We start our route in the village of Oneta. More specifically, in the southwest part of the village. Our destination today is the Oneta Waterfalls. This route takes us not to one or two, but to three different waterfalls in a route suitable for everyone, with different levels of difficulty. We are going to the river Acebo, in Villayón, a council in western Asturias, which is included in the so-called Parque histórico del Navia.
Directions to the Oneta waterfalls
Unfortunately, the only way to get to Oneta is by car.
From Navia, take the AS-25 (Navia-Villayón motorway) through the towns of San Pelayo, Arbón, La Zorera, La Folguerosa, Martintorín, Castañera and Villayón to Oneta.
From Luarca, take the AS-36 (Luarca-Villayón) to Oneta.
Where to park
You can park in the public car park directly at the entrance to Oneta. The hiking trail is signposted from here.
There is also a tourist information office right at the car park. English and Spanish are spoken here and, in addition to flyers on the hiking route, you can also get useful information on the historic park of Navia. There is also a small restaurant next door. Perfect for a cool drink after the hike.
The path to the Firbia waterfall
The first part of the hike is on a gravel path surrounded by meadows and fields. At the edge of the path we can already hear the river. Afterwards, the path narrows and becomes increasingly steeper. However, this part of the route is also suitable for beginners or with children. After about 1200 m, the first waterfall awaits us. With a height of about 15 m, the Firbia waterfall is very impressive, both visually and acoustically. Most tourists make themselves comfortable at this waterfall. It is also perfect for a small picnic.
Second waterfall, Ulloa
We follow the river Acebo and about 150 m further on we see the remains of a mill that used to grind grain.
We continue downstream through the forest. The vegetation is lush and a deciduous tree population of ash, oak, alder and chestnut develops. On the way, we see numerous springs emerging from between the rocks. We see two more mills from earlier days.
We continue along the course of the river and after about 300 m the second waterfall appears, the Ulloa. It is less vertical than Firbia, but no less beautiful. Here we also cross the river for the first time to get to the other side.
Third part of the hike: Maiseirúa waterfall
This part is no longer for beginners or children. The paths are no longer paved and are very steep in places. The last waterfall, La Maseirúa, is about another kilometre away from Ulloa. For the experienced hikers among you, we can recommend walking the last part to the waterfall La Maseirúa, you won´t be put down.
Because of the lush vegetation in this area, you have to be especially careful not to lose the path. If you dare to follow the route, you will need to ascend up to the top, of the mountain, leaving the river about 500 m below your feet, to then rapidly descend in a zig-zag path down the valley. The reward is waiting for you, by far the most beautiful waterfall on this route.
If you want to know where to eat, where to have a drink or where to sleep near this route, don't miss this post.
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