Arrudos Gorge Route

Route Description

The Arrudos Gorge is not just a route, it is a lesson in geology and living nature. Considered by many to be the most spectacular route in the Redes Natural Park, this path follows the course of the river that, for millennia, has carved a canyon in the limestone rock.

The route begins in Caleao, a charming town where you can breathe tranquility. From there, we headed towards the hermitage of San Antonio. The landscape soon becomes boxed in and the river becomes our guide. You will cross several bridges, including the famous Pumpkin Bridge, the point where the most photogenic stretch of the gorge begins.

The path ascends, sometimes with steps carved into the rock (La Escalerona), until reaching La Fontona and Roxecu, old shepherds’ sheepfolds. Up to here, the route is affordable (about 12 km round trip) and spectacular.

The most adventurous and in good physical shape can continue the ascent, much harder from here, towards Colladína de la Casina and finally Lake Ubales. This lake of glacial origin, located at the foot of Pico Cascayón, is an exceptional viewpoint of the Cordillera.

💡 Practical Tips

• Versions: If you go with children or are looking for something quiet, go to La Fontona and turn around. The stretch to Ubales is hard and long.
• Water: Bring plenty of water. Although you go next to the river, access to drinking water is not always easy in the final stretch.
• Equipment: Essential hiking boots. In winter, the high area (Ubales) usually has snow and requires technical equipment.
• Fauna: It is easy to spot chamois in the high areas and, with a lot of luck, brown bear tracks.

📸 Key Points

• The hanging bridges over the Arrudos river.
• The narrowing of the gorge with its vertical walls.
• The stone staircase of “La Escalerona”.
• Lake Ubales (if you complete the comprehensive route), a blue jewel between mountains.