Peloño Forest

To walk through the Peloño Forest is to enter one of the largest and best preserved beech forests in Asturias, an authentic natural sanctuary within the Ponga Natural Park. This linear route of about 14 kilometres starts at the spectacular viewpoint of Les Bedules. From this point, equipped with a wooden footbridge adapted for people with reduced mobility, you can enjoy a unique panoramic view of the Ponga valley on one side and the imposing Picos de Europa on the other.

The route follows the old Camín de los Arrieros, a wide, well-signposted track with a comfortable surface, which goes deep into the heart of the beech forest. The atmosphere is cool and peaceful, accompanied by the song of birds such as woodpeckers and jays, while through the forest clearings you can enjoy unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains.

After about 3 km of walking you reach the Granceno pass, with a fountain and a short detour that leads to a hundred-year-old beech tree, a living symbol of the passing of time. As you go on, the beech trees give way to scattered oaks until you reach the imposing Roblón de Bustiello, a monumental sessile oak that has become one of the landmarks of the route.

Further on, the path leads to Collada Guaranga, the northern boundary of the beech forest, where there are old machine gun nests from the Civil War, and from where you can see the peak of Sen de los Mulos. From here you can continue on to the Arcenorio plain, below Peña Ten, an extensive pastoral area where the hermitage of the same name stands, surrounded by huts and high mountain flowers such as gentians.

Although the complete round trip totals some 28 kilometres, it is not necessary to go all the way to the end. The track allows you to adapt the route according to your time and strength, which makes it an excellent option for families or hikers who simply wish to go a little way into the Peloño beech forest, without renouncing its beauty and tranquillity.