Panes

In Cistierna, take the N621 following signs to Riaño, and start your ascent into one of the most scenic, natural landscapes in Europe. From Riaño, continue on the N621 for about 50 kilometers to Potes and continue north on N621 to Panes; then turn left and follow AS114 west in the direction of Cangas de Onís. This scenic drive follows the crystal-clear Cares River. Along this stretch of road are numerous picturesque mountain villages. No apartment blocks around here—the architecture is strictly local—old stone houses with red-tile roofs and wooden balconies, usually hung with drying garlic, are the typical sight. About 23 kilometers after leaving Panes, you come to Arenas de Cabrales, noted for its blue cheese. Cabrales cheese is made in these mountains from a mixture of cow’s, goat’s, and ewe’s milk. If you want to sample some, watch for the signs found all along here for queso de Cabrales. The cheese can also be found in other towns of the area. In this region, you will also notice many horreos, or grain-storage sheds, raised above the ground outside the farmhouses. These horreos, supported on pillars of rock, are especially colorful when viewed with the Picos de Europa in the background.