Spain: The North: Overview

Why go?

The craggy limestone peaks of the Picos de Europa in Northern Spain form some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe. With crocus-covered meadows to steep dramatic gorges, these mountains rise sheer out of lush green valleys and are carved into three distinct ranges by clear rivers.

Although within just 2 hours of UK, the region is a culturally unspoiled pocket of Spain. The pace of life does not appear to have changed much over the past 50 years, and the life you find here is surprisingly simple – wobbly old stone architecture in the hamlets, people cutting hay and making cheeses by hand. The cooking is authentic: cider breweries, tapas bars and rural restaurants provide robust and tasty food, much of it straight off the mountains.

For those with a sense of adventure and looking for a change, the exhilarating landscapes of the Picos mountains are guaranteed not to disappoint.

Any downsides?

You can't rely on the weather being sunny and dry – this area is known as ‘Green Spain’ because it is damp and therefore lush. It gets relatively crowded (still empty by most standards) in late July & August.

Current weather/time:

In Bilbao:

Activities

* Hiking and walking
* Mountain biking
* Horse riding
* Canoeing
* Canyoning
* Beaches
* Cultural

	Overview
	Places to Stay
	What's Where
	The Picos
	Background Info
	People
	Climate
	Food & Drink
	Travel Tips
	Getting There
	Getting Around
	Visas/Money