Somiedo Biosphere Reserve and its Villages – Tour from Oviedo

If you’re planning a day trip from Oviedo to experience one of Asturias’ most beautiful natural areas, this Somiedo Biosphere Reserve and Villages tour is worth considering. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary, reviews, and features paint a clear picture of an experience that combines stunning scenery, cultural insights, and the chance to see wildlife in a protected setting.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s a comprehensive journey through one of Spain’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, offering panoramic mountain views and opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially bears. Second, it includes visits to traditional villages and a local ecomuseum, giving you a taste of regional culture beyond just the natural beauty.

A potential consideration for travelers: the tour involves some light hiking and uneven terrain, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues. Nevertheless, it’s a fantastic choice for outdoor lovers, hikers, and anyone eager to get off the beaten path. This tour suits those who want an authentic, well-rounded experience of Asturias’ wild side, combined with charming local villages.

Key Points

• In-Depth Scenic Experience: The tour covers stunning mountain passes, lakes, and viewpoints, offering ample opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.
• Cultural Insights: Visiting the Ecomuseum and traditional villages like Pola de Somiedo and La Peral offers a glimpse into local customs, craftsmanship, and transhumance practices.
• Expert Guidance: The reviews highlight Pelayo, the guide, as extraordinary—knowledgeable, friendly, and professional.
• Value for Money: For around $90, you get transportation, museum tickets, and a full day of guided sightseeing—good value for this rich experience.
• Limited Flexibility: Since the tour is pre-planned and group sizes are capped at 28, spontaneity is limited but ensures a well-organized day.
• Weather Dependency: The tour is weather-sensitive, so plans might change if conditions turn poor, with the option to reschedule or get a full refund.

An Introduction to the Experience

This full-day tour from Oviedo offers a chance to explore Asturias’ renowned Somiedo Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2000. Designed for those eager to see Spain’s wild side, it combines natural beauty, wildlife watching, and cultural discovery—all in one well-paced itinerary.

Two aspects that truly appeal are the spectacular mountain vistas from Alto de la Farrapona and the opportunity to observe local traditions at the Ecomuseum. For outdoor enthusiasts, the hike to Lago La Cueva promises a rewarding view. The tour’s value is boosted by the inclusion of transportation, museum tickets, and a guided experience that makes navigating this remote area accessible.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour’s length and terrain might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility challenges. But for active travelers who love nature and authentic regional culture, this tour hits many sweet spots. It’s especially ideal for wildlife lovers, hikers, and history buffs interested in traditional Asturias life.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Parque Natural de Somiedo (Pass By)

The day begins with a scenic drive through one of Spain’s most pristine protected areas. The park’s designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve underscores its ecological significance. Expect sweeping views of rugged mountains and lush valleys, with the chance to spot some wildlife from designated viewpoints. The drive itself sets the tone—peaceful, unspoiled, and full of photo opportunities.

Stop 2: Alto de La Farrapona

This mountain pass marks the high point of the tour, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys. It’s a highlight for many, providing a perfect spot to stretch your legs, breathe the mountain air, and take in breathtaking views. The guide might point out notable landmarks or flora and fauna along the way.

This stop lasts about an hour and a half, with free access to viewpoints, meaning you can linger as long as you wish to soak in the scenery or snap photos. Reviews mention the value of wearing layered clothing here, as mountain weather can change swiftly—a practical tip for travelers.

Stop 3: Ecomuseo de Somiedo

A visit to the local Ecomuseum in Veigas offers a fascinating look at traditional crafts, transhumance, and the region’s unique “teito” huts—thatched-roof dwellings that speak to centuries of regional adaptation to mountain life. The museum’s inclusion is a real highlight for those interested in local culture and history, providing context for the landscape and people who have lived here for generations.

Visitors will learn about the region’s traditional ways of life, which are still evident in the architecture and customs. The guided tour lasts around 45 minutes, giving a good overview without feeling rushed.

Stop 4: Pola de Somiedo

The tour’s heart is this charming village—the capital of the region—clinging to the mountainside along the Somiedo River. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, browsing local shops, or just enjoying the peaceful mountain atmosphere. The village has been around since the 13th century, with a history rooted in rural traditions.

Here, you get a sense of everyday life in Asturias outside of tourist hotspots, with its unpretentious charm and authentic regional character. It’s a good place to stretch your legs before heading to the next stop.

Stop 5: La Peral

Perched at 1,200 meters, La Peral is a former highland “braña” (mountain pasture) and was historically a nomadic herding site for the Vaqueiros de Alzada—an intriguing group of mountain-dwelling, semi-nomadic herders. Walking through La Peral, you get a sense of how people adapted to this rugged terrain, with views overlooking the valley below.

Stop 6: Mirador del Príncipe

The final stop is a short walk up to the “del Príncipe” lookout, where the views truly are spectacular. Watching the sun set or just enjoying the vast panorama of peaks and valleys is the perfect way to conclude the day. According to reviews, this short walk is well worth the effort, offering some of the best vistas of the entire tour.

The Practical Side: What You Can Expect

The tour includes private transportation, which makes the day both comfortable and efficient, avoiding the hassle of self-driving on narrow mountain roads. Having a local guide enhances the experience, providing insights that you simply wouldn’t get from a map or guidebook. The group size is capped at 28, ensuring a manageable and intimate atmosphere.

Tickets for the Ecomuseum are included, giving you access to exhibits and explanations about regional traditions. However, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or a packed meal—there are plenty of scenic spots for a picnic.

Weather and Clothing

Given the mountainous terrain and variable weather, it’s wise to dress in layers and prepare for sudden changes. As one reviewer pointed out, bringing your own toilet paper is advisable, as restroom facilities might be basic or limited along the route.

Timing and Duration

The full-day experience runs approximately 10 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening. This allows ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. However, be prepared for some walking and standing, especially at viewpoints and the village walks.

Cost vs. Value

At around $90 per person, this tour offers good value for those interested in combining natural beauty with cultural insights. The inclusion of transportation, museum entry, and a guide adds up to a hassle-free day. For nature lovers and curious travelers, it’s a solid investment.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Reviews

The two reviews highlight what others found most rewarding. One mentioned, “The reserve is amazing. Be prepared to hike a bit. Wear layers as the weather can vary quite a bit. Bring your own TP as restrooms can be questionable. Great day.” This underscores the natural beauty and the need for preparedness.

Another reviewer raved about the guide: “Pelayo the extraordinary guide, excellent person and very good professional level.” Having a knowledgeable guide really enhances the experience, turning a scenic drive into an educational journey.

This experience is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, and cultural explorers. If you enjoy hiking, mountain scenery, and learning about local customs, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also perfect if you prefer guided experiences to navigating remote areas on your own.

Those with mobility issues might want to consider the terrain and walking involved, but for most able-bodied travelers, it’s a manageable and fulfilling day.

Absolutely. For around $90, you gain a comprehensive look at Somiedo’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, all with the convenience of organized transport and expert guidance. The views are spectacular, the wildlife possibilities exciting, and the villages offer a genuine taste of regional life.

This tour strikes a nice balance between scenery, culture, and comfort—ideal for travelers who want a meaningful day out without the hassle of planning every detail.

It’s a trip that will leave you with lasting memories of Asturias’ wild landscapes and authentic villages, making it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 10 hours, starting in the morning and ending in the evening.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, tickets for the Ecomuseum, and a local guide are included. Lunch is not included.

Is it suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for those with mobility problems due to walking and uneven terrain.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 28, ensuring a comfortable experience with personalized attention.

Do I need to bring anything?
Layers for variable mountain weather, snacks or packed lunch, and toilet paper for basic restroom facilities are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is the weather a concern?
The tour is weather-dependent. Poor weather may lead to rescheduling or refund, so keep an eye on the forecast.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the park is known for its bears and other mountain animals viewed from designated viewpoints.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at C. Jovellanos, 37 in Oviedo and ends back at the same location.

To sum it up, this guided day trip to Somiedo Biosphere Reserve offers an engaging mix of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and outdoor activity. It’s a wonderful way to see some of Asturias’ most pristine landscapes without the stress of planning and navigating. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone simply craving fresh mountain air and authentic villages, this tour promises a memorable and worthwhile adventure.