Peloño
Peloño is a nature reserve with one of Spain's best-preserved beech forests, spanning roughly 15 square kilometers in the Ponga area of eastern Asturias. The woodland consists mainly of beech trees alongside oak, holly, and juniper, with blueberries at higher elevations, and features deep valleys shaped by streams that feed into the Sella River.
The Peloño beech forest has existed for many centuries as part of the Asturian landscape, shaping the lives of communities who lived here across generations. The forest trails still follow ancient Roman routes that once connected the coast with the highland plateau.
The name Peloño comes from the Asturian language and refers to this ancient beech forest. Local inhabitants have used this woodland for generations to gather firewood and access natural resources, particularly in the autumn months.
The best starting point is Cangas de Onís, from where paths lead up to various trails, such as the route from Collada Llomena to Pradería de Vegadona, which takes several hours. A visitor center nearby provides information about the forest's plants, animals, and history.
The old beech trees display complex, twisted forms that develop over time like natural sculptures, making each walk through the forest feel different. These contortions result from decades of adaptation to the forest's moist and foggy conditions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
