Salmon Trail

The trail begins in the recreational area of La Rodriga, from where it crosses the Narcea River to reach Corniana/Cornellana, where the church and monastery of San Salvador are located. This Romanesque monastery, founded in 1024 by the Infanta Cristina, daughter of King Bermudo II, was once an influential centre of religious and economic power. Listed as a National Monument, it preserves its 12th-century church with three semicircular apses and a square tower from the 17th century. Its historical importance and its links with the Cluny order make it one of the most outstanding landmarks on the route.

From Corniana/Cornellana, the route continues parallel to the river, advancing through fertile meadows that have historically been used for cultivation; not in vain are their beans very famous. Along the way you pass through small rural villages, such as Laneo, where you can see examples of traditional architecture, such as hórreos and paneras, as well as an old tobacco drying shed, a vestige of a crop that is not very common in the region but which was of some importance here.

Further on, the path descends towards the banks of the Narcea in the section known as Las Mestas, considered one of the most salmon-fishing areas in Spain. During the fishing season, it is common to see fishermen in action in this enclave, where the river flows between two footbridges: Couto and Cuérragos, which delimit the fishing area. The presence of salmon and the tradition linked to their capture give this stretch a singular value within the route.

The route ends in Bárzana, the last village in the council on this itinerary. From here, hikers can return along the same route, thus completing a day that combines the enjoyment of the river landscape with the discovery of the history and rural culture of the Narcea valley.