The Camino de Santiago crosses the municipality of Llanera from south to north. Yellow arrows and yellow scallop shell symbols on tiles mark its route; check the local signage before setting out. In the Llanera section, the pilgrimage route crosses the medieval Puente de Cayés over the Río Nora. You can also reach the Alto de la Miranda viewpoint on this section of the Camino: on a clear day, you can see the sea from there.

Churches, mills and architectural history

The Iglesia de Santiago in Arlós and the Palacio de Villanueva in San Cucao are among Llanera’s three cultural heritage sites designated Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC). The Molín de La Ponte and the Capilla de La Ponte also showcase different periods of architectural history. The Molín has been restored; its weir dates from the 12th century. The Capilla de La Ponte is a Baroque chapel built at the end of the 17th century.

Another testament to local history is the freestanding chimney of the former La Sierra brickworks. It is the only surviving architectural remnant of the local brick- and ceramic-factory tradition. This tradition lasted from the 18th century until the middle of the 20th century.

Ceramics in Villayo

Villayo is known for its pottery tradition and local ceramic production. High-quality black pottery is made there, including household items such as pots, casseroles and jugs. In Posada de Llanera, the Escuela Municipal de Cerámica is involved in reviving and preserving the local black pottery tradition. The craft can therefore be experienced in two ways: through production in Villayo and the school’s preservation work in Posada.

Walking and cycling routes

The Ruta de la Cerámica, also known as the Ruta del Barro de Villayo, starts at the Iglesia de Santa Cruz and follows country roads through Villayo. The Ruta de Mundín is suitable for both walking and cycling. Along the way, it passes the Palacio de Villabona and colourful murals near the Renfe station in Villabona. If you cycle the Ruta de Mundín, check the route conditions in advance.

The Circular El Fresno links three named routes: Circular de Covarones, Ruta de la Cerámica and Ruta Ferroñes–Arlós. In the Rutas Conectadas network, walking trails cross varied terrain and broad valleys with natural viewpoints. Walking trails in Llanera also lead to Pico Gorfolí.

On the Ruta Circular Covarones, you can see stone arches, caves and natural karst formations along the riverbank. The Los Covarones recreation area has parking, tables and a children’s area. Visitor facilities may change, so check what is available before your visit.

Landscape and views

The Mirador de Monteagudo offers views over the Noval valley near Ferroñes. On a clear day, the view also extends to Monte Naranco, the Cordillera Cantábrica and the Cantabrian Sea. Visibility determines which distant views you can see here.

As a geographical point of reference, Llanera lies halfway between eastern and western Asturias and is equally distant from Oviedo, Gijón and Avilés.

More activities and food

The Circuito Fernando Alonso offers groups of ten or more adults the chance to go karting, with advance booking. If you’re planning this activity, confirm your booking in advance. Campo de Golf La Morgal has more than 50 practice bays on natural grass; check the current services before visiting.

Food events are also part of the annual calendar in Llanera. Gastronomic event days and special occasions feature both traditional and more modern preparations. For specific dates, check the latest events calendar.

Discover more destinations: Posada, Lugo De Llanera, Degaña, Lena, Parque Histórico Del Navia, Montaña Central, Comarca Del Nora, Taramundi

Back to the main travel overview: Asturias.