Obaya Spring

The Obaya Spring Route is a peaceful walk through the green heart of Colunga, combining historical heritage and nature in a short, accessible and charming route. It begins next to the pre-Romanesque church of Santiago de Gobiendes, one of the most representative monuments of early medieval Asturian art.

Located in the village of Gobiendes, this church has an uncertain origin, although it is thought to have been built at the end of the 9th century, during the reign of Alfonso III the Great and Queen Jimena - the same monarch who ordered the construction of the Victoria Cross, the current symbol of the flag of Asturias. The first written references to the temple appear in the 10th century, in the book of donations of his son Ordoño II, King of Galicia. Despite having undergone major modifications, it retains original elements from the 10th century, such as a biforce window in the south wall with a central pillar decorated with interlaced circular motifs. Inside, there are capitals with Asturian motifs, acanthus leaves and sogueados, as well as the remains of another pre-Romanesque window.

From this historic spot, you descend along a small local road towards the village of Gobiendes, passing by the Sierra del Sueve Interpretation Centre, where you can learn about the biodiversity and geology of the area. After crossing the village and reaching the neighbourhood of La Torre, the path leaves the asphalt and descends through meadows and riverside vegetation.

The path becomes wetter and shadier, flanked by oaks, chestnut trees, alders and ferns. The sound of water guides the walker to a wooden bridge over the river Obaya, which replaces an old trunk and gives access to the most intimate section of the route.

Shortly after, the path narrows between moss and rocks until it reaches the Obaya spring, where the water gushes out of the rock to form pools and small waterfalls. This cool, quiet spot invites you to stop and contemplate the serene beauty of the surroundings. In the rainy season, extreme caution is advisable, as the ground can be slippery.

The return is along the same path, ascending again towards Gobiendes and finishing next to the church. This route is perfect for those who are looking for a leisurely experience in which nature, heritage and landscape come together.