Top 7 Gorges around Mieres

The area around Mieres offers a variety of striking natural features. You can explore unique geological formations like the travertines at Molí dels Murris Pool, where the Cogolls stream has enriched the water with dissolved calcium bicarbonate, shaping the waterfall. Other highlights include the volcanic origin pools at Gorges of the Font de la Torre, dug by waters in basalt rock, and the travertine cracks and crevices at Travertine Formations at Les Estunes.

Yes, several options are suitable for families. La Plana Pool, with its two waterfalls, is easily accessible and considered an ideal route for families. Additionally, the greenway featuring Bridges, ravines, and gullies on the greenway offers great scenery and is also family-friendly. For canyoning (barranquismo) in the wider Asturian region, Río Rubó is often recommended for beginners and families, including those with young children, as it typically doesn't involve rappelling.

Visitors particularly appreciate the natural water features. Molí dels Murris Pool is considered one of the most beautiful pools in the area, known for its unique travertine formations. La Plana Pool is loved for its accessibility and two waterfalls, making it a popular spot for a refreshing dip. The Gorges of the Font de la Torre are also highly rated for their small, deep cavities of volcanic origin.

While Mieres itself is more known for its mining history and cultural sites, the wider Asturian region is a popular destination for barranquismo. Mieres can serve as a base for accessing various canyoning routes. Options range from beginner-friendly routes like Río Rubó (in Peñamellera Baja) to intermediate ones such as Río Vallegón and La Molina, and more experienced routes like Viboli (in Amieva) and Cobarcil Canyon. These activities involve descending river courses, often with rappelling, jumping, and natural water slides.

The best time to visit the canyons and gorges for active water sports like barranquismo is generally during the summer season, when water levels are suitable and the weather is warm. For scenic walks and enjoying the natural pools, spring is also excellent, with blooming flowers and fewer crowds. Some canyons, like Cobarcil, are specifically best visited in summer as they can be impractical in other seasons.

When visiting natural pools like La Plana Pool, be aware that during summer, popular spots might require reservations in advance due to local government regulations to manage crowds. A day pass often allows access to multiple gorges in the area. Always check local guidelines before your visit. For places like Molí dels Murris Pool, visitors recommend it as an amazing and quiet place, even if the weather isn't ideal for swimming.

Beyond exploring the gorges, Mieres is a great starting point for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy routes like "Nature in its Purest Form" near Santa Pau, or more challenging ones like "Santa Maria de Finestres – Turó de Forats loop." For cyclists, there are many road cycling routes, such as the "Banyoles Lake Westbank – Lake Banyoles loop." Running enthusiasts can also find trails like the "Santa Margarida Volcano Crater loop." You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Mieres, Road Cycling Routes around Mieres, and Running Trails around Mieres guides.

While Mieres is known for its mining history, some natural sites also carry local folklore. For instance, the Travertine Formations at Les Estunes are associated with the legend of the Goges, Alogas, or water women, who were said to revel and sing there at night. This area is also recognized for its geological value, declared a geotope and included in the PEIM (Plan for Spaces of Natural Interest).

The difficulty varies depending on the specific location. Some spots like La Plana Pool are easily accessible and ideal for families. Other areas, such as Molí dels Murris Pool, Travertine Formations at Les Estunes, and Gorges of the Font de la Torre, are generally considered intermediate. For canyoning, routes in Asturias range from beginner (Río Rubó) to intermediate (Río Vallegón, La Molina) and advanced (Viboli), requiring varying levels of experience and physical condition.

While the guide highlights popular spots, the broader Asturian region holds many natural wonders. The Gorges of the Font de la Torre, located in the heart of the Llémena Valley, are a set of unique pools of volcanic origin that offer a distinct experience. The Travertine Formations at Les Estunes also provide a quiet walk full of peace, with its unique geological features and local legends, making it a special corner of the municipality of Porqueres.

The natural pools formed by the gorges offer opportunities for wild swimming. Molí dels Murris Pool and La Plana Pool are both excellent spots for a refreshing dip, especially during warmer months. The Gorges of the Font de la Torre also feature small, deep cavities that are suitable for swimming. Remember to check local conditions and any potential regulations before entering the water.