Ubricario: Hiking Asturias’ Quiet Mountain Summit

Why Visit Ubricario

Ubricario rises as a distinctive limestone peak in eastern Asturias, offering hikers a quieter alternative to the crowded trails of the central Picos de Europa. Its position delivers striking panoramas that stretch from the jagged inland massifs to the Cantabrian Sea, with clear days revealing the outline of distant capes. The mountain rewards steady walkers with a sense of solitude among meadows, rocky outcrops, and pockets of beech and oak forest.

Getting There

Reach the area by car from Oviedo in roughly ninety minutes via the A-8 motorway toward Llanes, then local roads into the valleys south of the town. Several trailheads begin near small villages where parking is available along verges. Public transport is limited, so arrange a taxi from Llanes or Ribadesella for the final stretch if needed. Once at the starting point, well-marked paths ascend gradually through pasture before steepening on the upper slopes.

Recommended Routes

The standard ascent follows a steady ridge line that takes three to four hours round-trip for fit walkers. A longer loop incorporates a traverse across adjacent saddles, adding exposure to different aspects of the mountain and its changing vegetation. Carry a detailed map or GPS track, as signage thins above the treeline.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early autumn brings the most reliable weather, with wildflowers carpeting lower slopes in May and June. July and August offer the longest daylight but attract more visitors. Autumn colors appear in October, though early snow can close higher paths by November. Always check local forecasts, as Atlantic fronts can bring sudden mist and rain even in summer.

Nearby Attractions

Combine a visit with the dramatic coastline around Llanes, where medieval walls and cliff-top walks provide contrast to the mountain terrain. Inland, the Cares Gorge and the village of Poncebos lie within an hour’s drive for those extending their stay into the heart of the Picos. Local cider houses in nearby valleys serve regional cuisine after a day on the trails.