Top 4 Gorges around Oviède

The region around Oviedo, particularly Asturias and the Picos de Europa National Park, offers several stunning gorges and canyons. Among the most popular are the Route of the Xanas, known for its dramatic rock-carved path and ancient cave stalactites, and the Desfiladero de Peñas Juntas on the Senda del Oso, where the gorge walls appear to almost touch. The Ruta del Cares, though further into the Picos de Europa, is also a highly celebrated gorge for its breathtaking hiking trail.

Yes, several options cater to families and beginners. The Desfiladero de Peñas Juntas on the Senda del Oso is suitable for all ages, offering a gentle experience along an old mining route. For canyoning, El Vallegón Canyon is ideal for families with children, featuring rappels, slides, and jumps in a Level I descent. Rubó Gorge also offers beginner-friendly sections with options to choose your challenge level.

The best time to visit the canyons and gorges for hiking and canyoning is generally between spring and autumn (March to November). During these months, the weather is more favorable, and water levels in the canyons are typically suitable for activities. For specific canyoning descents like El Vallegón, the season runs from March to November, depending on water flow.

You can expect to see dramatic river-carved landscapes, deep ravines, and impressive rock formations. The Route of the Xanas, for instance, reveals stalactites from ancient limestone caves. Other canyons feature spectacular waterfalls, natural water slides, and crystal-clear pools formed by the rivers. Lush vegetation often clings to the steep canyon walls, adding to the scenic beauty.

Absolutely. Asturias is a prime destination for canyoning. Canyons like El Vallegón, Rubó Gorge, Cuasacas Canyon, and La Molina Canyon (Oscuros del Casaño Ravine) offer various experiences from beginner to advanced. These typically involve rappelling, sliding down natural rock formations, and jumping into refreshing pools.

For those seeking a more challenging canyoning adventure, Viboli Canyon offers 4-5 rappels, with the largest reaching 20-25 meters. Navedo Ravine, located in the Hermida gorge, is also considered one of the best in the area for its complete and challenging descent, featuring multiple rappels, slides, and an impressive final jump.

Yes, many gorges are integral parts of popular hiking trails. The Route of the Xanas is a well-known hiking route itself. The Senda del Oso, an old mine railway route, features impressive gorge sections and is popular for both hiking and cycling. The Ruta del Cares is famous for its spectacular trail carved into the gorge walls.

Beyond exploring the canyons themselves, the region offers a wealth of outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking trails around Oviedo, including routes like the Monte Naranco Circular Trail. Cycling is also very popular, with options ranging from touring bicycle routes like the Oviedo - Fuso de la Reina Greenway Loop to more challenging road cycling routes through the Asturian mountains.

While specific permits for individual canyons might vary or be managed by local guiding companies, it's generally advisable to check with local authorities or experienced guiding services, especially for more challenging descents or within protected areas like the Picos de Europa National Park. Guided tours often handle any necessary permissions.

The Ruta del Cares, also known as the Cares Gorge or Garganta Divina, is one of the most spectacular gorges in Asturias, located within the Picos de Europa National Park. While not directly adjacent to Oviedo, it's a major highlight of the wider region. It's famous for its breathtaking trail carved into the limestone rock, featuring tunnels and bridges, offering unparalleled natural beauty for hikers.

Visitors consistently praise the spectacular views and the unique experience of walking through paths carved into sheer rock faces. The Route of the Xanas is described as a 'spectacle for the eyes and for the camera,' while the Desfiladero de Peñas Juntas is noted for its 'stunning natural beauty.' The blend of natural grandeur with accessible trails and adventurous canyoning opportunities makes the region highly appreciated.