Proaza can be explored through two themes: bears and landscapes on the one hand, and architecture on the other. The Casa del Oso, the Senda del Oso and several buildings offer specific points of interest. You can first decide which themes you want to shape your stay.

Bears and the Senda del Oso

The Casa del Oso in Proaza is the official headquarters of the Fundación Oso de Asturias and features a permanent exhibition on the Cantabrian brown bear. The Fundación offers guided environmental education activities for groups, but only by prior arrangement. If you want to include this activity in your plans, be sure to arrange it before your visit.

From Proaza, both bear enclosures can be reached on foot or by bicycle via the Senda del Oso. The first enclosure, at Monte Fernanchín, covers more than four hectares; Molina currently lives there. Check local conditions in advance when planning your journey to the enclosures.

The Senda del Oso follows the route of a former mining railway. The trail is well signposted, is not very difficult, and can be travelled on foot or by bicycle. On the way to Proaza, it passes through the Peñas Juntas gorge, between limestone walls and the Trubia River.

The route therefore has two distinct features: its former use as a mining railway and the gorge section on the way to Proaza. If you want to focus on nature and outdoor activity, the Senda del Oso offers a specific way to do so; information about its route and terrain can help you decide whether to make it a focus of your trip.

Buildings and cultural heritage

The Torre de Proaza is a circular defensive tower on the banks of the Payónes River. It is the only visible remnant of a fortified complex. The Palacio del Campo, also known as the Palacio de González Tuñón, is an 18th-century palace. The two buildings represent different architectural forms and historical connections.

Within the municipality of Proaza, Banduxu preserves a medieval architectural ensemble. In 2009, it was declared a cultural asset of special interest, a Bien de Interés Cultural. This extends the cultural themes beyond Proaza to the municipality; Banduxu should be understood as a distinct place within this geographical area.

Another architectural example is the Central Hidroeléctrica de Proaza, a rectangular, single-storey concrete building. One side façade features a geometric mural; inside are large figurative murals by Vaquero Turcios. The facility is listed as an option on EDP’s visitor programme. Visitor arrangements and dates may change, so check current options before planning a visit.

Considering Proaza as a place to stay

When planning your trip, you can compare nature and cultural heritage as different areas of focus: the bears and the Senda del Oso on one hand, and the defensive tower, palace, hydroelectric power station and Banduxu on the other. First consider which of these themes you want to shape your stay; this will help you assess whether Proaza matches your travel interests before looking for hotels. Prior arrangements with the Fundación are required for guided environmental education activities.

For the overall travel overview: Proaza.