Ruta cicloturista de los Valles. De Castropol a Grandas de Salime

We leave Castropol along the Paseo del Muelle to the Chapel of San Roque, and there we join the N-640 road that will take us to A Veiga/Vegadeo. In front of the square is the turn-off to Taramundi on the AS-21, which takes us into Los Oscos, an area declared a Biosphere Reserve, where we can enjoy its ethnographic and architectural heritage. The landscape in this area is natural and rugged, with slate playing a leading role in the local architecture.

In Taramundi we can enjoy its traditional architecture, learn about the art of cutlery, and visit its Bronze Age hillfort, which offers privileged views of the valley. Not to be missed is a visit to the Museum of the Mills of Mazonovo, which is in an excellent state of conservation. We continue the route through native forests and after a short detour, after about 4 km, we reach the village of Os Teixóis, one of the oldest ethnographic sites in Asturias, with hydraulic devices such as the mallet, the mill, the grinding wheel, a fulling mill and even a small power station.

We return to the route, a long ascent of about 7 km between forests and very well preserved landscapes, with small villages scattered on the slopes, to reach Santa Eulalia de Oscos after 20 km, where we can take a break before tackling the next long, uphill section. About 5 km outside the village of Santalla it is worth visiting the Museo Casa Natal del Marqués de Sargadelos and the Conjunto Etnográfico de Mazonovo, a really interesting place.

We continue the route upwards, cycling southwards and entering the province of Lugo as far as Barbeitos, where we take the road to Grandas de Salime, passing the Alto del Acebo. The landscape changes as we climb, and the forests are interspersed with high mountain meadows and hilly topography.

The last 10 km to Grandas de Salime are a gentle descent, along the AS-28 road. About 5 km before arriving, it is highly recommended to stop in the village of Castro to see the Chao Samartín castro, of great ethnographic importance. The visits are guided, so it is advisable to consult timetables or at least visit the museum.

We arrive at Grandas de Salime, the end of our route and pilgrims' stop, where we can visit the Collegiate Church of San Salvador and the fabulous ethnographic museum, one of the most important in Asturias.