Local walk 9: Mikki's Walk

Discover the enchanting Mikki’s Walk, a route inspired by one of our cherished guests who first charted this path. Entirely on asphalt, it was specially chosen to be enjoyed even during the rainy season, when many other local walks can become muddy. Perfect for those in casual trainers, it offers comfort underfoot and flexibility in direction. Whether you head uphill towards Viyao or take the alternative route, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the majestic El Sueve and the Picos de Europa mountains. A picturesque and practical walk, whatever the weather!

1. Departure from El Gran Sueño: Starting by leaving the hamlet via the road alongside the El gran sueño carpark, the route passes the bus stop at the end of the road and then heads uphill the AS-258 to another hamlet called Viyao.

2. The Descent to El Río Borines: When you reach a recently refurbished house with a big window on your left, cross the road and take a narrower road that winds down past farm buildings and through woods until you reach the lowest point. You pass over a stream (el río Borines) and then turn right, following the road AS-259 to a crossroads, and go straight on bearing right towards Vallobal.

3. Vallobal and Indiano Houses: Passing through Vallobal, admire some impressive "casonas de indianos". When you have one impressive house either-side of you, look for a right-hand turn signposted for Pintueles (5 km). Take this road towards Cadanes, passing another hamlet, El Mortorio, en route.

4. Cadanes to Pintueles: Upon reaching Cadanes, at a crossroads where you can only go left or right, take the right turn. Head past the church, turning left, leaving the village for the final leg of the walk. After 1 KM, the old schoolhouse of Pintueles, now a youth hostel, appears. Cross the road and take the path to the left of the hostel. The path soon turns left, then right, leading to an old chapel belonging to the Palacio de Santo Domingo.

5. The Final Stretch: With a grass triangle at the crossroads, continue straight up, keeping the chapel on your right. You're nearly back home.

6. Arrival at El Gran Sueño: Pass the Palacio de Santo Domingo on your right and an horreo on your left. A short row of houses appears as you bear right, leading you to the plaza of El Caspio hamlet and El gran sueño. Welcome home!