Cerro Roblosa: Hiking Asturias’ Quiet Summit Above the Nalón Valley

Why Cerro Roblosa Stands Out

Cerro Roblosa rises gently above the Nalón valley in eastern Asturias, offering hikers a compact but satisfying climb without the crowds of the Picos de Europa. Its rounded summit and south-facing slopes support dense oak and beech forest that turns gold in autumn, while the open limestone crest delivers clear sightlines to the Cantabrian Sea on clear days and the higher ridges of the Redes Natural Park to the east.

Getting There

The most practical approach begins from the village of L’Infiestu (Infesto). From Oviedo or Gijón, take the AS-1 motorway to the Pola de Siero exit, then follow the AS-117 east through Nava and into the valley. Park at the small lay-by just beyond the hamlet of Robla, where a forest track signed “Cerro Roblosa” starts. The track is unpaved but suitable for ordinary cars in dry weather; after heavy rain it can become rutted.

The Hike

The standard route climbs steadily through mixed woodland for about 90 minutes to the broad grassy ridge. From there a short scramble on limestone leads to the 1,078-metre summit cairn. Total distance is roughly 8 km out-and-back with 450 m of ascent. The path is well-defined but unmarked; carry a GPS track or 1:25 000 map. In spring the forest floor is carpeted with wild daffodils; in summer the ridge is often breezy enough to keep insects away.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) give the most reliable weather and fewer midges than July and August. Winter visits are possible on clear days, but the upper slopes can ice over; micro-spikes are advisable from December to March. Avoid the peak during heavy rain, as the limestone becomes slippery.

Nearby Attractions

After descending, continue 15 minutes by car to the Cueva del Sidrón archaeological site or drive another 25 minutes to the cider-producing town of Nava for a sidrería lunch. The Redes Natural Park, with its dramatic gorges and the Rioseco waterfall trail, lies only 30 minutes farther east and makes an easy second-day outing.