The route begins in the lower part of Taramundi and heads towards Mazonovo , home to the Mill Museum, one of the first points of interest. From there, the path gradually climbs, passing by the hamlet of A Granda and crossing the Turia River, entering a native forest of chestnut and alder trees that gives the trail a damp, cool, and very pleasant feel. This combination of path, water, and trees is one of the keys to the route's appeal.
One of the most striking detours leads to the Salgueira waterfall , an optional stop that adds charm to the journey. In summer, it may have little water, but it's still worthwhile for the surroundings. Further along the route lies Os Esquíos , a small rural hamlet where you can also visit an ethnographic museum with traditional tools and implements from the region.
From Esquíos, the route offers two options , though both share the same spirit: walking through mountains, past water, and through well-preserved villages. In Esquíos, you can continue straight ahead to reach Veigas , or take a path to the left that crosses the Turia River and leads to Teixois.
Passing through As Veigas is one of the most beautiful parts of the route . It can be described as a fairytale village, with stone houses, surrounded by woods, and boasting remarkably well-preserved traditional architecture. Some hikers even recommend adding a short loop to visit the Church of Our Lady of the Snows before continuing on to Os Teixóis.
Os Teixóis is another highlight of this route . There you'll find a unique water-powered ethnographic complex, consisting of a hammer mill, fulling mill, grindstone, and a small hydroelectric plant . This site perfectly encapsulates the essence of the excursion: it's not just about walking, but about understanding how the landscape and water shaped the economy and daily life of Taramundi. From Os Teixóis, the path continues parallel to the As Mestas stream until it returns to Esquíos and then to Taramundi.
The Water Route is approximately 14 kilometers long and requires about four hours of actual walking, although the total duration can be considerably longer if you visit museums, take photos, or stop for lunch. The trail is excellently marked , which is very important on a route of this type. As for the difficulty, it doesn't appear to be technical; it's considered low to medium due to the distance and the continuous ascents and descents. Trekking poles and hiking boots are recommended.
The best thing about this route is that it combines many attractions in a single day: forest, river, waterfall, heritage sites, charming villages, and traditional culture . It's an ideal option for those looking for hiking in Taramundi that goes beyond a simple stroll, because here the walk also offers cultural and scenic value. The Water Route doesn't just showcase the region; it helps you understand it.
Text: © Ramón Molleda for asturias.com
