Redes Natural Park in Asturias: A Natural Treasure
Nestled in the heart of Asturias in northern Spain, Redes Natural Park (Parque Natural de Redes) is a sanctuary of ecological diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural significance. Officially declared a natural park in 1996 and later recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2001, this 37,803-hectare park is an essential piece of Asturias; conservation efforts and a haven for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and wildlife lovers alike.
Redes forms part of the Cantabrian mountain range and offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore pristine forests, mountain valleys, and traditional Asturian villages. With its rivers, waterfalls, fauna, and flora, Redes is much more than a picturesque destination—it’s an example of natural preservation and the rich cultural history of rural Spain.
Geographical Overview
Redes Natural Park is located in the central-eastern part of Asturias, sharing its borders with the neighboring province of León. It spans the councils (municipalities) of Caso and Sobrescobio, with the Nalón River, one of Asturias’ most important rivers, flowing through it. The parks geography is defined by its rugged mountainous terrain, which is characteristic of the Cantabrian range. Peaks such as Pico Torres (2,104 meters) and Peña del Viento (2,000 meters) dominate the skyline, while deep valleys and gorges, like the famous Desfiladero de los Arrudos, offer dramatic contrasts. The elevation of the park varies from 400 meters in the valley floors to over 2,000 meters at the highest points, resulting in a range of microclimates and habitats that support an incredibly diverse range of species. Snow is common during winter months in the higher altitudes, and the park’s many rivers and streams swell with meltwater in the spring, feeding into the Nalón River and its tributaries.
The parks landscape is predominantly karstic, with limestone bedrock creating dramatic rock formations, caves, and gorges. The mixture of geological formations, combined with the influence of the Atlantic climate, has allowed for an incredibly rich biodiversity to flourish within the park.
Flora and Fauna
One of Redes Natural Parks defining characteristics is its rich biodiversity. The park boasts extensive forests, mainly composed of deciduous trees such as beech, oak, and chestnut, which provide essential habitats for numerous species of plants and animals. In spring and summer, the valleys of Redes come alive with wildflowers, including orchids, gentians, and the protected Primula farinosa. In autumn, the forests put on a spectacular display of color, with the changing leaves of the deciduous trees providing a vibrant canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. The park’s fauna is equally impressive, making it one of the most significant wildlife refuges in northern Spain. Redes is home to several emblematic species of the Cantabrian region, including the Cantabrian brown bear (Ursus arctos pyrenaicus), which has been gradually recovering after years of decline. The park also shelters the elusive Iberian wolf, as well as the Cantabrian capercaillie, a large woodland grouse that is critically endangered.
Birdwatchers will find Redes a paradise, with opportunities to spot golden eagles, griffon vultures, and numerous species of smaller birds, including the pyrenean desman, a semi-aquatic mammal native to the Pyrenees and parts of the Cantabrian Mountains. Among mammals, other notable species include wild boar, roe deer, and red deer, which roam freely through the forests and meadows. The rivers and streams that crisscross the park are teeming with trout and otters, while the moist and cool environment also supports populations of amphibians like the fire salamander and the common frog. Invertebrates are plentiful, with a variety of butterflies, moths, and beetles enriching the park’s ecological tapestry.
A Griffon vulture…
Key Natural Attractions
1. Ruta del Alba (The Alba Route)
One of the most famous hiking trails in Redes Natural Park is the Ruta del Alba, a picturesque route that follows the Alba River through a deep, wooded gorge. This easy-to- moderate trail is approximately 7 kilometers (round trip) and is perfect for all levels of hikers. The path winds its way alongside the river, passing waterfalls, pools, and small bridges, and is shaded by lush vegetation, including beech and oak trees. Along the way, visitors may spot deer or wild boars crossing the path, or hear the songs of birds hidden in the trees. The route ends at La Cruz de los Ríos, a stunning spot where several rivers converge in a dramatic cascade.
2. Desfiladero de los Arrudos (The Arrudos Gorge)
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Desfiladero de los Arrudos offers an exhilarating trek through one of the parks’ most dramatic landscapes. This gorge cuts deep into the limestone mountains, with sheer rock walls towering above the river below. The trail is steep and rugged, requiring a good level of fitness, but the reward is a stunning journey through narrow canyons, dense forests, and crystal-clear streams. The highlight of the route is reaching the high-altitude lakes, Lagos de Ubales, where the views of the surrounding mountains are spectacular.
3. Waterfalls and Rivers
Redes is blessed with an abundance of rivers, streams, and waterfalls, thanks to its mountainous terrain and ample rainfall. The Tabayón del Mongayo, a 60-meter-high waterfall located near the village of Tarna, is one of the park’s most iconic natural features. The hike to the waterfall takes visitors through verdant forests and alpine meadows, providing stunning views along the way. The Tabayón is particularly impressive after periods of rain, when the flow of water is at its peak. The Nalón River, which is one of Asturias’ major rivers, begins its journey in the Redes Natural Park. It plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, supporting both wildlife and human communities that have depended on its waters for centuries. The river’s clear, cold waters are perfect for trout fishing, and its banks provide a habitat for otters and kingfishers.
4. Peña Mea
For mountaineers, the ascent of Peña Mea (1,557 meters) is a must. This imposing limestone peak dominates the western part of the park and offers challenging climbs and rewarding views from the summit. The hike up Peña Mea is demanding but takes adventurers through some of Redes’ most beautiful landscapes, from forested valleys to rocky ridges. On a clear day, the summit provides panoramic views across the Cantabrian Mountains and the valleys of Asturias.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Redes Natural Park is not only a refuge for wildlife but also a living museum of rural life in Asturias. The park is home to several small villages, such as Soto de Caso and Caleao, where traditional Asturian culture and architecture have been preserved. These villages are characterized by their stone houses with wooden balconies, slate roofs, and hórreos, traditional granaries elevated on stilts to keep out rodents. The local population has long been involved in activities such as livestock farming, forestry, and woodworking, with many families raising cattle and sheep in the mountain pastures. These practices are still evident today, and visitors to the park can witness traditional transhumance, where livestock is moved between summer and winter pastures, a practice that has shaped the landscape for centuries.
The park also contains remnants of ancient human settlements, such as dolmens (prehistoric stone tombs) and Roman roads that hint at the region’s long history of human habitation. The village of Bueres is home to the Iglesia de Santa María la Real de Tanes, a Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century, which is a testament to the regions medieval past. Local festivals, such as the Fiesta del Pastor, celebrate the age-old traditions of the area, with shepherds bringing their flocks down from the mountains for communal blessings and festivities. These cultural elements enrich the experience of visiting Redes, allowing travelers to not only appreciate the natural beauty but also connect with the human history of the park.
Villages dot the landscapes
Conservation and Sustainable Tourism
Redes Natural Park’s designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve underscores its global ecological importance. The park is a prime example of sustainable development, where conservation efforts are balanced with the needs of the local communities who live within its boundaries. The management of Redes focuses on protecting its natural resources while promoting sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and locals. Ecotourism plays a significant role in the parks economy, with numerous guesthouses, casas rurales (rural houses), and eco-lodges offering accommodations for those who wish to immerse themselves in nature. The parks visitors’ centers, such as the Casa del Agua in Rioseco, provide educational resources about the local environment, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
Efforts to protect endangered species, such as the Cantabrian brown bear and the capercaillie, are ongoing, with park authorities working closely with conservation organizations to monitor populations and restore habitats. Regulations on hunting and fishing are strictly enforced to ensure the protection of wildlife, and the park’s forests are carefully managed to prevent over-exploitation.
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