La RUTA del CARES / Asturias

La Ruta del Cares, also known as the Cares Gorge or Cares Trail, is a breathtaking hiking route that winds its way through the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park in northern Spain. This iconic trail offers an awe-inspiring journey through some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the country, providing hikers with an unforgettable adventure.

Stretching approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) each way, the Ruta del Cares meanders along the edges of the Cares River, through a narrow limestone gorge that has been carved over millennia. As you set foot on the trail, you're immediately enveloped by towering cliffs that rise dramatically on either side, creating an almost cathedral-like atmosphere. The river below rushes with crystalline waters, cutting a path through the heart of the rugged terrain.

The trail's unique appeal lies in its remarkable fusion of nature's grandeur and human engineering. Initially built in the early 20th century to facilitate hydroelectric works, the path has since become a symbol of harmonious coexistence between mankind and the wild. The trail is carved into the rock face, often clinging to the sheer sides of the gorge, and offers awe-inspiring views of the churning river below and the soaring peaks above.

As you hike along the Ruta del Cares, you'll encounter a panorama that seems almost surreal. The jagged mountain peaks of the Picos de Europa loom overhead, their rugged beauty contrasting with the gentle flow of the river below. The path is flanked by an array of flora and fauna, and depending on the season, you might be treated to the sight of wildflowers carpeting the hillsides or the fiery hues of autumn leaves.

Throughout the journey, tunnels and bridges add an element of excitement, as you pass through dark passages carved into the rock and traverse narrow crossings that afford dizzying glimpses of the abyss below. Each step taken is a reminder of the passage of time, as the river's persistence has shaped this majestic gorge over countless millennia.

The Ruta del Cares is a paradise for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers alike. The sense of isolation, the raw beauty of the landscape, and the feeling of being humbled by the immense scale of nature are all part of the experience. The trail's destination, the village of Cain or Poncebos, rewards hikers with a chance to rest and recharge, perhaps indulging in local cuisine while reflecting on the remarkable journey through one of Spain's most iconic natural wonders.