The best walks and hikes around Oviède

Hiking around Oviède offers a diverse landscape of green mountains, dense forests, and powerful rivers. You'll find varied terrain, from the elevated paths of Monte Naranco with significant elevation changes to gentler riverside walks along the Nora River. The region also features sections of the historic Camino Primitivo, providing a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Yes, the Oviède area boasts a wide selection of routes. There are over 190 hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. Approximately 68 are considered easy, 111 are moderate, and 17 are more difficult, ensuring options for everyone from casual walkers to experienced hikers.

Absolutely. For families, the Path of the River Nora is an excellent choice. It's a 9 km tarmac path that follows the serene Nora River, ideal for walking, cycling, or pushchairs. Another great option is the Route of the Caldas, a 6 km circular, asphalted river path perfect for birdwatching and leisurely strolls with children.

Many trails in the Oviède region are dog-friendly, though it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock. The Path of the River Nora and the Finnish Trail on Monte Naranco are popular choices for walks with dogs, offering open spaces and pleasant scenery.

Yes, Oviède offers several popular circular routes. For example, the San Miguel de Lillo y Santa María del Naranco — circular is a moderate 11.2 km trail that ascends Monte Naranco. Another is the Oviedo to Ermita del Carmen via the Camino Primitivo — circular, a 12.2 km path exploring sections of the historic pilgrimage route.

The trails around Oviède are rich with points of interest. On Monte Naranco, you can visit the pre-Romanesque churches of Church of San Miguel de Lillo and Saint Mary of Naranco, as well as the Sacred Heart of Jesus Monument. The Guanga Waterfalls route is particularly scenic, and the famous Senda del Oso (Bear Trail) offers a chance to see bears in a semi-wild environment.

Yes, the Guanga Waterfalls Route is a less than 5 km trail that leads to a picturesque waterfall amidst a unique natural setting. It's especially beautiful in spring when the water flow is strong.

The best time for hiking in Oviède is generally during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the landscapes are vibrant with either blooming flowers or rich autumnal colors. Summers can be warm, while winters are generally mild but can bring rain.

Many trails, especially those closer to the city like Monte Naranco, are accessible by local bus services from Oviedo. For routes further afield, such as the Senda del Oso, public transport options might be more limited, and it's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider carpooling. For general information on getting around Oviedo, you can visit the official tourism website: visitoviedo.info.

The hiking routes in Oviède are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's green mountains, dense forests, and well-maintained river paths, highlighting the variety of terrain and the historical significance of routes like the Camino Primitivo.

For those seeking a challenge, the Oviède area offers more difficult routes. For instance, the From La Manjoya to the Senda Verde — circular route is a difficult 19.9 km hike with significant elevation changes, providing a rewarding experience for experienced hikers.

Parking is generally available at the base of Monte Naranco, near the access points to trails leading up the mountain. Specific parking areas can be found near the pre-Romanesque monuments or at designated trailheads. For other popular routes like the Path of the River Nora or the Senda del Oso, dedicated parking facilities are often provided at the start of the trails.