Mellow Expeditions - @camgardent

For this week's Mellow Expeditions feature we spoke with @camgardent who recently spent some time in the Picos De Europa. Splitting their trip up into 3 days, @camgardent covered 45km, taking in some amazing views along the way. Here's the full story.. 

When I first heard about the Picos de Europa, I was amazed that such an impressive mountain range was just a few hours away from my home in southern France. I’d been eager to find a destination that didn’t require a plane ticket but still offered the kind of outdoor adventure that mountain novels had inspired in me.

So, in May, I decided to make Picos de Europa my next destination—a place with incredible landscapes, a chance to explore an unknown corner of the world that promised wild beauty without venturing far. Once there, I found myself surrounded by landscapes that went beyond my expectations. The rugged rock formations, meadows, and high- altitude lakes were a reminder of how much diversity nature offers close to home. The natural beauty and peacefulness felt different from other mountain ranges I’d visited, and the variety of terrain kept it interesting each day.

To make the most of my time there, I split my visit into 3-days, sleeping in my van on the evening. On the first day, I took a 6-kilometer hike around the Covadonga lakes, Enol and Ercina. It was an easy walk that allowed me to get a feel for the are —quiet paths, high pastures, and clear lake views.

For day 2, I tackled a more intense 24-kilometer trail run from Poncebos to Caín and back. The narrow trail through the gorge offered incredible views and took me through landscapes I’d never run before. The path was mostly flat, with a few goats along the way and refreshing drinks waiting for me in the charming village of Caín.

Finally, on day 3, I hiked a 15-kilometer trail to see the Naranjo de Bulnes up close. The climb was challenging, but the view of the peak at the end made every step worth it. Exploring the Picos de Europa reminded me how rewarding it is to seek out adventures nearby. Without needing to travel far, I was able to experience a new place, challenge myself, and come back with a real appreciation for what these Spanish mountains have to offer.