Ponga. Natural Park and Biosphere Reserve
Peaks, forests, biodiversity, culture, gastronomy and much more...
Experience the Asturian mountains
Ponga cannot be understood without its mountains. Its abrupt and steep relief defines the landscape, not only for its extraordinary natural beauty, visible to any visitor, but also for its impact on the lives of its inhabitants. Declared a Natural Park and Biosphere Reserve, this Asturian council has everything you need to enjoy ecotourism.
Touring Ponga, with its villages, forests, rivers, mountains and people, never leaves you indifferent; it always manages to surprise.
Ponga cannot be understood without its mountains. Its abrupt and steep relief is the undisputed protagonist of the council, not only for its impressive natural and scenic beauty, evident to the eyes of any visitor, but because it has deeply shaped all aspects of the lives of its inhabitants.
Over generations, the inhabitants have been able to adapt harmoniously to this beautiful and challenging environment. The rural constructions reflect this adaptation, designed to withstand climatic conditions and facilitate traditional economic activities: livestock and agricultural work.
Ancient customs, always linked to the natural environment, include the use of pastures in the highlands and the preparation of roads. The culinary heritage, for its part, offers strong and nutritious dishes, perfect to face both the changing climate and the long days in the mountains.
The natural environment defines and enriches life in Ponga. Its mountains, from the peaks to the valleys, are home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna. Lush and fertile forests stand as a refuge for native wildlife.
In 2003, the entire council was declared a Natural Park, and in 2018 it received UNESCO recognition as a Biosphere Reserve, reaffirming the commitment to preserve this invaluable natural heritage.
Flora and fauna
The Ponga Natural Park is distinguished by its excellent state of conservation, with mature forests covering 37% of its surface. These include oak, birch, ash, alder and, especially, beech forests, with a notable representation in the Peloño Partial Nature Reserve. In addition, the park is home to meadows, pastures, heathlands, heaths, gorse and chestnut plantations located in its central area.
As for the flora, endangered species such as the yew and holly stand out, along with others of great botanical value, such as the Asturian daffodil and the gentian. The fauna of the park includes emblematic mammals such as the brown bear, the otter, the Iberian desman, the piornal hare, the deer, the roe deer, the Cantabrian chamois and the wild boar.
Among the birds, species such as the Cantabrian capercaillie, the medium-sized woodpecker, the black woodpecker and various birds of prey, such as the golden eagle and the griffon vulture stand out. It is also possible to see high mountain birds, such as the alpine sparrow and the ptarmigan, which complete the rich biodiversity of this natural space.
Visitor center
In Beleño is located the Interpretation Center of the Natural Park of Ponga, a space that offers a fascinating journey through the recent and ancestral history of the region. In its facilities, visitors can discover the richness of its nature, fauna, villages, buildings, traditions, crafts and the life of its people.
Address: 33557 San Xuan/San Juan de Beleño
Telephone: 985 843 113
It is recommended to call to know the opening hours and activities.