Travel in the skin: Bilbao

Outdoor activity: crossing the divine gorge

Between traditional local gastronomy and a cosmopolitan atmosphere, Bilbao, rich in splendid architecture and world-renowned art galleries, is the vibrant heart of the Spanish Basque region.

If breathtaking panoramas thrill you, take advantage of your getaway to the north of the country to make a detour to the Picos de Europa National Park, one of the most spectacular places in Spain. Those not afraid of heights will find an impressive hiking trail along the divine gorge.

About three hours’ drive northwest of Bilbao, the divine gorge deserves to be at the top of the must-see sites in Spain.

What is the divine gorge?

In the beautifully carved mountain range of the Picos de Europa, the Garganta del Cares, known as the Cares Route, is also called the divine gorge. It is one of the most striking sites in the Asturias region, in northern Spain, and also one of the most popular hikes in Europe.

The trail, clinging to the rocky walls, is an old maintenance path carved to reach a hydroelectric station, overlooking the river far below.

Along the entire 15 km path connecting the villages of Poncebos and Cain, you can observe various microclimates that succeed one another along the rocky escarpments with remarkable viewpoints.

Starting point of the divine gorge hike

You can start from Poncebos or Cain. The route descending through the gorge from Cain seems easier for some, but most hikers prefer the ascent from Poncebos, especially when coming from Bilbao.

How long is the hike?

Locals talk about a length of 12 km, while others say it’s closer to 15 km. In any case, the divine gorge is one of the most accessible hikes in these mountains, and the crossing will take about three hours of walking.

Put on your hiking boots, keep your camera handy, and start the hike from Poncebos. We advise you to allow between three and four hours to enjoy the view at your own pace, and of course, to pose for photos.

What can you see during the divine gorge hike?

Start the ascent in the lower part of the gorge and, at the Roman bridge near Poncebos, behold the majesty of nature. Very quickly, the winding path will lead you some 30 meters above the river.

It’s best not to have vertigo. Stay alert so as not to miss any of the fantastic landscapes that line the gorge, not forgetting the great Murallón of Amuesa on the other bank. Take time to sit and enjoy the view. If you manage to gaze into the valley, you can see the river sparkling in the sun 300 meters below.

Move towards the upper part of the gorge, which stretches from south to north in a wide curve. This magnificent viewpoint is the ideal place to observe the immense peaks of this superb Spanish mountain range. Once accustomed to the altitude, you will then be ready for a real adventure.

After traversing the walls of the gorge by passing under rocky arches, test your nerve by crossing the gorge twice on breathtaking bridges before the final arrival in Cain.

Returning to Poncebos

At the end of this hike connecting Poncebos to Cain, you can return to your rental car in several ways.

You can simply turn around and cross the gorge in the opposite direction. Many hikers make the round trip at a leisurely pace in six or seven hours. If you feel fit enough, don’t hesitate to embark on a beautiful day of hiking.

You can also hop in a taxi, in Cain or Poncebos, if you don’t want to make the return journey on foot. However, expect a relatively high fare, around 120 €. Buses are available during the summer season, but queues can be long and buses crowded.

Once you arrive in Cain, relax in one of the many local restaurants and recharge your batteries for the return journey. The feeling of satisfaction at the end will be worth all the effort!

What is the best time to do this hike?

Summer is the season when the Picos are most crowded. If you plan to hike the divine gorge during the summer, expect to encounter many people.

On the other hand, if you schedule your visit to the Picos in your itinerary to northern Spain in spring or autumn, you can enjoy milder temperatures and a palette of green colors (in spring) or brown-orange (in autumn) while avoiding the summer crowds.

Reaching the divine gorge

Starting from Bilbao, pick up your rental car and join the A-8 at Don Diego Lopez Haroko Kale Nagusia and leave the city. Once on the A-8, follow the direction Ctra. 272/N-621 in Cantabria and exit the A-8 at exit 272, then continue on the N-621 to Poncebos.

There is little public transport between Bilbao and Poncebos, so renting a car is your best option for the trip. You can also go off the beaten path and explore other sites within the Picos de Europa National Park after your hike at the divine gorge.

Looking for more exceptional panoramas in Spain? Discover the most beautiful sites in the country with our Spain road trip guides.