


Discover the Naranjo de Bulnes peak, one of the best-known climbing sites in Spain, in a 2-day hiking tour led by AEGM-UIMLA-certified guide Fran.
Cantabrian Mountains
2 Days
Jun - Sep
High
Intermediate
The Naranjo de Bulnes (2,519 m) – also known as Picu Urriellu – is a limestone peak located in the autonomous community of Asturias, in northern Spain. It is part of the Central Massif region of the Picos de Europa, a mountain range in the center of the Cantabrian Mountains (2,648 m) that lies within the Picos de Europa National Park.
Although it is not the highest peak in the Cantabrian Range, the Naranjo de Bulnes is one of the best-known summits in Spain. Many epic stories and myths have been written about this peak and, in particular, about its 550 meters-high vertical wall on its west face.
Our 2-day tour will depart from and return to Fuente De station in Cantabria or Pandebano in Asturias, to be agreed with the group. We will hike uphill to the Naranjo de Bulnes’ base, to a beautiful glacial valley called the Vega Urriellu, where we will spend the night.
Our trip’s total trekking distance will be 20 kilometers, with a total cumulative elevation gain of 1,800 meters.
Join this outing and discover a real legendary mountaineering spot in Spain. Send me your booking request now!
If you have some previous mountaineering experience and would like to climb to the summit of the Naranjo de Bulnes, check out the Naranjo de Bulnes south face ascent. If you are looking for other summer activities in the area, I recommend the 3-day sport climbing trip in the Cantabrian Mountains.
Meeting point
More info
You need to bring: • Medium size backpack (30/40 liters) • 2 thermic T-shirts • Waterproof jacket • Fleece pullover • Mountain long pants • Trekking shoes • Sunglasses • Cap, beanie hat and gloves • Extra pair of socks • Sleeping bag • Water bottle and energy food • Personal first aid kit • Flashlight (with extra batteries)
What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?
5.0
(10)
Mountain Leader
Picos a Vista is led by Francisco González, a professional climbing and mountain guide as well as an alpine ski instructor, born and raised in Cantabria. His home mountains, especially the Picos de Europa, were his playground in adolescence and the place where he discovered his passion for the outdoors in all its forms.
With decades of experience, Francisco has explored mountain ranges and climbing areas across Spain, the Alps, and far beyond — from Yosemite and Squamish to Greenland’s remote fjords. His background as a versatile “all-terrain” adventurer allows him to guide safely and confidently in rock, snow, and mixed terrain, always with the aim of sharing the joy of the mountains with others.
Whether leading a technical climb, a scenic trek, or a ski descent, Francisco combines deep local knowledge with a love for exploration, creating unforgettable and authentic mountain experiences.
Certificates
UIMLA
Benedik
I booked a tour with Fran to Urriello summit in Picos de Europa. It was an amazing experience and Fran helped me to tick another box in my bucket list. He took best care of my security whilst I was able to enjoy climbing one of the historic routes - still impressive what people dared to do about hundred years ago. I also learned a lot about climbing history in the area and met a guy who is really passionate about what he is doing. He is a great climbing guide and on top of it a great guy to get along with. Much recommended!
Darragh
Fran was an excellent guide, couldn't recommend him highly enough. He as patient and supportive to all members of our group.
We had a great time climbing in Picos!!
We had a great time with the two-day route through Picos de Europa. Our guide Fran has given us a treatment that goes beyond the personal... he has taken care of us, he has taught us lots of tricks, he has made us overcome this physical and psychological challenge we were facing and he has made us fall in love with Picos when we saw it with his eyes. The experience has been so incredible that I am sure I will always remember it. Thank you so much for everything Fran!
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