Bulnes is worth a visit for many reasons, whether by funicular railway or on foot. The village has an unusual atmosphere, a rural setting where you will see barely a dozen neighbours and a good number of Asturian houses, many in ruins, including the parish church. The advantage is that you can take the funicular railway one way or both ways. But hiking both ways is really the best option! Don't miss the Picu Urriellu viewpoint, also known as Naranjo de Bulnes, which is located a few minutes from the village of Bulnes. It offers a breathtaking panoramic view of this famous peak in the Picos de Europa.
(S) Start on the small road after the tunnel.
(1) Cross the river via the small bridge.
(2) Do not cross the river, continue straight ahead. Follow the GR® 202 to the village of Bulnes.
(3) Village of Bulnes.
(4) Picu Urriellu viewpoint.
(E) Car park at the side of the road.
This hike is not difficult to follow as there are no alternative routes.
You can also descend by funicular railway, or vice versa!
The village of Bulnes and its funicular railway.
Don't miss the Picu Urriellu viewpoint, also known as Naranjo de Bulnes, located just a few minutes from the village of Bulnes. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of this famous peak in the Picos de Europa.
Overall rating : 5 / 5
Date of your route : Apr 20, 2026
Ease of following the route : ★★★★★ Very good
Route interest : ★★★★★ Very good
Very busy route : No
If you're going hiking in the Picos de Europa, Bulnes is a must-visit, charming village
You’ll need a route lasting at least 6 to 7 days to get a decent idea of the Picos de Europa
The best option for a relaxed circular hiking loop:
Sotres – Bulnes – Caín – Diego Mella Refuge – Los Cabrones Refuge – Urirellu Refuge – Hotel Oliva – Sotres
This allows you, on the one hand, to cover the entire perimeter of the Picos (anti-clockwise), following the magnificent route of the River Cares
On the other hand, it allows you to explore the heart of the massif, including the Naranjo peak and its distinctive terrain.
The only downside, from the Rhône-Alpes region, is the distance to Asturias.
It’s worth noting that the Asturian coast is magnificent and unspoilt by overdevelopment
Happy hiking
Machine-translated
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