Top 14 Gorges around Cangas De Onis

The region around Cangas de Onís, particularly within the Picos de Europa National Park, offers several impressive canyons. The Ruta del Cares is renowned for its spectacular views and natural beauty, especially the first 6 kilometers from Cain. Another significant area is the Cares Gorge (Garganta Divina), where you can walk between mountains rising almost 2,000 meters above the gorge floor.

Yes, for families looking for an adventure, the Vallegon Canyon (Barranco Vallegon) is considered to have low difficulty, making it suitable for beginners and families. The Rubo River Gorge (Barranco Rubo), located within the Picos de Europa National Park, is also noted for being fun and adventurous without being overly dangerous, making it a good choice for families with children.

Beginners can enjoy the Vallegon Canyon (Barranco Vallegon), which offers five or six rappels and numerous aquatic pools with low difficulty. For a less intense experience, the Dwarves' Tunnels on the Cares Trail provides unique passages along the Cares River, offering an accessible way to experience the gorge without extreme challenges.

While some canyons like Cobarcil can be impractical in spring, autumn, and winter due to water levels, they are generally suitable for descent in the summer. The summer months typically offer the most favorable conditions for canyoning activities in the region.

The canyons are carved by rushing streams, revealing impressive rock formations and waterfalls. Along the Ruta del Cares, you can find unique features like the natural rock formation 'Through the stones'. You'll also encounter crystal-clear streams, deep ravines, and the dramatic convergence of canyon walls, especially within the Cares Gorge.

Beyond canyoning, the area around Cangas de Onís offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous waterfall hikes, including routes like Villamayor - El Chorrón - La Cueva Trail. There are also road cycling routes, such as the challenging Trail to the Lakes of Covadonga, and easy hikes like the Lake Ercina loop near Lagos de Covadonga.

For those seeking a greater challenge, Viboli Gorge (Barranco Viboli) in the council of Amieva is a canyon of medium difficulty, featuring 4-5 rappels, with the largest around 20-25 meters. The Cobarcil Canyon, accessed via the road from Cangas de Onís towards León, is described as short but intense, offering a true immersion with several rappels.

The Ruta del Cares is considered one of the most beautiful hiking trails globally, offering spectacular views and nature in its full splendor. It's a well-traveled path carved along a steep ravine, allowing hikers to experience the impressive mountains and the Cares River. The trail also features unique man-made elements like the Dwarves' Tunnels.

Many canyons in the region, such as Vallegon Canyon and Viboli Gorge, feature aquatic pools that are ideal for swimming as part of the canyoning experience. The erosion of water has created numerous natural water slides and pools, offering opportunities for refreshing dips amidst the stunning natural scenery.

The canyons around Cangas de Onís are primarily formed by the powerful erosive action of rivers, particularly the Cares River, on the limestone bedrock of the Picos de Europa. This process has created deep ravines, impressive rock formations, and the dramatic gorge walls that characterize the area, revealing unique hidden corners of nature.

When canyoning, it's essential to wear appropriate gear for aquatic activities and rappelling. This typically includes a wetsuit for thermal protection, a helmet for safety, and sturdy shoes with good grip. Guides often provide specialized equipment, but comfortable swimwear and quick-drying layers are recommended underneath.

While the Ruta del Cares can be popular, exploring canyons like Cobarcil or Trescares might offer a more secluded experience, especially outside peak tourist times. These canyons require a bit more effort to access, which can deter larger crowds, allowing for a more intimate connection with nature.