As Talladas Mine Trail
- Address Santalla, Ferreirela de Riba, Ferreirela de Baxo, Caraduxe Western Asturias
- Distance Distance: 13.5 kms
- Difficulty Difficulty: Moderate
- Cumulative difference in altitude + Cumulative difference in altitude: +688 m
- Cumulative difference in altitude - Cumulative difference in altitude: -688 m
- Maximum altitude Maximum altitude: 670 m
- Minimum altitude Minimum altitude: 393 m
- IBP index IBP index: 62
- Modality Modality: Hikers
- Type of route Type of route: Circular
- Route type Route type: Themed
- Return by Train Return by Train: No
From the village, the footpath leads to the Birthplace Museum of the Marquis of Sargadelos, a key figure of the Enlightenment and the driving force behind one of Spain’s first cast-iron and earthenware factories. After passing through woods and hamlets, the path takes you to the As Talladas mine entrance, a reminder of the area’s mining history.
This route, which shares sections with the PR-AS 119 and the GR-109, begins in Santalla Square and descends towards the lower part of the village, entering a beautiful native woodland. The initial stretch conveys a sense of calm and connection with nature, guiding the walker first towards Ferreirela de Riba and then on to Ferreirela de Baxo, where a stop at the Birthplace Museum of the Marquis of Sargadelos – a site of great historical and cultural value – is a must. This first part of the route, like the last, follows a road; therefore, although there is little traffic, it is advisable to take every precaution and observe the traffic regulations.
Along this stretch, from Santalla to Ferreira, thirteen works of art have been installed, spanning various disciplines such as painting, sculpture and ironwork. This art project, which involves both local and national artists, aims to revitalise the rural environment by integrating art into the landscape, thereby enhancing its cultural and natural identity. The pieces have been designed using environmentally friendly materials, achieving a harmonious blend with the surroundings.
From Ferreirela de Baxo, the path descends towards the River Agüeira and, following its course, reaches As Barreiras, where the waters of the River Vilanova join the Agüeira, creating a river landscape of great beauty. Shortly afterwards, we reach Ferreira, a picturesque hamlet ideal for a leisurely stroll. Here we cross the River Agüeira via a stone bridge next to the Ferreira recreation area, a perfect spot to take a break.
The route continues with a moderate climb to As Talladas and then on to Mina Carmina, a mine that was active in the 1950s and 1960s, from which silver, zinc and lead were extracted.
From here, we begin our return journey along a path that runs halfway up the hillside, offering spectacular views of the valley. This section is particularly picturesque, allowing you to take in the vastness of the landscape framed by mountains and forests.
The route then takes us to Caraduxe and back to Ferreirela de Riba, before finally returning to Santalla. This route combines history, art, nature and industrial heritage, offering an unforgettable journey through the unrivalled setting of the Eo River, Oscos and Terras do Burón Biosphere Reserve.
- It runs through the Río Eo, Oscos and Terras do Burón Biosphere Reserve, as well as through the Agüeira Basin Special Area of Conservation (SAC) within the Natura 2000 network
- PR-AS 203
- Route partially coinciding with the PR-AS 119 and GR-109
- Sections on roads
- Sections of stony path
Basic tips before going into the mountains
- If you go with a dog, always keep it on a leash.
- Avoid approaching livestock.
- If you find mastiffs protecting livestock, do not approach them, do not pet them and do not feed them. Do not allow them to follow you or stray from their herd. They are working.
- Don't leave a trail. Collect all your waste, including organic waste. Nature is not a dumping ground.
- Act with prudence. Plan your route well, take everything you need and make sure it is adapted to your physical capacity.