Challenging Hiking at Naranjo de Bulnes, Asturias

Stands out for

  • • 924 m elevation gain over 11.3 km from Sotres to the refuge
  • • Arrival at the Delgado Úbeda Refuge beneath the Naranjo de Bulnes
  • • Constant sound of the river throughout the entire hike
  • • Panoramic views from the Collado Pandébano
  • • Varied terrain: trails, tracks, and rocky sections
AdventureHistoryPhotography

Description

Context The Naranjo de Bulnes, also known as Pico Urriellu, rises to 2,519 meters in the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park, Asturias. This iconic mountain is a landmark of Iberian alpinism and a sought-after destination for hikers seeking a demanding mountain challenge. The route from Sotres covers 11.3 km with a total elevation gain of 924 meters, traversing a protected natural environment where crisp mountain air carries the scent of thyme and the constant sound of a rushing river accompanies your steps.

The Experience You begin in Sotres or Puente de Poncebos, ascending along narrow trails and tracks that wind through woodlands and high-altitude meadows. The terrain shifts between rocky sections and soft earth paths, offering rich sensory variety. At the Collado Pandébano, panoramic views of the central massif open up before you. Finally, you reach the Delgado Úbeda Refuge, located at the base of the Naranjo, where you can rest and admire this imposing limestone monolith with its rugged texture and striking verticality.

For Whom This route is suitable for experienced hikers with strong physical fitness and mountain hiking experience, seeking a medium-to-high difficulty challenge. It is not recommended for individuals with limited mobility, young children, or those uncomfortable with uneven terrain and significant elevation changes.

Local Context Towns such as Cangas de Onís and Ribadesella preserve authentic Asturian traditions and offer regional cuisine. The local community continues to uphold the practice of transhumance and maintains deep care for the natural environment, reflecting a lasting bond with these mountains and their rich biodiversity.

Key Info

Difficulty

Moderate

Setting

Outdoors

Best season

Spring, Summer, Autumn

Recommended Age Range

All ages

Booking required

Practical Guide

Everything you need to know about Challenging Hiking at Naranjo de Bulnes, Asturias

This is general information about this type of experience. Specific details will be confirmed during the booking process

Location

How to get there

By car Public transport

In this area

OviedoMunicipio
Expert Recommendations

Wear durable hiking boots and appropriate layered clothing for changing weather. Start early to benefit from daylight and avoid midday heat. Carry ample water and lightweight food, as no sources exist along the route. Prepare for demanding, varied terrain and check the weather forecast before departure. Not suitable for beginners or those with physical limitations.

Physical Requirements

Good physical fitness required for high-altitude hiking with significant elevation gain and distance

About the Area

The trail is located in the Picos de Europa National Park, Asturias, a protected area featuring forests, alpine meadows, and dramatic rock formations. The villages of Sotres and Puente de Poncebos are accessible from Cangas de Onís and Ribadesella, offering tourist services and local food options. The area also provides access to the Lakes of Covadonga and opportunities to explore Asturian cultural heritage.

Offers

Best available offers for Challenging Hiking at Naranjo de Bulnes, Asturias

Ascención a la Vega de Urriellu

 

Min. 2
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Duration: La ruta de senderismo es de 7 a 8 horas de duración.
Description

El Picu Urriellu, Naranjo de Bulnes, o simplemente el Picu, es el emblema de la montaña asturiana. Icono de los Picos de Europa, fue considerado durante siglos montaña inexpugnable. En sus interminables paredes se escribieron los capítulos más apasionantes de la historia alpinística de la Península Ibérica y su inacabable cara oeste, cayendo a plomo sobre la Vega de Urriellu sobrecoge cada temporada a miles de visitantes, ansiosos de vivir en primera persona la experiencia de llegar hasta su base. Te proponemos una excursión de nivel medio / alto en la que nos acercaremos hasta el popular Refugio de montaña situado en la Vega de Urriellu, a los pies del inmenso monolito de mismo nombre. Una ruta indispensable para todo amante de la montaña que se encuentre de paso por Asturias y una cita ineludible para todo cazador de instantáneas. No puedes perdértela.

Included Services
  • Guía lugareño titulado
  • Seguros
  • Transporte
Group size: min. 2
From €20
Excursión Naranjo Bulnes Urriellu, Picos de Europa

 

Min. 5
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Duration: Esta ruta de senderismo durará unas 5:30 horas ya que debemos desplazarnos  en 4x4
Description

Si te gusta el trekking, disfrutarás como un niño de una jornada completa en una de las mejores rutas de senderismo por el concejo asuturiano de Cabrales, es la del Picu Urriellu o Naranjo de Bulnes en el Parque Nacional de Picos de Europa. Así que prepara la mochila con un buen bocadillo porque saldremos a las 8:00 desde nuestro centro  y nos transladaremos hacia el punto de inicio de la ruta en Oviedo. Esta ruta está propuesta para hacer en 5 h y 30 minunos aproximadamente lo que corresponde a un nivel medio de trekking, por lo que si estás costumbrado a andar, no tendrás ninguna dificultad en realizar la ruta. Desde el acceso a la ruta hasta la base del Naranjo de Bulnes, el pico más emblemático del principado asturiano. Caminaremos por el corazón de los Picos de Europa que nos permite conocer su inmensidad y explendor en un camino lleno de naturaleza y aventura. ¡No te la pierdas!

Included Services
  • Guia de Montaña Titulado
  • Seguro de Montaña
  • Traslados desde y hasta Oviedo
Group size: min. 5
From €45

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers about Challenging Hiking at Naranjo de Bulnes, Asturias

The hike from Sotres takes between 4 and 5 hours, covering 11.3 km with a positive elevation gain of 924 meters. It is a demanding trek requiring good physical fitness.
There are no drinking water sources along the route, so it is essential to carry enough water for the entire hike to prevent dehydration.
Good physical fitness and prior mountain hiking experience are required to handle elevation changes and uneven terrain, as the difficulty level is medium to high.
No, it is not recommended for young children or people with limited mobility due to the high physical demands and rugged terrain.
Wear proper mountain boots and weather-appropriate clothing. Bring water, sun protection, light snacks, and a layer of warm clothing for temperature changes at high altitude.