Camín Real de la Mesa
- Belmonte de Miranda, Candamo, Grado, Las Regueras, Proaza, Quirós, Santo Adriano, Somiedo, Teverga, Yernes y Tameza Centro de Asturias
Routes for all tastes and fitness levels that allow you to explore the natural beauty of this region at a leisurely pace using the bicycle as a means of transport.
A very demanding route, both physically and technically, connects the protected areas of Las Ubiñas-La Mesa Nature Reserve and Somiedo Nature Reserve with three leg-breaking ascents: to Puerto de Ventana (1587 m), Puerto de Somiedo (1485 m) and San Lorenzo (1347 m). The route that starts in Degaña, in Fuentes del Narcea, and reaches Teverga also offers spectacular views and the opportunity to pass through pastures and brañas, before embarking on the mythical ascent to La Farrapona (1708 m) with an average gradient of around 6%. The one that crosses the Las Ubiñas-La Mesa Natural Park, a protected area with an incredible biodiversity, presents as its main challenges the steep ascents to the Alto de la Cobertoria and La Colladona.
One of the most impressive cycle touring routes in Camín Real de la Mesa with a gravel bike, although it requires a good physical condition, is the route of Cuevallagar and Banduxu, which has an emblematic ascent to Collado Fancuaya, famous for being the final stage of La Vuelta in 2022. Banduxu, a medieval jewel of Asturias, captivates with its beauty and charm, inviting cyclists to immerse themselves in a unique historical setting.
The Primitive Way of Saint James by bicycle
Other interesting routes for those who wish to combine cycle tourism in Camín Real de la Mesa with a cultural experience are those that cross the town of Grau/Grado, such as the Primitive Way of St. James. Its historic centre, declared an Asset of Cultural Interest, conserves the remains of the medieval wall and Indian buildings. Its market, one of the most authentic in Asturias, has been held on Wednesdays and Sundays for over 700 years. When in Grau/Grado it is essential to try Afuega'l Pitu, one of the most unique cheeses in Asturias with Protected Designation of Origin.
On routes that pass through Sama, in Grado, it is advisable to slow down to appreciate the hórreos and paneras that appear along the way, symbols of Asturian rural identity, as well as manor houses and palaces such as Vallinas and La Mouta.
Camín Real de la Mesa. Easy routes for everyone
As for cycle touring routes in Camín Real de la Mesa aimed at beginners or those who prefer to pedal at a leisurely pace, this region has one of the most emblematic cycle touring trails in Asturias for gravel biking: the Vía Verde de la Senda del Oso (Green Route of the Bear Trail). With gentle slopes, although with more demanding sections near the Valdemurio reservoir, cyclists who choose it follow the old route of a mining train and the course of the river Trubia while enjoying lush forests and steep gorges through tunnels, bridges and gorges. On this route it is advisable to set aside time to visit the bear enclosures and the Mirador del Oso viewpoint.
The route from Somiedo to Corniana/Cornellana (in the Comarca Vaqueira) allows you to explore the natural beauty of the valleys of this Biosphere Reserve on a gentle and relaxed route. Those looking for a moderate cycling challenge in Camín Real de la Mesa can opt for the route through Las Regueras. On road or gravel bikes, the water, present at every turn, will accompany cyclists for a good part of the route.
Less than an hour from Oviedo/Uviéu in its northern part, and an hour and a half from the farthest part of Somiedo, the Camín Real de la Mesa invites you to explore hidden corners and magical landscapes, offering those who venture to discover the region by bicycle an experience for the senses.
