The route through the parish of Castañéu, in the council of Grado, is a circular route that invites you to discover the rural landscape that surrounds the town, among mountain meadows, forests, small villages and traditional Asturian architecture. An accessible walk, ideal for enjoying the proximity of the natural environment, with magnificent views over the Nalón and Cubia valleys and, in the background, the Aramo mountain range.

The route starts at Manuel Pedregal Park, next to the house El Capitolio, one of the best examples of Indian architecture in the town. From here, the route climbs up Calle La Resqueta, gradually leaving the urban environment behind and gaining height among meadows and fields in the area known as La Cuba. The first open views over Grau/Grado invite contemplation and mark the beginning of the transition to the rural area.

The path connects with the AS-312 road at La Portiella, a point from which a panoramic view opens up over the villages of Castañéu, Cueru, Peñaflor and, in the background, the Aramo mountain range. After a short stretch on the road, the route turns off towards Llavayos, ascending a narrow track between meadows and small scattered villages. From here, the views extend over the "cubeta de Grado", with the valley of the Nalón and Cubia rivers outlining the landscape.

The path continues along a forest track that goes around Pico Llavayos (321 m), crossing a eucalyptus and pine forest, with natural windows that allow us to make out the villages of Acebéu, San Xuan de Villapañada and Rozadas between the clearings. This stretch, with gentle slopes, marks the transition to the upper districts of Picarosu, where there is a mixture of oak groves, crop fields and examples of traditional Asturian architecture.

The route then descends towards the ruins of the old Castañéu school, a witness to the rural and educational life of other times. From this point, the concrete track leads through chestnut and oak woods, following the descent through the neighbourhoods of La Matiella, Morana, El Tarreiriru and Vistalegre, where the landscape becomes more humanised again and the popular Asturian architecture is still present.

The last section runs along Vistalegre Avenue and Valentín Andrés Street, completing the return to Manuel Pedregal Park, the starting and finishing point of the route.

The Castañéu Route is an excellent opportunity to get to know the mosaic of rural landscapes that surround Grau/Grado, a serene walk that combines heritage, tradition, nature and panoramic views, in one of the best preserved environments in the council.

  • The route partially coincides in minor sections with the Way of St. James.

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

Large historic house with lush garden and bright blue sky
Leafy path with tall trees and hikers in the background
Wide green fields under a blue sky with scattered clouds
Rural road with couple walking, bordered by trees and vegetation.
Square in Grado with ancient buildings and central statue
Elevated view of a village with houses and distant green hills.
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