Top 12 Natural Monuments around Oviedo

Among the highly regarded natural monuments, the Sacred Heart of Jesus Monument (Monte Naranco) offers impressive views of Oviedo and the central Asturian area. For a unique geological experience, the Covarones of the Tuernes River showcase fascinating karstic formations. Another popular spot is Les Praeres – Sierra de Peñamayor, known for its challenging climb and panoramic mountain views.

Yes, the Guanga Waterfalls, located near San Andrés de Trubia, are a beautiful destination for nature lovers. The hiking route to the falls offers a unique experience within a spectacular natural environment, particularly recommended for a visit during spring. You can find several routes for waterfall hikes around Oviedo.

The region offers diverse geological formations. The Covarones of the Tuernes River feature a karstic environment with caves, stalactites, natural arches, and tunnels sculpted by river erosion. Further afield, the Bufones de Pría on the eastern coast are fascinating natural blowholes that create dramatic jets of seawater during high tides.

Absolutely. The Desfiladero de las Xanas, often called a 'mini Cares gorge,' is an impressive fluvial gorge predominantly located in Santo Adriano, near Oviedo. It features towering vertical cliffs, a rich ecosystem, and marine fossils. The hiking route through Desfiladero de las Xanas is popular and accessible, offering breathtaking views and trails carved into the rock.

Many natural monuments around Oviedo are suitable for families. The Fuensanta Natural Mineral Spring and Mirador de la Peñona are both categorized as family-friendly. The Covarones of the Tuernes River are also considered a must-see and possible route with children, though deeper cave exploration requires specialized knowledge.

The area around Oviedo provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can find various waterfall hikes, running trails, and cycling routes. For example, you can enjoy a difficult 15 km loop hike to Guanga Waterfalls or explore moderate running trails like the Winter Park to Manjoya route.

Yes, the Cuevona de Ardines near Ribadesella is a spectacular and immense cave known for its massive dimensions and natural illumination, part of the Tito Bustillo Cave system. It's considered an important archaeological site due to its use as a shelter by prehistoric humans. Closer to Oviedo, the San Pedrín Cave also offers historical interest.

Yes, if you venture into the wider Asturias region, the Lagos de Saliencia (Saliencia Lakes) in the Somiedo Natural Park offer stunning glacial landscapes. This group of glacial lakes, including Calabazosa and Cerveriz, is a testament to glacial erosion and is set within a spectacular high mountain environment, rich in aquatic vegetation and wildlife.

While many natural monuments can be enjoyed year-round, some offer specific seasonal highlights. The Guanga Waterfalls, for instance, are particularly recommended for a visit during the spring season when water flow is typically at its peak. For coastal phenomena like the Bufones de Pría, visiting during high tide or when the sea is rough provides the most dramatic display.

From summits like Alto del Naranco, you can expect great views of Oviedo, Gijón, and the central area of Asturias. Les Praeres – Sierra de Peñamayor also offers impressive mountain views and a distinct mountain atmosphere, serving as a crossing point for surrounding peaks.

The Bufones de Pría, located on the eastern coast of Asturias near Llanes, provide a unique coastal experience. These natural blowholes, formed by tunnels in the cliffs, create dramatic jets of seawater and air that can reach over 20 meters in height, accompanied by a thunderous roar, especially during high tide or rough seas. The surrounding landscape also offers panoramic views of the Asturian coast.

The Pendón River Gorges feature a river that originates in the Sierra de Peñamayor. This natural monument is notable for its scenic gorge, where the river receives waters from the Bomalu stream in its upper course, creating a picturesque natural setting.