Somiedo Natural Park
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Asturias, Spain, offering pristine mountain landscapes, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife, including the Cantabrian br...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Somiedo Natural Park
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Asturias, Spain, offering pristine mountain landscapes, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife, including the Cantabrian brown bear.
"The most stunning area in Asturias; you can easily spend 2 to 3 days exploring the beauty of Somiedo."
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring Somiedo's vastness. Roads can be narrow, so drive cautiously.
🥾 Pack Sturdy Hiking Boots
Trails can be rugged and uneven. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is a must for enjoying the hikes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lago del Valle
Somiedo Natural Park
A breathtaking glacial lake surrounded by dramatic mountains, offering stunning hiking and photography opportunities.

Wildlife Spotting
Various locations within the park
Keep an eye out for the Cantabrian brown bear, wolves, and diverse birdlife in their natural habitat.

Charming Villages
Valle de Lago, La Peral, El Puerto, Pola de Somiedo
Explore traditional Asturian villages with stone houses and a slower pace of life, offering a glimpse into local culture.

Hiking Trails
Throughout the park
Discover numerous trails for all levels, from gentle strolls to challenging mountain treks with epic views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild: Prepare for Nature's Majesty
Filming Location Buzz: Plan Around 'Hunger Games'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring Somiedo's vastness. Roads can be narrow, so drive cautiously.
🥾 Pack Sturdy Hiking Boots
Trails can be rugged and uneven. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is a must for enjoying the hikes.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Maintain a safe distance if you spot wildlife. Never feed animals.
📶 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Essential for exploring Somiedo's vastness. Roads can be narrow, so drive cautiously.
🥾 Pack Sturdy Hiking Boots
Trails can be rugged and uneven. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is a must for enjoying the hikes.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Maintain a safe distance if you spot wildlife. Never feed animals.
📶 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable. Ensure you have offline maps for navigation.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Be prepared for sun, rain, and cooler temperatures.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on your hikes, especially during warmer months. Refill stations are scarce.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Somiedo's breathtaking natural beauty, describing it as one of Asturias' most stunning areas. The dramatic mountain landscapes, serene lakes, and opportunities for wildlife spotting are consistently praised. However, some note that the park's popularity, amplified by its use as a filming location, can lead to increased traffic on narrow roads and trails.
"A long drive along a very narrow mountain valley road to get there but worth it."
Kenneth Hook
"I have been hiking close to the Lago del Valle. I easily can say that was on my Top 10 Hikes ever! Such beauty! I am still all in aww.
You will get to see a lot of mountains both close by and in the background. You will have lakes as well as you have nature itself. If you pay attention you will find lots of birds, lizards and insects. And I might have been lucky - only few humans.
You easily get the chance to forget civilization as only very view buildings spoil the view and you not even have reception for most of the time."
Jedi Equester
"The most stunning area in Asturias; you can easily spend 2 to 3 days exploring the beauty of Somiedo with many hiking routes and epic nature."
Hamad Aljanaahi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The best way to reach Somiedo Natural Park is by car, ideally renting one from Asturias Airport (OVD). The drive offers scenic views but can involve narrow, winding mountain roads. Public transport options are limited, so a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the park and its villages.
Driving within Somiedo requires caution. Roads are often narrow and winding, especially as you ascend into the mountains. Take your time, be mindful of other vehicles, and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
Yes, there are parking areas available, particularly at trailheads and popular viewpoints like the Alto de la Farrapona. Some areas, like Camping Lagos de Somiedo, also offer parking.
While challenging, it's possible to visit Somiedo using a combination of buses to nearby towns and then local taxis or pre-arranged transport. However, a rental car is highly recommended for the best experience and to access more remote areas.
Key access points include Pola de Somiedo, the park's capital, and various trailheads leading to lakes and viewpoints such as Lago del Valle and Alto de la Farrapona.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Somiedo Natural Park is a protected natural area and generally does not require an entrance fee for general access. However, specific activities or visitor centers might have associated costs.
As a natural park, Somiedo is accessible year-round. However, visitor centers or specific facilities may have seasonal opening hours. It's advisable to check locally for any specific operational times.
Visitors are expected to respect the natural environment. Restrictions may apply to camping in certain areas, making fires, or disturbing wildlife. Always follow park guidelines.
Yes, guided tours are available, especially for wildlife spotting or hiking. These can enhance your experience and provide valuable insights into the park's ecology and history.
The filming locations themselves are part of the natural park and do not have separate entrance fees. However, access might be temporarily restricted during active filming or for safety reasons.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the route to Lago del Valle, the Saliencia Lakes route from Alto de la Farrapona, and various paths around the villages. The difficulty varies, so choose based on your fitness level.
Somiedo is famous for its Cantabrian brown bear population. You might also spot wolves, chamois, deer, and a variety of birds. Always observe from a safe distance.
Yes, you can find rural houses, guesthouses, and campsites within and around the park. Camping Lagos de Somiedo is a popular option for a nature immersion.
Yes, Somiedo offers opportunities for families. Shorter, easier trails and the chance to see wildlife can be engaging for children. However, some areas require careful supervision due to terrain.
Visit Lago del Valle and surrounding areas. While the set may be gone, the dramatic landscapes that inspired the film are still there to explore.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Savor local Asturian specialties like 'fabada' (bean stew), Asturian cheese, and 'cachopo' (breaded veal stuffed with ham and cheese). Many restaurants offer farm-to-table experiences.
Yes, you'll find restaurants and 'sidrerías' (cider houses) in the villages within and around the park, offering traditional Asturian cuisine.
Picnicking is a great way to enjoy the scenery. Designated picnic areas may be available, but always ensure you pack out all your trash to preserve the park's beauty.
Camping Lagos de Somiedo has a bar that serves food, offering a convenient option for campers. Nearby villages also have local eateries.
Dining prices are generally reasonable, especially in local taverns and sidrerías. Eating in the villages offers a more authentic and often more affordable experience than tourist hotspots.
📸 📸 Photography
Lago del Valle offers dramatic mountain reflections, while viewpoints like Pico Cueva Camayor provide panoramic vistas. The charming villages and diverse wildlife also present excellent photo opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic light for landscape photography, especially around the lakes. Midday can be harsh, but good for wildlife spotting.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for wildlife photography. A versatile zoom lens is a good all-around choice.
Drone regulations can be strict in protected natural areas. It's essential to check the latest rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in Somiedo.
Valle de Lago, La Peral, and El Puerto are particularly picturesque with their traditional stone architecture and stunning natural backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Camping Lagos de Somiedo area, which offers a more relaxed atmosphere by the river. Packing plenty of snacks and water is key, and remember to emphasize respect for nature and wildlife to your kids. The educational aspect of visiting a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve can also be a valuable takeaway.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Remember that mountain weather can change rapidly, so proper gear is essential. Download offline maps, inform someone of your hiking plans, and be prepared for varying conditions. The reward is unparalleled natural beauty and a profound sense of accomplishment.
🎬 Film Buffs and 'Hunger Games' Fans
Be aware that this connection might mean more visitors, especially during peak seasons. Consider visiting on weekdays or during shoulder seasons for a more serene experience. It's a chance to see the real-world inspiration behind the cinematic world.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Hunger Games' Connection: Filming in Somiedo
While the film crew has departed, the park's natural splendor remains. Visitors can explore the very areas that served as the backdrop for the movie, imagining the scenes filmed there. This connection has drawn a new wave of visitors eager to see the real-life 'arena.'
It's important to note that the filming may have temporarily impacted access or visitor numbers. Checking local advisories before your visit is recommended, especially if you're aiming for a tranquil experience away from potential crowds drawn by the film's popularity.
Wildlife Encounters: Bears and Beyond
Beyond bears, Somiedo teems with other wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for chamois, deer, and various bird species, including birds of prey. The park's diverse ecosystems support a rich array of fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
When exploring, always practice responsible wildlife viewing. Maintain a safe distance, avoid making loud noises, and never feed the animals. The goal is to observe them in their natural environment without disturbing their behavior or habitat.
Sustainable Tourism in Somiedo
Visitors can experience this commitment firsthand by choosing to stay in sustainable rural cottages powered by renewable energy or by dining at establishments that source local, natural ingredients. This approach not only minimizes environmental impact but also supports the local economy and preserves the region's unique cultural heritage.
The park encourages visitors to tread lightly, respect the environment, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty responsibly. By embracing sustainable tourism, you contribute to the long-term preservation of Somiedo for future generations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit