Trip Prospectus

Hiking Spains Greatest Secret, Picos de Europa
NOTE CHANGE OF DATE: May 30 – June 6, 2016
The Picos de Europa
(literally: "Peaks of Europe”) is
a range of mountains about 12
miles inland from the northern
coast of Spain, located in the
Autonomous Communities of
Asturias, Cantabria and Castile
and León, forming part of the
Cantabrian Mountains.
Summary
Spain's third highest mountain
range, the Picos de Europa is a
region of dramatic limestone
peaks and lush valleys.
Carpeted in beautiful wild
flowers in spring, this area is also known as 'Green Spain'. Its terrain, tranquility and
inaccessibility make the Picos a hiker's paradise. Chamois, Griffon vultures, Golden eagles
and many other species are regularly spotted, and, although rarely spotted, bears, wolves
and boars still survive in this incredible wilderness. We base ourselves at the friendly familyrun Hotel Torrecerredo, positioned in the heart of the region and offering breathtaking
panoramas of the highest peaks from its welcoming bar and restaurant.
The Picos de Europa forms the apex of the Cordillera Cantabrica, which runs the entire
length of Spain's northern coast. The highest point, the summit of the Torrecerredo (8688’),
crowns these spectacular limestone peaks, which are visually very dramatic and the third
highest mountain range in Spain after the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada.
The lower reaches live up to their local name, 'Green Spain', with the lush valleys providing
picturesque pastures and the higher meadows bedecked with wildflowers in the spring. The
high ground is a 'moonscape' of dramatic rocky terrain almost devoid of vegetation. It was
both the wild terrain and the Celtic inhabitants that prevented both the Romans and the
Moors from conquering this part of Spain.
Evidence of these early settlers’ remains today: bagpipes accompany local folk dances, cider
quenches parched throats and their evocative mythology of enchanted forests lives on.
There are still villages in the mountains that have no access by road; this inaccessible and
wild landscape provides a safe haven for some of Europe's more exotic wildlife. Bears,
wolves and wild boar all still survive here along with chamois which are often seen across
the range. Beautiful black and yellow Fire salamanders are often seen after rain. The golden
eagles and griffon vultures that are constantly soaring around the rocky outcrops dominate
the abundant bird life, but smaller snow finches, hoopoes and wall creepers are all much
sought after by the ornithologist.
Hiking
The hiking here is varied and spectacular, with some superb scenery at the higher levels.
Over the course of the week we will try and tackle two classic gorges and one peak in each
of the three massifs in the Picos de Europe, Spain's first national park. Most of the hiking is
on shepherds paths, old disused mining
paths and some sections of Roman
`roads`, although the final ascents of the
peaks can be quite rough underfoot.
As in all mountain ranges, the weather can
be unpredictable and have the potential to
affect several hikes. Safety is always
considered and with changeable weather it
should be expected that on some rare
occasions the higher-level hikes may not
be available although you can be assured
that our local contacts are always able to
find a suitable alternative if needed.
Ability: This trip has been designed for experienced hikers who can comfortably hike up to
7 hours/day, not including breaks, at a moderate pace (~ 2 miles-per-hour). Vertical
ascents will range from 1000’ to 2500’ over distances of 6.2 mi. to 14.9 mi.
Itinerary
Please note that the Itinerary below is subject to change (particularly due to weatherrelated challenges).
Day 1. Arrive Arenas de Cabrales
The trip starts in Arenas de Cabrales. Participants can arrive into either Santander or Bilbao
Airport in the afternoon. We will then be transferred to our hotel which has fabulous views
up to the highest peak in the national park. (Dinner included)
Day 2 Hike to the summit of Juan Robre (6.2 miles, ~2500’ ascent)
The hike begins directly from our hotel. After leaving the village, an ancient Roman path
leads us up to the high pastures of Nava, which in the months of May and June are alive
with a sea of flowers. We continue up where the scenery changes to one more reminiscent
of the Yorkshire Dales, with limestone outcrops jutting out of the landscape. Looking
skywards it is possible to spot a variety of eagles and vultures roaming the thermals. The
path leads us to the summit of Juan Robre, which rewards us with commanding views of
Arenas far below and the jagged peaks of the central massif in the distance. The descent is
via the Juan Robre ridge, which brings us back to Arenas and an opportunity to sample a
refreshing glass of cider to cool us down. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Day 3. Pandescura Peak (7.5 miles, ~1650’ ascent)
A short ride takes us to the village of Canales. The first part of the day follows farm tracks
before a short climb up to the 'Collado de los Buitres'. If we are lucky we may see Griffon
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vultures soaring above. We then follow open terrain, slowly ascending to the base of the
Pandescura peak. A simple ascent to the top will lead us to an ideal lunch spot with superb
views of the Western massif peaks. We then descend through an ancient forest to an easy
river crossing in the Casaño gorge and follow banks of the river to the hamlet of La
Molina. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Day 4. Cares Corge (14.9 miles, ~1000’ ascent)
The classic Cares Gorge has been described as the jewel in the crown of Spanish hiking. For
7.5 miles, the engineered path has been blasted into the rock face. Originally built in the
1940s as part of a hydroelectric scheme, it is now one of the most popular walks in Spain.
In places, the surrounding peaks rise over 6500 feet above the path and if we're lucky, we
may catch a glimpse of the rare and beautiful Wallcreeper. The path eventually emerges in
the village of Cain, where we have lunch before our return along the same path to Puente
Poncebos. Transport will be waiting here to take us to back to our hotel in
Arenas. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Day 5. Free day – Visit to Llanes
Today we will spend the day exploring the coastal
fishing town of Llanes. We will enjoy one of the nicest
ways to get their via a 25 minute drive from our hotel
and a beautiful 2 hour walk along the sea cliffs on the
Cantabrian coast. (Breakfast included)
Day 6. Pandebano Col (6.8 miles, ~2500’ ascent)
Today we will hike up to the Pandebano Col with
fantastic views of the monolithic peak of Naranjo de Bulnes. From here we continue up to
one of the classic viewpoints of the Picos; the summit of Peña Main. We will then descend
through the forest and pastures to the village of Tielve and then transfer back to
base. (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner included)
Day 7. Twin summits of Mancondiu (13 miles, 2300’ ascent)
At 6500 feet, the twin summits of Mancondiu are the highest point we reach during the
week. Most of the hiking apart from the last 650 feet is on disused mining tracks. The top
offers fantastic views of the Central and Eastern Massifs and for the brave an easy although
exposed traverse between the two summits. This is a fantastic end to varied week of
hiking. (Breakfast and Lunch included)
Day 8. Depart for airport.
Transportation will be provided from our hotel back to the airport.
Accomodation The Torrecerredo is a small family-run hotel, and the only hotel in Arenas
with views of the highest peaks. It has a pleasant garden terrace attached to the café bar
and the panoramic restaurant gives views right up to the mountains. All rooms have ensuite facilities along with TV and WiFi. The hotel is situated in a rural setting, five-minutes
walk from the centre of the village, which is well serviced with banks, cafes and shops.
Accommodations are planned for double occupancy of rooms with the leader consulting trip
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participants, as required, to make the best possible matches. For anyone who prefers a
single room, we would make every effort to accommodate your request but would need
additional payment of the cost difference compared to double occupancy.
The Hotel Owners
Jim & Pilar have been running the
Hotel Torrecerredo for the last 25
years (it was originally owned by
Pilar´s parents) along with
organizing hiking, Mountain Biking
and Multy Activity tours, not only in
the Picos Mountains, but also areas
as diverse as Nepal, Mexico, Chile,
Peru and Bolivia.
With the arrival of 2 lovely children,
their passion for travel has been put
on hold and tamed down to more
family oriented vacations………but not for much longer!
Food
The region has several delicious specialities for you to try while you are staying here. The
area is famous for its gold-medal-winning blue cheese, Queso Cabrales, which is matured in
some of the thousands of deep limestone caves that dot the hills. Lesser known, but equally
appealing is the local lamb Cordero al la Menta and a wholesome bean stew, Fabada
Asturiana. Fresh fish comes from the coast at Llanes and Ribadesella, half an hour's drive
away. The local wine is very drinkable, though a glass of local cider can be more refreshing.
All breakfasts, 5 picnic lunches and 6 dinners included.
Breakfast: Fruit juice, cereals, bread, cold meats / cheeses and a selection of local fruit
(depending on season) offered buffet-style. There are also organic eggs to order, sponge
and Anis cake.
Lunch: Consists of a large bread roll, with a daily choice of filling, chocolate bars and fresh
fruit.
Dinner: Homemade three-course meal usually consists of soup or salad for the first course,
a choice from te menu for the main course, with plenty of fish and vegetarian options
available, followed by homemade dessert.
Wine: To accompany the evening meal, the hotel has a reasonably comprehensive wine list
available.
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Weather and Seasonality
There can be snowfalls in the Picos as late as May, and the area is subject to rain at all
times of the year (although this typically falls in the evening and rarely affects the hiking).
In late May, early June the weather should be very pleasant for hiking, though it is rather
unpredictable and mists can come in from the coast.
Cost
The approximate all-inclusive ground cost for this trip is $2,075, plus estimated airfare of
$1500. Participants will be required to purchase their own tickets. However, the leader will
monitor online fares and provide updates on a timely basis. Flights should be scheduled to
arrive in the afternoon on May 29th. We want to consolidate the transfers and travel to the
hotel together as a group. Please note that the hotel is 119 miles away from the airport.
Application Process
If you decide that you would like to sign up for this trip, let me know by email or phone call.
I will email you an Application, mandatory Confidential Health Questionnaire, optional
Confidential Supplemental Medical Questionnaire, and Acknowledgement and Assumption of
Risk and Release and Indemnity Agreement. A reservation deposit of $500 per person is
due with your application. Please make your check payable to the Appalachian Mountain
Club and mail (forms can be returned by e-mail, but the release signature page must also
be mailed) with the completed forms at the address shown on the Application.
Once your application is received, we will schedule a time to talk about your hiking
experience and ascertain your ability to participate successfully in this trip. Providing
information about a medical issue or injury will not necessarily disqualify you from
participation, but I may need to ask you some follow up questions.
Deposit and Payments
Upon acceptance to the trip, your check will be deposited into the trip account and the
money will be used to cover trip expenses incurred on your behalf. The application and down
payment of $500 is due as soon as possible to hold your spot. A payment of $900 is
required within 2 weeks of acceptance in the program. The balance of $675 is due 90 days
prior to trip departure.
The cost for the trip is $2,075 (ground) plus $1500 (estimate for air). This will cover the
following items:
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Round trip airfare from the U.S. east coast to Santander or Bilbao, Spain
(estimated at $1500 but subject to change due to airport of choice or extreme
price fluctuations)
ALL hotel accommodations, taxes and tips
Most meals beginning with dinner on arrival day to breakfast on last day
Transportation from Santander or Bilbao airport to hotel on the afternoon of May
29th only. Early or late arrivals are not covered under the trip fee.
All local transportation to hiking trails.
AMC Adventure Travel Fee
Emergency evacuation insurance
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NOT included in trip price:
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Trip cancellation insurance
Your personal transportation to and from your US departure airport
Alcoholic beverages
Special appreciation tips to guides or staff for “extra” services
The cost for the excursion is based on quotes at the time the trip was submitted to the
Adventure Travel Committee (February 2015). The final cost of the trip may be adjusted due
to changes in exchange rates. Any savings we achieve will be passed on to you.
Cancellation/ Trip Insurance
Once you are accepted on the trip and I have deposited your check(s), a $100 cancellation
fee will apply. A refund of amounts paid in excess of $100 will be given to the extent that it
does not raise the cost of the trip to the other participants. If your spot is filled from the
waiting list, then you may be entitled to a full refund, less the $100 cancellation fee. If your
spot cannot be filled, then you will receive a refund for any part of the trip that can be
cancelled by the leader, less the $100 cancellation fee.
Optional trip cancellation insurance is available through a variety of programs, including one
available from the AMC. You decide on your own, and handle this directly with the sponsor.
Based upon your response in the application, and subject to you being accepted on the trip,
we will send information on the program offered by the AMC.
Emergency Evacuation Insurance
In the case of an emergency during our
trip, emergency medical transportation
and evacuation costs can be exorbitant.
Most U.S. medical Policies, HMOs & PPOs
provide little or no coverage for these
expenses.
The basic policy that is included with your
trip fee is through TripMate™ and includes
$200,000 for emergency medical
evacuation. It also includes an additional
$5000 for accident and sickness medical
expense, which would supplement
anyone’s personal medical insurance. The
$5000 is not high, but participants should have their own medical insurance.
Social Expectations & Being a Team Player
We will be more than just a group: we will be a team. You must enjoy being part of a group
and be willing to share with and help your team members. For safety and the integrity of the
trip, it is important that participants disclose fully to the leader your level of experience,
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level of current fitness, mental health and medical issues and treatments, and advise the
leader of any changes to the above before departure and while traveling. This can be a
physically and mentally demanding trip due to the amount of hiking and travel involved. You
will be in an unfamiliar place with unfamiliar people, and be mentally and physically
challenged.
You are expected to have a positive attitude with an open mind that unexpected issues can
occur at any time. Group members should always be supportive and understanding of
anyone having difficulties. Participants are expected to contribute to the group experience,
be approachable by others, and take genuine interest in the group members. Any
interpersonal matter that participants cannot resolve themselves should be brought to the
attention of the leader for resolution. Participants are expected to stay committed to the
planned activity and respect and follow the leader’s decisions. Participant thoughts, concerns
and group consensus will be appreciated when received and will be taken into consideration
in the leader’s decisions. To minimize risks we will stick close together and will hike in
groups and not alone.
If there is interest, a pre-trip hike will be arranged so participants can get to know each
other, learn more about the trip and discuss appropriate gear.
Trip Size and Wait List
The trip is limited to 11 participants, including the leader, who reserves the right to select a
smaller group. Once the trip is full, prospective participants may be accepted to a wait list.
If the wait list is large enough, the trip may be expanded and a second leader will be
assigned to co-lead the trip. In addition to the trip leader, there will be local guides
accompanying us on all of our day trips.
Leader, Linda Moraski
Linda has lead/co-lead trips to Belize, Bhutan, France, Southeast Asia
and Eastern Europe. She is an avid hiker and world traveler. Linda
loves the outdoors and when she is not hiking, you can find her
biking, kayaking, running or XC skiing. She has been to the summit
of Mt Kilimanjaro, ridden her bicycle from Florida to Boston and
completed 5 marathons. Linda is thankful for finding the AMC as this
is where she learned to hike, ocean kayak, white water kayak, rock
climb, wind surf (well, kind of) and best of all, lead wonderful
adventures around the world! Linda has been certified in Advanced
Wilderness First Aid and CPR.
Questions
Please contact Linda Moraski if you have further questions: lmoraski@gmail.com or 617448-8895.
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