Ruta en coche 6: Parque Natural de Ponga

The Ponga Nature Park is one of those hidden treasures in the Cantabrian Mountains, situated between the Redes Nature Park and the Picos de Europa. It's less known than its neighbors and less explored, which means it offers a quieter experience with far fewer visitors. Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2018, it boasts extensive greenery, covering nearly 40% of its land with impressive forests, boasting a diverse range of trees such as oaks, birches, ash, and most prominently, the striking beech trees that paint the scenery with their vivid colors. Undoubtedly, one of its main attractions is the Peloño beech forest, especially in the autumn season. Another captivating aspect to discover, besides its forests, is the preservation of traditional architecture, characterized by stone, wood and tile constructions. The beyusco hórreos (or beyusco granaries), small in size with gabled roofs, are particularly noteworthy and represent the rich cultural and ethnographic heritage of the region.

For this exciting excursion, we've planned a circular route with plenty of opportunities for adventure. We begin our journey by taking the AS-339 and AS-261, crossing the picturesque Ponga Council on the way out. Then, on the return trip, we head along the N-625, following the majestic course of the Sella River until we reach Cangas de Onís, passing through the stunning Los Beyos gorge.

But that's not all – for those who crave an even more extensive experience, we offer an option that extends all the way to the Riaño reservoir. This stretch is perfect for those who enjoy covering long distances by car or motorcycle.

During this excursion, you'll have the chance to explore the natural beauty of the region, admire breathtaking landscapes, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Asturias. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure filled with spectacular scenery and thrilling activities!

• El gran sueño - San Juan de Beleño: 48 km / 1 h 10 mins

In San Juan de Beleño, the capital of the Ponga Council, you'll find the Interpretation Center of the Ponga Nature Park. Here, you can gather general information about the park and discover some hiking routes to explore in the area. This center serves as an excellent starting point for your adventure, providing valuable insights into the natural wonders awaiting you in Ponga. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a taste of the great outdoors, be sure to make a stop here to kick off your exploration of this beautiful region.

• San Juan de Beleño - T-junction PO-2 and N-625: 13.3 km / 30 mins

About halfway between San Juan de Beleño and the national road N-625, it's worth making a stop and taking a stroll through the hamlet of Viego, where you can admire some examples of Beyusco granaries. Once you reach N-625, you have two options: head right (south) or left (north).

Heading south on N-625 takes you through the spectacular and dramatic Desfiladero de los Beyos (Beyos Gorge) to Oseja de Sajambre (13.1 km / 20 mins) and further on to Riaño (an additional 30 km / 35 mins), with its reservoir. Both towns are located in the province of León. This route is primarily designed for those who enjoy covering long distances by car, and especially for motorcyclists. Returning to El gran sueño via the Puerto de Tarna would take around 2 hours.

If you continue north on N-625, you'll be on your way to Cangas de Onís. Before reaching there, you can park your car near the Dobra Restaurant, right on N-625. From here, you can embark on the trail to the Olla de San Vicente, leading you to the Fluvial Beach located at the Olla de San Vicente. It's approximately a 2.5 km path along the Dobra River. At the end, you'll find the Olla de San Vicente, where, weather permitting, you can take a refreshing swim. The round trip would take a little over an hour.

• T-junction PO-2 and N-625 - Cangas de Onís: 21 km / 30 mins

In Cangas de Onís we recommend parking, especially if it is Sunday, market day, at the Parking Grande, next to the Bus Station. From here, simply cross the pedestrian bridge over the river, and you'll practically be in the center of what was once the first capital of the Kingdom of Asturias (until the year 774). Notable landmarks include: the Capilla de la Santa Cruz (Chapel of the Holy Cross), where King Favila, the second king of Asturias and the son of King Pelayo, is buried; and the Puente Romano (Roman Bridge) over the Sella river. Although it's not actually Roman but medieval, from the 14th century, it remains one of the most iconic and photographed spots in Asturias. You should also explore the Plaza del Mercado (Market Square), calle de San Pelayo (San Pelayo Street), the old town with the Iglesia de la Asunción (church of the Assumption) and the statue of King Pelayo. Don't miss Casa Riera, located in front of the Roman Bridge, which is a fine example of Indian architecture, and currently serves as the tourist office.

It is also possible to make this route in a clockwise direction. In that case, the itinerary would be the following:

• El gran sueño - Cangas de Onís: 35 km / 35 mins
• Cangas de Onís - T-junction N-625 and PO-2: 22 km / 30 mins
• T-junction N-625 and PO-2 - San Juan de Beleño: 13.5 km / 30 mins
• San Juan de Beleño - El gran sueño: 48 km / 1 h 10 mins

Other possible visit:

• Bosque or Hayedo de Peloño: the Peloño Birch Forest is a Partial Nature Reserve and is one of the largest beech forests in the Iberian Peninsula. You can make a hiking trail from Les Bedules, where we can leave the car. The full trail (round trip) is 25km / 7h, but as it is not circular, we can do as long as we want. By the way, the turning is on the PO-2 road and is marked "Bosque de Peloño".

Recommended restaurants:

• Casa Benigna, La Aldea, Sobrefoz, Ponga (10 mins from San Juan de Beleño)
• El Mentidero, Riaño
• La Sifonería, Cangas de Onís (restaurant, cider bar and shop)
• El Molín de la Pedrera, Cangas de Onís (restaurant in the town center)