An accessible route that links nature and tradition, with spectacular viewpoints and unique spots in the heart of the Ponga Natural Park.

The circular route through the Ponga Valley is a perfect experience for those who wish to delve into the most authentic essence of eastern Asturias. This route connects the villages of San Xuan/San Juan de Beleño, Sobrefoz, El Yanu and Abiegos, linking ancient communication paths that run through lush forests, river valleys and trails steeped in history and tradition.

The starting point is the Interpretation Centre of the Ponga Natural Park, in San Xuan/San Juan de Beleño, accessible by the AS-261 road from Cangas de Onís. From there, a concrete path guides us for the first few metres, before turning into a dirt track that enters a thick forest of riverside trees, centenary chestnut trees, blueberry trees and strawberry trees. This first section descends gently towards the river Ponga, which we cross thanks to a natural rock bridge or an old stone bridge, depending on the variant of the route chosen.

The route continues without major slopes until it reaches a signposted turn-off. On the left, the path ascends towards the small neighbourhood of El Yanu and, if desired, to Sobrefoz, where the traveller can enjoy the traditional constructions and the views over the valley. After returning to the previous crossroads, the path heads towards Abiegos, between forest clearings where hazelnut, holly, oak and heather trees and heather dot the landscape.

Before reaching Abiegos, a panoramic viewpoint offers one of the most beautiful postcards of the route, with the Cainava mountain range and Recuencu peak dominating the horizon. Once in the village, the route crosses its streets until it becomes a path again, descending towards the bottom of the valley. In this final part of the route we find vestiges of the past such as abandoned stables and the old Fábrica de la Luz, which once supplied electricity to the area.

The last part of the route involves a somewhat more demanding but short climb, which brings us back to the starting point in San Xuan/San Juan de Beleño. There, we can take the opportunity to visit the Interpretation Centre, which offers a valuable insight into the natural and cultural environment of the park.

  • It runs through the Natural Park and Biosphere Reserve of Ponga, as well as through the ZEC and ZEPA Ponga-Amieva of the Natura 2000 Network.
  • PR-AS 213

Basic tips before going into the mountains

  • Avoid approaching livestock.
  • If you find mastiffs protecting livestock, do not approach them, do not pet them and do not feed them. Do not allow them to follow you or stray from their herd. They are working.
  • If you go with a dog, always keep it on a leash.
  • Don't leave a trail. Collect all your waste, including organic waste. Nature is not a dumping ground.
  • Act with prudence. Plan your route well, take everything you need and make sure it is adapted to your physical capacity.

Imagen información More recommendations for planning your route

Green mountains under a clear blue sky with stunning autumn scenery
A small rural stone chapel with a bell tower and a cosy porch.
Old stone house with wooden windows along a road in a rural and hilly environment.
Bronze bust on a stone pedestal with mountains in the background
Stone church with tower and portico
Old wooden and stone washhouse next to an information panel, surrounded by vegetation.
Panoramic views of a mountain valley under a wide, clear blue sky
Panoramic view of a mountainside village surrounded by nature.
Person walking along a wooded path on a sunny day, enjoying the tranquillity of the forest.
Hiker beside a rocky river walking along the side of a mountainside
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