Attractions and Places To See around Quirós - Top 20

Quirós offers a variety of popular hiking trails. One of the most well-known is the Route of the Xanas, which features a gorge carved into the rock by the Las Xanas stream. Another excellent option is the Senda del Oso, a popular route for both walking and cycling that follows a disused mining railway line. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes around Quirós.

Yes, Quirós is home to some challenging climbs popular with cyclists. The Ascent to Alto de l'Angliru is a legendary challenge in road cycling, known for its steep gradients. Another significant climb is the La Cubilla Pass, located at 1,683 meters, which is renowned among cyclists as one of Europe's toughest due to its challenging gradients and beautiful surroundings. You can find more cycling adventures in the gravel biking guide around Quirós.

The most prominent natural area in Quirós is the Parque Natural de Las Ubiñas – La Mesa. This stunning park spans approximately 32,000 hectares of high mountain landscapes, dominated by the Ubiña massif. It's a paradise for nature lovers, boasting diverse flora like oak, chestnut, holly, and birch trees, and wildlife such as bears, wolves, foxes, and eagles.

Quirós offers several scenic viewpoints. The Route of the Xanas provides spectacular views of the gorge. The La Cubilla Pass also offers magnificent landscapes. For panoramic views of Asturias, including glimpses of the sea on clear days, consider ascending Pico Gamoniteiru (1791 m) in the Sierra de Caranga.

Quirós is rich in history and culture. You can visit the Museo Etnográfico de Quirós y Comarca in Bárzana, which showcases the traditional peasant way of life and the impact of mining. The town of Bermiego is notable for its concentration of traditional Asturian barns (hórreos) and a thousand-year-old yew tree. Other sites include the ruins of Castillo de Alba and the Iglesia Románica de San Pedro de Arrojo.

Absolutely! The Senda del Oso is highly recommended for families, as it's ideal for walking and cycling along a mostly flat, disused railway line. Bicycle and Segway rentals are available, making it accessible for all ages. The Desfiladero de Peñas Juntas on the Senda del Oso is a particularly impressive and family-friendly section.

The best time to visit Quirós for outdoor activities generally depends on the specific activity. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is also popular, especially for higher altitude trails. Winter can be challenging due to snow in the mountains, but offers opportunities for winter sports if conditions allow.

Yes, the town of Bermiego is particularly renowned for its concentration of traditional Asturian barns, known as 'hórreos,' and other ethnographic buildings. The ancient Tejo de Bermiego (Bermiego Yew) also stands as a symbol of the town's rich history and tradition.

Visitors to Quirós frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, especially the dramatic gorges and mountain landscapes. The unique experience of walking or cycling the Senda del Oso and exploring the Route of the Xanas are often highlighted. The blend of challenging outdoor adventures with accessible family-friendly options and rich cultural heritage also receives high acclaim.

Yes, Quirós is home to the Camín Real del Puerto de Ventana (Ruta de las Reliquias). This ancient route, pre-Romanic in origin, was historically one of the busiest paths connecting Asturias and central Spain. You can still see original Roman pavements along parts of this 38-kilometer trail, offering a unique journey through history.

The Parque Natural de Las Ubiñas – La Mesa is a haven for wildlife. Visitors might spot diverse species such as bears, wolves, foxes, and various birds of prey, including eagles. The rich natural environment supports a wide array of fauna, making it an excellent spot for wildlife observation.

For beginners or those seeking an easy stroll, sections of the Senda del Oso are ideal, particularly around the Valdemurio Reservoir Loop. This path is mostly flat and follows the old railway line, offering a gentle and scenic experience. The Pradera de Pedroveya also provides a charming meadow for easy walks.