The Hidden Heights of Northern Spain
A walking adventure through the Riaño Mountains and the wild landscapes of Montaña Palentina.
A different side of the Cantabrian Mountains
The southern side of the Picos de Europa offers a striking contrast to its northern, Atlantic-facing slopes. Together with the southern approach to the Western Massif, it reveals a quieter and very different perspective of this spectacular mountain region.
The first part of the journey takes you into the heart of the Riaño Mountains, situated south of the Picos de Europa.
Here, dramatic limestone peaks rise above calm waters and peaceful valleys, creating scenery reminiscent of the Alps. Small mountain villages and quiet trails add to the sense of tranquillity, making this a particularly rewarding destination for walkers seeking somewhere away from the better-known routes.
Discover Montaña Palentina
The second part of the journey explores Montaña Palentina Natural Park in the north of Palencia province.
Originally declared in 2000 as Fuentes Carrionas and Fuente Cobre–Montaña Palentina Natural Park, this protected landscape is recognised for its outstanding scenery, wildlife, geology and botanical diversity.
The region’s complex geology has created an extraordinary landscape shaped by limestone, ancient glaciers and water. Mountain cirques, high valleys, caves, sinkholes and glacial lakes can all be found within the park.
- Karst landscapes
Discover geological features such as Cueva del Cobre and the Sel de la Fuente sinkhole.
- Glacial scenery
Explore mountain cirques, valleys and lakes including Lago de las Lomas, Lago de Ves and Pozo Curavacas.
- Exceptional wildlife
Montaña Palentina forms part of the natural habitat of emblematic species including the Cantabrian brown bear and capercaillie.
- Rich mountain vegetation
Walk through a varied landscape of beech and oak woodland, high pastures and distinctive alpine plant communities.
The great peaks of Montaña Palentina
The park is home to some of the highest and most impressive summits in the Cantabrian Mountains.
- Curavacas — 2,525 metres
- Las Lomas — 2,451 metres
- Espigüete — 2,450 metres
These magnificent peaks dominate a landscape of remote valleys, mountain lakes and dramatic limestone ridges.
A memorable place to stay
Part of the trip is based at the Parador de Cervera de Pisuerga, a welcoming mountain hotel situated in the heart of the natural park.
Its rooms, terrace and restaurant offer magnificent views across the Ruesga Reservoir towards the high peaks of Montaña Palentina—the perfect setting in which to relax after a day’s walking.
Choose the right level for your group
Depending on your club’s requirements, we can adapt the walking programme to different abilities and interests.
- A — Challenging
More demanding mountain routes with longer distances, sustained ascents and higher-level terrain.
- B — Moderate
Shorter walking days with reduced ascent, rewarding viewpoints and achievable summit opportunities.
- C — Leisurely and cultural
Comfortable scenic walks featuring mountain villages and places of historical, cultural or natural interest.
The choice is yours
Tell us in advance about your group’s walking experience, preferred level and interests. We will adapt the programme to create the right Cantabrian Mountains experience for your club.
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