Canales and the Mines of Alda Circular

Jim Arymar

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From the sleepy village of Canales we shall climb gently, eventually to reach the old copper mines of Alda. These ceased production in the early 60s and the old gantry, still with two lifts, sets the scene on what was a hive of mining industry. From here we will trek across open country, rising all the time with the peak Paré Beranzas on our left. We will skirt round this peak, passing old mineshafts and enjoying panoramic views and begin our return journey on the southern flank of the peak, high above the Casaño Valley. Later we will drop down to join the lane that will lead us back to Canales and the point we started from. There is some signing, but don't rely on it. Be prepared to follow compass bearings.

Spain - North West Spain - Asturias - Picos de Europa

Features

Birds, Butterflies, Flowers, Great Views, Industrial Archaeology, Mountains, River, Wildlife, Woodland
7/4/2012 - Tom Beard

This is a very good straightforward walk with plenty of magnificent views. However, we did have navigation problems at WP 11. From WP 10 we got carried away with the views and strolled down a grassy slope to the right of the direct line from WP 10 to 11. There was little chance of getting to WP 11 from here so re-traced steps towards WP10 and now paid attention to instructions ‘to keep below rocky outcrops’ and my map showed an appropriate path left of direct line to WP11. Still a great walk but spoilt by a bit of ambiguity in unpleasant terrain. An aside on the weather – this was only 1 of 2 walks we achieved 1st time, out of only 7 attempts made in Picos area in last 2 weeks of June 2012. Owing to thick mist: 1 aborted, 2 not started / never done, 2 ok on 2nd attempt.