Morcín: Mountain Trails, Monsacro and Cultural Heritage

Landscape and orientation

Morcín is part of the protected landscape of the Sierra del Aramo. The limestone ridge is almost 20 kilometres long and seven kilometres wide. Mountain trails, viewpoints and evidence of local history offer a variety of ways to plan your stay.

The protected landscape of the Sierra del Aramo can be reached via the AS-229 regional road between Pola de Lena and Bárzana. Check the road conditions before setting out. Access to the Embalse de Alfilorios is via the N-630, through Santolaya and along the MO-1 and MO-2 towards Los Alfilorios.

At the northern end of the Embalse de Alfilorios, there is a recreation area and a small viewpoint. From there, you can see Monsacro, where two medieval chapels stand. Waterbirds can also be spotted at the reservoir. A stay by the water can therefore combine scenic views and birdwatching.

Hikes and viewpoints

The climbs from La Vara to Mostayal and Gamonal each take two to three hours. Both climbs are considered easy. The times and difficulty ratings are intended as a guide: conditions and your personal pace affect the hike. The Peñerudes and Torreón route is considered suitable for all audiences; here too, check current conditions before setting out.

The route to Pico Llosorio is a 12.82-kilometre circular mountain hike. It starts and ends in La Foz de Morcín. In clear weather, the 360-degree view from the summit stretches from the Picos de Europa to the Cantabrian Sea. For planning purposes, the distance of this loop and the time estimates for the two climbs from La Vara offer different points of reference.

Cultural heritage and local history

The Torreón de Peñerudes is classified as a Bien de Interés Cultural. At the summit of Monsacro stands the Ermita de la Magdalena, a Late Romanesque building dating from the 13th and 14th centuries. It is very close to the Chapel of Santiago. Both chapels, Magdalena and Santiago, are classified as Bien de Interés Cultural; their classifications are dated 8 May 1992.

La Foz has also received an award: the Fundación Princesa de Asturias named it a Pueblo Ejemplar. The mountains of Morcín are also home to megalithic burial mounds and burials.

The Muséu Etnográficu de la Llechería is part of the network of Ethnographic Museums of Asturias. It is housed in the former hoppers of the Pozo Monsacro mine. Advance booking is required for a visit; check the booking arrangements beforehand.

The Mina La Esperanza route features mine entrances, railway tunnels and mining facilities that bear witness to the area's industrial past. The Cueva del Molín, also known as the Entrefoces rock shelter, is also of natural and archaeological interest. Access is considered difficult.

Local traditions

The Quesu d'Afuega'l Pitu competition showcases cheeses made by artisan producers from across Asturias. If you would like to include the competition in your travel plans, check the dates for the year of your trip.

Discover more destinations: Argame, Peñanes, Las Vegas De Cardeo, Grado, Siero, Piloña, Salas, Laviana.

For the broader travel overview: Asturias.