Three different routes to explore forests, sheepfolds, meadows, streams and some of the best panoramic views of the Valde\u00f3n Valley.<\/p>\n\n
\ud83c\udf42 1. Senda del Mercadillo: woods, meadows and stunning panoramic views<\/a><\/h4><\/h2>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/campingelcarespicosdeeuropa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/DSC04326_edited-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nThe Senda del Mercadillo (PR-PN 15)<\/strong> <\/a>is one of our favourite routes for exploring the area around Santa Marina de Valde\u00f3n and a superb choice during the autumn months.<\/p>\n\nIt is a circular route that allows you to experience forests, meadows, mountainous areas and superb natural viewpoints over the valley<\/strong>, all in a single day.<\/p>\n\nFrom Camping El Cares, we\u2019ll head towards Santa Marina de Valde\u00f3n to join the route. Along the way, we\u2019ll pass places such as the Fuente del Rejo, the Collado Peranieva and the Fuente Torones<\/strong>, whilst we gain altitude and the views become increasingly sweeping.<\/p>\n\nIn autumn, the landscape changes completely. The woods take on shades of yellow and red, and the contrast between the vegetation in the valley and the limestone cliffs of the mountains turns many points along the route into real vantage points.<\/p>\n\n
At almost 13 kilometres long and with 682 metres of elevation gain, it is the perfect route for spending a good part of the day walking without having to undertake a high-mountain hike.<\/p>\n\n
Distance<\/strong>: 12.4 kmWe recommend doing this walk in autumn, as it allows you to admire, from a certain height, the vast array of colours that the Valde\u00f3n Valley takes on. In the space of just a few kilometres, you\u2019ll pass from the heart of the forest to open areas from which you can admire the mountains and the mosaic of meadows and woods that cover the valley, as well as visiting several villages in the area.<\/p>\n\n
\n\n\ud83c\udf33 2. Majada de Mont\u00f3: venture into the beech woods of Valde\u00f3n<\/a><\/h4><\/h2>\n\n\n\nIf we had to choose a route that really lets you enjoy the woods in autumn, the climb up to Majada de Mont\u00f3<\/strong> would undoubtedly be one of our favourites.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe route starts right at Camping El Cares and continues along the PR-PN 14<\/strong> footpath.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRight from the start, we\u2019ll be heading into a beech forest<\/strong>, one of the main highlights of autumn in the Picos de Europa. At this time of year, walking along these paths means walking beneath a vast canopy of yellow, copper-coloured and reddish leaves.<\/p>\n\n\n\nAs we continue, the woodland gives way to clearings, small streams and patches of grassland. We\u2019ll reach La Tienda<\/strong>, a small open valley from which the views begin to take centre stage, before continuing on to Majada de Bres<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nFrom here, we\u2019ll continue climbing until we reach our destination: the Majada de Mont\u00f3<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThe sheepfolds form an integral part of the history of livestock farming in the Picos de Europa. For generations, these places were used by shepherds to make the most of the mountain pastures during the most favourable months of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From Mont\u00f3, we\u2019ll have fantastic views of Pe\u00f1a Gulugas, Pe\u00f1a Gabanceda<\/strong> and much of the valley, as well as being able to make out the chapel of the Virgen de los Pastores on the mountainside.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s one of those places where it\u2019s worth stopping, taking something out of your rucksack and simply enjoying the silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To return, we can follow the same route or take one of the alternative routes that lead on to Prada or Posada de Valde\u00f3n.<\/p>\n<\/div>![\"\"](\"https:\/\/campingelcarespicosdeeuropa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/DSC01472-683x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n
Distance<\/strong>: 11.68 km
\n\n\ud83c\udfd4\ufe0f 3. Vega de Preg\u00f3: an easy route for everyone<\/a><\/h4><\/h2>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/campingelcarespicosdeeuropa.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/13-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\nNot all day trips have to be long to discover spectacular places.<\/p>\n\n
The route from Camping El Cares to Vega de Preg\u00f3<\/strong> is one of the best options for those looking for an easier walk or who want to enjoy a peaceful autumn morning.<\/p>\n\nIt is also a route that is particularly recommended for families, children and people travelling with pets.<\/strong><\/p>\n\nThe adventure begins practically within the campsite itself, next to our waterfall. From there, we\u2019ll cross the River Arenal, gradually gaining height until we join the historic track leading to Preg\u00f3.<\/p>\n\n
Once we\u2019ve reached it, we\u2019ll just have to go with the flow.<\/p>\n\n
The path climbs gently through beech woods and damp areas<\/strong>, accompanied for much of the way by the sound of water and the birds of the forest.<\/p>\n\nAt around kilometre 2.7, we\u2019ll come to a fork in the road. The path on the left continues towards Pandetrave, whilst we\u2019ll take the path on the right to head towards Preg\u00f3.<\/p>\n\n
After following the course of a small stream for the last few metres and passing a small waterfall, the forest suddenly opens up.<\/p>\n\n
And there, before us, lies the Vega de Preg\u00f3<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\nA vast expanse of grasslands surrounded by mountains, where it feels as though time stands still.<\/p>\n\n
From here, we can admire various peaks in the surrounding area, including the unusual Pe\u00f1a de la Silla and Pico Miradoiro<\/strong>, whilst enjoying one of the most peaceful spots near the campsite.<\/p>\n\nWhat\u2019s more, we are in wildlife territory. With patience, silence and a bit of luck, whilst walking through these high-altitude woodland areas, we may come across some of the valley\u2019s inhabitants, such as roe deer or red deer.<\/p>\n\n
Distance<\/strong>: 6.95 km<\/p>\n\n
\n\nAll three routes start from the campsite, but each offers a different experience.<\/p>\n\n
If you\u2019re looking for a more challenging route, with a significant elevation gain and stunning panoramic views over the valley, our recommendation would be the Senda del Mercadillo<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\nIf you want to immerse yourself in the forests and discover one of the traditional mountain pasturelands of Valde\u00f3n, choose the Majada de Mont\u00f3<\/strong>.<\/a><\/p>\n\nAnd if you\u2019d prefer a simple, peaceful walk that\u2019s suitable for practically everyone, the Vega de Preg\u00f3<\/strong> <\/a>is hard to beat.<\/p>\n\nAlthough, if you\u2019ve got a few days\u2026 why choose just one?<\/p>\n\n
September, October and the first few weeks of November treat us to some of the most beautiful scenery of the year in the Valde\u00f3n Valley.<\/p>\n\n
It is also a time of year when conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. The days are getting progressively shorter, temperatures are falling, and rain can make some paths, rocks and streams more slippery.<\/p>\n\n
That is why we recommend that you always check the weather forecast before setting off, wear suitable hiking footwear<\/strong>, take water, some food and a waterproof garment with you, and carefully calculate the hours of daylight available.<\/p>\n\nParticularly on the route to Preg\u00f3, where we\u2019ll cross the river at the start and come across a few small streams along the way, it\u2019s advisable to wear footwear that offers some water resistance.<\/p>\n\n
And after walking for hours through beech woods, mountains and meadows, all that remains is to return to the campsite, relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the valley. Know more about this hikes and others here<\/a><\/p>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\nThe Senda del Mercadillo (PR-PN 15)<\/strong> <\/a>is one of our favourite routes for exploring the area around Santa Marina de Valde\u00f3n and a superb choice during the autumn months.<\/p>\n\n It is a circular route that allows you to experience forests, meadows, mountainous areas and superb natural viewpoints over the valley<\/strong>, all in a single day.<\/p>\n\n From Camping El Cares, we\u2019ll head towards Santa Marina de Valde\u00f3n to join the route. Along the way, we\u2019ll pass places such as the Fuente del Rejo, the Collado Peranieva and the Fuente Torones<\/strong>, whilst we gain altitude and the views become increasingly sweeping.<\/p>\n\n In autumn, the landscape changes completely. The woods take on shades of yellow and red, and the contrast between the vegetation in the valley and the limestone cliffs of the mountains turns many points along the route into real vantage points.<\/p>\n\n At almost 13 kilometres long and with 682 metres of elevation gain, it is the perfect route for spending a good part of the day walking without having to undertake a high-mountain hike.<\/p>\n\n Distance<\/strong>: 12.4 km We recommend doing this walk in autumn, as it allows you to admire, from a certain height, the vast array of colours that the Valde\u00f3n Valley takes on. In the space of just a few kilometres, you\u2019ll pass from the heart of the forest to open areas from which you can admire the mountains and the mosaic of meadows and woods that cover the valley, as well as visiting several villages in the area.<\/p>\n\n If we had to choose a route that really lets you enjoy the woods in autumn, the climb up to Majada de Mont\u00f3<\/strong> would undoubtedly be one of our favourites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The route starts right at Camping El Cares and continues along the PR-PN 14<\/strong> footpath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Right from the start, we\u2019ll be heading into a beech forest<\/strong>, one of the main highlights of autumn in the Picos de Europa. At this time of year, walking along these paths means walking beneath a vast canopy of yellow, copper-coloured and reddish leaves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As we continue, the woodland gives way to clearings, small streams and patches of grassland. We\u2019ll reach La Tienda<\/strong>, a small open valley from which the views begin to take centre stage, before continuing on to Majada de Bres<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From here, we\u2019ll continue climbing until we reach our destination: the Majada de Mont\u00f3<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The sheepfolds form an integral part of the history of livestock farming in the Picos de Europa. For generations, these places were used by shepherds to make the most of the mountain pastures during the most favourable months of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From Mont\u00f3, we\u2019ll have fantastic views of Pe\u00f1a Gulugas, Pe\u00f1a Gabanceda<\/strong> and much of the valley, as well as being able to make out the chapel of the Virgen de los Pastores on the mountainside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s one of those places where it\u2019s worth stopping, taking something out of your rucksack and simply enjoying the silence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To return, we can follow the same route or take one of the alternative routes that lead on to Prada or Posada de Valde\u00f3n.<\/p>\n<\/div> <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n Distance<\/strong>: 11.68 km Not all day trips have to be long to discover spectacular places.<\/p>\n\n The route from Camping El Cares to Vega de Preg\u00f3<\/strong> is one of the best options for those looking for an easier walk or who want to enjoy a peaceful autumn morning.<\/p>\n\n It is also a route that is particularly recommended for families, children and people travelling with pets.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n The adventure begins practically within the campsite itself, next to our waterfall. From there, we\u2019ll cross the River Arenal, gradually gaining height until we join the historic track leading to Preg\u00f3.<\/p>\n\n Once we\u2019ve reached it, we\u2019ll just have to go with the flow.<\/p>\n\n The path climbs gently through beech woods and damp areas<\/strong>, accompanied for much of the way by the sound of water and the birds of the forest.<\/p>\n\n At around kilometre 2.7, we\u2019ll come to a fork in the road. The path on the left continues towards Pandetrave, whilst we\u2019ll take the path on the right to head towards Preg\u00f3.<\/p>\n\n After following the course of a small stream for the last few metres and passing a small waterfall, the forest suddenly opens up.<\/p>\n\n And there, before us, lies the Vega de Preg\u00f3<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n A vast expanse of grasslands surrounded by mountains, where it feels as though time stands still.<\/p>\n\n From here, we can admire various peaks in the surrounding area, including the unusual Pe\u00f1a de la Silla and Pico Miradoiro<\/strong>, whilst enjoying one of the most peaceful spots near the campsite.<\/p>\n\n What\u2019s more, we are in wildlife territory. With patience, silence and a bit of luck, whilst walking through these high-altitude woodland areas, we may come across some of the valley\u2019s inhabitants, such as roe deer or red deer.<\/p>\n\n Distance<\/strong>: 6.95 km <\/p>\n\n All three routes start from the campsite, but each offers a different experience.<\/p>\n\n If you\u2019re looking for a more challenging route, with a significant elevation gain and stunning panoramic views over the valley, our recommendation would be the Senda del Mercadillo<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n If you want to immerse yourself in the forests and discover one of the traditional mountain pasturelands of Valde\u00f3n, choose the Majada de Mont\u00f3<\/strong>.<\/a><\/p>\n\n And if you\u2019d prefer a simple, peaceful walk that\u2019s suitable for practically everyone, the Vega de Preg\u00f3<\/strong> <\/a>is hard to beat.<\/p>\n\n Although, if you\u2019ve got a few days\u2026 why choose just one?<\/p>\n\n September, October and the first few weeks of November treat us to some of the most beautiful scenery of the year in the Valde\u00f3n Valley.<\/p>\n\n It is also a time of year when conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. The days are getting progressively shorter, temperatures are falling, and rain can make some paths, rocks and streams more slippery.<\/p>\n\n That is why we recommend that you always check the weather forecast before setting off, wear suitable hiking footwear<\/strong>, take water, some food and a waterproof garment with you, and carefully calculate the hours of daylight available.<\/p>\n\n Particularly on the route to Preg\u00f3, where we\u2019ll cross the river at the start and come across a few small streams along the way, it\u2019s advisable to wear footwear that offers some water resistance.<\/p>\n\n And after walking for hours through beech woods, mountains and meadows, all that remains is to return to the campsite, relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the valley. Know more about this hikes and others here<\/a><\/p>\n\n
\n\n\ud83c\udf33 2. Majada de Mont\u00f3: venture into the beech woods of Valde\u00f3n<\/a><\/h4><\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\ud83c\udfd4\ufe0f 3. Vega de Preg\u00f3: an easy route for everyone<\/a><\/h4><\/h2>\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n
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