Cantabrian Brown Bear

The King of the Cordillera

Somiedo is synonymous with brown bear. This Asturian council is home to one of the most important and stable bear populations in the Cantabrian Mountains. Seeing this animal in freedom is an experience that marks the life of any naturalist.

Where and How to see them?

The most important thing: patience, respect and distance. Observations are always made from enabled viewing points, with binoculars or ground-based telescopes.

• Spring (April-June): It is the best time. Bears go down to the valleys in search of fresh grass and it is easier to see mothers with cubs.
• Late Summer/Fall (August-September): Bears go up to high areas to eat blueberries and hazelnuts.

Key Viewpoints

1. Mirador del Príncipe: In La Peral. Perfect for monitoring the opposite slope at sunset in spring.
2. Mirador de la Collada de Aguino: Near Pola de Somiedo.
3. Mirador de Gúa: Also very close to the capital of the council.

Rules of Conduct

• Never try to approach a bear. They are wild animals and dangerous if they feel threatened.
• Silence: Noise scares away wildlife.
• Dogs: Always on a leash.
• Trash: Take it with you. A bear accustomed to eating garbage is a doomed (problematic) bear.

Brown Bear Foundation

In Pola de Somiedo is the Casa del Oso, managed by the Brown Bear Foundation (FOP). It is the ideal starting point to learn about the biology of the animal, its conservation and the best places to attempt a sighting responsibly.