A TOURIST is facing a hefty £168,000 fine after hurling a massive rock into a gorge at a top Spanish beauty spot.
The risky stunt occurred in the stunning Picos de Europa National Park located in northern Spain. It happened along the popular Cares Trail, which is a well-loved destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The area welcomes around two million visitors a year, with 300,000 tackling the Cares Trail alone.
In the video, the young man is seen tossing the hefty stone off the edge, followed by a loud, echoing bang as it smashes into the rocks far below.
The footage was later posted on a social media account known for showing clips of people throwing objects into ravines.
While most videos on the page go largely unnoticed, this one quickly went viral, and it didn’t take long for Spanish police to step in.
The Civil Guard confirmed they are now 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.
“Why? Because disturbing the environment in the Picos de Europa National Park is classed as a very serious offence.
“Keep that in mind when visiting a national park – these are specially protected areas due to their high environmental value.”
The clip sparked outrage online, with many calling for tougher consequences to deter similar behaviour.
Javier said: “There are livestock farmers who pass through down there.
“Your little joke could’ve ended badly.”
Another user blasted: “You have to be a real idiot – you could’ve gone down with the rock.
“The force and weight of that boulder could’ve smashed someone to pieces.”
A third commented: “There’s an alternative path underneath – I just hope no one was down there.
“And let’s not forget, people go canyoning or climbing in those areas – when you throw something, there could be someone below.”
Others didn’t hold back either.
One said: “He should be accompanied by a responsible adult, it’s clear he’s not ready to be out on his own.”
Another person commented: “In the mountains, you should never throw rocks if you aren’t sure where they will land – it’s impossible to know if someone or an animal might be below.”
Environmental groups have also weighed in, warning that such actions can have long-term impacts on fragile ecosystems.
Local park rangers said that although no one was reported hurt, the potential for serious injury or worse was very real.
Had there been people hiking or canyoning below, the consequences could’ve been tragic.
Authorities are now working to identify the young man responsible and determine the appropriate penalty.
The incident has prompted renewed calls for better signage, surveillance, and education around behaviour in protected natural areas.
Visitors to the Cares Trail have also been reminded to respect park rules and use common sense when enjoying nature.
A park officer stated: “We’re glad to welcome everyone, but reckless behaviors like this not only put lives in danger – they also show a lack of respect for the natural beauty and safety of this area that we strive to maintain.”
