Dawn Route

Route Description

The Ruta del Alba is, without a doubt, one of the jewels of hiking in Asturias and the emblem of the Redes Natural Park. Its accessibility and beauty have made it a must-see for those seeking pure nature without great physical demands.

The path begins in Soto de Agues, a town that stands out for its granaries and its well-preserved traditional architecture. From there, a comfortable track guides you through green meadows dotted with stone cabins, always with the murmur of the Alba (or Llaímo) river as a soundtrack.

Halfway there, you will pass by the ruins of the Carmen Mine, a vestige of the iron and copper mining activity that once gave life to this valley. From here, the landscape becomes wilder. The track narrows and enters the Foces del Llaímo, a gorge where the river has sculpted the limestone rock creating waterfalls, rapids and pools of crystal clear waters that invite photography.

The tour ends at the Cruz de los Ríos, a bucolic place where several streams converge, surrounded by beech and chestnut trees. It is the perfect place for a picnic before heading back.

💡 Practical Tips

• Accessibility: The first stretch to the recreation area is even suitable for baby strollers (concrete track), although later the terrain becomes rockier.
• Affluence: It is a very popular route. If you are looking for solitude, avoid summer weekends or get up early.
• Footwear: Although it is easy, wear sports or mountain shoes, especially if it has rained, since shady areas can be slippery.
• Family: It is ideal for children, but keep an eye on them in the area of ​​the gorges and the gorge.

📸 Key Points

• The waterfalls and pools of the Alba River in the gorge section.
• The contrast between the white rock of the vertical walls and the green moss of the forest.
• The industrial ruins of the Carmen Mine, living history of the valley.
• The rural charm of Soto de Agues at the beginning and end of the route.