From Gijón or Oviedo: Ponga Natural Park Day Trip

Nestled within the UNESCO-protected biosphere of Asturias, the Ponga Natural Park beckons adventurous travelers seeking to enjoy the region’s captivating natural beauty and cultural heritage. Departing from the cities of Gijón or Oviedo, this carefully curated day trip promises an unparalleled opportunity to explore the park’s rugged landscapes, charming villages, and the resilience of the local communities. As visitors traverse the dramatic Los Beyos gorge and encounter the majestic Picos de Europa, they’ll uncover the delicate balance between man and nature, and discover why this remote corner of Spain continues to captivate those who venture forth.

Key Points

• This day trip explores the UNESCO-protected Ponga Natural Park and Biosphere Reserve from Gijón or Oviedo, spanning approximately 11 hours.
• The tour highlights include traversing the Los Beyos gorge, visiting the villages of Casielles and Viboli, and enjoying panoramic views of the Picos de Europa National Park.
• Participants will learn about the region’s traditional ways of life, the challenges of climate change and depopulation, and the resilience of the local communities.
• The tour includes transportation, a licensed guide, and regional cuisine, but is not suitable for children under 11 and requires a 100m walk with a steep ramp.
• The cost of the day trip is $76.26 per person, with a small group limited to 9 participants to explore the UNESCO-protected biosphere.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Day Trip

The Ponga Natural Park day trip departs from either Gijon or Oviedo, spanning approximately 11 hours and costing $76.26 per person for a small group limited to 9 participants.

This exciting excursion takes travelers through the impressive Los Beyos gorge, where they’ll explore the UNESCO-protected Ponga Natural Park and Biosphere Reserve. Along the way, guests will witness firsthand the effects of climate change and depopulation in the region.

The comprehensive itinerary includes visits to the charming village of Casielles, learning about traditional living in Viboli, and reaching the Les Bedules saddle for panoramic views of the Picos de Europa National Park, before enjoying lunch in the village of Sobrefoz prior to the return journey.

Highlights of the Tour

During the day trip, travelers will journey through the impressive Los Beyos gorge, a natural wonder that showcases the region’s dramatic landscape.

They’ll then explore the UNESCO-protected Ponga Natural Park and Biosphere Reserve, witnessing firsthand the effects of climate change and depopulation in this unique ecosystem. The tour highlights the park’s incredible biodiversity and rich cultural heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the remote villages like Casielles and Viboli.

From the stunning Les Bedules saddle, they’ll enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Picos de Europa National Park before stopping for lunch in the charming village of Sobrefoz prior to their return.

Exploring Ponga Natural Park

After marveling at the dramatic Los Beyos gorge, visitors enter the UNESCO-protected Ponga Natural Park, a true biosphere reserve teeming with diverse flora and fauna.

They’ll discover the resilience of this region in the face of climate change and demographic shifts, learning about the traditional ways of life that persist in remote villages like Casielles and Viboli.

Upon reaching the Les Bedules saddle, they’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Picos de Europa National Park.

The day culminates with a well-deserved lunch in the charming village of Sobrefoz, where they can savor the local cuisine and reflect on the unique insights gained throughout this immersive adventure.

• Explore the UNESCO-protected Ponga Natural Park biosphere
• Discover traditional ways of life in remote mountain villages
• Take in breathtaking views of the Picos de Europa from Les Bedules

Visiting Casielles Village

Upon entering Casielles, visitors are immediately struck by the village’s timeless charm and unwavering resilience in the face of demographic shifts. The small, tightly-knit community serves as a testament to the enduring traditions that have sustained this remote mountain region for generations. As the group explores the village’s winding streets and centuries-old stone structures, they gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by rural communities in the Asturias region.

Tradition	Significance
Agriculture	Hardscrabble farming in rugged terrain
Livestock	Raising cows, sheep, and goats for dairy, wool, and meat
Forestry	Sustainable harvesting of timber and firewood
Craftsmanship	Handmade textiles, pottery, and woodwork
Community	Interdependence and mutual support

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Traditional Living in Viboli

As the group moves on from the quaint village of Casielles, they now turn their attention to the traditional living practices observed in the nearby hamlet of Viboli.

The residents of this remote mountain settlement have honed intricate techniques for thriving in the rugged Ponga Natural Park environment over countless generations.

Visitors are captivated by:

• The construction of stone dwellings that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding landscape
• The reliance on renewable natural resources, such as wood and water, for heating, cooking, and farming
• The preservation of ancient agricultural methods, including the use of hand tools and crop rotation, to ensure sustainable food production

Through this immersive experience, the tour participants gain a deeper appreciation for the resilience and adaptability of the Viboli community.

Panoramic Views From Les Bedules

The group then makes their way to the Les Bedules saddle, where they’re treated to a panoramic vista of the majestic Picos de Europa National Park.

From this elevated vantage point, the participants can admire the rugged, snow-capped peaks that define the iconic mountain range, providing them with a striking visual representation of the region’s dramatic topography.

They can see the deep valleys and lush, forested slopes that characterize the Picos de Europa, offering a breathtaking glimpse into the natural beauty that has drawn visitors to this UNESCO-protected biosphere reserve.

The panoramic view from Les Bedules leaves a lasting impression on the group, underscoring the sheer grandeur of the Ponga Natural Park and the surrounding landscape.

Lunch in Sobrefoz Village

After taking in the panoramic views from the Les Bedules saddle, the group heads down to the charming village of Sobrefoz, where they’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch break.

The rustic setting of this quaint mountain village provides the perfect backdrop to savor regional delicacies. Lunch may include:

• Hearty stews and casseroles featuring local ingredients like cured meats, beans, and seasonal produce
• Homemade breads and pastries baked in traditional wood-fired ovens
• A selection of local cheeses and ciders to complement the savory dishes

As the group refuels, they’ll have the opportunity to soak in the tranquil atmosphere and gain insights into the traditional way of life in this remote corner of the Ponga Natural Park.

Tour Inclusions and Restrictions

Typically, the day trip to Ponga Natural Park includes a fully licensed official guide, transportation, and food and drinks. However, certain restrictions apply, as the tour is not suitable for children under 11 years old, and participants must bring a valid passport or ID card. Plus, no food is allowed in the vehicle, and there is a 100-meter steep ramp up and down during the tour.

Inclusions	Restrictions
Fully licensed official guide	Not suitable for children under 11 years
Transportation	Passport or ID card required
Food and drinks	No food allowed in the vehicle
	100m walking steep ramp up and down

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

No, participants are not allowed to bring their own food on the tour. The tour package includes food and drinks, and bringing outside food is restricted as per the tour’s terms and conditions.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

The tour requires no special equipment. However, participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy hiking shoes due to the 100-meter steep ramp and walking required during the tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for people with mobility issues due to the 100m walking steep ramp up and down. Participants should be able to navigate uneven terrain and manage the physical demands of the day trip.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?

The tour duration can be extended, but it would require additional arrangements. Participants should discuss any request to extend the tour with the tour operator, who can provide guidance on feasibility and associated costs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

The tour operator offers group discounts for bookings of 4 or more participants. Larger groups can enjoy reduced per-person costs, making the Ponga Natural Park day trip more affordable for those traveling together.

Recap

The Ponga Natural Park day trip offers an immersive experience into the UNESCO-protected Asturias region.

Visitors can explore the impressive Los Beyos gorge, charming villages, and breathtaking views of the Picos de Europa National Park.

With opportunities to learn about traditional living, observe climate change, and savor local cuisine, this small-group tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Ponga Natural Park.

You can check if your dates are available here: