The Picos de Europa National Park is located in the heart of the Cantabrian Mountain Range, spanning territories in three provinces: Asturias, León, and Cantabria.
On the Asturian side, it covers the municipalities of Cangas de Onís, Cabrales, Onís, Amieva, Peñamellera Alta, and Peñamellera Baja.
It was Spain’s first National Park, created on July 22, 1918, under the name Covadonga Mountain National Park, coinciding with the 12th centenary of the Battle of Covadonga.
In 1995, the protected area was expanded to include the rest of the Picos de Europa, adopting its current name.
Today, this park is one of the most iconic natural destinations in Asturias and all of Spain, featuring breathtaking landscapes like the Naranjo de Bulnes (Picu Urriellu), the Lakes of Covadonga, and the Covadonga Shrine, making it a must-visit for hikers, mountaineers, and travelers.
🔹The Naranjo de Bulnes and the Massifs of the Picos de Europa
In the Central Massif of the Picos de Europa, known as the rugged Urrieles, rise the highest peaks of the Cantabrian Mountain Range. Among them stands the imposing Naranjo de Bulnes or Picu Urriellu, the undeniable symbol of the park and one of the most photographed icons of Asturias.
With its 2,519 meters of altitude and rugged terrain, it represents a challenge for the most experienced mountaineers.
At its feet lies the picturesque village of Bulnes, famous for its isolation and beauty. Until 2001, the only access was a narrow mountain trail. Today, you can reach it comfortably thanks to the Bulnes funicular, which departs from the town of Poncebos and travels through the mountain in a spectacular underground route.
In the Western Massif, another peak stands out for its majesty: the Peña Santa de Castilla, with 2,596 meters of altitude. Nearby, you’ll find must-see spots like the Ordiales Viewpoint, offering breathtaking views, and the famous Lakes of Covadonga (Enol and Ercina), natural gems of the National Park.
🔹 Covadonga: History, Faith, and the Origin of the Reconquista
Covadonga is much more than a natural enclave: it is the symbolic heart of Asturias and one of the historical pillars of Spain.
It was here that the famous Battle of Covadonga was fought on May 28, 722, considered the starting point of the Reconquista.
According to tradition, Don Pelayo, leader of the Asturians, took refuge in the Cave of Covadonga (Cova Dominica) with just 300 Visigothic warriors.
Taking advantage of the narrow gorges, they ambushed the Muslim troops with great skill and knowledge of the terrain. They used bows and slings to hurl stones, attacking and retreating continuously.
Legend tells that during the battle, the skies opened and a luminous cross appeared. Inspired by the vision, Pelayo formed a cross with two oak branches and raised it over his enemies. That moment marked the Christian victory and the beginning of a movement that would change the history of the Iberian Peninsula.
Upon learning of the defeat, the Muslim leader Munuza withdrew from Gijón, and Pelayo established the capital of the rebel kingdom in Cangas de Onís, creating a new center of resistance that would spread over the centuries.
🔹 The Santina of Covadonga: Spiritual Symbol of Asturias
Today, the Cave of Covadonga houses the image of the Virgin of Covadonga, affectionately known as the Santina.
It is one of the most visited places in Asturias, venerated for generations as a symbol of identity and devotion for the Asturian people.
tag: picos of europe – following area
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