Pico Torres (2100 m)

Pico Torres is the highest peak in the Parque Natural de Redes, standing on the south-western corner on the border with the province of Leon. It dominates the area with an almost alpine appearance, particularly when snow covered, and is very prominent from the Puerto de San Isidro pass and its ski areas. There are various approaches to the summit, those from the northern or Asturian side require permission from the Park authorities. This route goes from San Isidro. Scrambling, that is the use of hands, is required to reach the summit.  In winter the mountain is frequently covered with snow and ice, and winter mountaineering techniques may be required.  This is also called Picu Torres, the Asturian name, and the height is also reported as 2104 metres. 

Distance:                 10.5 km.

Total ascent:            630 m.

Duration:                4 hours. 

Maps:                        Parque Natural de Redes (1:40,000)

                                    IGN 79 (14-06) Puebla de Lillo (1:50,000)

Route:                      None

1.    The route starts near the Puerto de San Isidro (1520 m), the pass between Felechosa and Puebla de Lillo. There is ample parking at the San Isidro ski station.

2.  This route starts by the housing of the “Urbanización San Isidro”, a short distance downhill from the car park.

3.     The Arroyo del Llagu or Arroyo de las Piedras river crosses the road here.

4.     Follow the river on the right hand side.

5.     Where the river starts to divide, follow the left or western side.

6.      Continue below the ridge, initially SW for about 300 metres, then head West for a kilometre or so to reach the Majada Torres at approximately 1700 metres.

7.      This is an open and fairly level area, with a ruined cabin, marked as a red square on the 1:50,000 map.

8.      Continue to the West, where there is a tall pole with coloured bands.

9.      From here continue to the west, gaining height to a col at 1866 metres.

10. Bear right to reach the base of the prominent gully below Pico Torres at approximately 1870 m.

11.  Ascend the gulley with care to reach the ridge. In winter this may be filled with snow and require the use of ice axe and crampons.

12.  Turn left and scramble to the summit of Pico Torres (2100 metres), and admire views to the Parque Natural de Redes to the north, of Pico Cuerno and the two ski areas to the south, and towards the Picos de Europa to the east.

13.  Return by the same route.

Below is a map of the route, based on a GPS track.  To see the route in 3D, click on the Earth button.



View Pico Torres (2100 m) in a larger map

An alternative route has been described using the car park at the pass – Puerto de San Isidro – itself.  Some 150 metres east where the road crosses the Rio Isoba, follow a path on the left bank and gain height to the gully described above in an 60-90 minutes.  This route has not yet been tested by WalkingRedes.

If you arrive at San Isidro and the weather is against you, then you can try an easier nearby alternative – the Camino deWamba.