Tourist facing €200,000 fine after hurling huge rock into gorge at Spanish national park
Reckless stunt in Picos de Europa sparks outrage and police investigation
A tourist is facing a potential fine of up to €200,000 (£168,000) after throwing a large rock into a gorge at one of Spain’s most popular natural beauty spots.The incident took place in Picos de Europa National Park in northern Spain, along the well-known Cares Trail, which draws around 300,000 hikers each year. The area is part of a wider park that welcomes around two million visitors annually.
Footage shared on social media shows a young man casting a large stone from a cliff edge, followed by a thunderous crash as it lands far below. The video quickly went viral and drew heavy criticism, with many users expressing anger over the dangerous act.
The Guardia Civil has since confirmed it is investigating the incident. A spokesperson warned: “This stunt could cost you dearly. Throwing this rock could land this person with a fine ranging from €5,001 to €200,000. Disturbing the environment in the Picos de Europa National Park is classed as a very serious offence.”
Although no injuries were reported, park officials stressed that the consequences could have been deadly, as there are alternative paths, canyoning routes, and livestock trails below the cliff where the rock was thrown.
The footage was reportedly posted to a social media account known for sharing clips of people throwing objects into ravines. While most of the content goes unnoticed, this video caught attention fast, triggering a wave of public backlash.
One viewer commented: “There are livestock farmers who pass through down there. Your little joke could’ve ended badly.” Another added: “You could have gone down with the rock. The force and weight of that boulder could’ve smashed someone to pieces.”
A park official echoed the concern, saying: “We welcome everyone, but reckless actions like this not only endanger lives – they disrespect the natural beauty and safety of the space we work hard to preserve.”
Environmental groups have also weighed in, warning that such actions, while often dismissed as harmless fun, can have long-term impacts on fragile ecosystems.Authorities are now working to identify the person responsible and determine the appropriate penalty. The incident has also reignited calls for better signage, education and surveillance along popular routes in protected areas to prevent similar behaviour in future.
Image: Dylan Leagh/Pixabay
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