The Whistle of Water
In the beech forest of Montegrande, one of the largest in Asturias, the river cascades down forming the Xiblu Waterfall. Its name (“the whistle”) comes from the sound that the wind makes when it flows through the ravine or perhaps from the roar of the water when it falls during the thaw.
A Story Route
The walk to get there (PR-AS 269) begins at the La Focella parking lot or the Cueva Huerta parking lot:
- The Montegrande Beech Forest: The first part is a flat walk along a forest track surrounded by immense beech trees. It is accessible and beautiful at any time, but in autumn the ground is covered in a red carpet of leaves that makes it magical.
- The Ascent: The final part narrows and goes up a mountain path until reaching the foot of the waterfall.
The Three Jumps
The Xiblu is not a single fall, it is three stepped waterfalls that add up to almost 100 meters high.
- From the base, surrounded by humidity and lush vegetation, you will feel the spray of water on your face.
- It is a perfect place to rest, eat a snack and enjoy the natural freshness before heading back.
Fauna
You are in bear, roe deer and wild boar territory. Although it is difficult to see them due to the thickness of the forest, pay attention to the mud: you will surely find footprints. The forest is also a concert of woodpeckers and jays.