5.0

Canyons to Coast Adventure in Northern Spain

  • Spain
  • 6 nights

Hike, e-bike, SUP, canyon and kayak your way around the undiscovered provinces of Asturias and Cantabria

What's Included?

  • Activities & Certified GuidesAll itinerary activities with expert, local, English-speaking guides
  • Hotel6 nights in a 4-star hotel in Llanes
  • MealsAll breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 dinners
  • TransfersAirport transfers and everything in between
  • EquipmentKayaks, SUPs, e-bikes, canyoning gear and all safety equipment
  • Maximum group size: 14Join small n’ sociable groups of like-minded, active and outdoorsy people – designed to be solo-friendly

FromPrice loadingexcluding flights

Highlights

  • Kayak down the stunning Río Deva and SUP along the dramatic cliffs and secluded bays of the Atlantic Coast

  • Slip and slide your way through the Picos de Europa, tackling natural water slides, abseiling down waterfalls and jumping into clear pools

  • Hit the trails of the spectacular Cares Gorge, hiking through rocky tunnels in the shadow of imposing peaks

  • Pedal a coastal section of the iconic Camino de Santiago on e-bikes, before cooling off in the pool at your base on the Costa Verde

Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Welcome to Asturias!

    Hotel
    Twin share
    Dinner included
    Show Day 1 detail

    Your host will meet you on arrival at Bilbao Airport and transfer you to Llanes, a charming port town nestled on the rugged Costa Verde. Meet up with the rest of your group for a dinner and chat through the adventure ahead with your host.

    Day 2

    Kayak down the Rio Deva

    Kayaking
    3-4hrs · 12km
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 2 detail

    Kickstart your adventure with a kayak descent of the spectacular River Deva, set to a stunning mountainous backdrop beneath the jagged jaws of the Picos de Europa mountain range. Tackle the exciting but manageable rapids in twin sit-on-top kayaks, with some easygoing paddling needed on the calmer stretches. Tuck into a picnic on the banks of the river and grab a dip if you're brave enough - the water has come straight from the Picos and is rather fresh! Enjoy dinner back in Llanes.

    Day 3

    SUP the Atlantic coast and go caving

    Stand Up Paddleboarding
    3hrs
    Caving
    2hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 3 detail

    Swap the river for the sea today, heading along the coast near Llanes on a paddleboard. This stretch of shoreline is home to a series of cliffs giving way to scallop-shaped sandy beaches. Sea conditions will dictate where you head to find the calm waters - your guides know all the best spots and will provide instruction to anyone who hasn't been paddleboarding before. Tuck into a picnic lunch on the beach and enjoy a swim in the sea before going underground in the afternoon, as your guide leads you into some of the best limestone caves in Spain. Hike and crawl through a subterranean world, past amazing rock formations.

    Day 4

    The Cares Gorge path

    Hiking
    3-4hrs · 13km · 250m up · 150m down
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 4 detail

    Tick off an iconic and famous hike today. The Cares Gorge Trail (opens in new tab) is a spectacular path cut into the limestone of an imposing ravine, perched 300m above the Río Cares and surrounded by 2000m+ peaks. Drive into the heart of the Picos de Europa, finding the trailhead at Caín to set off on the narrow trail. Wind through small tunnels carved out of the rock and across bridges that hang over the abyss, while the river rages below and mountain goats watch from above. Finish up this memorable hike at Poncebos.

    Day 5

    Bike along the Camino de Santiago

    E-Biking
    3-4hrs · 20km
    Hotel
    Twin share
    Breakfast and lunch included
    Show Day 5 detail

    Hop on an e-bike at your hotel and pedal along the Asturian Coast, discovering wonderful beaches, reaching clifftop lookouts and witnessing the spectacular bufones – a natural phenomenon unique to this area, where jets of seawater spout from holes and cracks eroded in limestone cliffs. You'll cycle along a section of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, passing pilgrims on their way. Finish up in Llanes for another post-adventure dinner and maybe a drop of rioja or a cold sidre.

    Day 6

    Canyoning in the Picos

    Canyoning
    4-5hrs
    Hotel
    Twin share
    All meals included
    Show Day 6 detail

    Your final day of adventuring is a barnstorming one: head back into the Picos de Europa to explore this unique landscape from a totally different angle. Slip on a wetsuit, clip into your helmet in and spend the day leaping into natural wells and pools, whizzing along carved rock water slides and abseiling down cascading waterfalls. Your guides will instruct you and keep everyone safe along the way. Cap off a memorable day and toast an epic week of wild adventures with a visit to a local cider brewery for a typical Asturian dinner, washed down by plentiful amounts of sidre – the region's most famous tipple.

  2. Day 7

    Adios Asturias

    Breakfast included
    Show Day 7 detail

    The adventure comes to an end today as your host drives you back to Bilbao Airport in time for your onward flight home. If you are lingering longer in Spain, the Asturian and Cantabrian coastlines have some incredible beaches, good surf and laid back bars and cafes to discover.

Practical Stuff

Getting There

Nearest airport
Bilbao Airport (BIO)
Pick up
Bilbao Airport
16:00 on Day 1
Drop off
Bilbao Airport
12:00 on Day 7

Detailed Logistics

Transfers

Please arrive at Bilbao airport by 16:00 on Day 1 in order to join the group transfer from Bilbao Airport to Llanes for your first night. On Day 7, your host will provide a group transfer from Llanes back to Bilbao airport, dropping you off at approximately midday.

If you are arriving/departing at different times, on different days or flying to/from alternative airports (Asturias Airport or Santander Airport) your host can arrange private airport transfers for an additional charge, subject to availability. Please see Optional Extras for prices.

Travel options

Bilbao Airport is accessible via various direct flights from the UK and mainland Europe. Flights from outside of Europe are typically indirect.

Bilbao, Asturias and Santander airports are all an hour or two away from Llanes and have public transport options between them.

UK travellers with a bit more time (and possibly a vehicle) on their hands can travel to Asturias using the popular Portsmouth-Santander ferry route. Rail travellers can get to the start of this trip via Bilbao's main railway station - Bilbao Abando - which is well connected to various major cities in Spain. It is possible to travel from the UK to Llanes all the way by train, transiting through Paris and Hendaye in France, and Bilbao.

Trip level explained

Level 2

Easy-Moderate

All of the activities on this trip can be done without any previous experience - you'll have expert guides to show you the ropes and help you navigate the kayaking, canyoning and SUPing. The cycle ride along the Camino de Santiago is best enjoyed if you feel comfortable riding an electronically assisted bike off-road, so you should feel at home on a bike though no technical mountain biking skills are needed. The hike along the Cares Gorge walk is an easy one - it's mostly flat, so it's manageable by anyone who can handle walking for a few hours. The trail is narrow in parts with a steep drop on one side, so those with an extreme fear of heights should be wary, but it's really quite a relaxed hike managed by people of all ages and fitness levels. There may be the option to extend the hike for those who would like to.

Canyoning will involve sections of hiking, scrambling, abseiling, optional jumps, sliding and swimming. Full gear and tuition will be provided, all you need is a basic fitness level. You should, however, be comfortable in the water and not be overly afraid of heights, as there are rappelling sections to tackle. The canyoning is equivalent to Level 2 to 3 (depending on the time of year and current conditions) according to the French Federation of Mountaineering and Climbing (FFME).

The river kayaking included in this trip is classified as Grade II according to the Spanish Canoeing Federation, suitable for beginners.

What if i need to skip an activity?

If you've never tried canyoning, it will be a great time to give these a go as instruction will be tailored to first-timers. However, we appreciate that these are not for everyone so if you prefer to opt-out from any of the activities, it's absolutely fine to just let your guide know – you can just enjoy some extra leisure time in Llanes to enjoy the beach.

Remote environment: factors to consider

Some parts of this trip take place in areas where access to medical facilities and emergency services may be limited. This may mean that reaching medical care takes longer than you might normally expect, or that local medical facilities have fewer resources than those you may be used to at home.

If someone becomes unwell or injured, initial treatment may be provided locally before onward travel to a larger hospital or city for further care. Evacuation could involve changing the planned route or using different forms of transport to reach appropriate medical facilities. Mobile phone coverage may also be intermittent in some locations.

Your guide is trained to manage situations in remote environments and will monitor the group and respond appropriately if any issues arise. However, it’s important that you let your guide know straight away if you feel unwell or experience any health concerns during the trip.

Before booking, consider your personal health and ability to travel in locations where access to medical care may be delayed. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns, we recommend seeking advice from a medical professional and discussing them with your host before travelling.

All travellers must have suitable travel insurance that covers the activities included in the trip and emergency medical evacuation if required.

What is and isn't Included?

What's included

  • Guided kayak down the River Deva
  • Guided paddleboarding along the coast of Llanes
  • 2hr underground caving session
  • Guided hike on the Cares Gorge Trail
  • Cycle along the Camino de Santiago route
  • Canyoning adventure in the Picos de Europa

  • Expert, local, English-speaking activity guides

  • 6 nights in a 4-star hotel in Llanes

  • All (6) tasty hotel breakfasts
  • 5 picnic lunches
  • A welcome dinner on Day 1
  • A farewell dinner at a traditional Asturian cider house

  • Group arrival transfer from Bilbao Airport on Day 1
  • Group departure transfer to Bilbao Airport on Day 7
  • All transfers during the trip

  • Kayaks, SUPs, e-bikes, canyoning gear and all safety equipment

Where You'll Stay

Looking for a private room? See Optional Extras for details and pricing.

  • Hotel Finca La Mansión

    Stay

    Hotel Finca La Mansión

    You have a single base for your whole trip, allowing you to settle in and enjoy downtime at the end of each of your big adventure days. You'll be staying at the 4-star Hotel Finca La Mansión in Llanes, a picturesque port town on the Asturian coast surrounded by beaches and blessed with history, culture, great seafood and a mountainous backdrop. The hotel has traditional rustic decor, an outdoor pool, garden and sun terrace. There are mountain views from many of the rooms, and the breakfast buffet is brilliant. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with en-suite bathroom.

  • Twin room at Gran Hotel Paraíso, Llanes, Asturias, Northern Spain. Source: MBA Host (Rumbo a Picos)

    Alternative accommodation in Llanes (28 May 2027 departure)

    Stay

    Alternative accommodation in Llanes (28 May 2027 departure)

    You have a single base for your whole trip, allowing you to settle in and enjoy downtime at the end of each of your big adventure days.

    The departure starting on 28 May 2027 will be based at an alternative hotel in Llanes. Located in the heart of the charming coastal town of Llanes, Gran Hotel Paraíso is a welcoming, family-run hotel just a short walk from the historic centre, harbour and beaches. Its central location is ideal for exploring the town's lively restaurants, cafés and shops. The hotel offers comfortable, air-conditioned twin and double rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and an excellent breakfast each morning. After a day of adventure, you can relax in the hotel or simply step outside and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of one of Asturias' most beautiful seaside towns.

What You'll Eat

Breakfast at the hotel in Llanes is a sumptuous buffet that always gets rave reviews. Breads, pastries, baked treats, cereals, fruit, meats and cheeses. Lunches will be sandwiches and snacks to be enjoyed on beaches, riverbanks, clifftops and mountai…

Food and Dietary info

Breakfast at the hotel in Llanes is a sumptuous buffet that always gets rave reviews. Breads, pastries, baked treats, cereals, fruit, meats and cheeses. Lunches will be sandwiches and snacks to be enjoyed on beaches, riverbanks, clifftops and mountainsides, depending on the day of the trip. You'll have a traditional Asturian dinner on your first and last day with an array of local dishes to choose from. The other four dinners have been left out of the trip price to allow you to explore the bountiful food options in Llanes - which is particularly renowned for its seafood and pinchos (northern Spain's version of tapas).

If you have any dietary requirements, intolerances or allergies, please check the FAQ below: ‘Can my dietary requirements be catered for on this adventure?’ for specific advice relating to this trip. The availability of foods you may get at home varies in different destinations, so please read the FAQ in full before making your booking to ensure that this trip can accommodate your dietary needs.

Optional Extras

Upgrades

2027: Optional Private Room Upgrade (Aug)
£521
2027: Optional Private Room Upgrade (Jul)
£440
2027: Optional Private Room Upgrade (May, Jun, Sep, Oct)
£267

For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge (subject to availability), see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking.


Transfers

2027: Private Transfer Asturias or Santander Airport to Llanes (1-8 people)
£312
2027: Private Transfer Bilbao Airport to Llanes (1-8 people)
£312

To request any extras, message your host via your Much Better Adventures account once you have booked your trip.

All extras must be paid before your trip starts.

Ratings & Reviews

5.0197 reviews
  • 3 stars (0)
  • 2 stars (0)
  • 1 star (0)

Category rating

Food
5.0
Guides & crew
5.0
Accommodation
5.0
Itinerary
5.0

Latest Reviews

  • Andy B.

    This was a really great trip, the perfect combination of activities and time to relax. All the activities were fun, not too difficult but just challenging enough to be interesting, particularly the caving and the canyoning. The hotel was really nice and quiet, great for relaxing in the afternoons and evenings. The food was great (and there was loads of it!) and the guides were all really friendly, knowledgeable and professional. I would highly recommend the trip.

  • Jay S.

    My 4th trip with MBA and will definitely do another one in the future (including canyoning will be a must)! It was an awesome way to experience what the Asturias region had to offer with varying adventure activities and plenty of downtime to relax and explore the town of Llanes afterwards. The guides were great and super flexible with planning things and giving recommendations on where to eat in town. The people were great as well-definitely my fav group dynamics so far!

  • Lesley M.

    Really enjoyed an action packed week. All well organised by Carlos, Rio & Mario. It’s hard to say which was my favourite activity but I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the Caving & Canonying. These were the 2 I was initially not so keen on but good to be pushed out of your comfort zone. A good & mixed crowd of people. Lovely to get to know everyone & enjoyed out meals out in the town of Llanes. Hotel was a bit out of town (and more 3star than 4star) but no one seemed to mind the 25 minute walk to restaurants.

  • Gloria J.

    Our guides Carlos, Rio and Mario were wonderful. Carlos led with great expertise and enthusiasm for Northern Spain. His assistants were invaluable and in tuned to provide support and guidance to create great experiences. Their knowledge and skills regarding the tactical aspects of our daily activities were exceptional. This coupled with their genuine interest in our enjoyment and our desire to get the most out of our experience the activities made the trip truly memorable and wanting more. Carlos and his team Rio are Mario are wonderful people who use their expertise and talents to create a great thrilling experience for their patrons. I highly recommend them and this adventure package of thrilling and challenging activities. They provided the perfect doses of encouragement to move me forward to take on the challenges and conquer my fears. I’m grateful to have been a part of their adventure team.

  • Nicky B.

    Just returned from 2nd MBA trip and once again had a fabulous time. Northern Spain just kept giving. Such a beautiful area and the multi activity break was such a fantastic way to get a snapshot of what the area has to offer. It has definitely left me wanting to return. Carlos and Rio made us feel safe on all the activities and were friendly, encouraging professional and knowledgeable Rio could always make us smile with his cheeky grin. Mario had joined them as part of his internship, he too was lovely and fitted in the team beautifully. a charming young man. Llanes made the perfect base and was charming, from old town, to beaches, great restaurants it has it all and was a pleasant walk from the hotel. I would possibly grade this holiday more of a level 3 as the E biking and canyoning require a good level. of fitness. Would highly recommend.

  • Timothy W.

    My 2nd MBA adventure and another amazing week full of fun & memories. Massive thanks to guides Carlos & Rio for their professionalism and enthusiasm which made all the activities and group meals run smoothly and enjoyable. The kayaking & paddleboarding were so much fun, Rio provided so much insight in the caving. The beautiful scenery on hike Cares Gorge in Picos mountains & along the coast ebiking was awesome. Lucky to be part of a great group again which made whole experience so much fun! Icing on the cake was La Guia festival whilst we were there. A unique and special part of Spain, if this adventure is on your shortlist just book it! Si no es ahora, ?cuando? Thanks Asturias for all the memories!!

  • Jon P.

    We had a wonderful time in the Asturias with Guides Carlos & Rio. A varied and enjoyable mix of activities to suit all abilities in a beautiful location.

  • Izabel P.

    Trip was organised very well from beginning to end, guides Carlos and Rio adapted pick up times and activity locations according to availability and the weather. Activities generally run between 9 and 17-18 o’clock with free time the rest of the time. Bear in mind that each sport is fairly demanding so need to be in good general health. Highlights were the included restaurant lunches, caving, canyoning and of course, the landscape!!

  • Kathryn B.

    I’m a 33yo female solo traveller. I chose this trip because I wanted to do lots of adventurous activities in a short space of time with fun people to make the most of my annual leave. This trip did not disappoint! The guides were absolutely brilliant. Carlos was always on hand to answer any questions we had and gave us a helpful briefing of what we were going to do the next day. Everything was totally taken care of, and I have no doubt that if anything had gone wrong we would have been in very safe hands. A particular highlight for me was the canyoning; the right mix of adrenaline and laughter! But it’s tough to choose because I really enjoyed everything we did. I have never tried SUP before but loved it! The caving was incredible and I was pleased we were given lots of information about the cave as we went through it so I felt I learned a lot too. Kayaking was a great way to start the week and really get to know each other - the water was crystal clear and the route was gentle enough for those less confident on the water. The hike had spectacular views and we even saw eagles. I was nervous about the e-biking before booking the trip. For anyone in a similar position, a helpful tip is that there is an opportunity to turn back after around an hour if you prefer (having cycled to a beach and gone to a spectacular viewing point). I’m so pleased I gave it a try because it was loads of fun, but that was the perfect amount for me. A few of us spent the rest of the day very happily exploring the town and reading on the beach in the middle of Llanes, while I know the rest in the group thoroughly enjoyed a full day. There was something for everyone! I’m a pescatarian so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I felt very well looked after and the food was excellent throughout. All in all, a great itinerary, a wonderful place, fantastic guides and a brilliant group. I thoroughly recommend this trip and this is my fourth one with MBA.

  • Áine

    This was my first trip with Much Better Adventures and my first time on a solo trip. I really loved this from start to finish and could not recommend it enough. Carlos and Rio, our guides were brilliant- so knowledgeable, enthusiastic and just great fun! All the activites were run very well and were really enjoyable. And the scenery of Asturias was amazing!

Don’t miss a new review

Customer Photos

5.0197 reviews
  • 5 stars (194)
  • 4 stars (3)
  • 3 stars (0)
  • 2 stars (0)
  • 1 star (0)
Showing all 197 reviews
  • Really Fun Holiday

    Andy B. October 2026
    This was a really great trip, the perfect combination of activities and time to relax. All the activities were fun, not too difficult but just challenging enough to be interesting, particularly the caving and the canyoning. The hotel was really nice and quiet, great for relaxing in the afternoons and evenings. The food was great (and there was loads of it!) and the guides were all really friendly, knowledgeable and professional. I would highly recommend the trip.
  • Another Excellent Adventure

    Jay S. October 2026
    My 4th trip with MBA and will definitely do another one in the future (including canyoning will be a must)! It was an awesome way to experience what the Asturias region had to offer with varying adventure activities and plenty of downtime to relax and explore the town of Llanes afterwards. The guides were great and super flexible with planning things and giving recommendations on where to eat in town. The people were great as well-definitely my fav group dynamics so far!
  • Last trip of the season

    Lesley M. October 2026
    Really enjoyed an action packed week. All well organised by Carlos, Rio & Mario. It’s hard to say which was my favourite activity but I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the Caving & Canonying. These were the 2 I was initially not so keen on but good to be pushed out of your comfort zone. A good & mixed crowd of people. Lovely to get to know everyone & enjoyed out meals out in the town of Llanes. Hotel was a bit out of town (and more 3star than 4star) but no one seemed to mind the 25 minute walk to restaurants.
  • Perfecto Adventure!

    Gloria J. October 2026
    Our guides Carlos, Rio and Mario were wonderful. Carlos led with great expertise and enthusiasm for Northern Spain. His assistants were invaluable and in tuned to provide support and guidance to create great experiences. Their knowledge and skills regarding the tactical aspects of our daily activities were exceptional. This coupled with their genuine interest in our enjoyment and our desire to get the most out of our experience the activities made the trip truly memorable and wanting more. Carlos and his team Rio are Mario are wonderful people who use their expertise and talents to create a great thrilling experience for their patrons. I highly recommend them and this adventure package of thrilling and challenging activities. They provided the perfect doses of encouragement to move me forward to take on the challenges and conquer my fears. I’m grateful to have been a part of their adventure team.
  • Great Trip

    Nicky B. October 2026
    Just returned from 2nd MBA trip and once again had a fabulous time. Northern Spain just kept giving. Such a beautiful area and the multi activity break was such a fantastic way to get a snapshot of what the area has to offer. It has definitely left me wanting to return. Carlos and Rio made us feel safe on all the activities and were friendly, encouraging professional and knowledgeable Rio could always make us smile with his cheeky grin. Mario had joined them as part of his internship, he too was lovely and fitted in the team beautifully. a charming young man. Llanes made the perfect base and was charming, from old town, to beaches, great restaurants it has it all and was a pleasant walk from the hotel. I would possibly grade this holiday more of a level 3 as the E biking and canyoning require a good level. of fitness. Would highly recommend.
  • My 2nd MBA adventure and

    Timothy W. September 2026
    My 2nd MBA adventure and another amazing week full of fun & memories. Massive thanks to guides Carlos & Rio for their professionalism and enthusiasm which made all the activities and group meals run smoothly and enjoyable. The kayaking & paddleboarding were so much fun, Rio provided so much insight in the caving. The beautiful scenery on hike Cares Gorge in Picos mountains & along the coast ebiking was awesome. Lucky to be part of a great group again which made whole experience so much fun! Icing on the cake was La Guia festival whilst we were there. A unique and special part of Spain, if this adventure is on your shortlist just book it! Si no es ahora, ?cuando? Thanks Asturias for all the memories!!
  • Fun & Fantastic Holiday

    Jon P. September 2026
    We had a wonderful time in the Asturias with Guides Carlos & Rio. A varied and enjoyable mix of activities to suit all abilities in a beautiful location.
  • Super fun, active holiday

    Izabel P. September 2026
    Trip was organised very well from beginning to end, guides Carlos and Rio adapted pick up times and activity locations according to availability and the weather. Activities generally run between 9 and 17-18 o’clock with free time the rest of the time. Bear in mind that each sport is fairly demanding so need to be in good general health. Highlights were the included restaurant lunches, caving, canyoning and of course, the landscape!!
  • Fantastic holiday!

    Kathryn B. September 2026
    I’m a 33yo female solo traveller. I chose this trip because I wanted to do lots of adventurous activities in a short space of time with fun people to make the most of my annual leave. This trip did not disappoint! The guides were absolutely brilliant. Carlos was always on hand to answer any questions we had and gave us a helpful briefing of what we were going to do the next day. Everything was totally taken care of, and I have no doubt that if anything had gone wrong we would have been in very safe hands. A particular highlight for me was the canyoning; the right mix of adrenaline and laughter! But it’s tough to choose because I really enjoyed everything we did. I have never tried SUP before but loved it! The caving was incredible and I was pleased we were given lots of information about the cave as we went through it so I felt I learned a lot too. Kayaking was a great way to start the week and really get to know each other - the water was crystal clear and the route was gentle enough for those less confident on the water. The hike had spectacular views and we even saw eagles. I was nervous about the e-biking before booking the trip. For anyone in a similar position, a helpful tip is that there is an opportunity to turn back after around an hour if you prefer (having cycled to a beach and gone to a spectacular viewing point). I’m so pleased I gave it a try because it was loads of fun, but that was the perfect amount for me. A few of us spent the rest of the day very happily exploring the town and reading on the beach in the middle of Llanes, while I know the rest in the group thoroughly enjoyed a full day. There was something for everyone! I’m a pescatarian so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I felt very well looked after and the food was excellent throughout. All in all, a great itinerary, a wonderful place, fantastic guides and a brilliant group. I thoroughly recommend this trip and this is my fourth one with MBA.
  • 10/10

    Áine September 2026
    This was my first trip with Much Better Adventures and my first time on a solo trip. I really loved this from start to finish and could not recommend it enough. Carlos and Rio, our guides were brilliant- so knowledgeable, enthusiastic and just great fun! All the activites were run very well and were really enjoyable. And the scenery of Asturias was amazing!
  • If you're in two minds

    Clare T. September 2026
    If you're in two minds about whether to book this holiday then just do it. You won't regret it. It was great from start to finish. Carlos and Rio are amazing. The activities are all good for beginners. You just need to be willing to give it a go.
  • Jose and Carlos were great!!

    Lorena G. September 2026
    Jose and Carlos were great!! Very attentive to the Crue and did everything with professionalism . Easy to understand and to communicate very respectful. I totally recommend it 🤗
  • Epic adventure!!

    Jana H. September 2026
    This tour exceeded my expectations. Llanes is stunningly beautiful country. The activities were well planned with a good balance of challenge and sightseeing. The food was delicious and a great experience with local cuisine. The guides were personable, friendly and very knowledgeable about the area. I felt safe during every activity. I will recommend to all my fiends to give this tour a try.
  • Ticks All The Adrenaline Boxes

    Daron A. September 2026
    I cannot thank our hosts Carlos & Rio enough, they have the perfect blend of experience and local knowledge to make the activities fun, interesting and safe. The hotel in Llanes was fantastic also with the rooms very comfortable and amazing staff. Overall the package provided a great 6 day experience giving an opportunity to meet some wonderful people (our team of 14 were the best mix) in a beautiful part of Spain, thank you.
  • Stunning adventure with the best guides

    Jonathan D. September 2026
    Absolutely incredible adventure with a lovely group of people and friendly and knowledgeable guides. Scenery is stunning, food is good and the activities were really well run. I would say its more like a level 3, especially the caving, but still thoroughly enjoyable. Would highly recommend!
  • Amazing Trip

    Niki September 2026
    Absolutely amazing trip! Our guides Rio and Carlos were superb and really made the trip so special. They are truly passionate and knowledgeable about the area and so full of life and enthusiasm. They struck the perfect balance between being supportive and stepping in when needed, while also giving you the freedom to get stuck in and pushing the difficulty up when they sensed that our group was up for it. If you’re someone who wants to explore nature in a varied and authentic way, without it feeling overly commercialised, this is absolutely the trip for you. All of the activities were amazing, but if I had to choose favourites, it would have to be the caving and canyoning. They’re not activities you can do just anywhere, and they were so much fun while also giving us the chance to learn so much about the caves and their ecosystems. An added bonus if you speak Spanish and want to learn even more, as Rio really is an expert in his field! Special mention to the e-bike trip also. Food-wise, as a picky vegetarian, I found Asturian food a little heavier and breadier than I’m used to, but I knew this going into the trip. When in doubt, the Masymas supermarket, just a few hundred metres from the hotel, has plenty of fruit and vegetables as well as all the usual pantry staples. We were also lucky enough to find ourselves in Llanes during their festival week, which meant we got to experience a little more of the local culture. If you’re keen to see this side of the area too, I’d definitely recommend looking at the trip around the beginning of September. I could go on and on, but thank you again, Rio and Carlos, for being the amazing guys you are and for sharing your home with us!
  • Epic Adventure! Highly Recommend

    Alisha C. September 2026
    This was an epic adventure! It was the perfect mix of activities! I especially enjoyed the canyoning and the hiking! The biking was a little intense; I would definitely say that’s more of a level 3. All these activities were fairly close to our hotel, so there was not too much driving time. I’d recommend motion sickness medication for the hiking day drive. I appreciated that we had a relaxed start every morning and typically arrived back at the hotel with time to spare. Nothing felt rushed! Our guides, Carlos and Rio, made this trip seamless. They were so patient and well organized and also highly entertaining. The hotel was great and had a good selection of food/snacks and coffee you could order during the day. It is about a 20-25 minute walk into town, but there is a nice trail to follow. Overall, I would recommend! Asturias is an absolutely beautiful region of northern Spain! It’s a great area for these activities! I’m so glad I got to experience it with an amazing group of people!
  • A Trip To Remember

    Adrienne R. September 2026
    The guides, Carlos and Rio, made this adventure fun, and exciting, while also providing a sense of safety. They provided clear guidance and were so knowledgeable about the area and activities. The hotel was very comfortable, a bit of a walk to town for dinner, but the food you could order for dinner was good and there’s a supermarket next door if you’re too tired for the walk. The activities were well planned out and a lot of fun. The bike ride was pretty intense for a newbie. It’s a 36km ride with steep hills and mountain biking. Canyoning quickly became my favorite activity of the week!
  • Such a fun week!

    Maxine P. September 2026
    Dario our guide is a really lovely guy, really kind and accommodating to fit around us, had an easy and relaxed attitude, ensuring we were all well looked after and nothing seemed too much trouble for him- he wanted the best experiences for us, and was always checking in with us as to what we all wanted out of the day's adventure! Would absolutely recommend this trip, and would definitely ask for Dario if we came again as we really felt more like we were going with a friend to see the lovely sights. He was great at gauging the food for us too! The activities are really well designed to suit a fun day, and being in this region of Spain is a complete win- it is gorgeous there. Would go back and explore the region more. The hotel was really super too, with lovely staff, and a relaxed atmosphere. Thank you so much- have recommended to loads of people, and your website generally!
  • Fantastic first solo adventure

    Chris B. August 2026
    This is just a perfect mix of activities to fill the days, but with comfortable start times and enough down-time to not feel rushed at all. Guides Carlos & Rio were excellent and really made the trip! Level-wise, I booked this as a 50th birthday present for myself as an over-weight and under-fit man, and a first timer to most of the activities, but I had no issues enjoying everything! Kayaking - limited by the drought so no real white water on our trip, but still a very enjoyable paddle with a lunch break and swim. Hiking - stunning views along a narrow valley path whilst the guides drive the vans round to the far side. Caving & SUP - caving was far better than I expected, mainly as would never pass UK health and safety rules! SUP was a little short and would benefit from a destination rather than a slow loop around, but still a good time. E-biking - some great off road sections with short road sections between. A little too much stopping for photos of the coast for my personal taste, but made up for by some steep ups and downs on gravel tracks and rocky hillsides! Canyoning - exactly as described! Climbing and sliding along the river, some big jumps and some rope assisted downs. . . physically the hardest day for me, particularly the climb back out and then up to the vans wearing wetsuits! Hotel accommodation was perfectly fine, breakfasts had a good range for everybody, just a bit far away from town at a half hour walk for all the restaurants.
  • Had the most absolute rippa

    Jessica H. August 2026
    Had the most absolute rippa week in Spain doing amazing activities. It is a truly beautiful region and our guides, Carlos and Rio, were two of the best travel guides I’ve had the pleasure of knowing in my travels. Carlos was very generous with his time in sharing so much about his culture and the history of Spain. As we would say in Australia, they were both a couple of great larrakins who made the trip fun and enjoyable. Would definitely visit the region again and book another trip with them. Highly recommend :) One note; having just completed a grade 1 and grade 2 MBA trip prior to this one I agree with past reviews that this should be upgraded to a Grade 3 trip.
  • Such a fun adventure!

    Alex H. August 2026
    Amazing trip. I had such a fun week with our group of 13 and our guides Carlos and Rio! Every activity was thoughtfully planned and enjoyable, and we got to see so much of Asturias and the Picos de Europa. I would absolutely do another trip with MBA and return to the region! A few specific things… - The hotel is super nice! It is a bit outside of town, so be prepared for extra walking to and from the dinners on your own. - The food in Asturias felt a bit meat and bread-heavy. Not a ton of vegetables. All super good, but just a flag. - The activities were decently athletic (good thing) - maybe a bit more so than I would have expected from a Level 2 trip. The e-biking has some rough terrain. Again, the scenery is absolutely gorgeous, and I can’t recommend this trip enough!
  • Fabulous varied week with wonderful

    Chris J. August 2026
    Fabulous varied week with wonderful and patient instructors Carlos and Rio who made the activities exciting and great fun. Enjoyed all the activities particularly the caving and the guides provided information about the local culture. Staff at the hotel were lovely as were the other guests. Organisation was good and hard to say goodbye to the great guides Carlos and Rio.
  • Fantastic fun, totally recommend it

    Nicole T. August 2026
    Start to finish, such fun, incredible beauty and a fantastic blend of activities. I loved everything about this trip. The group was such a great bunch of people, and Carlos and Rio were the perfect local organisers — sharing special places with us as well as their love of their region. Both are lovely to spend time with, never bossy, always creating a super relaxed, fun atmosphere whilst still being professional and very organised - things ran so smoothly. The area (Picos and coast) is stunning, I’d go back in a heartbeat.
  • A brilliant week, varied, cultured, adventurous & fun!

    Sean M. August 2026
    Such a great time exploring the Asturias region, under the truly expert but also super fun and entertaining guidance of Carlos and Rio. Phenomenal guides, who kept us safe and well, whilst encouraging us to get adventurous and at times push our comfort levels to try new things. Highly recommend this trip, it’s got such a great variety of activities, enough downtime to chill, glorious food and lots of it! A great bunch of guests too, altogether a very positive experience for my first solo adventure trip. Highlight for me was canyoning, followed closely by the kayaking and caving. Unbelievably beautiful landscapes for the win. Book now, you won’t be sorry.
  • Absolutely great trip !

    Monika August 2026
    Fantastic trip! Carols and Rio two amazing guys that love what they doing were fun, knowledgeable and guaranteed our safety We had amazing time All activities were absolutely amazing As a first time alone traveler i had fantastic time Group was absolutely amazing This part of Spain is beautiful We had lovely hotel, transport on time ,great food If you have any doubts about booking -Just do it it’s absolutely worth it !
  • An amazing place!

    Philippa R. August 2026
    We had such an amazing week in Northern Spain. Our guides, Carlos and Alex, were brilliant - they were fun, helpful, prepared and went out of their way to put on an extra surprise for us to watch the solar eclipse. It was the most fun canyoning I've ever done (and most beautiful) and the hike on the Cares Gorge path blew me away. I'd been apprehensive about the caving but it was an incredible experience - no tight squeezes but some scrambling in the cave. We all turned our torches off at one point and the darkness was unreal.
  • Perfect active holiday

    Anna S. August 2026
    The Asturias region of Spain is stunning, the beaches, the food, the sidra! The climate is perfect for an active holiday (even in August) and the range of activities over the six days are spot on. You'll feel challenged but then be back at the lovely hotel for a nice swim and chill. Llanes is a beautiful base but you'll see much more of it on e-bike and during the trips. Canyoning was the most fun way to top off the week. Carlos and Rio, our guides for the week, make this holiday a must-book. They love their region and culture and their smiles, energy, kindness and knowledge are infectious. We had a wonderful group with so many laughs - I highly recommend booking this special adventure!
  • A very special adventure

    Frances R. August 2026
    Our guides, Carlos and Alex were superstars. They clearly love this stunningly beautiful region of northern Spain, and shared so many secret and special places with us. Wonderful local knowledge, and clear instructions about what each day would be like and what we needed to bring with us. Nothing was too much trouble, they went way above and beyond what we could have expected. Awesome job! We loved every activity, great variety, and plenty of help and encouragement for anyone who found anything a bit tricky. Standout activities were the incredible hike through Cares Gorges, I've never seen so much stunning scenery every step of the way. Caving - which I was nervous about was remarkable, felt very safe in this hidden gem of a cave, packed full of stalactites - all shapes and sizes. Ebiking the coast and seeing many beautiful beaches. And our final activity canyoning was immense fun - always felt safe, great rock formations, and we loved the jumps and abseiling, and cooling off in waterfalls and quieter pools. Plenty of good food, nice hotel, and entirely worth a 5 star revies!
  • Stop browsing and DO IT!!!

    Angela G. August 2026
    This was an outstanding adventure and well worth it! We packed into 6 days weeks worth of experiences and memories. There were so many different activities, and Carlos and Alex did a fantastic job guiding us through the ones that were new or particularly challenging for each member of the group. The trip was shown as a “2” level, but multiple repeat MBA travelers in our group said it felt more like a “3”, which was a good thing in everyone’s book. Maybe some of that was Carlos and Alex dialing it up to the level of our group, which had a wide array of active abilities, adventurous spirit, and had rapidly bonded as a supportive team. I’m so glad I packed padded cycling shorts (which weren’t in the original kit list but were recommended in the What’s App group a few days before the start), because the e-bike outing is more of a challenge than the leisurely ride along a paved bike path that I had envisioned. Evening walks from the quiet hotel into Llanes town center for dinner were a very pleasant way to stretch out activity-tired muscles, unwind, and get to know our fellow travelers. This was our first MBA trip, and my only concern about booking another is how it could ever hope to compete with this one. Highly recommended!

Before You Travel

What to Pack

Backpack with hiking gear laid out

Know before you go! Some stuff we'll provide, other things you'll need to bring.

Kit List

What's included?
  • Tandem sit-on-top kayaks and paddles
  • Inflatable stand-up paddleboard, paddle and lifevest
  • All your canyoning gear
  • Front suspension 'hardtail' mountain e-bike & helmet
What do I need to bring?

BAGS
Main bag: duffel, rucksack or suitcase to be kept at base in Llanes
Daypack (15-30 litres)
Waterproof liner for daypack
Small drybags if you want to take your phone with you on the water-based activities

CLOTHES
Lightweight waterproof and windproof jacket
Fleece jacket or similar
Buff or neck scarf
Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
T-shirts
Underwear and socks
Swimwear - multiple sets for both the hotel pool and the water activities
Sunglasses with leash
Sunhat
Hiking boots or trail runners (worn-in)
Old trainers/trail runners for the canyoning

OTHER
Universal travel plug adapter
Passports (and visas)
Travel insurance documents
Suncream
Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
Quick-dry towel
Alcohol hand-gel
Two reusable water bottles x1 litre

OPTIONAL
Earplugs
Energy bars and snacks

FAQs

The water in the Picos is safe to drink and you are able to fill up freely at your hotel base and at stops along the way in the Picos and along the coastal stretches of the trip. Make sure to bring a couple of 1-litre reusable drinking bottles or a bladder.

Yes, you can leave your main pack and any other luggage in the hotel in Llanes throughout the adventure, just taking a daypack with you for each day out.

Your e-bike will assist with about 25% of the effort on an average ride, meaning you'll provide about 75% of the effort. There will be moments when you'll need to switch to Boost mode for short bursts of power, especially on challenging terrain or steep sections. However, most of your ride will be in Eco and Trail modes, with Eco mode often being your go-to on climbs to conserve battery life throughout the day. This balance ensures a smooth, enjoyable ride while still giving you the thrill of exploration on two wheels.

In terms of speed, the power assistance on e-bikes is typically capped at around 25kph (15mph). If you want to go faster, you'll need to pedal harder! You can adjust the power levels to match your pace and terrain. Your cycling guide will brief you on how to use the different modes to optimise your ride and make the battery last:

Eco Mode: Low power for energy efficiency, giving you longer battery life on flat terrain.
Auto Mode: Automatically adjusts the power based on terrain and your pedalling effort for a more balanced ride.
Sport Mode: Provides mid-range power, ideal for moderate hills and faster cruising.
Turbo Mode: Delivers maximum power, perfect for steep hills or when you want to ride fast.

When it comes to battery power, the e-bike batteries are typically charged overnight, usually at your accommodation. There will be a couple of spare batteries in the support vehicle just in case. However, if you manage your battery usage throughout the day (for example, by avoiding using turbo mode all the time), you’ll find that the battery lasts long enough for most rides without any issues.

Please check that e-biking is covered under your travel insurance. Our e-bikes are pedal-assist and comply with UK/EU regulations on power limits (unless stated otherwise for specific destinations).

At Much Better Adventures, we work hard to accommodate dietary requirements and allergies so your trip is safe, inclusive and enjoyable. That said, options can vary by country, location and accommodation, and in some places options may be limited or unavailable. The information below has been provided by your host so you’re fully informed about what will be possible on your trip depending on your individual requirements. This information should be read carefully prior to your trip to ensure that you are adequately prepared for the situation ‘on the ground’.

Once you have booked on your trip, please fill out your passenger information form asap with any dietary requirements. Once you complete your passenger information, your dietary needs and any allergies are automatically shared with your host and, in turn, your guide. Please submit this as early as possible so they can plan accordingly and deliver the best experience. Please also remind your guide about your dietary requirements upon arrival, as mentioning these in person allows your guide to comprehend individual preferences and limitations as soon as you arrive.

BACKGROUND

Spain’s cuisine is shaped by a mix of Mediterranean agriculture, regional climates and a long history of trade and cultural exchange, resulting in varied, seasonal dishes that often centre on olive oil, vegetables, seafood and cured meats. This diversity means travellers with dietary requirements can often find suitable options, particularly in larger towns, though menus can be meat- and dairy-heavy in some regions. Vegetarian and gluten-free choices are increasingly understood, but it helps to plan ahead and communicate needs clearly, with a guide on hand to assist where language or local customs present challenges.

SPECIAL DIETS

Vegetarian Vegetarian diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

Vegan Vegan diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

Kosher Fully certified Kosher kitchens and supervision are rare and usually cannot be guaranteed unless expressly confirmed in advance by your host. Vegetarian or vegan options can often be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. Please read the related sections above.

Halal Certified Halal supply varies by destination and may not always be possible. Vegetarian or vegan options can often be the most reliable alternative if this is acceptable to you. Please read the related sections above.

INTOLERANCES

Gluten Free (for Coeliac, please see Allergies section below) Gluten-free diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

Lactose-free Lactose-free diets can be catered for on this trip, provided that your host is made aware in advance.

ALLERGIES

Our host has confirmed that they are able to accommodate mild allergies to the 14 allergens (opens in new tab) identified by the UK Food Standards Agency, where these are disclosed in advance. However, if you have a severe or life-threatening food allergy, please get in touch with our Customer Experience team prior to booking to discuss whether your requirements can be accommodated safely on this trip. This will allow us to carefully consider the sensitivity and severity of your allergy, the available provision on the trip and the accessibility of medical care should a reaction occur. Your safety is always our top priority.

Please note that when travelling overseas, local ingredients, food preparation methods and labelling standards may vary, particularly in remote areas. It is also worth noting that any allergies may result in more limited options and repetitive provision in some areas. Whilst your guide will help communicate dietary requirements where possible, customers remain responsible for managing their own allergies during the trip.

Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.

Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with (opens in new tab). You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.

Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website (opens in new tab), where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).

For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.

We recommend checking out the country-specific information (opens in new tab) and also talking to a travel nurse.

We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.

If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.

All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. You must be over 18 to join one of our trips.

You're always in good company on one of our adventures.

Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.

Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way. Check out our Community Values (opens in new tab) – a shared code to make sure that everyone's experience is safe, inclusive and brilliantly unforgettable.

It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.

Don't just take our word for it:

  • 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
  • 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
  • 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends

See here (opens in new tab) for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.

The weather in this part of Spain can be very changeable, so be sure to pack for all weathers. Mainly it tends to be dry and sunny on the south face of the Picos (where you'll be doing the Cares Gorge hike and the canyoning). June and September are cooler months to visit, while temperatures i July and August can rise above 30°C/85°F.

We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.

What's the number?
It works out on average at 153kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.

The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.

But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:

  • Driving 1000 miles/1609km would be approximately 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person, if there were two of you in it).
  • A return economy class flight between London and New York would be approximately 1619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
  • 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approximately 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.

What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust (opens in new tab) to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre (opens in new tab) programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.

Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here (opens in new tab).

Want to Know More?
Ask our AI Assistant

Get instant answers about this adventure

Suggested prompts

Departure dates

Secure your spot

10% deposit to book (limited exceptions)

Pay in instalments, no interest or fees

2027

Friday 14th May 2027

to Thursday 20th May 2027

£1,208

Friday 21st May 2027

to Thursday 27th May 2027

£1,208

Friday 28th May 2027

to Thursday 3rd June 2027

This departure is based at Gran Hotel Paraíso in Llanes

£1,208

Don’t see a date you like?

Get an email alert when new dates are added for this trip

Subscribe to alerts

We've Got Your Back

Book with confidence and peace of mind.

Illustration of a group of people kayaking

Got a Group of 6 or More?

Book the whole trip privately. We sort the details, you split the cost. Pure adventure, zero faff.

Feeling adventurous? Here's £100 towards it.

Sign up to our newsletter and we'll email you a £100 code for your first trip. You'll also get weekly trip inspiration, expert advice and last minute deals.

First-time bookers only on trips of £1000 or more. See full terms. See how we handle your data in our Privacy Policy.

Still Undecided?

A few other trips to tickle your fancy