The Camino Primitivo gives Salas a historic axis: the Way of St. James that runs through the town is considered the first Way of St. James and the oldest route to Compostela. Along the route, you will encounter churches, chapels, wayside crosses and pilgrim hospitals. The history of pilgrimage and the architectural heritage of the Villa of Salas are therefore part of the same discoveries. The town is one of the best-preserved medieval settlements in Asturias.

Medieval Architecture and the History of Pilgrimage

A distinctive part of this heritage is the Torre Medieval de Salas, also known as the Torre de los Valdés. The square tower dates from the 14th century and is connected by an arch to the Palacio de Valdés-Salas. The Palacio is a complex comprising a palace and a medieval tower dating from the 14th to the 16th centuries; the connecting arch bears coats of arms. Their architectural forms and connection give the history of Salas a tangible presence, without limiting your attention to a single building.

The Palacio houses the Fundación Valdés-Salas and the Aula Universitaria Valdés-Salas. The Aula organizes cultural and academic activities; if you plan to include them in your itinerary, check the current program in advance. The collection at the Museo Prerrománico San Martín de Salas offers another insight into the town’s historical heritage. It preserves valuable objects and epigraphic stone slabs from the nearby church of San Martín.

Riverside Paths, Viewpoints and Landscapes

The varied landscapes around Salas also shape the discoveries to be made beyond its buildings. Pico Aguión is a natural viewpoint offering panoramic views over the valleys of the Narcea and Nonaya, the Villa of Salas and the mountains of western Asturias. Marked trails from the Villa of Salas lead to Pico Aguión; check the latest trail information before setting out.

The Senda de la Cascada de Nonaya offers a different perspective. It follows the River Nonaya through a natural corridor where trout and eels can be found. Before reaching the waterfall, the route crosses the historic stone bridges of Puente de Borra and Puente de Carcabón. This route focuses on the river and its bridges, while Pico Aguión offers far-reaching views over valleys and mountains.

The officially waymarked short-distance hiking trail P.R. AS-128 Sendero del Salmón runs along the Narcea, following the route of a former railway line. The river and the former railway alignment shape the character of this trail. It is therefore distinct from both the viewpoints at Pico Aguión and the sequence of river corridor, bridges and waterfall on the Senda de la Cascada de Nonaya. As route details may change, check the latest information before setting out.

Another distinctive connection between nature and religious architecture is the Tejo de Salas, a natural monument that stands 16 meters tall and is one of the tallest yew trees in Asturias. It stands next to the parish church of San Martín. The chapel of Nuestra Señora del Viso is five kilometers from the Villa of Salas, near the summit of Monte Viso at an elevation of around 600 meters; from there, you can enjoy views across varied landscapes.

Traces of History and Local Traditions

Another route, “Salas desde la Trinchera,” leads to former Spanish Civil War positions in the highlands around Salas. Its subject differs from the medieval heritage along the Camino: here, the focus is on the historic positions. If you plan to take the route, check the latest trail conditions in advance.

Local products and events are also part of the town’s character. Carajitos del Profesor is an iconic shop in Salas specializing in carajitos, a typical sweet from Salas. They are made there by hand every day, following a centuries-old recipe. The Concurso de Sidra Casera de Salas brings local producers together and takes place annually; check the dates for the year in question if you wish to plan your trip around it.

When looking for a hotel in Salas, the focus of your trip can help you decide: the history of pilgrimage and architecture, riverside trails and viewpoints, or local traditions.

Discover more destinations: Malleza, Salas, Cornellana, Santiago De La Barca, La Granja, Ponga, Valle del Nalón, Ibias.

For the main travel overview: Asturias.