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Protected Landscape of the Cuencas Mineras

The Protected Landscape of the Cuencas Mineras is 132 km2 in size and is located in central Asturias and is classified as a Protected Landscape and Special Conservation Area. The beautiful terrain and abundant trees make this place special.

The Protected Landscape of the Cuencas Mineras includes the municipalities of Langreo, Mieres, San Martín del Rey Aurelio, and Liviana. It features beautiful mountains and rolling valleys. Peña Mea is the highest peak of the protected area at 1,560 meters. It is joined by the Sierras de Navaliego, Longalendo and Cordal de Urbiés, which form a chain of picturesque mountains. On the other hand, the Samuño Valley, the Turón Valley, the Santa Bárbara Valley, the Villoria Valley, and the Raigosu Valley are also noteworthy. These green valleys flow into the great basin of the Nalón River.

This area is geologically significant because a large portion of the terrain belongs to the Central Coal Basin. That is why it was heavily exploited during the last century. However, many of the mining valleys have not fallen into disrepair, but are instead an appealing and intriguing attraction for hikers because in many cases the mining has blended in perfectly with the terrain.

The plantlife and wildlife here are representative of central Asturias. The vegetation consists mainly of forest, scrub, agricultural, and forested areas. Some of the species that can be seen are heather, beech, yew, holly, alder, and chestnut trees. The fauna in this area depends on the abundant vegetation, the terrain, and the abundance of water. These conditions make it possible for many endangered species to coexist in this area. Some of them include the capercaillie, the wolf, the Iberian desman, the otter, the stag beetle, the long-tailed salamander, and the black-green lizard. In addition, the birds benefit from the forests and mountains that create a suitable habitat for their development, so it is possible to see a wide variety of incredible species. Likewise, the Protected Landscape of the Cuencas Mineras also shares a protected area in its southeastern section with the Redes Natural Park. This is a way to connect the areas, forming an ecological corridor.

Some of the routes not to miss in this area are the Windmill Route that runs along the Samuño River, the Path along the Langreo Ridge, the Cordal de Urbiés Route with views of the Turón River, and the Route through the Sierra de Navaliego.