Discover the wild beauty and rich heritage of the Omaña and Luna Valleys Biosphere Reserve, a natural paradise in the heart of the Cantabrian Mountains.
The RBVOyL was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on June 29, 2005. Covering slightly more than 81,000 hectares, the territory is home to a total of 86 localities spread across six municipalities: Los Barrios de Luna (9 localities), Murias de Paredes (15), Riello (37), Sena de Luna (8), Soto y Amío (12), and Valdesamario (5).
Named after the Luna and Omaña river basins, the reserve comprises a succession of small, fertile valleys nestled in the mountainous foothills that connect the Cantabrian Mountains with the Montes de León.
Recommended Visits:
Interpretation Centre of the Reserve (Murias de Paredes):
If you are interested in nature, history, and the culture of the region, this centre is a must-visit. It offers a unique opportunity to learn in depth about the Omaña and Luna Valleys Biosphere Reserve. Located in a historic building known as "La Casona," a former palace of the Counts of Luna, it now serves as an interpretation centre and visitor reception area for the Biosphere Reserve, as well as a cultural centre for the region. Through videos, touchscreens, dioramas, and other interactive exhibits, visitors can learn about the flora, fauna, geology, and culture of the region.
Shepherd's Museum (Los Barrios de Luna):
A reminder of a not-so-distant time when the transhumance of sheep marked the lives of many people in the generous Luna river valley, the Shepherd's Museum, housed in the restored walls of the old school in Los Barrios de Luna, showcases the pastoral traditions of the region. Everything in the museum, which opened in September 1997 to coincide with the Shepherd's Festival, is related to shepherds and their world: their clothing, the tools neatly stored in their huts, the work of wool—from spinning to woven fabrics—reflecting the primary use of sheep farming. And the animals closest to the shepherds during their transhumance: donkeys coming and going with loaded saddlebags, horses with pack saddles, mastiffs, and sheepdogs...
Interpretation Centre: The Explosion of Life in the Cambrian (Miñera de Luna):
Los Barrios de Luna is a site of international geological interest. Since the 1950s, geologists and palaeontologists from around the world have come to Luna to study the valuable information contained in its rocks, which has allowed us to learn about different aspects of the evolution of the planet and the Cantabrian Mountains. The Centre has been designed to make this valuable heritage accessible to the general public. It features several panels and display cases that explain various aspects of local geology, with particular attention to the explosion of life that occurred in the Cambrian. Of particular note is the collection of fossils that the Centre offers to the public.
Things to Do in the Biosphere Reserve - Routes:
Nature lovers will find a paradise for hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching. Numerous marked trails allow you to explore forests, meadows, and riverbeds. You can also visit charming villages, taste local cuisine, and learn about the traditions of its inhabitants.
