Green Path As Minas

The Senda Verde As Minas is a circular route that starts in the village of A Espía, a few kilometres from Vegadeo, in the direction of Taramundi. This route invites us to immerse ourselves in a rural landscape of great diversity, where the history of mining, forestry and livestock farming combine in perfect harmony with the natural environment of western Asturias.

From the very first metres, the path takes us into a network of forest tracks that surround a hill and ascend gently until we reach the first open panoramic views of the route. As we gain altitude, extensive pastures appear before us, where cows of the Asturian breed graze, both for meat and milk, together with wide views of the valleys and villages that dot the territory. Overhead, it is easy to spot birds of prey soaring through the sky.

The route is remarkable not only for its open landscapes, but also for the variety of ecosystems it passes through. Stretches of pine and eucalyptus alternate with lush mixed forests of oak and chestnut trees, creating contrasts of light, shade and colour along the entire route. This natural richness makes the path a particularly pleasant walk at any time of the year.

But the true identity of this route lies in its name: As Minas. Along the route, and especially in the final part, you can see the mouths and remains of old iron mines, vestiges of an intense mining activity that left its mark on the landscape. It is estimated that around twenty mines were active in this area, and although today vegetation has covered most of them, their presence can still be sensed in the terrain and in the shapes of the relief.

The route, which is less than 10 kilometres long, is simple and runs for the most part along a dirt track, except for the last stretch, where the path becomes an asphalted road that returns us, after about 800 metres, back to A Espía. Although there are several forks along the route, the signposting is clear and easy to find your way around, making this path an ideal option for both walkers and families.

The Senda Verde As Minas is, in short, a complete experience in which to enjoy nature, history and the rural tradition of Vegadeo. A route that combines scenic beauty and industrial memory in the heart of western Asturias.