Route to the Cueva de la Vieja del Monte: Legend, Tradition and Nature in the Viejas Beech Forest
The path to the Cueva de la Vieja del Monte winds through the enchanting Hayedo de las Viescas, minutes from Riaño (León). Under centuries-old beech canopies, moss-covered trunks and sunlit glades conjure the legend of the mountain’s wise old woman.
Who Is the Vieja del Monte?
According to tradition, she lives hidden in a secret cave, baking bread in a stone oven and gifting travelers with bread, cheese, chorizo or hazelnuts at dusk. Only the elders glimpse her silhouette.
Trail Overview
- Distance: 5 km loop (round trip).
- Elevation gain: 150 m, gentle grades suitable for strollers and all-terrain baby seats.
- Family- and dog-friendly (leashed).
Boat-and-Hike Option
Combine with a boat ride on Riaño Reservoir: disembark at the forest trailhead.
Recommendations
- Comfortable shoes, warm clothing.
- Water and snacks (picnic areas available).
- Camera for the filtered light through the leaves.
- Small flashlight for peeking inside the cave.
This 4–5-hour adventure (including boat) blends landscape, myth and nature: the rustle of leaves meets an ancient tale for an unforgettable experience.
How to get there
Coordinates:
Decimal: 42.968333°, -5.018889°
DMS: 42°58'06" N, 5°1'08" O
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