Ascension to Peña Ubiña

Route Description

Peña Ubiña is more than a mountain; It is a symbol. Its massive silhouette dominates the landscape of the border between Asturias and León. Climbing it is not a walk, it is a high mountain activity that requires preparation and respect.

The adventure begins in Tuiza de Arriba, a beautiful mountain town. In just 45 minutes of constant climbing we reach Vega del Meicín, a postcard-perfect glacial circus where the mountain refuge is located. Here, the walls of Ubiña and the Fontanes surround us, making us feel very small.

From the refuge, the slope steepens on the way to Collado de Terreros, the administrative border with León. From here, the terrain becomes hostile: loose stone, screes and steps where you have to rest your hands. The final edge is aerial and spectacular.

The summit is one of the best watchtowers in the Cantabrian Mountains. On clear days, the view reaches from the Picos de Europa to the coast.

💡 Practical Tips

• Safety: In winter and spring it is essential to use ice axes and crampons. There is a risk of avalanches and falls.
• Helmet: Highly recommended due to falling stones, especially if there are people above you in the final channel.
• Water: Load at the town fountain or at the shelter. There is nothing upstairs.
• Wind: It is a very exposed summit, the wind can be very strong on the ridge.

📸 Key Points

• The view of the Meicín circus with the shelter and the grazing cows.
• The contrast between the Asturian side (green and vertical) and the Leonese side (softer and rockier).
• The 360º panoramic view from the geodesic vertex.