Cangas de Onís: Route in the Vegabaño Forest with lunch at a mountain refuge

Experience the tranquil beauty of Asturias with the Cangas de Onís: Route in the Vegabaño Forest, a gentle hike through one of Spain’s best-preserved beech forests. Priced at $88 per person and lasting 6 hours, this tour offers a peaceful escape into nature, departing from Cangas de Onís. It includes a transfer, guided commentary, and a hearty homemade regional meal at a mountain refuge. This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate nature without the crowds and want a straightforward, accessible adventure that highlights the natural splendor of the Picos de Europa National Park’s lesser-known areas.

While the pace remains relaxed, the experience provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy impressive scenery and indulge in local cuisine. Perfect for families, casual hikers, or anyone interested in discovering Asturias’ wild side with expert guides. The only considerations include the need for comfortable shoes and the absence of drinks included, so packing a water bottle is recommended.

Key Points

• Accessible, very easy route suitable for all ages with no technical difficulty.
• Includes transfer from Cangas de Onís and guided commentary in Spanish.
• 6-hour experience combining nature walks and a delicious homemade lunch.
• Peaceful, crowd-free environment within the Picos de Europa National Park.
• Authentic regional cuisine served at the Montaña de Vegabaño refuge at 1,432 meters altitude.
• Small group size limited to 8 participants for a personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Beech Forest in Picos de Europa

The tour takes place within the Picos de Europa National Park, focusing on an area less visited by mass tourism. It begins at the Cangas de Onís bus station, from where a comfortable van transports travelers for one hour to the start of the hike. The walk itself lasts about two hours, revealing Spain’s best-preserved beech forests at the foot of the impressive Peña Santa.

The forest scenery is a highlight, offering the chance to see pristine, tranquil woods in a setting famed for its natural beauty. The route is completely flat and accessible, making it perfect for families or those seeking a relaxing nature walk with minimal physical exertion.

The Unique Experience of the Vegabaño Forest

The Vegabaño Forest stands out because it provides a peaceful environment with no crowds, allowing visitors to truly connect with nature. The route is designed for enjoyment and relaxation, with guides explaining curiosities about the local flora and fauna along the way. The dappled sunlight filtering through the beech trees creates a calming atmosphere, ideal for unwinding.

The forest is located at the foot of Peña Santa, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This makes the walk not only easy but also visually captivating, providing plenty of photo opportunities for lovers of scenic landscapes.

Lunch at the Montaña de Vegabaño Mountain Refuge

Midway through the tour, at an altitude of 1,432 meters, is the Montaña de Vegabaño refuge. Here, Nuria prepares a hearty homemade meal featuring regional ingredients. The menu of the day includes a first course, second course, and dessert, offering a genuine taste of local Asturias cuisine.

The refuge provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere, making the meal a perfect break after the walk. Tour participants appreciate the delicious food, noting it’s substantial and flavorful—a real highlight to recharge before the return hike.

Relaxed Hiking Along the Peña Santa Footprints

After lunch, the tour continues with about 1.5 hours of walking in the Picos de Europa. This second stretch of the route maintains the easy pace, allowing plenty of time to soak in the stunning mountain scenery. The guides do an excellent job of stopping at points of interest and explaining the natural features of the landscape.

This part of the hike offers more panoramic views of the park’s rugged terrain and lush forests, all in a quiet setting free from the hustle of more crowded trails. It’s a perfect way to round out a relaxing day in nature.

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Practical Details: Meeting Point, Groups, and Inclusions

The tour begins at the Cangas de Onís bus station, where free public parking is available right next to the station. The ASTURGUÍAS van departs with a small group of up to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate experience. The live guide speaks Spanish and wears a green ASTURGUÍAS t-shirt.

Included in the price are transfers, a qualified mountain guide, accident and civil liability insurance, and the regional meal. Drinks are not included, so bringing your own water is advised. The experience offers full flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

The Guides and Their Approach to Explaining Nature

According to positive reviews, guides like Javier and Jesús are praised for their knowledgeable, friendly approach. They gauge the group’s pace, stopping to explain curiosities and share interesting facts about the landscape. Their attentiveness and entertaining style make the day engaging and enjoyable.

They also handle the car part of the journey with care, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe. This personalized guidance helps visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the natural environment they’re exploring.

Why This Tour Ranks Highly for Nature and Food Lovers

Travelers consistently praise the delicious regional food, describing it as awesome and filling. The homemade meal at the mountain refuge is a clear highlight, offering a taste of Asturias at high altitude. This combination of nature walks with authentic cuisine provides a well-rounded experience.

The peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere of the forest enhances the sense of solitude and serenity, making it ideal for those who want to escape the busy tourist spots. The tour’s easy route makes it accessible to families with children and anyone seeking a relaxing outdoor experience.

Comparing This Tour to Other Picos de Europa Adventures

Unlike more adventurous or technical excursions, this experience focuses on ease and enjoyment, making it suitable for all ages. Its emphasis on quiet forests and regional cuisine distinguishes it from other excursions that might focus solely on sightseeing or physical challenge.

While some tours include visits to Covadonga lakes or other popular sites, this route’s strength lies in its undisturbed natural setting and culinary experience. It offers a calm, authentic way to explore Asturias’ natural beauty.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Experience

This tour appeals most to families, nature lovers, and anyone interested in local food and scenic landscapes. Its relaxed pace and accessible route make it ideal for those who prefer gentle walks without strenuous effort. Travelers seeking peaceful, crowd-free moments in the mountains will find this particularly satisfying.

It’s also a great choice for small groups looking for a personalized guided experience that combines beautiful scenery with genuine regional flavors.

Final Thoughts on the Vegabaño Forest Route

The Cangas de Onís mountain route in the Vegabaño Forest offers a calm, scenic, and authentic taste of Asturias’ natural environment. Its easy hiking, delicious homemade lunch, and small-group setting make it a reliable choice for a relaxing day outdoors.

While it may not satisfy those seeking high-adventure or longer hikes, it provides a beautiful, accessible glimpse into the Picos de Europa’s lesser-known natural corners. The friendly guides and authentic cuisine ensure a memorable experience that highlights the best of what Asturias has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The transfer from Cangas de Onís, qualified mountain guide, accident and civil liability insurance, and homemade regional meal are included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts 6 hours from start to finish.

Is the route suitable for children?
Yes, the route is very easy with no technical difficulties, making it suitable for all ages, including children.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the weather. It is also recommended to carry a water bottle since drinks are not included.

Where does the tour meet?
The tour starts at the Cangas de Onís bus station, with free public parking available at the station.

Is transportation to the meeting point provided?
Yes, the van transports participants from the bus station to the trailhead and back.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refund is available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What language is the guide speaking?
The tour guide speaks Spanish; some content may be in the original language.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 8 participants to ensure a personalized experience.

Is food included?
Yes, the regional meal at the mountain refuge is included, but drinks are not.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby