Cueva del Sidrón brings Borines’ geological and archaeological significance into focus. The history of its springs, Iglesia de San Martín and a described section of the Camín a Cuadonga add historical and landscape perspectives. This makes it possible to distinguish between historical connections to the area and a stretch of landscape when choosing a destination.

Cueva del Sidrón: Karst and Cultural Heritage

Cueva del Sidrón is a karst complex with ten known entrances assigned to several sectors. This classification gives the complex an internal structure. The cave is part of a partial nature reserve and is an archaeological heritage site in San Martín de Borines. Its geological classification is therefore complemented by its protected status and archaeological designation. For travellers interested in nature and cultural heritage, Cueva del Sidrón brings together several distinct aspects of Borines.

The History of the Springs in Two Dates

The history of the mineral water can be traced through two dates. In 1873, the water of Borines was recognised for its medicinal properties. Balneario de Borines opened in 1892, making the spring waters available to the public. There are 19 years between the two dates: the first concerns the properties of the water, and the second the opening of the balneario and the public availability of the spring waters. These dates therefore mark different stages in the history of the springs.

Iglesia de San Martín and Cultural Heritage

Iglesia Parroquial de San Martín in Borines is part of Asturias’ cultural heritage. The first documentary mention of Iglesia de San Martín de Borines dates from 926. Inside the church is a stone inscription referring to the healing properties of the nearby spring. The date and inscription contribute different things: 926 marks the first documentary mention, while the inscription records the connection to the spring. The church thus combines an early written reference with a mention of the spring.

Another archaeological heritage feature of Borines has two names: Estela de San Antonio Paterno and Lápida de Borines. Both names refer to the same feature. So if you come across both names, they do not refer to two different heritage features.

Camín a Cuadonga: Forest, Pasture and River

The Camín a Cuadonga pilgrimage route leads from La Retuera into the parish of Borines. A 2020 description mentions chestnut and oak woodland and pastureland along the section near Borines; there, the route heads towards the Ríu Borines. La Retuera and the section near Borines refer to different locations in the route description: the starting point and the landscape being described. Markings and conditions can change. Check the current route before planning your walk.

When choosing a hotel in Borines, a thematic comparison can help: the history of the springs and cultural heritage contrast with the landscape-focused character of the Camín a Cuadonga.

Discover more destinations: Coya, Naves, El Tejedal, Priede, Triongo, La Pesa, Cuerres, Sotres.

For the wider travel overview: Oriente De Asturias.