Why Visit Picu Pozu l’Agua o La Miliciana
This modest yet distinctive summit rises above the Asturian countryside west of Oviedo, rewarding hikers with broad panoramas that stretch from the Cantabrian Mountains to the Bay of Biscay on clear days. Its dual name reflects local usage and the small water source near its slopes, while the open grassy ridges and occasional rocky outcrops give it a wild, uncrowded character.
Getting There
The trailhead lies a short drive from Oviedo via the AS-242 toward Trubia, then local roads toward the village of San Claudio. From the parking area near the hamlet of La Miliciana, a clear path climbs steadily through meadows and light woodland before emerging onto the open ridge. The route is straightforward and well-marked with occasional cairns, though the final section involves some loose rock.
Trail Details
The ascent covers roughly 500 metres of elevation gain over 4–5 kilometres round-trip. Most walkers complete the hike in three to four hours, allowing time to linger at the summit cross. The terrain mixes grass, mud after rain, and short rocky scrambles that require attention but no technical equipment.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early autumn offers the most reliable conditions. May and June bring wildflowers and longer daylight, while September provides clearer air and fewer insects. Winter visits are possible for experienced walkers with micro-spikes, but frequent fog and slippery grass make navigation harder. Always check the forecast; Atlantic weather can shift rapidly.
Nearby Attractions
After descending, continue to the dramatic gorges of the Río Trubia or the Prehistoric Park at the Tito Bustillo Caves near Ribadesella. Oviedo’s historic centre, with its cider houses and cathedral, lies only twenty minutes away by car and makes an easy base for combining the hike with urban exploration.