN BY AIR BY BUS Driving routes can be accessed via the following websites: com Arenas is not on the train line. If you are travelling by train you should reach Oviedo or Bilbao and then follow the instructions below. Your closest airports are Oviedo, Santander or Bilbao and you will then need to take a bus or taxi to Arenas. Full details are provided on booking. There are buses from Bilbao to Llanas (around 4hrs) or Unquera where you need to change to another bus to arrive at Arenas. You can also take a taxi between Llanas or Unquera and Arenas on weekends and public holidays when there are limited buses operating. There are direct buses from Oviedo to Arenas which take 2 hrs 10 mins. The frequency of public transport reduces significantly on public holidays and on the weekend. If you are arriving into Arenas by public transport we recommend you travel to and from on a non public holiday weekday. Visit for details of the timetable. trip grading - moderate MODERATE GRADE 3 This is a self guided walk with average daily stages of 4 to 5.5 hours. The trip is graded moderate as it is mainly on well defined mountain trails, with a few off path sections only. At times you will walk through areas of low vegetation (heather and gorse, which might make leg protection necessary). You will also be doing some steep ascents or descents (paths may be muddy and slippery). The use of a walking stick(s) is recommended. For those who suffer from vertigo there are some walks which may not be suitable, and we have provided alternative routes where necessary. A reasonable level of fitness is required. As with all of our trips it is important that you are well prepared. We suggest that you undertake regular exercise swimming, cycling, and jogging, two to three times a week for three months prior to your departure. Page 4

dietary requirements Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances).

Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable.

We are unable to guarantee a peanut free or allergen free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions

a note on our self guided adventures Self guided walking or cycling requires individuals to use problem solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye.

5 dietary requirements Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut free or allergen free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self administering these medications. a note on our self guided adventures Self guided walking or cycling requires individuals to use problem solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. On self guided cycling tours it is expected that you will know how to repair punctures and make minor adjustments to gears, handlebars and seats. For anything more serious, our local partner will be able to assist. It is recommended that you are comfortable map reading, referring to route notes and that you have a good sense of direction (or are willing to work on improving this!) Sometimes route finding, losing your way, finding it again and asking the locals for help is all part of the adventure. If you ve never been on a self guided trip, after the first couple of days you will get the hang of it as the vast majority of our first time travellers attest. Please be assured that our written material issued to you for route finding is updated regularly and we provide a 7day service hotline in the event of any problems. Using directions and maps can be more difficult for solo travellers as often two heads are better than one when it comes to finding your way. There is a certain level of the unknown that comes with self guided trips, however with a methodical approach potential problems will be averted. The freedom of a self guided trip is something that, once experienced, is sought time and time again. accommodation walking in the picos de europa DURING TOUR During the trip you will be accommodated at a charming 3 star hotel in Arenas. The hotel has been completely renovated, with well appointed rooms, bathrooms and a private swimming pool, small garden and big lounge. In Sotres, we use a family run rural hotel with wonderful views of the Picos and one night will be spent in the Refugio de la Vega de Urriello at the base of the Naranjo de Bulnes in dormitory style accommodation. Should you wish to stay only in hotels a small supplement applies and the itinerary is slightly different on days 6 and 7. fast facts COUNTRIES VISITED VISAS Spain Visas not required for citizens of Australia, Canada, USA and New Zealand for up to 90 days in a period of 180 days for all Schengen countries (see www. schengenvisainfo.com/schengen visa countries list/ for countries part of the Schengen). Please ensure your passport is stamped on arrival in the Schengen area. For all other nationalities and for longer stays in countries covered by the Schengen Agreement (Australian New Zealand, Canadian and US passport Page 5

6 holders), please contact the relevant embassy. Stays of longer than 90 days in the Schengen area require a long stay visa for the country you are spending most time in. However long stay visas are unlikely to be issued unless there is a valid reason (eg. studying in country). Unfortunately we cannot assist in obtaining visas for long stays due to individual country visa requirements. CLIMATE Although the climate in the Picos de Europa is generally mild, the weather can change very rapidly and you must be prepared for anything (rain, mist, wind and even hail or snow at any time of year). In summer it can be quite hot and springs may dry up, so you must remember to carry plenty of drinking water (at least 2 litres per person). Good sun protection is essential (sun cream, sunglasses, hat). At higher elevations, temperatures can be much colder, so you must carry a fleece and a rain parka. MIN GROUP SIZE 1 SPECIALIST GEAR REQUIRED Sunscreen, sleeping sheet, walking boots, outer layer including rain jacket, day pack and sun hat walking sticks are recommended.(a detailed packing list will be provided upon confirmation of your booking). how to book To book a UTRACKS trip, complete our booking form which is found at the back of our brochure or can be downloaded from our website On completion, fax or post the form to your nearest UTRACKS or World Expeditions office or Travel Agent along with full payment by cheque or credit card (note: surcharges apply for credit card payments). A deposit only is required for participants of guided trips. UTRACKS/World Expeditions has access to pre and post accommodation and competitive airfares to Europe. Call your nearest UTRACKS/World Expeditions office or travel agent for assistance with your travel arrangements including flights, travel insurance and additional accommodation. follow us There s even more tips and ideas on our blog at slide shows UTracks invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel slide shows. These special evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced and passionate adventure travellers. Ask our staff for a slide show schedule or register on our website Shows can fill early so it is important to register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two! e-newsletter To keep up to date with our new and exciting adventure opportunities, special promotions and adventure news, subscribe to our monthly e newsletter! You can do this on line through our website, com or contact our office. Page 6

7 IMPORTANT NOTE THESE TRIP NOTES REPRESENT THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION AVAILABLE FOR THIS ITINERARY, AND SUPERSEDE ANY INFORMATION DETAILED IN THE CURRENT BROCHURE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE ITINERARY AND PRICE. talk to us If you require any further assistance regarding this trip or any other adventure, please contact your nearest UTRACKS or World Expeditions office. Page 7

8 AUSTRALIA UTracks Level 5, 71 York St Sydney NSW 2000 T: (02) F: (02) Toll free: Feel free to visit our World Expeditions offices in:- Melbourne Brisbane Adelaide (Thor Travel) For address and office phone numbers visit NEW ZEALAND UTracks Level 1, High St Auckland CBD PO Box Auckland City 1143 T: (09) F: (09) Toll Free: CANADA - OTTAWA UTracks 47 William St Ottawa, Ontario Canada K1N 6Z9 T: F: Toll Free: contact@utracks.com UNITED KINGDOM UTracks 1B Osiers Road Wandsworth London SW18 1NL T: F: T: (Ireland) info@utracks.com UTracks is a division of the World Expeditions Travel Group Page 8

SELF GUIDED CYCLING DAILY FROM 1 APR TO 27 OCT

SELF GUIDED CYCLING DAILY FROM 1 APR TO 27 OCT A holiday is all about exploring Europe your way. It s about U + the walking tracks and cycling trails you want to discover. Since we began in 2006, has quickly become known as the leaders in active European