Monte Guariza: Hiking Asturias’ Quiet Mountain in the Redes Biosphere Reserve

Why Monte Guariza Belongs on Your Asturias Itinerary

Monte Guariza rises above the beech forests and limestone ridges of the Parque Natural de Redes, offering hikers a straightforward summit day with 360-degree panoramas of green valleys and distant snow-capped peaks. Unlike the busier trails around Lagos de Covadonga, this mountain remains largely local, giving visitors a genuine sense of Asturias’ wild interior.

Getting There

The mountain sits in the municipality of Caso. Most visitors drive from Oviedo (about 75 minutes via the AS-117) or from the train station in Pola de Laviana. Park at the Collado de la Farrapona or along the track near the village of Bezanes; both spots serve as trailheads. Public transport is limited, so a car or arranged taxi from Caso is the practical choice.

Trails and What to Expect

The standard route begins at roughly 1,100 m and climbs steadily through mixed woodland before emerging onto open slopes of heather and grass. The final section follows a clear ridge to the 1,709 m summit cairn. Total distance is around 9 km out-and-back with 600 m of elevation gain; allow four to five hours at a relaxed pace. On clear days the view takes in the entire Redes reserve and, to the south, the higher Cantabrian summits.

Flora and Wildlife

Spring brings carpets of wild daffodils and gentians; autumn turns the beech woods gold. Keep an eye out for chamois on the higher slopes and griffon vultures riding thermals above the ridge.

Best Time to Visit

Late May through October offers the most reliable weather. July and August are warmest but can bring afternoon thunderstorms; start early. Winter visits require mountaineering experience and avalanche awareness.

Nearby Attractions

Combine the hike with a visit to the traditional brañas (summer pastures) of Caleao or a tour of the cheese-making villages around Caso. The nearby Río Nalón offers gentle riverside walks for rest days.