La Esperanza Mine

The Mina Esperanza Route begins in the hamlet of La Puente, a small rural village that preserves elements of traditional Asturian architecture. From here, the path follows an asphalted road that climbs gently, crossing meadows and native forests of oak and chestnut trees. The vegetation mingles with the sound of the nearby streams, creating a serene atmosphere that accompanies walkers on their journey.

The route advances towards La Figar, where a fountain provides a good place to take a break before continuing towards El Pando pass. A little further on we find La Fontica fountain, another ideal place to refresh ourselves before continuing the ascent. As the path gains height, we reach the Pando pass and then the El Plano pass, from where we can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the valleys and mountains in the area.

From this point, the route skirts the base of Pico Caneo, where you can still see the remains of the railway tunnel that used to cross the mountain. The dirt road that follows allows you to observe old mining structures, testimony to the intense extractive activity that marked the history of the region. This section is key to understanding the importance of mining in Asturias, with mine entrances and buildings that are still standing.

The route continues along the slope of Cantu del Mayaín, a natural vantage point that offers privileged views of the valley and the gorge. As the path advances towards Mina La Raíz, you can see the remains of old mining constructions, framed by forests and meadows. This section allows you to explore one of the most representative historical sites of Asturian mining, before beginning the descent through a forest of centenary chestnut trees that cover the slopes of Mount Pudinga.

At the end of the route, the Senda Mina La Esperanza viewpoint offers spectacular views of the Aramo mountain range and the Riosa river valley. A little further on, we find the Dos Aguas spring, after which the path comes out onto a stretch of road that takes us to La Foz de Morcín, where we can visit the church of San Antonio Abad. In this last section is the cave of El Molín or Entrefoces shelter, an enclave that is difficult to access although of great natural and archaeological interest.

The combination of nature, history and unique landscapes makes the Mina Esperanza route a complete route, in which the beauty of the surroundings is intertwined with the legacy of Asturian mining.