The Councils of Illano, Pesoz and Grandas de Salime belong to an area called “The Historical Park of the Navia River”. This refers to an area of different councils with a common historical past stemming from the ancient inhabitants of Asturias. The west of Asturias is full of legends, mystery, magic and myth. This is largely because their location between the sea and the mountains of Galicia and Leon and their welcoming character as a land of travellers, farmers, fisherman, shepherds, sailors and craftsmen.
The whole area is like a living museum with exhibits of mountains, beaches, valleys, rivers, towns and forests where you can find history in every step through the remnants of the Celtic, Roman and Christian cultures.
If we had to define this area in few words then it would be inspirational, relaxing, spiritual and mystical
Other common denominators to all these areas are the mix of Galician and Asturias architecture, with stone structures and slate roofs. The traditional Asturian stores called “horreos” or “paneras” live side by side with Galician Style Barns. You will find these constructions right next to the houses and were designed protect cured meats and the vegetables from animals and insects.
The Council of Illano is a fine example of a traditional rural area with rich in ethnography, Asturian architecture and country landscapes throughout the main towns.
One of the most important monuments to visit in Illano is the dolmen of Entrerios-Barandon and the Castelon Settlement. It is also recommended to visit in Illano the sanctuary of the Virgin of Pastur, the Large Houses of Petrola & Grandela with their coat of arms and the Church of Santa Leocadia.
The town of San Esteban de los Buitres is very beautiful and you can enjoy the stunning scenery of the area at the viewpoint of Peñamayor and also the amazing landscapes of the mountain pastures in San Roque.
The council of Illano has a modern leisure centre called Folgueirou with a very beautiful outdoor swimming pool that boasts wonderful views. You can also enjoy exhilarating walking Routes such as “The Route of the Dolmen of Entrerios” or “The Route of the Hanging Bridge”.
The Gastronomy in Illano is mainly traditional Asturias cuisine with some Galician influence. It is mainly based on Casseroles, Asturian reared beef, fresh fish from their rivers, cheeses and desserts from the area.
More info: Illano Tourist Office
If you want more information contact Where is Asturias at info@whereisasturias.com
Images supplied by Ayto de Illano, Parque Historico del Navia and Turismo Asturias: Camilo Alonso and Ana Muller
