The Rugged 4x4 Track to Peña Ubiña: Reaching Collado del Terreros

Peña Ubiña is one of the most iconic peaks of the Cantabrian Mountains, standing at 2,417m (7,930ft). While the summit is only accessible on foot, a challenging high-mountain dirt track climbs the southern slopes from the village of Torrebarrio (León). This road reaches the Collado del Terreros, a mountain pass at 1,754m (5,754ft) that serves as the gateway to the massive limestone cliffs of the Ubiña Massif.

Where is Peña Ubiña? 

The track is located in the northern part of the province of León, within the Las Ubiñas-La Mesa Natural Park. It starts in the village of Torrebarrio and climbs steeply towards the boundary with Asturias. The massif is situated just south of the Puerto de Ventana, the famous mountain pass that connects the Teverga valley in Asturias with the Babia region in León. The Collado del Terreros serves as the natural divide and offers breathtaking views of both regions.

Driving Challenges: 4x4 Required

The ascent to Collado del Terreros is a relentless climb on an unpaved surface. With an average gradient of nearly 12% and several sections being much steeper, a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is required. The road is narrow and features sharp switchbacks that become particularly difficult during the spring thaw when the terrain is saturated.

The "White Mountain" in Winter

The Macizo de Ubiña is notorious for its brutal winter conditions. Due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, it receives massive amounts of snow and is prone to sudden "galernas" (blizzards). The track is completely impassable from November to May, and even in late spring, snow patches can block the way.

Strategic Access for Mountaineers

For hikers and climbers, driving to the Collado del Terreros is a popular tactic to save over 500 meters of vertical gain. From this point, the track ends, and the real mountaineering begins. The "Normal Route" to the summit of Peña Ubiña starts here, crossing the pastures before tackling the rocky southern ridge.
Pic: PROCOPIO

 

 

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