Cantabrian Brown Bears with Luce Green
GBP 2,299.00
Price per person
Grade
Location
Spain
Accomodation
Hotels
Transport
Mini Bus
Tour Guide
Luce Green & Local Guide
Group Size
Max 6
Single Supplement
£264
International Flights
Not Included
Internal Flights
Not Included
Tour Dates
September 9th -14th 2026
Tour Deposit
£300
Airport Transfers
Included
Cantabrian Mountains Brown Bear & Wildlife Trip with Luce Green – September 2026
Detailed Trip Overview
The Cantabrian Mountains in northern Spain are home to one of Europe’s most important brown bear populations, alongside bearded vultures, golden eagles, and diverse alpine and forest birds. Rugged valleys, forested slopes, and high-altitude pastures provide a unique setting for wildlife observation, photography, and nature immersion.
Wildlife Highlights:
Cantabrian Brown Bears: Active mainly at dawn and dusk, foraging on berries and insects in forested valleys.
Bearded Vultures (Lammergeiers): Observed at feeding stations, offering spectacular photography opportunities.
Other Raptors & Birds: Golden eagles, griffon vultures, peregrine falcons, and numerous alpine and forest passerines.
Other Mammals: Roe deer, wild boar, foxes, red squirrels, and small mammals.
Landscapes & Environment:
Picos de Europa: Alpine mountains, deep gorges, and river valleys.
Somiedo Natural Park: UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with glacial lakes, forests, and high pastures.
Seasonal Notes: September brings lush greenery and optimal wildlife activity.
Conservation & Education:
Visits to the Bearded Vulture Centre highlight ongoing conservation programs.
Expert guides provide knowledge on bear ecology, tracking, and ethical wildlife viewing.
Observation hides ensure minimal disturbance while offering close encounters.
Trip Experience:
Early morning and late afternoon wildlife sessions maximize sightings.
Rural villages, traditional cuisine, and local hospitality enhance the cultural experience.
Guided photography and nature observation opportunities throughout.
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Day 1 (Sept 9th 2026)
Arrive at Bilbao Airport and transfer to your hotel, Hotel Hesperia, where you’ll settle in and relax after your journey. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local Basque cuisine, offering a first taste of Spain’s culinary traditions. This evening also includes an introduction to the trip, a briefing on the wildlife you may encounter, and safety guidance for the days ahead. Overnight in Bilbao provides a comfortable base before heading into the mountains
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Day 2 (Sept 10th 2026)
After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the Picos de Europa National Park, a stunning alpine region renowned for its rugged mountains, deep gorges, and rich biodiversity. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided birdwatching session in the Cares area, home to raptors such as golden eagles and griffon vultures, as well as smaller alpine and forest birds. After a scenic lunch in the park, visit the Bearded Vulture Centre, where you can observe these rare raptors at feeding sites and learn about conservation efforts to protect them. Late afternoon offers additional opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. Overnight at Hotel María Manuela, nestled in the heart of the mountains
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Day 3 (Sept 11th 2026)
Begin the day with an early visit to the Bearded Vulture feeding site, where these magnificent birds descend for their meal, offering excellent photographic opportunities. After observing the vultures, take a gentle walk around nearby alpine lakes, enjoying the reflective waters, mountain views, and occasional wildlife sightings. In the afternoon, transfer to Pola de Somiedo, the gateway to the Cantabrian brown bear habitat. Here, you will be briefed on the bear observation sessions and conservation efforts in the area. Overnight at Hotel Casa Miño, a charming rural lodge.
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Day 4 (Sept 12th 2026)
Today is dedicated entirely to Cantabrian brown bear observation. Early morning and late afternoon sessions are conducted from hides strategically positioned in forested valleys and feeding areas, maximizing the chances of seeing bears in their natural environment. Between observation sessions, enjoy short guided hikes or photography breaks, where you may spot roe deer, wild boar, or smaller mammals. Guides provide insights into bear behaviour, ecology, and tracking signs such as footprints or claw marks. Overnight at Hotel Casa Miño
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Day 5 (Sept 13th 2026)
Another full day is devoted to observing the Cantabrian brown bears. Morning and afternoon sessions in hides allow you to watch the bears forage, interact with each other, and explore the surrounding forest. The day also includes discussions with local naturalists on conservation challenges and successes, giving you a deeper understanding of the region’s wildlife management. There will be opportunities for photography and to take in the stunning mountain scenery. Overnight at Hotel Casa Miño.
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Day 6 (Sept 14th 2026)
After breakfast, you will transfer to Oviedo Airport for your flight home or onward travel. This marks the conclusion of your immersive wildlife experience, having observed Cantabrian brown bears, bearded vultures, and other remarkable wildlife in one of Europe’s most pristine mountain environment
