Over four days, our 2026 Picos de Europa team completed five hikes, covering an incredible 72km and more than 3,000 metres of elevation across some of the most spectacular and challenging mountain terrain in northern Spain.
From steep climbs and rugged mountain paths to narrow gorge trails, intense heat and some very tired legs, this was certainly no ordinary challenge. The longest day saw the team tackle an incredible 27km in temperatures reaching 35°C — an extraordinary effort from everyone involved. But despite the heat, the climbs and the sheer distance, the team kept going, supporting and encouraging each other every step of the way.
DAY 1 — SOTRES
The challenge began with a 12km hike through seriously tough and rugged mountain terrain. There was plenty of climbing, steep sections and challenging ground underfoot — a perfect introduction to what lay ahead and a constant reminder that this was going to be a serious challenge!
DAY 2 — THE DOUBLE HIKE
Day two took things to another level! The team began with a 10km hike to the village of Poo, before the 8km mountain climb to Bulnes. The Team covered 18km in one day, with some serious elevation along the way. By the end of it, there were some very tired legs — but the team continued to push on and support one another.
DAY 3 — THE CARES GORGE
The highlight — and undoubtedly one of the toughest days — was the spectacular Cares Gorge (Garganta del Cares), known as the “Divine Gorge.” This breathtaking 27km mountain trail, carved into the limestone cliffs, provided some truly unforgettable scenery. It was also an enormous physical challenge, with temperatures reaching 30–35°C at their hottest. The distance alone would have been enough of a challenge, but the team also faced narrow gorge paths with sheer drops alongside them, making this an experience that demanded plenty of concentration, determination and teamwork. It was a long, hot and demanding day but an incredible achievement to complete.
DAY 4 — JITO ESCARDI
The final day saw the team complete the 17km stretch along the miners' track, passing through disused mineral mines and taking in the rugged and ever-changing scenery of the mountains and forest. After three demanding days already behind them, completing another 17km was a fantastic way to finish the challenge. The challenge ended with a “sting in the tail” a very good description from Guide Dan.
Thank You
A massive thank you to Trudi, Adam, Steve, Sam, Lucy and Bryce for taking on the Trust’s first-ever overseas trek. We are so incredibly grateful to every one of you for the commitment, determination and sheer effort you put into this challenge. You should all be incredibly proud of what you have achieved.
A huge thank you also goes to Dan from Ibex Trex, who guided the team throughout the challenge, kept everyone motivated and helped get them safely to that final finish line.
We would also like to say a very special thank you to all of the local businesses who have supported the team, whether through generous donations, raffle prizes or by allowing their staff the time to take part and support the Trust. Your generosity and encouragement have made a huge difference.
We are delighted to say that, so far, the team has raised an incredible £5,218 and the total is still rising! If you would like to support the team the JustGiving page will remain open for a little while longer. Every donation, no matter how big or small, makes a real difference to the work of the Trust.
A huge congratulations once again to the whole team. 72km, 3,000m+ of elevation, five hikes, some serious heat — an incredible achievement!
Interested in taking part next time? Please email rachel@crtcharity.org
