The Picos de Europa are among the most spectacular mountain landscapes in Spain, spread across Asturias, Cantabria and León. Imposing peaks, gorges, lakes and stone villages that seem frozen in time. It's the kind of camper destination people fall in love with, though its terrain does demand a bit of care when driving a large vehicle. Here are the key stops.
The must-see stops
- The Lagos de Covadonga (Asturias): the icon. Note that access to the lakes is usually restricted to private traffic in high season; you take a bus up from Covadonga. Check the current dates.
- The Cares Gorge: one of the most famous hiking trails in Spain, between vertical rock walls.
- The Fuente Dé cable car (Cantabria): rises to almost 1,800 m with dizzying views.
- Potes and the villages of Liébana, with their food and medieval corners.
Warnings for driving a motorhome
- Narrow, steep roads: check your vehicle's width and height and drive calmly. Some stretches aren't suited to very large vehicles.
- Restricted access to certain spots (like the lakes) in high season: use the designated car parks and shuttle services.
- Short stages: this isn't a place to rush; mountain distances take longer than they look.
Where to sleep
There are motorhome sites and campsites in the gateway towns (Cangas de Onís, Potes, Arenas de Cabrales). Sleeping deep in the mountains is tempting, but respect the rules and the protected areas of the National Park. Motorhome sites will help.
When to go
Late spring through to autumn is ideal. Summer brings more services but more people; in autumn, the colours are spectacular. In winter, expect cold and possible snow on the mountain roads.
In short
The Picos de Europa offer top-tier mountain scenery across Asturias, Cantabria and León, with icons like Covadonga, the Cares Gorge and Fuente Dé, but they call for careful driving and respect for the restricted access points. The step to take today: plan short stages and check the access restrictions (especially to the lakes) before heading up; it will save you trouble with the vehicle. Pair it with the route through the north.
