What to do in León

León is the capital of its eponymous province and one of the most complete starting points for exploring the Cantabrian Mountains and the Picos de Europa, located less than 60 km away. Hiking is the dominant activity, with routes connecting to the Leonese stage of the Camino de Santiago, the Cares gorge and the Pajares and San Isidro mountain passes. Mountain biking has certified circuits near the city, while canyoning and kayaking on the Bernesga river add adventure options during the higher-flow months. The city has a well-developed tourism services network, with activity operators running daily departures to the Picos, the Palentine Mountains and the Hoces de Vegacervera. Horse riding in the Leonese mountains provides access to trail-free terrain, and in winter the Valgrande-Pajares and San Isidro ski resorts offer downhill and cross-country skiing. Local gastronomy, including cocido maragato and botillo del Bierzo, rounds out any active getaway.