Meanders of the Nora
- Address Priañes, Caserio Nora Central Asturias
- Distance Distance: 7.23 kms
- Difficulty Difficulty: Fácil
- Cumulative difference in altitude + Cumulative difference in altitude: +188 m
- Cumulative difference in altitude - Cumulative difference in altitude: -188 m
- Maximum altitude Maximum altitude: 187 m
- Minimum altitude Minimum altitude: 67 m
- IBP index IBP index: 32
- Modality Modality: Familias
- Type of route Type of route: Circular
- Route type Route type: Montaña
- Return by Train Return by Train: No
The route begins next to the church of San Pedro de Nora, a jewel of 9th century pre-Romanesque Asturian architecture, located in a setting that combines historical heritage and river beauty. From here, the route heads towards Priañes, crossing a landscape of meadows, riverside woods and old farming areas. In Priañes you will find the hermitage of Santiago, simple and secluded, as well as a good example of traditional Asturian architecture, with well-preserved hórreos (raised granaries), paneras and large houses.
Shortly afterwards, a detour leads to the Senda Verde de Priañes recreational area, located on the banks of the river Nalón, where the landscape offers a good opportunity to take a break by the water. The path continues towards the Priañes reservoir and the hydroelectric power station, crossing a small tunnel and following the course of the Nalón up to the confluence with the Nora, where this river gives up its waters.
The culminating point of the route is the Mirador de los Meandros del Nora, which has been recently refurbished, from where you can contemplate the extraordinary pattern that the river has formed along its course. The sharp bends of the Nora between the mountains and the agricultural meadows make up one of the most spectacular views of the Asturian river landscape, with the Priañes power station in the background and the Monsacro silhouetted against the horizon.
Along the route it is also possible to discover other heritage elements of interest, such as the remains of the medieval bridge of Gubín, several sections of old roads, water mills and different structures related to the agricultural culture of the area. The route also passes through areas of riverside woodland, dominated by alders, willows and poplars, which accompany the walker for a large part of the route.
The return journey takes place along paths and small country roads, bordering the river, thus completing a complete circuit of nature, history and ethnography, which allows you to enjoy a peaceful landscape with a lot of character.
Due to its low physical demands and the variety of attractions it offers, the Nora Meanders Route is an excellent option to do at any time of the year, ideal for those looking for accessible hiking with great scenic rewards in the surroundings of Oviedo.
- PR-AS 183
- It runs partially through the Meandros del Nora SAC of the Natura 2000 Network.
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.