Pico los Chanones: Hiking Asturias’ Quiet Cantabrian Summit

Why Pico los Chanones Stands Out

Pico los Chanones rises in the western Cantabrian Mountains within Asturias, offering hikers a quieter alternative to the busier Picos de Europa. The summit delivers 360-degree panoramas across rolling green valleys, distant limestone ridges, and the Somiedo Natural Park. Its slopes support rich beech and oak woodland that give way to open pastures dotted with traditional brañas, the seasonal huts once used by vaqueiros herders.

Planning Your Visit

Getting There

Reach the mountain from the village of Pola de Somiedo, roughly 90 minutes by car from Oviedo. A narrow paved road continues to trailheads near the Puerto de Somiedo pass, where parking is available beside meadows. From there, well-marked paths climb steadily through forest before emerging onto grassy ridges leading to the summit cairn.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early autumn provides the most reliable conditions, with wildflowers in June and clear visibility in September. Snow can linger into May on north-facing slopes, while summer thunderstorms often build in the afternoon, making early starts advisable.

Trails and What to Expect

The main route from the pass is a steady out-and-back hike of moderate difficulty, gaining elevation gradually across open terrain. Expect rocky sections near the top and occasional cattle on the pastures. Carry a map or GPS track, as signage thins above the treeline. The round-trip typically takes four to six hours depending on fitness and stops for photography.

Nearby Attractions

Combine the climb with a visit to nearby Lago del Valle, a glacial lake reached by a short additional drive, or explore the traditional stone villages of Valle de Lago and La Peral. The Somiedo area also features several other accessible peaks and the chance to spot chamois or golden eagles on clear days.