Illano Suspension Bridge Route

The route starts at the Folgueiróu recreation area, an ideal place to start the route, equipped with a swimming pool, football pitch and picnic areas, which allows you to plan a full day in nature. From here, take a signposted track that descends progressively through masses of deciduous trees and pine woods, in an environment where the coolness of the forest accompanies the route. Along the descent, the vegetation opens up at some points, allowing you to contemplate the first panoramic views of the Doiras reservoir.

The path continues parallel to the river Navia, whose waters are dammed in this area, forming a backwater that reflects the surrounding mountains. A little before reaching the suspension bridge, there is a natural viewpoint that offers one of the best views of the reservoir, with its calm waters and the surrounding peaks. This suspension bridge, a very light metal structure, is the icon of the route and crosses the reservoir with a gentle sway as walkers cross it.

After crossing the bridge, the path continues along an uphill dirt track towards the village of Llanteiro. In this section, the vegetation changes slightly, with the presence of oak and chestnut trees standing out, as well as some terraced vineyards, characteristic of this area of western Asturias. At the entrance to Llanteiro, you can see the old washing place, with its clear water fountain, and the Chapel of San José, a small temple that reflects the popular architecture of the area.

From Llanteiro, the path returns to the suspension bridge, following the same route in reverse. After crossing it again, the ascent towards Illano becomes steeper, as the slope lost at the start is recovered. The section is demanding, but the beauty of the surroundings makes up for the effort. On reaching Illano, we recommend a stroll through its streets, where the dark stone houses and slate roofs stand out, examples of the traditional architecture of western Asturias. You can also see hórreos and paneras (raised granaries), as well as the odd truébano or traditional beehive, which bear witness to the agricultural and beekeeping activity of the area.

The last section of the route connects Illano with the Folgueiróu recreational area, passing through the village of Cimadevilla and the Alto de Cerezal. Here, the route once again enters a natural environment dominated by pine and oak woods, before descending gently to the starting point.

The Illano Suspension Bridge Route combines nature, ethnography and river landscapes in a circular route of moderate difficulty, which allows you to enjoy a complete experience in western Asturias. The diversity of the landscape, the historical elements and the unique suspension bridge make this trail a highly recommended option for those seeking direct contact with the essence of the Navia Historical Park region.