Top 4 Gorges around Somiedo
Best canyons around Somiedo are found within Somiedo Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Asturias, Spain. This region is characterized by dramatic landscapes sculpted by five major river valleys, showcasing contrasting peaks and steep slopes. The park's geology includes Paleozoic folding and glaciation, resulting in east-west oriented canyon-like formations. Beyond natural features, the area is recognized for its cultural heritage, including traditional "brañas" and "teito" huts.
Best canyons around Somiedo
- The most popular canyons include the Bear Trail,…
Last updated: May 23, 2026
Senda del Oso
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Huerta Cave
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Bear Trail
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Senda del Oso Tunnel (Valdecerezales Gorge)
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Views of the Güérgola Gorge
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A series of limestone geological thrusts rise above Arbeyales. The waters of the Murias stream have carved an impressive gorge that is one of Somiedo's greatest natural monuments.
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Before renting a bike from the "Oso goloso" rental shop in Proaza, you should know the following: the gearshift on the mountain bikes (without mudguards, bell, or luggage rack) is absurdly intentionally locked so that, out of a hypothetical 18 gears, you can only use 4 in the middle range (so the chain doesn't come off, hahaha). After you pay and sign, they'll explain this to you. However, this is completely unsuitable for riding the Bear Trail, especially the rather steep eastern variant with its very poor surface. Even with good fitness, you'll often have to dismount. Apparently, there's another rental shop in Proaza...
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The Teverga Gorges are an impressive part of the Senda del Oso, a very popular hiking and cycling route in Asturias. This trail follows the route of an old mining railway and crosses the Valles del Oso, which include the municipalities of Quirós, Santo Adriano, Proaza and Teverga.
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The Bear Trail Tunnel, also known as the Valdecerezales Gorge, is one of the highlights of the Bear Trail in Asturias. This tunnel runs through an impressive gorge, offering a unique experience for hikers and cyclists who follow the route.
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In Santa Marina there are some steps that connect with the section of the Senda del Oso in the municipality of Quirós, perfectly conditioned in the valley of the river Trubia. In autumn the trees are colourful and the warm lights of the most suggestive season of the year envelop the landscapes in a very seductive luminous effervescence. Bárzana is the capital of the municipality of Quirós, it is on the other side of the river, like many villages along the route. The route of the old mining train runs solitary and hidden to the Valdemurio reservoir, a reserve for aquatic birds and an active leisure centre. The Senda crosses the Cuevafurada gorge through an illuminated tunnel and reaches the Caranga de Abajo detour. The Teverga branch deviates to the left, this is the path we will take later on the return from Tuñón. The route continues straight ahead through the tunnels of the Peñas Juntas and Peña Caranga Gorges to the Proaza valley, where the Bear Enclosure is located. At times you can see bears that live in semi-freedom and come to the Senda Enclosure to eat. The cycle route continues through Villanueva and ends at the Tuñón Recreational Area, set up at the Esgarrada bridge. There is a fountain, benches, a children's playground and a bear sculpture. The route returns along the same path to the Caranga de Abajo turn-off and continues through the Teverga valley. On the way back you can take advantage of the opportunity to visit the town of Proaza, connecting again with the Senda at the bridge of the Hydraulic Power Station. The Bear Enclosure is still beautiful, wooded and comfortable for cycling, small villages appear, well-lit tunnels and after several curves the canyon opens up and the houses of Entragu emerge between the trees. The stage continues for a couple of kilometres to San Martín de Teverga, an important crossroads and town with all services.
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This cycle path is part of Spain's greenways, which restore old abandoned railways. The route passes through tunnels, bridges and breathtaking canyons!
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The best place to stop to eat on this entire route is Proaza
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most notable canyon-like valleys to explore in Somiedo Natural Park?
Somiedo Natural Park features several dramatic canyon-like valleys. The most prominent include the Valle del Lago, known for Asturias' largest lake; the Saliencia Valley, famous for its glacial lake system; and the Pigüeña Valley, recognized for its extensive wooded areas. These valleys offer diverse landscapes and experiences.
Are there family-friendly activities or trails in the canyons around Somiedo?
Yes, the region offers family-friendly options. The Bear Trail (Senda del Oso) is a popular choice, following an old mining railway route suitable for both hiking and cycling. Additionally, the Views of the Güérgola Gorge viewpoint is also considered family-friendly, offering impressive natural scenery.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see when visiting the canyons of Somiedo?
The canyons of Somiedo showcase a rich variety of natural features. You'll find dramatic landscapes sculpted by ancient geological processes, including steep slopes, rugged peaks, and glacial valleys. Notable features include the large Lago del Valle, the glacial lakes of Saliencia (La Cueva, Calabazosa, Cerveriz), and extensive forests of beech, oak, and birch. The region's limestone composition also leads to interesting karst formations and caves, such as the Huerta Cave.
What is the best time of year to visit the canyons and valleys of Somiedo for hiking?
The best time to visit the canyons and valleys of Somiedo for hiking is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. This period offers more stable weather conditions, making trails more accessible and enjoyable. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage in the extensive forests.
What are some popular hiking routes or trails in the Somiedo canyons?
Many popular hiking routes traverse the canyon-like valleys. The Valle del Lago is a hiker's paradise with various trails, most notably leading to Lago del Valle. The Saliencia Lakes also offer numerous hiking opportunities of varying difficulty. For a unique experience, the Senda del Oso, an old mine railway route, is excellent for both hiking and cycling through impressive gorges.
Are there any cultural or historical sites near the canyons in Somiedo?
Beyond the natural beauty, Somiedo Natural Park is rich in cultural heritage. You can find traditional 'brañas' (mountain pastures) and 'teito' huts, which are stone cabins with broom-thatched roofs used by nomadic herders. The village of Villar de Vildas in the Pigüeña Valley is an Exemplary Village of Asturias, offering insight into local culture and traditional Asturian architecture.
What kind of wildlife can be observed in the canyon areas of Somiedo Natural Park?
Somiedo Natural Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to diverse wildlife. The extensive forests, particularly in the Pigüeña Valley, are known habitats for Cantabrian brown bears. Other species you might encounter include various birds of prey, deer, and other forest animals, making it a valuable area for ecotourism.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Senda del Oso trail?
Visitors frequently praise the Senda del Oso for its scenic beauty and unique character. It's often described as one of the most beautiful 'vías verdes' (greenways), passing through tunnels, over bridges, and alongside breathtaking gorges. Many appreciate its suitability for both hiking and cycling, offering a chance to experience the region's natural splendor along an historic railway route.
What are the terrain and difficulty levels like for trails in the Somiedo canyons?
The terrain in Somiedo's canyons varies significantly due to dramatic altitude changes, ranging from 400 to over 2,200 meters. Trails can range from easy, family-friendly paths like sections of the Bear Trail, to more challenging routes with rugged peaks and steep slopes, particularly those leading to the higher glacial lakes. Some paths, like parts of the Senda del Oso, can have uneven surfaces, requiring good cycling skills if biking.
Are there viewpoints offering panoramic views of the Somiedo canyons?
Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. The Views of the Güérgola Gorge offers an impressive perspective of the Murias stream carving through limestone. Additionally, many hiking trails, especially those in the Valle del Lago and Saliencia Valley, provide stunning vistas over the rugged peaks, glacial lakes, and forested slopes of the canyon-like valleys.
Most popular routes around Somiedo
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