The Picos de Europa, Spain’s premier National Park and a UNESCO Man and the Biosphere designated area, are unique among Europe's mountains: geologically, for being the largest single mass of mountain limestone in the continent; geographically, for being the only true maritime range Europe possesses; and sociologically, for retaining even to this day a large part of the culture that has for centuries been the basis of life in the towns and villages dotted around the area. Though relatively modest in terms of altitude and extent, the Picos are, nevertheless, high mountain terrain. The gentle pastures of the valleys quickly give way to spectacular but rugged alpine scenery. Approaches are steep, but the rewards for those able and willing to make the effort are immeasurable. Chapters 1–3 of Walks and Climbs in the Picos de Europa deal with background information such as geology, flora, fauna, history and technical issues. Chapter 4 describes valley-based activities, whilst Chapter 5 offers detailed descriptions of walks, scrambles and alpine climbing from a number of different high-mountain bases. Suggestions are also given for multi-day walking tours and for winter mountaineering.
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