Somiedo Biosphere Reserve and its Villages - Tour from Oviedo
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover Somiedo Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve!
We will begin our journey at the Alto de la Farrapona mountain pass, where you'll enjoy panoramic views and have the chance to spot wildlife from designated bear-watching viewpoints. Next, we’ll take a scenic hike to Lago La Cueva, a stunning lake surrounded by majestic mountains.
Our adventure continues with a visit to the Somiedo Ecomuseum, where you’ll learn about local culture, transhumance, and traditional thatched-roof huts. We’ll also explore the charming village of Pola de Somiedo, before heading to La Peral, where we’ll take in breathtaking views of the valley from the Mirador del Príncipe.
This tour is perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts!
Available options
Somiedo Biosphere Reserve and its Villages - Tour from Oviedo
What's included
Private transportation
Local Guide
tickets Ecomuseo de Somiedo
Detailed itinerary
1
In this day tour we will drive along the stunning Somiedo Natural Park, designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2000, is one of the first protected natural areas in Asturias since 1988 and one of the best-preserved in northern Spain. Covering 29,164 hectares, this park offers a truly unique environment, perfectly representing the…
2
Our journey will begin as we head toward the Alto de la Farrapona mountain pass.
Along the way, we will immerse ourselves in the wild beauty of the rocky mountains and pass through an area with several viewpoints ideal for bear watching.
Once we reach Alto de la Farrapona, we will start a slow hiking route to La Cueva Lake (1 h go and return). From the Alto de la Farrapona lookout, we wil enjoy with breathtaking views surrounded by majestic mountains.
3
Next, we will head to Veigas to visit the Somiedo Ecomuseum. Here, we will gain insight into traditional crafts, transhumance, and the famous "teito" huts—unique dwellings with thatched roofs, characteristic of the region.
4
We will visit Pola de Somiedo, the capital of the region and the heart of the Somiedo Natural Park. This charming Asturian village, hidden among the mountains since the 13th century, sits along the Somiedo River
Here, we will stroll through its picturesque cobbled streets and visit the 18th-century Church of San Pedro before enjoying some free time to have lunch and savor the local cuisine.
5
Finally, we will head to the village of La Peral, located at 1,200 meters above sea level. This village is actually a former highland "braña" of the Vaqueiros de Alzada, a traditional group of nomadic herders.
6
In La Peral, we will walk up to "del Príncipe" lookout, where we can enjoy breathtaking views over the valley.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for travelers with mobility problems
Meeting point
BUS STOP "JOVELLANOS"
08:30 am
About Oviedo
Oviedo, the capital of the Principality of Asturias, is a charming city nestled in the heart of northern Spain. Known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious gastronomy, Oviedo offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The city is also famous for its association with the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route and its pre-Romanesque churches, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Top Attractions
Oviedo Cathedral
The Oviedo Cathedral, also known as San Salvador Cathedral, is a stunning example of Gothic and Baroque architecture. It houses the Holy Chamber, which contains important religious relics.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
€5
Santa María del Naranco
This pre-Romanesque church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Asturian architecture. It was originally built as a palace for King Ramiro I.
Historical
1 hour
€3
Campo de San Francisco
This beautiful park is the largest green space in Oviedo and a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It features a variety of plant species, walking paths, and a lake.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Museo de Bellas Artes de Asturias
This fine arts museum houses an impressive collection of works by Asturian and Spanish artists, spanning from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
Museum
1-2 hours
€3
Teatro Campoamor
This historic theater is the venue for the prestigious Princesa de Asturias Awards ceremony. The building itself is a beautiful example of 19th-century architecture.
Cultural
30 minutes to 1 hour
€5 for guided tours
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fabada Asturiana
A rich and hearty bean stew made with fabes (white beans), morcilla (blood sausage), chorizo, and pork shoulder.
Main Course
Contains pork and sausage
Cachopo
A breaded and fried sandwich filled with veal, ham, and cheese.
Main Course
Contains pork, beef, and dairy
Sidra (Asturian Cider)
A traditional Asturian cider made from local apples. It is typically poured from a height to aerate it and enhance its flavor.
Drink
Alcoholic beverage
Arroz con Leche
A creamy rice pudding flavored with cinnamon and lemon zest.
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking in Picos de Europa
Caving in Cangas de Onís
Mountain biking
Picnicking in Campo de San Francisco
Wine tasting in local sidrerías
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting museums and historic sites
Attending local festivals and events
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the warmest and driest period, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city. The weather is generally pleasant, making it perfect for both cultural sightseeing and enjoying the natural surroundings.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Asturian (Bable)
- English: Limited
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Oviedo is generally a safe city, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in tourist areas and on public transportation.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transportation.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Getting there
By air
- Asturias Airport • 40 km from city center
By train
Oviedo Station
By bus
Oviedo Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The urban bus network in Oviedo is efficient and covers most parts of the city. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Cabify, MyTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
San Lázaro
La Florida
Day trips
Gijón
30 km from Oviedo • Half day to full day
Gijón is a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and lively cultural scene. It's a great destination for a day trip from Oviedo.
Cangas de Onís
35 km from Oviedo • Full day
Cangas de Onís is a historic town known for its Roman bridge and as the gateway to the Picos de Europa National Park. It's a great destination for history and nature lovers.
Lagos de Covadonga
35 km from Oviedo • Full day
The Lagos de Covadonga are two glacial lakes located in the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park. They are a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers.
Festivals
Fiesta de San Mateo • September
Antigua Feria de Muestras de Asturias • August
Festival Internacional de Cine de Oviedo • November
Pro tips
- Visit the Holy Chamber in Oviedo Cathedral for a deeper understanding of the cathedral's significance and the history of Asturias.
- Take a guided tour of the pre-Romanesque churches, such as Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo, to learn more about their history and architecture.
- Explore the city's markets, such as the Mercado del Fontán, for a taste of local products and culinary traditions.
- Try the local cider, or sidra, which is typically poured from a height to aerate it and enhance its flavor.
- Visit the Campo de San Francisco park for a peaceful escape from the city, especially in the spring when the flowers are in bloom.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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