Route of the Mills of the River Profundo

The Ruta de los Molinos del río Profundo is a route of great natural beauty and ethnographic value that runs through one of the lushest valleys in the council of Villaviciosa. Although it is originally a linear out-and-back route (PR-AS 137), it can also be done as a circular route if it is linked to the GR-108 Camín a Covadonga, combining footpath and small sections of road.

The route starts in Valbúcar (Amandi), at km 9 of the AS-255 road, a few metres before the Quinta La Vega, easily identifiable by its crenellated gate. From there, a wide, comfortable path leads us through groves and farms to the first mills: the Molino de Griselda and the Molino de Villaverde, vestiges of the intense milling activity that took place for centuries in this valley.

The path narrows as it enters a shadier stretch, where the riverside vegetation - oaks, alders, chestnut trees, ferns - envelop the walker in a cool, damp atmosphere, ideal for hot weather. On both sides of the River Profundo there are ruins of old mills: Esprón, Peruya, Perniles, Pascual, Arriba... many of them with their canals still visible, and some of them partially restored.

One of the most beautiful points on the route is the Molín de La Peña, which has a small waterfall and a particularly photogenic setting. For many hikers, this point marks the end of the route, although the path continues upstream passing by new mills until it reaches Buslaz, a rural village where the first traditional hórreo on the route stands out, an example of the ethnographic heritage of the area.

Along the path, you can also find mythological figures carved in wood, the work of local artist Hernán García, which give a magical touch to the route and make it especially attractive for families.

The route is well signposted, runs mostly along paths and tracks, and only has moderate gradients in the final section. In the rainy season, some sections can become slippery due to mud, so suitable footwear is recommended.

Whether as a linear or circular route, the Ruta de los Molinos del río Profundo offers hikers an immersion in the Asturian river landscape, amidst rural history, popular culture and exuberant nature.