El Cabril

The ascent to El Cabril is one of the most unique hikes in western Asturias, starting and finishing in Xinestosu (Genestoso), a village located at an altitude of 1,000 metres and known for its exquisite artisan mountain cheese, moulded in esparto hoops. This circular route, which combines history, high mountain scenery and biodiversity, allows you to discover ancient transhumance routes, glacial lakes and shepherds' huts on the border between the municipalities of Somiedo and Cangas del Narcea.

The route begins at the end of the village of Xinestosu, next to the river of the same name. Once you have crossed the river, the path begins a gentle ascent towards the Los Corros valley, passing through the meadows of Las Carruexas and the spring of La Pasadina. In this section you cross pastures and glimpses of the livestock farming landscape that is still active.

In the Los Corros valley, where there is a small renovated braña, the path continues to gain height until it reaches the Tres Lagunas pass. Shortly before the pass you can see, to the right of the path, a permanent lake located in the shelter of some crags. Just beyond, the three seasonal lakes that give the pass its name appear on a wide plain.

From here, the path continues towards Col.láu Entrecuetos, a natural pass between El Cabril and Peña Treisa. The summit of El Cabril is just 600 metres away, and from here you can enjoy 360º views that, on clear days, reach as far as the Galician and Asturian coasts. To the south, the impressive Pigüeña valley opens up, with its traditional villages and "brañas" such as La Pornacal, and to the east, the valleys of León can be seen.

The return can be done in several ways. The most direct option is to descend from the col.láu de Fanarrionda along the Camino de la Polvorosa, an old communication pass between Xinestosu and Villar de Vildas that runs through a leafy birch forest. This descent is short but quite steep.

We have opted for the most panoramic option, i.e. to continue along the old Camino Real, which runs under the line of peaks, passing through the col.láu Los Secuel.los and the valley of Las Zreizales, to reach the El Llano turnoff and return to Xinestosu via La Gobia, with exceptional views over the valley of Xinestosu.

Important note:

This route passes through an area where bears are present. According to Decree 10/2015, access is regulated and is only allowed from 16 June to 15 August, and from 1 October to 30 November. Plan your outing within these authorised periods.