The itinerary begins in the Los Covarones Recreational Area, equipped with a car park, tables, benches, a children's area and an information panel on the route and the plant species in the area, with trees identified in Castilian and Asturian: chestnut trees, oaks, ashes, laurels, among others.

From this point, the path continues along a wide and easy path, passing through pastures and riverside woods, and crossing the small village of Agüera. The route soon takes us to the first rock formations, where the process of karstification has modelled the limestone for centuries, creating natural arches, stalactites, tunnels, windows and caves.

Among these caves is the one known as Refugio de La Nora, where Palaeolithic remains have been found, and which more recently also served as a shelter during the Spanish Civil War. In addition, you can find the remains of two old mills, destroyed by the flood of 21 September 1921, which are a reminder of the old way of life linked to the use of water.

The section next to the river, particularly beautiful and shady, allows you to admire the Covarones del Tuernes, those rock arches and passages which, with the natural light filtering through the hollows, offer a unique visual spectacle full of mystery.

From this area, it is possible to return along the same path or complete a circular route that descends parallel to the river to Puente de Brañes, crossing the Nora and passing through the rural village of Brañes, where the church stands. This alternative, although also accessible, requires a little more attention to the route.

Throughout the walk, the combination of natural heritage, geology and historical memory makes this route a different experience, simple but full of nuances, perfect for those seeking nature with history in the heart of Asturias.

Basic tips before going into the mountains

  • 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.
  • If you go with a dog, always keep it on a leash.
  • 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.

Imagen información More recommendations for planning your route

Picnic table in winter frost-covered park
Two horses grazing on a frozen meadow in a winter landscape.
Natural stone arch in a forest with lush vegetation
Church with ochre-coloured façade and reddish roof
Couple walks along a wide dirt path, trees on either side in a wintry landscape.
Narrow passage between rock cave walls
Stone bridge over a river, surrounded by trees and dense vegetation.
Cave mouth and outside light entering, forming silhouette of the rocky tunnel
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