A demanding ascent that crosses forests, meadows and rocky areas until reaching the Grieta Rubia, a key step before the final stretch. Spectacular views of the Jou Santo and the central massif. Ideal for experienced mountaineers. Guide and helmet recommended.

The ascent to the Torre de Santa María, also known as Peña Santa de Enol, is one of the most impressive routes in the western massif of the Picos de Europa. This 2,478-metre-high mountain towers over the majestic Jou Santo and offers an itinerary that combines natural beauty, geological heritage and high mountain adventure.

The starting point is the Pandecarmen car park, in the council of Cangas de Onís, which is accessed from the Lagos de Covadonga. From here you take the track signposted PR-PNPE-5, which crosses a charming beech forest and crosses the Pomperi stream. The path, which climbs steadily, passes through the Vega La Piedra sheepfold and reaches the Gamonal pass (1,450 m), from where we can see the Cornión massif. Shortly afterwards we reach the Vegarredonda refuge (1,500 m), the perfect place to take a break and recharge our batteries at the water fountain.

The route continues towards the Ordiales viewpoint, but we take a detour to the south next to the old refuge. From here we walk through fields and pastures such as Cuerri Benita and Llampa Cimera, reaching a fork signposted with yellow markings indicating the path to Mazada (2,040 m). The surroundings become more rugged as we border round the Torres de Cebolleda towers and reach Fuente Prieta, a strategic spring that never dries up, even in the middle of summer.

After overcoming a long rocky area, we reach the Horcada de Santa María (2,360 m), a natural viewpoint from where we can see the impressive Jou Santo hollow. From there the last stretch begins: a short descent and subsequent ascent via the Grieta Rubia, an orange-coloured inclined dihedral that allows us to reach the summit without the need for technical equipment, although with easy climbs (grade III-) and the risk of falling stones. The use of a helmet and the hiring of a guide are recommended for inexperienced mountaineers.

The summit of the Torre de Santa María rewards the effort with one of the most impressive panoramic views of the Picos de Europa National Park. In front of us, the Queen of the Peaks - the Peña Santa de Castilla - rises imposingly over the Jou Santo, while in the distance we can make out the central massif and the Canal de Mesones pass.

A route for demanding mountaineers, lovers of wild nature and the most spectacular high mountain landscapes in Asturias.

Basic tips before going into the mountains

  • Avoid approaching livestock.
  • If you find mastiffs protecting livestock, do not approach them, do not pet them and do not feed them. Do not allow them to follow you or stray from their herd. They are working.
  • If you go with a dog, always keep it on a leash.
  • Don't leave a trail. Collect all your waste, including organic waste. Nature is not a dumping ground.
  • Act with prudence. Plan your route well, take everything you need and make sure it is adapted to your physical capacity.

Imagen información More recommendations for planning your route

Hiker ascending a rocky trail at sunset.
Mountaineers prepare to descend a steep rocky ridge in safety gear.
Hikers walk through a mountain valley, surrounded by towering rocky peaks and blue skies.
A group of hikers walk along a rocky path under imposing mountain formations.
Hikers explore a rocky and steep terrain
A climber in an orange helmet looks down on the view from the top of a mountain.
Aerial views of a rocky mountain landscape with peaks and a lake in the distance.
Three mountaineers stand on a rocky summit overlooking the landscape.
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