Near San Vicente del Monte, you’ll have the chance to walk a trail that has been transited for centuries. In the area of Birruezas is the start of the uphill climb to the summit of the Escudo via Cambera de los Moros, some large sandstone slabs that go up in a zig-zag. Its purpose was to connect the coast and the interior. We know that it was used until the opening of the Camino Real through Treceño in the 15th and 16th centuries; therefore, it dates back to the Middle Ages. Through lots of hard work and cleaning efforts, around 1,600 meters have been recovered, on which you can still see the footprints from the use of pack animals.The track is circular, although you could just go up until the Cambera and return taking the same way back.

Once you reach San Vicente del Monte, in the center of town you’ll see a series of contraptions and panels that explain the Cambera. From here, there are few signs, so we suggest downloading the route on your phone beforehand.  You have to exit the village by heading west towards the area of Birruezas. About 3 kilometers away, you’ll see a sign indicating the trail and where a 2-kilometer uphill climb begins. After walking for 1 kilometer, you’ll come across the Cambera. It’s almost impossible to imagine how they were able to build such a colossal piece of work. If you decide to continue up to the top, the views will surprise you: Picos de Europa (Peaks of Europe), the sierra of Peña Sagra, Carmona and kilometers of the coastline! To do the circular route, you should go atop the summit eastward until you reach the Cross. In July, the La Cruz festival takes place, which is celebrated with a mass and an outdoor dance in the village. Continue for 2.5 kilometers until you start to go downhill to return to San Vicente del Monte.

Technical information and recommendations:

►  Starts and ends: San Vicente del Monte
►  Length:  13,6 km
► Duration: 5 h 
► Level: medium
► Type of track: circular
►  Incline: +717 m./ -717 m.
► Type of path: forest trail and walking path
► Signpost: partial
► Drinking water: a fountain in San Vicente del Monte

Notes:  

1. We recommend downloading the track of the route on your phone. 
2. Wear good hiking shoes and take a walking stick.           
3. Only leave your footprints on the ground: throw any trash you accumulate into the correct bin when you return.                         
4. Live in harmony with the environment: observe animals from a distance and respect the plants. If you walk quietly you may find some pleasant surprises.      

   Download more information and track HERE

LISTEN TO ALL THE LIFE AROUND YOU