Los Bígaros: Hiking Asturias’ Quiet Mountain Summit

Why Los Bígaros Stands Out

Los Bígaros rises above the valleys of western Asturias, offering hikers a less-crowded alternative to the busier Picos de Europa. The mountain’s rounded granite summit delivers 360-degree views across green valleys, distant limestone peaks, and dense oak and beech forests that shelter one of Europe’s healthiest brown-bear populations.

Getting There

The trailhead is reached by car from the village of Degaña or from Pola de Somiedo via the AS-227 and narrow local roads. From Oviedo the drive takes roughly two hours; from León it is slightly shorter through the Puerto de San Isidro pass. Park at the small meadow near the Collado de los Bígaros; no shuttle service exists, so plan to arrive early on weekends.

Recommended Route

The standard hike follows an old cattle track that climbs steadily through beech forest before emerging onto open slopes. The round-trip covers about 12 km with 750 m of elevation gain and takes five to six hours for fit walkers. The final scramble to the summit cairn is short but requires sure footing.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early autumn provides the most reliable weather. Snow can linger on north-facing slopes into May, while October brings vibrant autumn colors but shorter days. Winter ascents are possible only with mountaineering equipment and local advice.

Wildlife and Landscape

Keep eyes open for chamois on the higher slopes and, with luck, signs of bears in the lower forests. The mountain lies within the buffer zone of the Somiedo Natural Park, so strict leave-no-trace rules apply. Wild daffodils carpet the meadows in April, while summer brings purple heather and grazing Asturian cattle.

Nearby Attractions

• Somiedo Lakes – a short drive north for easy lakeside walks.
• Valle de Degaña – traditional villages with wooden hórreos and cider houses.
• Puerto de Leitariegos – another mountain pass with panoramic viewpoints.

Combine a morning on Los Bígaros with an afternoon visit to one of these sites for a full day in western Asturias’ wildest corner.