Llosona: Hiking Asturias’s Underrated Mountain Summit Near Oviedo

Why Llosona Stands Out

Llosona rises modestly above the rolling countryside east of Oviedo, offering hikers a peaceful alternative to busier Picos de Europa trails. Its rounded summit delivers clear sightlines across the Nalón valley toward the sea on clear days and back toward the Cantabrian peaks. The mountain’s south-facing slopes are covered in chestnut and oak woods that give way to open heath and limestone outcrops near the top.

Getting There

Most visitors drive from Oviedo, a 25-minute journey via the AS-1 and local roads to the hamlet of Llosona. A small parking area sits at the end of a narrow lane; from there a well-marked path begins. Public transport is limited, so a car or taxi from Pola de Siero is the practical option. The trailhead lies at roughly 400 m elevation, so the full round-trip hike covers about 8 km and 450 m of ascent.

The Route

The main path climbs steadily through mixed woodland before emerging onto grassy ridges. After 90–120 minutes most walkers reach the trig point and stone shelter at 850 m. Continue a few minutes east for the best unobstructed views. The descent follows the same route or a parallel track that loops through meadows dotted with traditional stone cabanas.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring through early autumn offers the most reliable weather. April and May bring blooming heather and fewer visitors, while September provides mild temperatures and golden light. Winter hikes are possible on clear days but require micro-spikes after frost or light snow.

What to See and Do Nearby

Combine the hike with a visit to the cider-making villages of Nava or Villaviciosa, both less than 30 minutes away. The Pre-Romanesque church of San Miguel de Lillo in Oviedo makes an easy cultural stop before or after the mountain day.