Fuente De

Fuente De is a dramatic mountain gateway in the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park, famous for its thrilling cable car ride that lifts you from the valley floor to over 1,800 metres in just minutes. This is the starting point for some of Spain’s most spectacular high-altitude walks, with panoramic views that stretch to the Cantabrian Sea on a clear day. The area combines raw alpine beauty with traditional Asturian mountain culture, making it a must-stop on any northern Spain road trip.

Highlights & What to See

• Cable car (Teleférico de Fuente De) – A breathtaking ascent over sheer limestone walls; the views from the top are extraordinary and give access to the high mountain trails.
• Mirador del Cable – A short walk from the upper station offers dizzying views of the cable car line and the valley below.
• Ruta del Cares (Cares Gorge) – One of Spain’s most famous hikes, a spectacular 12 km trail carved into the gorge walls; the southern access is a short drive from Fuente De.
• Pico Tesorero & Macizo Central – For experienced hikers, the trails from the cable car top lead to iconic peaks and the Refugio de Urriellu (Naranjo de Bulnes base).
• Fuente De village – A small cluster of stone buildings with a traditional Asturian restaurant and a mountain information centre.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least a full day to experience Fuente De properly. The cable car ride and a few short walks from the top station can be done in half a day, but to tackle the Ruta del Cares or a longer high-mountain trek you’ll need a full day from early morning. If you’re a serious hiker, consider staying overnight in the area to catch sunrise from the heights.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Potes – A charming medieval town in the Liébana valley, famous for its tower houses and local liqueur (orujo).
• Santo Toribio de Liébana – A monastery housing a relic of the Lignum Crucis, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in northern Spain.
• Lagos de Covadonga – Stunning glacial lakes in the Asturian mountains, about 1.5 hours’ drive, with iconic views and hiking trails.
• Cangas de Onís – The historic first capital of the Kingdom of Asturias, with a Roman bridge and access to Covadonga.
• Desfiladero de la Hermida – A dramatic 20 km limestone gorge that leads into the Picos de Europa from the north, a scenic drive in itself.

Please check official sources for current details.