The Picos de Europa are the surprise of the green north: a wall of limestone peaks reaching over 2,600 metres barely 20 km from the sea. Declared Spain's first national park in 1918, they are said to be named for being the first sight of Europe for sailors returning across the Atlantic.
Potes and the Liébana valley
The mountain town of Potes, with its medieval bridges and Monday market, is the gateway. The surrounding Liébana valley is famous for its microclimate, its monasteries, and its orujo spirit.
Two days in the mountains
El Transcantábrico visits the Picos twice. One day follows the Liébana valley to Potes and its mountain villages, before returning to the coast at Comillas; the other is a full excursion into the heart of the national park, among limestone walls, gorges and high pastures. Travelling west these are days three and five; travelling east, days four and five. The Fuente Dé cable car at the head of the Liébana valley is not part of the train's programme — guests keen to ride it can add it to a stay in Cantabria before or after the journey.
A taste of the mountains
This is the home of Cabrales, the intense blue cheese matured in natural mountain caves — a perfect pairing with the region's robust reds.
Photographers: the Picos are one of the six signature shots in our photographer's guide. And the mountains explain the region's weather — see understanding Green Spain.
