The Cares Gorge route is one of Spain’s most spectacular walks: a path carved into pale limestone, suspended above the river as the gorge narrows between the peaks of the Picos de Europa. The trail follows an old water channel through a landscape of sheer walls, tunnels and sudden openings onto the mountains. A bridge-maintenance closure currently blocks the full crossing at two points, so only out-and-back sections from either end are possible. Check the official route notice before setting out.
Choose your route and return
When the route is open, the walk between Poncebos and Caín is about 11 kilometres one way. Walking back doubles that distance, making it a full day on the trail. A one-way hike needs a transfer between the two ends; the winding road makes this a separate journey, so arrange it in advance.
From Poncebos, the path climbs before opening onto the gorge. Starting in Caín approaches from the León side. With the current closure, choose an out-and-back walk from one of these trailheads rather than planning a through hike.
View in GoExploringA walk through the gorge
The old canal gives the route its distinctive line through the gorge: rock walls rise close beside you, then the view opens across a dramatic cleft in the mountains. The path is narrow and exposed in places, with long stretches beside steep drops. Choose a section that suits your confidence with heights and remember that, with the current closure, every step toward the gorge is also a step you will walk back.
Explore the gorge on the map, and browse our Spain hiking guide for another mountain route.