5-Day Trekking on the Reconquista Route in the Picos de Europa
Oviedo, Asturias
Hiking
Desde
€500.00
What to do in Oviedo
Plans, activities and things to see in Oviedo
Oviedo
About Oviedo
Oviedo is the capital of Asturias and the natural starting point for exploring the Cantabrian Mountains and the valleys descending towards the Asturian coast. The city is a key stage on the Camino Primitivo to Santiago, the oldest pilgrimage route, which begins at the cathedral and climbs into the interior mountains through rural villages and Atlantic forests. Nearby, Monte Naranco offers hiking and cycling routes with panoramic views over the capital, while the River Nalón and its tributaries a...
Oviedo is the capital of Asturias and the natural starting point for exploring the Cantabrian Mountains and the valleys descending towards the Asturian coast. The city is a key stage on the Camino Primitivo to Santiago, the oldest pilgrimage route, which begins at the cathedral and climbs into the interior mountains through rural villages and Atlantic forests. Nearby, Monte Naranco offers hiking and cycling routes with panoramic views over the capital, while the River Nalón and its tributaries are the preferred setting for kayaking and flat-water activities.
The proximity of the Picos de Europa and the sierras of western Asturias makes Oviedo a convenient base for climbers and hikers combining city visits with mountain excursions. The ski resorts of Pajares and Valgrande-Pajares extend the winter offer to less than an hour from the city. Asturian gastronomy and the rural culture surrounding the capital complement the experience of visitors arriving in search of outdoor activities in a region of well-preserved nature.
Highlights
- • Camino Primitivo to Santiago: the oldest pilgrimage route starts at Oviedo cathedral
- • Kayaking and canoeing on the River Nalón and its tributaries through Atlantic valleys
- • Mountain biking and hiking on Monte Naranco with panoramic views over the Asturian capital
- • Direct access to the Picos de Europa for climbing and high-mountain hiking
Best time to visit
Spring and summer for hiking and kayaking when the Atlantic climate is milder. Winter is ideal for skiing in Pajares. The Camino Primitivo can be walked year-round, though September and October offer the best balance of weather and crowds.
Practical tips
The Asturian climate is humid and variable: always carry waterproof clothing and layers even if the forecast looks good. For the Camino Primitivo, register at Oviedo's Casa de los Peregrinos to obtain the pilgrim credential. Rivers can rise quickly after rain: check conditions before kayaking.
