The Enchanted Path

The Camín Encantáu is much more than a hiking route: it is a magical journey to the heart of the Ardisana valley, in the council of Llanes, where Asturian nature and traditional mythology come together to offer a unique experience, especially designed to be enjoyed with the family.

This is an easy, well-signposted and not technically difficult 9-kilometre circular route that alternates meadows, forests and small villages in the valley. Along the route, the walker comes across a collection of life-size wooden carvings representing the main characters of the Asturian mythological imaginary: the Cuélebre, the Xana, the Nuberu, the Trasgu, the Sumiciu or the Busgosu, among others. These figures are accompanied by explanatory panels that narrate their legends and powers, helping young and old alike to immerse themselves in a fantastic world deeply rooted in Asturian oral tradition.

The route begins at Venta Los Probes, where the first figures can be seen next to the bar and bowling alley. From there, take the road to Los Callejos and, before crossing the San Miguel river, turn left to follow its course. In this first part of the route you will see El Sumiciu, on the ascent to Gomezán, and El Hombre del Saco, in La Maletería.

The path continues alternating forest and open areas, and offers an enveloping atmosphere as you discover new figures such as the Pataricu, the Diablo Burlón or the Nuberu, which give way to unique spots such as Campu La Prida and the church of Santa Eulalia de Ardisana. Further on, in the surroundings of Ardisana and Ricaliente, other figures appear such as the Cuélebre, the Lavandera, the Busgosu or La Manona, characters that sometimes help humans, and sometimes defy them with mischief and spells.

The route ends in the village of Riocaliente, where the last carving awaits, La Castañera, among granaries and a large chestnut tree. From here, the return to the starting point, at Venta Los Probes, is along the LLN-14 local road, a tarmac stretch of approximately 2 kilometres. Although it is not a busy road, extreme caution is recommended, especially if you are travelling with children.

The Camín Encantáu is ideal for a day's hiking with the family. It is a route that not only takes you through green landscapes and charming villages, but also awakens the imagination, strengthens the link with Asturian traditions and turns each step into a story to be discovered.