Discover the many ways water shapes work, energy and routes at different places in Taramundi. The Museo de los Molinos de Mazonovo showcases hydraulic installations as well as historic systems for milling and generating electricity. Its collection includes 19 mills: eight manual, six hydraulic, three specially designed for children and two special models. Subject to the applicable access rules, visitors can operate most of them themselves and set them in motion.

Water as a source of power and a landscape feature

The ethnographic complex of Os Teixóis also tells the story of harnessing water power: it dates from the 18th century and is based on the extensive use of the river. Since 2006, Os Teixóis has been listed as an Asset of Cultural Interest in the “historic ensemble” category. Traditional architecture here includes manor houses, cabazos and hórreos. A traditional tavern and a picnic area offer homemade food; check before your visit whether food is available.

The Casa del Agua de Bres explores Taramundi’s hydraulic heritage and its traditional water-powered installations. The Centro de Artesanía de Bres has workshop, exhibition and sales areas, as well as a training room. Visitors can get a close-up look at the production processes of the crafts represented there. These different discoveries lead from the technical use of water to the crafts that have a place in the region.

Walking routes with their own character

The Ruta del Agua (PR-AS 17) is a circular route that combines nature and ethnography, taking in waterfalls, mills and traditional villages. It runs through the Río Eo, Oscos e Terras de Burón Biosphere Reserve and passes through native vegetation to a waterfall on the Salgueira River. Access conditions can change after heavy rain, and seasonal conditions can also affect hiking.

The Ruta de Eiroá offers a different landscape: this circular route follows much of the Cabreira River valley. The outward leg combines mountain paths, while the return follows paths along the valley floor.

Crafts along the way and in the museum

The Ruta de los Ferreiros links villages in Taramundi that preserve the essence of ironworking. In one village, visitors can tour the workshops of two knife makers. The route also leads to the Museo de la Cuchillería in Pardiñas, where you can watch a knife-making demonstration; it is best to confirm its availability in advance. Along the way, the route also passes the Church of San Martín, with its tall 18th-century tower.

At the Museo de la Cuchillería, traditional techniques and know-how are combined with newer designs and materials. The knife handles are made exclusively from natural materials, including wood, silver, jet, horn and bone. The Museo Etnográfico de Esquíos offers a broader look at rural tools: its guided exhibition includes more than a thousand objects, most of them made in Taramundi. It is advisable to check the arrangements for the guided visit in advance. The museum also has a working forge where M. Lombardía continues to make knives. If you would like to see the blacksmith at work, ask about the times in advance.

Traces of settlement and everyday life

The Castro de Os Castros offers an archaeological perspective on the area’s long history. The hillfort covers about two hectares and is one of the largest catalogued sites of its kind in the inland Navia-Eo area. Excavated remains point to settlement from the end of the Bronze Age or the early Iron Age through to Roman times. Its size and timespan give the site a different focus from the museums, where specific techniques and objects take centre stage.

Everyday knowledge is also on display at the Museo Etnográfico de Esquíos, in a 19th-century cabazo with a uniquely carved handle. At the Museo del Telar in the centre of Villa Taramundi, visitors can follow textile production from raw materials through spinning, dyeing and weaving to the finished garment. A loom may also be seen in operation there; check in advance whether this will be possible during your visit. Taramundi is considered one of Spain’s pioneering centres of rural tourism. Its museums, craft traditions and circular routes offer different ways to experience this rural destination.

Discover more destinations: Taramundi, Langreo, Castrillón, Gijón, Montaña Central, Villanueva De Oscos, Cangas Del Narcea, Belmonte De Miranda

For the full travel overview: Asturias.