Join Fran, a certified mountain guide on this ascent in Spain! On this 1 day hiking adventure to Peña Santa Castilla you will experience some of the mountains Spain is famous for!
Private
Cantabrian Mountains
1 Day
Jun - Aug
High
Intermediate
Calling all travelers to Spain! Join me on this 1-day ascent of the Peña Santa Castilla!
The Peña Santa Castilla is located in the Picos de Europa (“Peaks of Europe”) in the Cantabrian mountain range in northern Spain. The Picos de Europa are only 20 kilometers from the coast, allowing you to see coastal waters and lakes within the area. More still, the area is home to many sheep that are herded to make some of Spain’s finest cheeses.
The Peña Santa Castilla is the highest mountain on the Western side of the Picos de Europa, and also one of the most isolated. This is a mountaineering trip of medium-high difficulty level, and also requires rock climbing skills (grade III / IV) in some sections. Our climb will be done in 12 hours, and we will ascend the north face of the mountain, which is regarded as the “normal route.” And because the route is so secluded, it makes for a wonderful adventure, at peace in nature.
This trip is only offered for 1-2 participants at a time, making it a fun activity to enjoy with plenty of hands-on attention from a local guide.
Request to book this trip if you have always wanted to go mountaineering in the Peña Santa Castilla!
Meeting point
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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