Walk to Bulnes Village

Route Description

Bulnes is one of the most singular villages in all of Spain. Until 2001 it had no motorised access of any kind: its inhabitants climbed up on foot from Poncebos or on the backs of animals. That year the Bulnes funicular opened — the first in Spain built to give access to an inhabited settlement — connecting El Castillo quarter to Camarmeña in 7 minutes.

But the most authentic way to arrive is still on foot. The path from Poncebos is short (3.5 km) but uncompromising: 400 metres of elevation gain that make it the steepest of the park’s popular routes. The path climbs the western flank of the Tejo ravine, with the river far below and the limestone walls of the central massif overhead.

Bulnes has two parts: El Castillo quarter (the lower one, next to the funicular station) and La Villa quarter (about 50 m higher, the original settlement). La Villa preserves its stone houses, hórreos and paneras grain stores in excellent condition, many still inhabited in season. A small bar-restaurant serves coffee and traditional Asturian bean stew (fabada) while you gaze at the Naranjo de Bulnes framed at the end of the valley.

💡 Practical Tips

• Funicular vs. on foot: If the goal is simply to see the village, the funicular (from Camarmeña) is a valid option. But if you want to enjoy the surroundings, the path is well worth the effort.
• Combine routes: Many walkers go up on foot and return by funicular, or continue from Bulnes toward the Naranjo for a longer day.
• Funicular timetable: Check the schedule in advance — in winter frequencies are reduced.
• Footwear: Mountain boots. The path has wet and muddy sections at any time of year.

📸 Key Highlights

• The stone houses and hórreos of La Villa quarter, perfectly preserved.
• The Naranjo de Bulnes visible from the village viewpoint.
• The Tejo ravine seen from above on the ascent path.
• The village bar: one of the most remote — and most authentic — in Asturias.