Ponga: Forests, Trails and Living Traditions

37 percent of Ponga Nature Park is forested. Beech trees shape the landscape, alongside oaks, birches, ashes and alders. Narrow river valleys, trails through woodland and historic buildings offer additional highlights for your stay.

Nature Park, Forests and Wildlife

The nature park covers the entire area of Ponga and was recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2018. The Peloño Partial Nature Reserve protects one of the largest continuous areas of beech forest in Asturias. The route through the Bosque de Peloño follows the old Camín de los Arrieros into the beech forest.

Wildlife is also part of this natural environment: the Ponga Biosphere Reserve has occupied capercaillie lek sites. The reserve lies entirely within the brown bear’s current range and forms the western boundary of the eastern population. Within the nature park, the Desfiladero de los Beyos is one of the most spectacular narrow river valleys.

Hiking and Outdoor Activities

The route through the Bosque de Peloño begins at the Les Bedules viewpoint. There is a boardwalk there adapted for people with reduced mobility. The Valle del Ponga trail (PR-AS 213) is about 10 kilometres long, clearly signposted and passes through forests, along rivers and through picturesque villages.

Another hike leads to Pico Pierzu: the PR-AS 211 is a moderately difficult out-and-back route of 10.16 kilometres from Collada Llomena. From the summit, panoramic views extend over the Picos de Europa, the Bosque de Peloño, and the valleys of Ponga and Sella. The hikes offer different experiences: a summit hike rated as moderately difficult on the one hand, and forest, river and village landscapes on the other. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

At the Desfiladero de los Beyos, Multiaventura Vidosa offers seven via ferratas, as well as high-altitude ziplines and Tibetan bridges. These include the Puente de las Nubes: it is about 80 metres long and 350 metres above the Sella River. Check current operating conditions before your visit.

Thermal Springs and Recreation Area in Mestas

In Mestas, the Casa de Baños has three hydromassage tubs and a large swimming pool, supplied by thermal springs. At the confluence of the Ponga and Taranes rivers, there are also two healing springs that supply a traditional thermal bath.

The Mestas recreation area offers a viewpoint, opportunities for hiking and swimming, as well as parking, tables, barbecue areas and a spring. Facilities may be seasonal or subject to local restrictions, so check local conditions before your visit.

Architecture and Local History

The medieval Torre de Cazo is one of the oldest buildings in Asturias. Its strategic position above the Ponga River valley and its solid construction suggest a military and defensive purpose. Ponga’s traditional architecture also includes palaces, manor houses, churches, communal houses, granaries, haylofts, stables and simple mountain huts that blend into the mountain landscape.

Ventaniella continues to serve as a venta and mountain refuge for day-trippers. In the past, it was also a hospital. These different uses tell the story of local history, without requiring you to focus your trip solely on historic buildings.

Cuisine and Festivals

Traditional Ponga cuisine includes Pote asturiano and cured meats. Seasonal game dishes include beans with wild boar, wild boar stew and venison, so individual dishes may not be available at every time of year.

In San Juan de Beleño, the Certamen del Queso de los Beyos takes place every year on the first Sunday in December, where you can sample the cheese. The Fiesta de El Guirria y del Aguinaldo is also celebrated there every year on 1 January; it is a festival of tourist interest in the Principality of Asturias. Check the latest dates and programmes for both events when planning your trip.

Roads and Travel Planning

The main roads leading to Ponga are the N-625 and AS-261. Local roads and paths connect numerous settlements and higher-altitude areas. As road conditions and restrictions may change, check conditions before driving. When planning your stay, you can choose nature, hiking, thermal springs or festival dates as different focal points, then look for a hotel for your trip to Ponga.

Discover more destinations: San Juan De Beleño, Muros De Nalón, Ibias, San Martín De Oscos, Corvera De Asturias, Lena, Morcín, Comarca De La Sidra.

For the regional travel overview: Asturias.