Landscapes reminiscent of the Swiss Alps, with their majestic mountains and deep gorges, can be found without leaving Spain. In the very heart of the Picos de Europa National Park, nestled on a secluded hillside, lies the tiny Asturian village of Camarmeña. With only twelve permanent residents, this place becomes a magnet every summer for tourists and hikers seeking solitude and breathtaking views.
The village is located in the Cabrales municipality at an altitude of 426 meters above sea level. From here, visitors can enjoy one of the most stunning panoramas of the famous peak Naranjo de Bulnes, also known as Picu Urriellu. Thanks to its location, Camarmeña is considered one of the best places to visit in Asturias during the summer.
The journey to Camarmeña is an adventure in itself. From Poncebos, the starting point of the popular Ruta del Cares trail, a narrow and winding road, PO-2, ascends. The drive takes just 5-6 minutes, but each serpentine turn reveals new views of rocky cliffs and mountain peaks. Alternatively, you can hike. The 1.5-kilometer route, due to its steep ascent, takes about 25-30 minutes but gives you a chance to fully appreciate the surrounding landscapes.
Upon arriving in the village, travelers discover a place where time seems to stand still. The main attraction is an observation deck offering panoramic views of the majestic Pico Urriellu and the Cares Gorge, considered one of the most impressive in Europe. Beyond the famous route, Camarmeña also serves as a starting point for other, less crowded trails that wind through meadows and forests to the park’s scenic corners.
The village has preserved its medieval church of San Pedro (San Pedro de Camarmeña), a testament to the rich past of this area, which is still reflected in the traditional stone architecture. The gastronomic experience here is inseparable from the landscape. A local restaurant perched above the gorge serves traditional Asturian dishes such as fabada, pote, and roast kid. The meal is complemented by renowned local cheeses like Cabrales and Gamonéu.
Camarmeña is also home to a local legend. According to oral tradition, it was in these mountains that the Visigothic King Pelayo sought refuge before the Battle of Covadonga in 718. Although there is no documentary evidence, this story has become part of the region’s cultural heritage. Today, this small village remains a quiet haven far from mass tourism, where life moves at a gentle pace to the sound of the river and the echo of the mountains.
