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Trips and Expeditions
2010 Trips and Expeditions Picos de Europa Meet - September 2010 Here is some information for the proposed meet from 4th to 19th September, in the Picos de Europa, Cantabrica, northern Spain. The climbing is on limestone which is generally very firm. In the Picos mountains the routes are multi pitch Trad, though in and around the general area there are also sports crags. Guide books are "Walks and climbs in the Picos de Europa" by Robin Walker, published by Cicerone Press. Also a Spanish guide "Cordillera Cantabrica Escaladas Selectas" by Miguel Angel Adrados, this is a very good guide to the wider area and has excellent topo's, however the text is in Spanish, though it is quite easy to fathom the essential info. It is quite a large book so photocopy your choice of selected routes. Both of these guides should be available at Needlesports. There is also good walking in the area including the Rio Cares Gorge. The weather in September should be good, though afternoon thunderstorms can occur (though these are more common in July and August) the area can be affected by the Atlantic weather systems as it is only about 30 miles from the Costa Verdi (handy if you fancy a day on the beach). Snow does not normally arrive until the end of October, however these are proper mountains so be prepared and remember the days will be a bit shorter by then! Peak hights circa 2500 metres so no altitude problems! I propose that we base ourselves near Potes on the south side of the range as this benefits from being in the rain shadow and is a pleasant little town. There is also the one and only cable car located nearby at Fuente De, which gives access to the main mountain range and some of the huts. There is a well located campsite at Turieno near Potes "La Isla Picos de Europa". There is access for camper-vans and caravans as well as tents and there are also Bungalows to sleep 4,5 or 6 from 60 euros per day. I don't at this stage propose to book spaces as we will be there in low season, but if individuals would rather have a reservation then feel free to do so. Flights are available via Easy-Jet, which are advertised currently from £25.99 to Bilbao, which is about two and a half hours drive from Potes. There may also be flights to Oviedo. There are car ferries from Portsmouth to Bilbao (36hrs) with P&O and Plymouth to Santander with Brittany Ferries. though these are relatively expensive they save an awful lot of driving and fuel, also you arrive fresh and relaxed. Alternatively any of the channel crossings can be used and then drive through France. I will be in France until the end of June, but will have access to e-mails from time to time. If anyone wants to take part in this meet or requires further info please let me know.
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