Valle De Lago can be explored through two very different questions: Should the outing be primarily a long mountain hike, or are teitos, brañas and other cultural points of interest the main focus? The route to Lago del Valle is estimated to take more than five hours of walking. There are also trails with different features and a guided mill visit. These differences can help you plan your day according to the time available and the focus you want.

Mountain scenery and wildlife watching

Lago del Valle is a lake of glacial origin, surrounded by peaks. The Embalse del Valle is part of the Conjunto Lacustre de Somiedo lake district and lies within Somiedo Natural Park. It is the largest of Asturias’s lakes of glacial origin.

Along the PR-AS 15.1 Ruta de Valle del Lago, you may see chamois on the slopes beside the trail, roe deer in the meadows, and various birds of prey. Buzzards and sparrowhawks are singled out in particular. The route offers a distinct view of the wildlife along the way, while the lake and surrounding peaks shape the landscape.

Hikes and choosing an outing

The route to Lago del Valle is a 14.6-kilometre, moderately difficult circular mountain hike. It starts and ends in Valle De Lago; the estimated walking time is more than five hours. Allow enough time and check local trail conditions before setting off. The route passes through Somiedo Natural Park and the Somiedo Biosphere Reserve, as well as the Somiedo SAC and Somiedo SPA within the Natura 2000 network. Seasonal restrictions on the route may vary, so check local notices in advance.

The trailhead is at the car park at the end of the village, beside a spring. Beyond the El Outeiro spring, the access track to Lago del Valle begins; motor vehicles are prohibited from using it. At the level of the village, a circular route reaches the Church of Santa María Magdalena. The return leg of the PR-AS 16.1 route passes the Mirador de Peña Furada viewpoint.

Another option is the route to Braña de Sousas. It is considered easy for children who are used to walking. The trail is wide and has a good, firm surface; it can be used with bicycles and with strollers suitable for uneven terrain. These details offer a different point of reference from the more-than-five-hour circular hike to Lago del Valle.

Horseback riding Cobrana offers rides in Valle De Lago; no previous experience or training is required. The available routes include rides to Braña de Sousas and Lago del Valle. The offer may be seasonal and may require reservations, so check dates in advance.

Teitos, brañas and the mill

Along the route through Valle De Lago, you can see teitos: traditional buildings with roofs made of plant material, associated with the history of livestock farming in these mountains. Several teitos are well preserved in Braña del Gabitón, a landscape of high scenic value. Braña de Sousas is one of the best-preserved brañas and has a particularly large number of corros. After reaching Lago del Valle, the route also allows for a short detour to Teito Cobrana. Casa de teito in Valle De Lago is another cultural attraction.

In the last part of Valle De Lago, L´Auteiro, is the only surviving mill with a teito roof that is still in operation: Molín de teito de L´Auteiro. The mill is still working and grinds grain for visitors. A guided visit includes a demonstration of how it operates and how the grain is ground. Check the visiting arrangements in advance.

Getting there and getting around

From La Pola Somiedo, an asphalt road leads to Valle De Lago and the Embalse del Valle; from there, continue on foot through the valley. Since both road and trail conditions are relevant to access, check them locally before setting off. Motor vehicles are also prohibited on the track beyond the El Outeiro spring.

Discover more destinations: Leiguarda, La Villa de Sub, Veigas, Carrea, Perlunes, San Martín, Somiedo, Villar De Vildas.

For the broader travel overview: Camín Real De La Mesa.