Bulnes: Excursion with funicular and Cabrales cheese cave in the Picos de Europa

Exploring the Picos de Europa: A Journey through Nature, Tradition, and Authentic Charm

This tour offers a window into some of Asturias’s most iconic sights—without the hassle of planning. Taking you from the lush landscapes around Poncebos to the untouched village of Bulnes, and finally to the birthplace of Cabrales cheese, it promises an enriching day out. We particularly love the combination of impressive mountain scenery, the thrill of riding the underground funicular, and tasting traditional Asturian cheese paired with cider.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and some altitude, which might be less suitable for those with mobility issues. Still, if you’re craving authentic experiences, local flavor, and stunning views, this trip is a great choice. It fits best for nature lovers, cultural explorers, and anyone eager to discover the heart of the Picos de Europa in a relaxed, well-organized setting.

Good To Know

• Spectacular Landscapes: The views of the Cares Gorge and Picu Urriellu are unforgettable.
• Unique Transportation: The underground funicular to Bulnes is a highlight, offering an unusual experience.
• Authentic Culture: Visit an old cheese cave and enjoy a tasting that showcases Asturian culinary traditions.
• Well-Organized: Round-trip transfers, guided tours, and tickets included make it seamless.
• Time Well-Spent: The itinerary balances sightseeing and free time for personal exploration.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Bulnes is a quiet, unspoiled village with no road access, offering a genuine escape.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Scenic Drive to Poncebos

The tour typically begins in one of five convenient locations around Oviedo or Cangas de Onís. From there, you’ll embark on a roughly three-hour journey through Asturias’s lush landscapes, following the path of the Cares River. This scenic drive sets the tone perfectly—mountains towering on either side, small rural villages frozen in time, and the ever-present sound of rushing water.

Travelers mention that the scenery alone makes the trip worth it. One review from a US traveler noted, “The landscape where the mountains rise majestically and small villages seem to have stopped in time—it’s like stepping into a painting.” This initial leg helps build anticipation for what’s to come.

Walking the Cares Gorge

Once in Poncebos, the group can contemplate the famous Cares Gorge, also called “La Garganta Divina.” This section of the trip involves walking along the path where the Cares River has carved a deep canyon through steep rock walls. The views here are dramatic: towering cliffs, lush greenery, and the river far below.

This part of the tour is ideal for nature lovers and those who enjoy getting fresh air and expansive vistas. It’s a gentle walk, but it’s worth allowing enough time to soak it all in—something several previous travelers appreciated, noting “the beauty of this environment will stay with me for a long time.”

The Funicular Ride to Bulnes

Perhaps the most memorable part of the day is the ride on the Bulnes funicular. The tickets are included, and the 8-minute underground journey feels like stepping into another world—completely cut through the mountain. The fact that this funicular is one of the few ways to reach the village makes it a special experience.

Travelers have said the ride is a highlight—a quick, smooth trip through the mountain with views of the rugged landscape. It’s a fun feat of engineering, and the underground tunnel adds an element of adventure. Keep in mind that the ride is quite short, but the views and experience are well worth it.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Bulnes Village

Once at the top, you’ll step into Bulnes, a tiny, unspoiled village with cobbled streets and traditional stone houses. It’s a place that seems untouched by time, and there’s a peaceful, almost contemplative atmosphere. Many visitors find the lack of cell phone coverage refreshing—an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the moment.

Highlights include visiting the small chapel of Nuestra Señora de las Nieves and climbing to the viewpoint for breathtaking views of Picu Urriellu (Naranjo de Bulnes). This iconic peak is a photographer’s dream and a symbol of Asturian mountaineering. According to reviews, “Bulnes is a really cute little town, and the views of the mountain are spectacular.”

The Return and the Cheese Cave

After exploring Bulnes, you’ll return via the same train and funicular routes, giving you more chances to enjoy the rugged scenery. The day continues with a drive to Arenas de Cabrales, famous for its cheese-making traditions.

Here, you’ll visit an authentic Cabrales cheese cave, where skilled artisans pass down generations of cheese-making knowledge. You’ll learn about the traditional process, which involves aging the cheese in natural caves to develop its distinctive flavor. Several reviewers mentioned that the cave tour is especially interesting for those curious about artisanal food production.

The tasting session at the end of the visit is a highlight—savoring Cabrales cheese paired with crisp Asturian cider. One guest noted, “The cheese tasting was fantastic, and the guide explained the process really well,” making it clear that this part of the tour is both educational and delicious.

Duration and Logistics

The tour lasts between 8 and 12 hours, depending on the group size and timing. It includes round-trip transportation, tickets for the funicular, guided tours, and the cheese cave visit—all for around $77 per person. From reviews, it’s clear that the organization is solid: timing flows smoothly, and guides are knowledgeable.

Several travelers have praised the tour guides, mentioning that “Eva was a delight, explaining everything at every step,” and “Luis, the driver, made the journey comfortable and enjoyable.” The inclusivity of tickets and guided visits adds great value for the price.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While the tour is well-organized, it involves some walking, and the high-altitude parts may be a challenge for those with limited mobility. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Reviewers also recommend bringing a small backpack with essentials like water, snacks, and a camera.

Since the cheese cave tour may be in Spanish for some groups, it’s worth noting that not all guides may switch to English in every part, so prepare for some language barriers if you’re not bilingual.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience hits the sweet spot for travelers craving a mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s perfect for those who like to see iconic landscapes without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning views and the thrill of riding an underground funicular, while foodies will enjoy tasting authentic Cabrales cheese and cider.

It’s also a solid choice for those interested in traditional mountain villages and local craftsmanship, offering a glimpse into Asturias’s artisanal cheese-making heritage. However, if you have mobility concerns or prefer a very relaxed, less physically demanding day, this might require some extra planning or choosing a different activity.

Final Thoughts

This tour to Bulnes and the Cabrales cheese cave offers incredible value for its price. The combination of scenic drives, a unique underground funicular ride, and authentic cultural experiences makes it a memorable addition to any Asturias itinerary.

You’ll love the way the landscape unfolds around every bend, the charm of Bulnes’s unspoiled streets, and the richness of the cheese tasting. The guides are knowledgeable, making the experience both educational and fun, and the logistics run smoothly so you can focus on enjoying the day.

While it may not be suited for everyone—especially those with limited mobility—the majority of travelers will find it a rewarding way to explore the Picos de Europa’s rugged beauty and local traditions. For anyone looking to combine nature, history, and delicious food in one day, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for the entire tour? Yes, round-trip transfers by private bus are included, making the day seamless from start to finish.

How long does the funicular ride last? The underground funicular takes about 8 minutes, providing a quick but memorable journey through the mountain.

What is the walking like in the Cares Gorge? The walk offers impressive views of the canyon, and while it’s generally gentle, it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor walking and uneven terrain.

Is the cheese cave tour in English? Not necessarily; some parts of the tour, like the cheese cave visit, may be conducted in Spanish, so it’s good to be prepared.

How much free time is there at Bulnes? Visitors typically have around 30 minutes to explore the village, visit the chapel, or enjoy the views from the viewpoint.

What should I bring for the day? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, snacks, and a camera are recommended.

Are children or people with mobility issues suitable for this tour? The tour involves walking and some altitude, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility impairments or very young children.

How much does the tour cost? The experience costs approximately $77 per person, offering a good balance of value considering all included tickets, transportation, and guided visits.

This tour is a fantastic way to see the natural beauty of Asturias while enjoying a taste of its traditional culture. If you’re after a day full of scenic views, cultural insights, and authentic flavors, it’s definitely worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: