Ruta en coche 7: Parque Natural de Redes

This road trip takes you through the stunning Parque Natural de Redes (Redes Nature Park), which has been designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. The park is renowned for its magnificent limestone mountains, enchanting beech forests and picturesque pastures. As you explore this remarkable area, you will encounter a diverse range of wildlife, including capercaillie, chamois, wild boar and deer, which are characteristic of the Cantabrian Mountains. The park's highest peak, La Rapaína, stands majestically at an elevation of 2,019 meters.

In addition to all of this, our excursion offers you the opportunity to explore charming Asturian mountain villages, embark on an exciting hiking route, or even visit a museum dedicated to the fascinating history of mining in the region.

• El gran sueño - Tanes (reservoir): 38.2 km / 1 h

To access the Redes Nature Park, our journey begins in Infiesto, where we take the picturesque AS-254 road to the right, just after crossing the river. During this approximately 25-kilometer or 45-minute journey, we will witness nature's beauty at its finest. First, the road gradually ascends to the Alto de la Collada de Arnicio, reaching an altitude of 908 meters. Then, it descends, and after passing through Bueres, we encounter a small right turn, marked with signs pointing towards Tanes, Prieres, and Gobenzanes. Continuing our journey, once we reach the AS-117, we make another right turn*, heading towards Rioseco. As we proceed, the impressive Tanes reservoir unfolds to our left. This reservoir, which provides water to much of the heart of Asturias, has ornithological value, hosting a variety of waterfowl, herons, and rich wildlife, making it a hunting haven. In fact, along the shores of the Tanes reservoir, you'll find several strategic points set up for birdwatching.

(*) At this point, we must turn left if we want to visit Caleao (see "Other places of interes in Redes" below).

• Tanes (reservoir) - Soto de Agües: 11 km / 13 mins

In Soto de Agües there is a 16th century bridge. This village is the beginning of the most popular route of the Redes Natural Park. It is the Ruta del Alba (PR-AS 62 - 4 h 40 min / 14km round trip), which, with a low level of difficulty, runs through the limestone gorge of the Alba River passing by rapids, waterfalls and riverbank forest.

• Soto de Agües - Ladines: 3.6 km / 8 mins

Ladines is another pretty village with typical rural architecture. There is a church with a very old yew tree in its grounds, great views of the mountain and a 1.3km walk to the Molín del Ponticu. The hiking route PR-AS 63 passes through Ladines. We recommend the section to the Collados of Imblenes and La Mezquita (4 h / 10.2km round trip).

• Ladines - MUMI: 26 km / 30 mins

You return to el gran sueño through the mining valleys. Thus, you will see the contrast between the green landscape and the mining towns. If you have time, you can visit the Museum of Mining and Industry of Asturias in Langreo, which includes a guided visit into a mine.

• MUMI - El gran sueño: 37.3 km / 38 mins

Extra alternative visits:

• Caleao (12 mins / 8km from the AS-117): A beautiful village where you can take the hiking route of the Arrudos (PR-AS61 - 8 h / 22km round trip).
• Bezanes: another beautiful village with typical rural, Asturian architecture. There is another walking route from here, Brañagallones (PR-AS 66 - 6 h / 20.6km round trip).
• Museo de la Madera (Museum of Wood, Campo de Caso) and Casa Juanín (Pendones)

Recommended restaurants:

• Casa Juanín, Pendones
• La Encruceyada, Caleao - traditional cuisine, specialty in pig trotters
• El Merendero de Anzó, Anzó