Spain
Picos de Europa has an Atlantic mountain climate, with higher precipitation and milder temperatures than inland Spain. Weather shifts rapidly in mountains, including sudden fog, heavy rain, or temperature drops, even during summer. A sunny morning shifts quickly into a stormy afternoon. Always check local forecasts, especially mountain-specific ones from AEMET, before setting out. Dress in layers, ready for four seasons in one day.
Optimal periods for activities or experiences:
Rules differ by nationality. Spain is part of the Schengen Area, a single border-free zone. Citizens of many non-EU/EEA countries need a Schengen visa. From mid-2025, citizens of visa-exempt countries will apply for ETIAS authorization online before travel. ETIAS is not a visa; it serves as a pre-travel authorization for security screening. Obtain this authorization prior to purchasing flights.
Regardless of visa status, carry documents: Passport (valid for 3 months beyond departure, issued within 10 years, 2 blank pages), proof of onward/return travel, proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds. Travel Insurance: This is mandatory for Schengen visa applications and highly suggested for all travelers. Make sure your policy covers medical emergencies, hospitalization, and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of €30,000. Coverage for mountain rescue is also wise if significant hiking or climbing is on your agenda.
Schengen Visa
Submit form, documents, biometric data to Spanish embassy/consulate. Apply well before trip; processing times fluctuate.
Travel insurance with €30,000 medical coverage.
From mid-2025
Online application for security screening. Authorization generally comes quickly.
Obtain ETIAS prior to purchasing flights.
Documentation
Valid passport, proof of onward travel, accommodation, sufficient funds.
No special permits for most hiking. Check with park visitor centers for specialized activities.
The official currency of Spain is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available in towns like Cangas de Onís, Potes, and Arenas de Cabrales. Most major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. Carry some cash for smaller villages or mountain refugios. ATM cash withdrawals generally yield better exchange rates than dedicated exchange offices. Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks.
Cook your own meals in accommodations with kitchen facilities. Purchase supplies at local supermarkets or markets for delicious, cost-effective picnic lunches. Use the fixed-price "Menu del Día" for lunch; these multi-course meals hold excellent value. For popular routes like the shuttle to Covadonga Lakes, using the local bus system saves parking fees and holds more efficiency during peak times. Visits in May-June or September-early October bring fewer crowds and often lower accommodation prices compared to high summer. For hikers, staying in mountain refugios (huts) with half-board is a cost-effective way to access and explore high-altitude areas and lightens food supply carrying needs.
Hostel dorm or basic guesthouse (€25-€50), supermarket/picnics (€20-€35), local buses/walking (€5-€15), free hikes/small entry fees (€5-€10).
Mid-range hotel or rural house (€60-€120), restaurants/sidrerías (€40-€70), bus/taxi/shared car (€15-€30), cable car/guided tours (€15-€30).
Boutique hotel/upscale lodging (€150+), fine dining (€80+), private transfers/car rental (€40+), specialized tours/gear rentals (€40+).
Tipping holds less cultural weight than in some countries. Service charge frequently on bill. Round up for good service (5-10% in restaurants).
Most hiking trails are free. Entry fees for visitor centers, some caves, or cultural sites typically €3-€10.
The region generally shows safety, but mountainous environments call for specific precautions.
No specific vaccinations are mandatory for Spain entry beyond routine immunizations for all travelers. These include MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio, and annual Flu shot. Consult a healthcare professional several weeks before your trip. Suggested vaccinations may include Hepatitis A and B, Rabies, and Typhoid.
Picos de Europa generally sees safety with low crime rates. Main safety factors are the mountain environment. Weather shifts quickly, often without warning. Trails can be steep, exposed, or slippery. Rockfalls happen. Always check weather forecasts, carry appropriate gear, inform someone of your route, and do not overestimate your abilities. Stick to marked trails.
Always inform your accommodation, a friend, or family member of your hiking plans, including your intended route and expected return time. If you do not return, they alert authorities.
Picos de Europa presents options for various budgets, from frugal backpacking to more comfortable travel. These estimates are general and vary by your choices and current economic conditions.
Tipping holds less cultural weight in Spain than in some countries, like the United States. A service charge frequently appears on the bill. For good service, rounding up the bill or leaving a few Euros (5-10%) is appreciated, especially in more formal restaurants. Tipping is not expected for casual meals or small bar orders. For taxis, round up to the nearest Euro. For tour guides, €5-€10 per person per day is a good gesture.
The official currency of Spain is the Euro (€). ATMs (Cajeros automáticos) are widely available in towns like Cangas de Onís, Potes, and Arenas de Cabrales. Most major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) accept in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, carrying some cash is useful, especially when visiting smaller villages, local markets, or paying for services in mountain refugios or very small, traditional establishments that might not accept cards. ATM cash withdrawals generally yield better exchange rates than dedicated exchange offices. Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks.
Hostel dorm beds from €20. Basic guesthouses around €45-€70. Mid-range hotels/rural houses €70-€120. Upscale lodging starts at €120+. Mountain refugios (half-board) €30-€50 per person.
Good value from rural houses and local restaurants for mid-range budgets.
Higher prices for accommodation in high season.
Breakfast (coffee + pastry) €3-€6. "Menu del Día" (fixed-price lunch) €12-€20. Dinner at mid-range restaurants €25-€40 per person (without drinks). Tapas/Pinchos €2-€5 each. Local cider bottle €3-€6 (supermarket), €6-€10 (sidrería).
"Menu del Día" offers excellent value for lunch.
Dinner prices can add up if dining out every night.
Bus from Santander/Oviedo to Picos towns €10-€20. Local bus (e.g., Covadonga Lakes shuttle) €1.50-€3.00. Fuel €1.60-€1.80/liter. Economy car rental €30-€60/day. Fuente Dé Cable Car €18 return. Funicular de Bulnes €17.60 return.
Public transport saves on parking fees and can be efficient.
Car rental costs mount with insurance and fuel.
| Category | Budget Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €20-€250+ per night | Varies widely by type (hostel to boutique hotel) |
| Meals | €3-€80+ per meal/day | From quick breakfast to fine dining |
| Transportation | €1.50-€60+ per day | Local bus to daily car rental |
