Forests cover 37 percent of the Ponga Nature Park. Beech forests are a particularly prominent feature of the landscape, alongside stands of oak, birch, ash and alder. The nature park encompasses the entire area of Ponga and was recognised by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve in 2018. Here, forest landscapes, protected nature and a striking mountain setting come together.
Nature Park, Forests and River Valleys
A particularly notable part of this landscape is the Peloño Partial Nature Reserve, one of the largest continuous areas of beech forest in Asturias. The biosphere reserve has occupied capercaillie lekking sites. The present-day range of the brown bear also includes the entire Ponga Biosphere Reserve, which forms the western boundary of the eastern population. These offer different insights into the area’s nature, from a specific capercaillie habitat to the broad range of the brown bear.
Within the nature park, the Desfiladero de los Beyos is one of the most spectacular narrow river gorges. From the summit of Pico Pierzu, you can enjoy wide views of the Picos de Europa, the Bosque de Peloño and the valleys of Ponga and Sella. This brings together two distinct landscape experiences: narrow river gorges and a panoramic view from the summit.
Hiking Trails and Outdoor Experiences
A route through the Bosque de Peloño follows the old Camín de los Arrieros into the beech forest. It starts at the Les Bedules viewpoint, where there is a wooden boardwalk adapted for people with reduced mobility. This information refers to the boardwalk at the viewpoint; it does not describe the entire route as accessible.
The route to Pico Pierzu, PR-AS 211, is a moderate 10.16-kilometre out-and-back hike from Collada Llomena. The PR-AS 213, Valle del Ponga, is about ten kilometres long, clearly signposted, and passes through forests, along rivers and through picturesque villages. These figures provide specific guidance on route length; check current trail conditions before planning a hike.
Those interested in via ferratas and high-altitude adventures will find Multiaventura Vidosa in the Desfiladero de los Beyos, with seven via ferratas, high-altitude ziplines and Tibetan bridges. These include the Puente de las Nubes, which is about 80 metres long and lies 350 metres above the Sella River. Check the facility’s operating conditions before your visit.
Architecture and Local History
Ponga’s traditional architecture includes palaces, manor houses and churches, as well as communal houses, granaries, haylofts, stables and simple mountain huts. These buildings blend into the mountain landscape. The Torre de Cazo dates back to the Middle Ages and 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.
A permanent exhibition at the Centro de Recepción e Interpretación del Parque Natural de Ponga explores forest ecosystems and local life. If you plan to visit, check the opening arrangements beforehand. Ventaniella offers a different way to explore the area’s history: it was once a venta and also served as a hospital; it continues to function as a venta and mountain refuge for hikers.
Thermal Springs, Cuisine and Festivals
The Ponga and Taranes rivers meet in Mestas. There are two thermal springs there, which supply a traditional thermal bath. The Casa de Baños in Mestas has three hydromassage tubs and a large swimming pool fed by thermal springs. The Mestas recreational area also offers a viewpoint, opportunities for hiking and swimming, parking, tables, barbecue areas and a spring. Some facilities may be seasonal or subject to local restrictions.
Traditional Ponga cuisine includes Pote asturiano and cured meats. Seasonal game dishes include beans with wild boar, wild boar stew and venison. Two annual festivals also offer a reason to visit San Juan de Beleño: the Certamen del Queso de los Beyos, featuring a cheese tasting, takes place there on the first Sunday in December. The Fiesta de El Guirria y del Aguinaldo is celebrated on 1 January and is a festival of tourist interest of the Principality of Asturias. Check the current programme for both dates.
Getting There and Getting Around
The main road connections to Ponga are the N-625 and AS-261. Local roads and paths connect numerous settlements and higher-altitude areas. If you are planning your journey, check road conditions and possible restrictions. Nature, trails, architecture and cuisine offer different ways to discover Ponga according to your interests.
Discover more destinations: San Juan De Beleño, Montaña Central, Villanueva De Oscos, Muros De Nalón, Castrillón, Quirós, Colunga, Vaqueira.
For the main travel overview: Asturias.
