Following the course of the river Agüeira, the path leads to the spectacular 30-metre waterfall that gives its name to the route. If you wish, you can extend the route by ascending to Busqueimado, where its chapel and two monumental yew trees await you.

The route begins in the recreational area of Pumares, an ideal starting point between the villages of Santalla and Pumares. From here, the route climbs northwest towards the A Seimeira waterfall, one of the great treasures of the Río Eo, Oscos e Terras do Burón Biosphere Reserve.

As soon as we start the route, we pass through the village of Pumares, which stands out for its traditional Oscos architecture. In the past, this enclave was an active centre of ironworks, while nowadays it is oriented towards rural tourism, conserving the essence of its typical constructions.

As we advance, we follow the course of the river Agüeira, with the sound of the water accompanying the path and creating an atmosphere of tranquillity. After approximately 1.5 km, we come to a fork and take the path on the right, which takes us to the next stage of the route.

Some 300 metres further on, we reach the ruins of the abandoned village of A Ancadeira, where the vegetation has reclaimed ancient walls that once housed a vibrant community. From here, we follow the path to the right, entering the Desterrado valley, where we find a small recreational area perfect for a break before continuing.

Further on, we cross a wooden bridge over the river Agüeira, at a point where the route forks. We have two options:

Continue along the river bank until we reach the waterfall of A Seimeira, an impressive natural spectacle, where the water falls forcefully in a setting of lush vegetation or cross the bridge and ascend towards Busqueimado, bearing in mind that the climb is steep and the ground can be slippery. After a kilometre of ascent, we reach this small village, where it is worth visiting the chapel of San Pedro and its majestic monumental yew trees, which create a space of peace and beauty.
After exploring Busqueimado, we start the descent along the same path, enjoying the scenery again on the way back. Once at the Agüeira bridge, we return to the path parallel to the river until we reach Pumares again, the end of the route.

This route is a unique experience that combines nature, history and spectacular landscapes, allowing the hiker to discover the deep connection between human beings and the natural environment.

  • It runs through the Biosphere Reserve Río Eo, Oscos e Terras do Burón.
  • PR-AS 116
  • Wooden bridges along the route, which, although in good condition, can be slippery.

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

Moss-covered stone house among the autumn leaves in Ancadeira, A Seimeira Route.
A Seimeira waterfall in full fall, with hikers contemplating it from the rocks.
Bridge and stone houses in Pumares, the starting point of the A Seimeira Route.
Section of the river Agüeira in the recreational area of Pumares, between mountains and autumn forest.
Waterfall in the river Agüeira among trees and lush vegetation, A Seimeira Route.
Ancient stone buildings half-buried in the Ancadeira forest.
BUSQUEIMADO and SEIMEIRA signage
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