Ideal for those who are looking for a walk through history, wild nature and unfrequented mountain landscapes. The possibility of delving into the culture of the "vaqueiros de alzada" and adapting the distance you wish to walk make this route an enriching experience.

This route, of medium-high difficulty, runs through some of the most authentic and less travelled spots in the interior of the Cudillero council, delving into the cowboy tradition through several old mountain huts, many of which are still in use. The main route is circular and is approximately 24 kilometres long, although there are shorter variants that allow the route to be adapted.

The itinerary begins next to the church of San Martín de Luiña, a temple of great historical value where an inscription on the floor recalls the segregation of the vaqueiros de alzada, transhumant shepherds who occupied the benches at the back during mass. From here, the route crosses the districts of Castañedo and Mumayor, descending through the Barca Valley to the vicinity of the river Uncín, in the area of Artedo.

From this point, a gentle ascent begins along the slopes of the Argoma and Pascual mountain ranges, crossing native forests of notable ecological richness. It is common to see roe deer, wild boar and other wildlife along the way.

As you gain height, panoramic views open up over a large part of the council: Vidio lighthouse, San Martín de Luiña, Lamuño, Salamir, Soto de Luiña, Pramaro or Oviñana, among others. From the area of La Xunglosa, the route can continue along the slopes of Llan de Cubel or take a detour towards the braña of Teixidiello, one of the highest, to then return to San Martín passing through other traditional brañas such as Folgueirúa, La Puerca, Gallinero and L'Eireo.

Those who want to extend the route can continue on to the Brañaseca and Busfrío brañas, in the Pumar mountain range, although this option adds several kilometres more and requires a support vehicle if you do not want to make the return journey on foot. The total distance in this case can reach 30 kilometres.

This route offers a deep immersion in the landscape, history and culture of Asturias, combining the enjoyment of the natural environment with the legacy of an ancestral way of life linked to seasonal grazing in the heights.

PR-AS 272

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

Trail sign with directions in mountainous landscape with lush vegetation and blue sky
Cows grazing on a green hill, a lonely tree and the sea in the distance.
Green valley with village in the distance, surrounded by mountains and dense vegetation.
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