Lakes around Illano are characterized by their integration into the natural and industrial heritage of the region. The area features significant man-made reservoirs, often associated with historical energy production. These bodies of water are set within landscapes that offer expansive views and opportunities for observation. The region's lakes provide points of interest for those exploring its geography and history.
Last updated: October 7, 2026
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Stop here to get a perspective of the route and locate the places and towns.
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A very impressive structure. The village was relocated during the construction of the reservoir.
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Impressive sights. You can stop at the viewpoint and then continue down to the reservoir. There is a public boat service that can pick you up on one side and take you to the other.
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From here you have spectacular views over the Navia river reservoir.
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One of the abundant water storage tanks, in this case from the Fonfaraón mountain range. The site is pretty, with good views and horses and cows drinking water.
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Passing through this dam is part of the Primitive Way of Santiago (Camino Primitivo). As you cross the woods, you reach this imposing dam, which must be crossed before the long climb on the asphalt road to Grandas de Salime village begins.
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This dam is, together with the Arbón and Doiras dams, the third built on the Navia River, whose course runs through Galicia and Asturias for 159 kilometres.
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The primary bodies of water to discover in the Illano region include the impressive Grandas de Salime Reservoir, the picturesque La Marta Lagoon, and the expansive Salime Reservoir. Each offers unique perspectives and experiences of the local landscape.
Yes, the Grandas de Salime Reservoir is a significant historical site. Its colossal dam, built between 1945 and 1955 for electrical energy production, is considered one of Asturias' best examples of industrial heritage. La Marta Lagoon also has a historical connection, as it was an old water deposit used for gold extraction.
The region offers spectacular vistas, particularly from viewpoints overlooking the Navia river reservoir. For instance, the highlight Beautiful views over the reservoir provides an excellent perspective of the route and surrounding towns. The Grandas de Salime Reservoir also features a dedicated viewpoint for impressive sights.
Yes, the area around the Navia river reservoir, specifically the highlight Beautiful views over the reservoir, is noted as family-friendly. It's a great spot to enjoy the scenery together.
The lakes and surrounding areas in Illano are excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, mountain biking, and cycling. Explore options like the Agüeira River Trail for hiking, or challenging MTB trails around La Marta Lagoon and cycling routes near the Salime Reservoir.
Absolutely. For hikers, the Agüeira River Trail offers a moderate 7.6 km experience. Other options include the 'Route of the environments of Grandas' and sections of the Camino Primitivo, such as 'Berducedo to Buspol' or the 'Hospitales Route', which pass near the reservoirs.
Yes, the region is well-suited for both cycling and mountain biking. You can find challenging routes like the 'Grandas de Salime pasando por el río Vavia' for MTB or the 'View of the Salime Reservoir – Grandas de Salime Reservoir loop' for cycling. Check the MTB Trails around Illano and Cycling around Illano guides for detailed routes.
The Grandas de Salime Reservoir is notable as the third dam built on the Navia River and a monumental example of Asturias' industrial heritage. Its construction was a massive undertaking, completed in 1955, and it continues to be a key site for electrical energy production, offering impressive views from its dedicated viewpoint.
La Marta Lagoon is a charming and somewhat hidden gem. It's an old water deposit historically used for gold extraction. Visitors often see cows and horses grazing on its banks, adding to its serene charm, and it offers spectacular 360º views of the surrounding Fonfaraón mountain range.
While specific seasonal data isn't available, generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling around the lakes, with vibrant foliage or blooming nature. Summer can be warm, ideal for enjoying the water views, while winter might offer a quieter, more serene experience, though some routes could be more challenging.
La Marta Lagoon could be considered a quieter, less-known spot. Its history as an old gold extraction water deposit and the presence of grazing animals give it a unique, tranquil atmosphere away from more bustling areas.
Visitors frequently appreciate the spectacular views over the Navia river reservoir, especially from designated viewpoints that offer a great perspective of the landscape. The historical significance of sites like the Grandas de Salime Reservoir and the peaceful charm of places like La Marta Lagoon, with its grazing animals, are also highly valued.
Yes, specifically at the Salime Reservoir, there is a public boat service available that can transport you from one side to the other, allowing for a unique way to experience the impressive sights of the reservoir.

