Arenas de Cabrales, Cares River, and Alles Loop

No, cycling directly through the famous Ruta del Cares within the Cañon del río Cares is explicitly prohibited and considered unsafe. This Komoot route is designed for touring cycling around the canyon area, utilizing roads and tracks suitable for bikes, offering views of the region without entering the restricted hiking path. The Ruta del Cares itself is a narrow, challenging hiking trail with significant drops, not suitable for bicycles.

This route is graded as difficult. The Picos de Europa region is known for its challenging mountainous terrain, featuring significant climbs and descents. You should be prepared for considerable elevation gain and a good level of fitness is recommended for this 34 km circular route.

The route offers a variety of scenic and cultural highlights. You'll pass through the charming settlement of Arenas de Cabrales, skirt the impressive Cares River Canyon, and visit the village of Mildón. Other notable spots include the historic La Vidre Bridge - Pre-Romanesque Route and the picturesque Alles Village and Church of San Pedro de Alles.

As a circular route, it typically starts and ends in the same location. A common starting point would be Arenas de Cabrales, which is a well-known base in the Picos de Europa. Parking is generally available in and around the village, though it can be busy during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.

The best time to cycle this route is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically more stable and warmer, making the challenging climbs more enjoyable. Summer can be hot, but the mountain air often provides some relief. Avoid winter months due to potential snow and ice, which can make the roads impassable or dangerous.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on public roads and designated routes within the Picos de Europa National Park. However, it's crucial to respect all park regulations, especially regarding protected areas, wildlife, and any specific restrictions on certain paths. Always stay on marked trails and roads suitable for cycling.

While dogs are generally allowed in the Picos de Europa National Park, specific regulations apply. On this touring cycling route, which primarily follows roads, dogs can accompany you if they are accustomed to riding in a bike trailer or basket. However, if you plan to stop and explore any hiking trails, dogs must be kept on a leash. Always ensure your dog's safety and comfort, especially on challenging terrain and in traffic.

Yes, this route intersects with several other paths. You'll find sections that overlap with official trails such as Asturias Interior (Etapa 2) and Asturias Interior (Etapa 1). Smaller portions also coincide with routes like Poo - Arenas, Tielve - Arenas, and the Paseo de los Campeones. Travesera. Traveserina. Be aware that some of these intersecting paths may be hiking-specific and not suitable for cycling.

Yes, the route passes through several settlements where you can find amenities. Arenas de Cabrales is a larger village with various cafes, restaurants, and shops. Alles Village also offers some options for refreshments and basic supplies. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially given the route's difficulty and the potential for stretches without services.

You can expect a mix of road surfaces typical for touring cycling in a mountainous region. The route primarily follows paved roads, which are generally well-maintained, even on climbs. However, some sections might be narrower or have less perfect surfaces, especially in more remote areas. Given the 'difficult' grading, be prepared for significant ascents and descents on winding mountain roads.

This 34.4 km route is estimated to take approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes of active cycling time. However, this duration can vary significantly based on your fitness level, the number of stops you make for photos or breaks, and the challenging elevation gains. Plan for a longer overall experience to fully enjoy the scenery.