Ascent to Pierzu Peak

Route Description

Pico Pierzu stands alone on the ridge that divides the municipalities of Ponga and Amieva, a strategic location that turns it into an unparalleled natural balcony. The route (PR.AS-211) is a classic for those seeking great views without facing excessively technical terrain.

We start from Collada Llomena, a place that is already worth a visit for its views of the Picos de Europa. The route begins on a wide track that passes next to an old recovered quarry. Soon the road becomes a trail and takes us into a landscape of limestone rock and mountain meadows.

We passed through the Majada de Cerboes, where remains of pastoral huts are still preserved. From here, the slope steepens. The path winds along the slope, gaining height decisively until reaching the summit ridge.

Upon reaching the top, the spectacle is total: to the east, the Western Massif of the Picos de Europa (Cornión) appears imposing with the Peña Santa reigning. To the west, the emblematic Tiatordos; to the south, Peña Ten, Pileñes and the Peloño forest. To the north, the Sierra del Sueve and, on clear days, the Cantabrian Sea.

💡 Practical Tips

• Water: There is only one spring, halfway along the initial track; fill up with water in San Juan de Beleño or Viego.
• Shade: The route runs through open terrain, with hardly any trees. Avoid central hours in summer and use sun protection.
• Fog: Be careful with the fog, which can enter quickly from the Sella valley.
• Winter: With snow the route is beautiful, but it requires winter equipment (crampons/snowshoes) since there are steep slopes.

📸 Key Points

• The view of the Picos de Europa from the Collada Llomena.
• The contrast between the green of the valleys and the gray limestone.
• The summit: a panoramic photo here is mandatory.