Saliencia Lakes

A Landscape Marked by Ice

The Saliencia Lakes are one of the most impressive geological jewels of the Cantabrian Mountains. This lake complex of glacial origin, declared a Natural Monument, is located in the council of Somiedo and is made up of four main lakes: Cueva, Calabazosa, Cerveriz and Almagrera.

What will you find?

• Cave Lake: It is the first one you find when you go up from Alto de la Farrapona. Intense blue in color, it is embedded in a basin with vertical walls, testimony to the erosive force of the glacier. Its environment is mineral and austere, with old traces of iron mining (Santa Rita Mine) still visible on its shores.
• Lake Cerveriz: After a short walk, this lake appears surrounded by alpine meadows where it is common to see cows grazing in summer. Its waters are darker and the environment invites calm.
• Lake Calabazosa (or Black Lake): The deepest of the group. Its location, somewhat more hidden, gives it a mysterious air. It is a perfect place to understand the magnitude of the glacial landscape.
• Almagrera Lake: The smallest of all, it sometimes dries up in very hot summers.

Recommended Activity

The best way to get to know them is to take the circular route that connects them. It is a simple and familiar walk that starts from Alto de la Farrapona (border with León).

• Access: From the town of Saliencia a paved mountain road goes up to the Farrapona parking lot.
• Difficulty: Low-Medium. The path is wide and well marked.
• Best time: Spring (thaw and flowers) and Autumn. In winter the access road is usually closed by snow.

Flora and Fauna

You are in high mountain territory. Look to the sky to spot griffon vultures and, with luck, some golden eagles. On rocky slopes it is common to see chamois jumping with impossible agility. Although it is the habitat of the brown bear, it is difficult to see them in this open and busy area during the day. The vegetation adapts to the cold and the wind: brooms, heather and blueberries dominate the landscape.