Bulnes. Who hasn’t heard of this little village belonging to the Council of Asturias in Cabrales? It is an enchanting region, located inside the Picos de Europa National Park and where rural tourism is a great adventure. Bulnes is not accessible by car, but you can reach it on foot or, even better, by a funicular installed for the use of locals and especially tourists.
The popular Bulnes funicular also serves to reach the village of Poncebos. This kind of railway runs through one of the tunnels excavated under the well-known Peña Maín. It was created to counteract the isolation and lack of communication between the two villages, which in the past could only be reached by unpaved paths.
Now, going up to Bulnes by funicular will take you 7 minutes during a 5-kilometre journey that will be interrupted by a drop of at least 400 metres, so you will have to finish the way on foot. If you want to know more about this great adventure, be sure to take a look at the guide we have prepared below:
Tours to Bulnes by funicular or on foot
Yes, there are two ways to get to Bulnes. And here we tell you what they are and what the itinerary is about:
Via the funicular
This means of transport is still a novelty for the locals, but it has also become one of the main tourist attractions in the area. You can reach the village of Bulnes and Poncebos on this kind of railway, with which you will have the privilege of entering the mountains of Asturias.
- In high season, it runs from 10 am to 8 pm every 30 minutes.
- In low season it operates from 10 am to 12:30 pm. But also from 12 noon to 6 pm.
Prices also vary according to the trip you wish to make and the age of the passenger:
- For adults one way it will cost 17.61 euros.
- For adults round trip, the service will cost 22.16 euros.
- For children from 4 to 12 years old, one way, the service will cost 4.32 euros.
- For children from 4 to 12 years old round trip, the service will cost 6.71 euros.
On foot
The walk to Bulnes starts in the village of Poncebos. This is a non-linear tourist hiking route. That is to say that you will return the same way you started. It is a low-difficulty route, perfectly signposted, with 8 kilometres round trip that you can complete in 2 hours and 30 minutes.
The crossing will take you to the Jaya Bridge, from where you will go to the Canal do Tejo. Then, you will find the slope that you will have to overcome, so we recommend good physical condition and above all patience.
You will have the opportunity to see a small stream that you will have to follow to the exit of the funicular. At that moment a less forced journey to Bulnes begins.
What to do?
After going up to Bulnes by funicular or on foot, you can enjoy this hidden treasure at an altitude of 650 metres above sea level and with a wide range of things to do and see during your stay in the area.
The village is divided into two popular sectors: Bulnes de Abajo (de la Villa) or Bulnes de Arriba (del Castillo). The first thing you should do after your arrival is to walk around and discover every corner to get to know its people and traditions.
From the heart of this small but beautiful village you will have access to the Naranjos de Bulnes which has been a sanctuary for mountaineers. And yes, it owes its name to the orange colour of its vertical walls when they come into contact with the sun’s rays.
Where to eat?
Lunchtime has arrived. That is why after a great tour it will be necessary to taste the culinary delights of this population in the best restaurants:
The Covaciella
Delicious food, generous portions, good price and excellent service. What more can you ask for in a restaurant? It is one of the most recommended places for its good seasoning. The atmosphere is the most suitable to go together with the family.
Rafa House
When you get to Bulnes you can’t miss the opportunity to eat delicious food at the popular Casa Rafa. You will be impressed by its good food, pleasant atmosphere, attentive service and stunning views. It is a good option, so you can not miss the opportunity to taste the best dishes.
The Bridge House
With a suggestive terrace on the banks of the river, La Casa del Puente stands out as one of the best restaurants in the area. They will serve a kid from the Picos de Europa or a fabada from Asturias that are finger-licking good. It is also recommended for its wonderful views and excellent service.
Where to sleep?
If you are looking for suitable accommodation in Bulnes, here is our selection. Choose the best place to sleep, after doing rural tourism in this beautiful Asturian village.
The House of the Chiflón
Book accommodation in this guesthouse located in the heart of Bulnes to sleep peacefully. It is a very comfortable rural house that has all the services so that you can stay and spend pleasant moments. Its rooms are super comfortable and the attention of its managers is unparalleled.
Hotel Rural Picos de Europa
It is one of the places of accommodation that has good offers. In fact, it is one of the best rated options for sleeping. Its rooms are quite comfortable and the service will delight you. Surely, every time you want to travel to Bulnes you will think of the Hotel Rural Picos de Europa to stay.
Hotel Refugio del Naranjo de Bulnes
It is also a good alternative. In addition, many guests have recommended this place to stay. This hotel has all the services to spend incredible nights after a well-deserved walk through the town.
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