A glacial meadow surrounded by beech forests and blueberry bushes lies on the route to Brañagallones, at an altitude of 1,215 metres. This specific landscape offers a starting point for discovering Caso as a destination shaped by nature, water and culture: the entire municipality lies within Redes Natural Park, which is also recognised as a Biosphere Reserve. Mountain trails, a reservoir and museums dedicated to wood and beekeeping offer different ways to explore the area.
A landscape of mountains and water
Redes Natural Park is home to glacial moraines and cirques, karst caves, pastures and mountain landscapes. Brown bears, Cantabrian capercaillie, wolves, chamois and deer can be found there. Caso is also home to the source of the Nalón: it rises at Fuente La Nalona in Tarna. Near El Campu lies Cueva Deboyu. There is a recreational area by the Nalón here, where the river enters the cave.
The path to Tabayón del Mongallu leads to a 60-metre-high waterfall designated a Natural Monument. The PR-AS 60 circular route to Tabayón starts in the village of Tarna. This links the waterfall to a named trailhead, without extending the route description beyond that starting point.
Routes with different details
The circular Valle del Río Medio route from Orllé in Caso is listed as just over 7 kilometres long, with around 600 metres of elevation gain, and taking about three hours. The Desfiladero de los Arrudos section starts in Caliao and runs for about 6 kilometres to La Fontona. The distances refer to different types of routes: a circular route in one case and a described section in the other. Conditions on the Arrudos trail may change.
The route up to Tiatordos passes through forests and mountain pastures and over ridges before reaching the 1,951-metre-high summit; the return journey goes through Foz del Palombar. Conditions may vary by season. This route offers a different kind of landscape from the path to Brañagallones, whose destination is a glacial meadow at an altitude of 1,215 metres. The specific details about the terrain and route can help with planning, but they do not in themselves indicate a difficulty level.
At the Tanes Reservoir: church, shore and kayaking
The Colegiata de Santa María la Real de Tanes stands on the shore of the Tanes Reservoir. Its nave and several annexes form an ensemble with unusual proportions, which is atypical of Asturian churches. The reservoir shores also offer their own activities: they are suitable for walking and birdwatching. Ducks and other waterfowl, waders and herons may be seen there.
Guided kayaking trips are also offered on the reservoir, providing a different perspective on the landscape. On foot, the focus is on the shore and birdlife; from a kayak, you can take in the landscape from the water. Check whether guided trips are available before your visit.
Wood, bees and rural traditions
The Museo de la Madera in Veneros is housed in a 17th-century Asturian Baroque palace. Exhibits include wooden clogs, tools and other wooden objects. A walk around Veneros complements the museum visit, offering a chance to discover traditional wooden buildings and a variety of wooden household items. The Museo de la Apicultura de Caso explores the world and development of beekeeping; visitors can see how a living beehive works. Check the museums' visiting arrangements in advance, as opening arrangements may vary.
The two historic Tercias are also part of Caso's rural history. Together, they encompass six villages and preserve customs and memories of rural life in the past. One regional culinary tradition is Queso Casín: its production area is concentrated in the municipalities of Caso, Sobrescobio and Piloña. It is traditionally made using the “Rabila” method, a distinctive way of kneading the cheese.
Discover more destinations: Campo De Caso, Bueres, Caleao, Tanes, Onís, Cangas Del Narcea, Pesoz, Muros De Nalón.
For the broader travel guide: Asturias.
