Just southwest of the Picos de Europa, Somiedo Natural Park is a great place to keep exploring the mountains. This quieter park has beautiful landscapes, rich wildlife, and peaceful hiking trails away from the crowds. With its green valleys, high peaks, and deep-rooted mountain traditions, Somiedo is a must-visit for nature lovers.
A home for wildlife and tradition
Somiedo is not only a stunning natural area but also full of wildlife. The park is home to Cantabrian brown bears, though they are rarely seen on the trails. As you walk through the park, you might spot chamois, golden eagles, and griffon vultures flying above the mountains. The area is also dotted with brañas—seasonal mountain pastures used by shepherds—and teitos, old thatched-roof huts that are part of the region’s history.
Hiking in Somiedo
Hiking in Somiedo offers a mix of well-marked trails and remote paths that take you through breathtaking mountain scenery. Whether you prefer gentle valley walks or challenging summit hikes, the park has something for every level. Trails wind through glacial lakes, steep ridges, and rolling meadows, often leading to historic shepherd settlements. Along the way, you’ll likely encounter herds of cows grazing freely in the fields, sometimes even blocking the trails, adding to the park’s authentic rural charm. Their presence is a reminder of the region’s deep agricultural roots, where traditional mountain farming still plays a role in shaping the landscape.
Valle del Lago trail
One of Somiedo’s most breathtaking spots is Lago del Valle, the largest glacial lake in Asturias. The trail leading to the lake follows a gentle path through a lush valley framed by towering peaks, passing through meadows and traditional brañas.
On the way to the lake, we took the higher path, which is more exposed and offers incredible panoramic views of the valley below. The dramatic cliffs and open landscapes make this route a thrilling experience for hikers who enjoy a bit of adventure. For the return, we followed the Camino de la Sombra, a more sheltered path that winds through shaded forested areas, providing a cooler and calmer walk back.
Lago del Valle is a peaceful, mirror-like lake reflecting the surrounding mountains, making it an ideal place for a break or picnic. Make sure to walk the loop around the lake to see it from all angles and visit a traditional old braña at the far end.
Lago del Valle is the heart of Somiedo—Asturias' largest glacial lake, surrounded by towering peaks and rich pastures, reflecting the wild beauty of the park.
Pico Albo & Lagos de Saliencia
One of the most stunning hikes in Somiedo is the Albo Peak and Saliencia Glacial Lakes route. The trail starts at Alto de la Farrapona, a mountain pass where there is a parking lot, making it a convenient starting point for exploring the area.
There are different ways to reach the peaks and explore the lakes. We chose a counterclockwise circular route, first ascending to Albo Occidental before crossing over to Albo Oriental, where we descended into the valley on the other side. The ascent to Albo Occidental was challenging, as the trail was not always clear, and we found ourselves scrambling over rocks to reach the summit. On the other side, the trail between the two peaks was more well-marked, though slightly exposed in some sections, requiring careful footing.
This hike offers an incredible mix of panoramic mountain views, shimmering glacial lakes, and a real sense of adventure. The combination of rugged terrain and peaceful alpine scenery makes it one of the most rewarding hikes in Somiedo.
Somiedo is a harmonious mix of rugged peaks, glacial lakes, and landscapes shaped by shepherds over centuries
Somiedo is still a quiet and untouched place. The park’s remote location and strong local traditions make it a special place to experience real mountain life. Whether you want solitude, stunning views, or a chance to connect with Asturias' history, Somiedo has it all.
If you’re in northern Spain for the Anillo de Picos de Europa, consider adding Somiedo to your trip. The Albo Peak and Saliencia Lakes hike is just the beginning—there are many more trails waiting to be explored!
And if you are planning to hike Picos de Europa, check out our interactive guide:
