The La Molina gorge in Asturias is the perfect canyon for those trying this sport for the first time. It's a short and straightforward gorge that you can tackle with friends or family. Children are welcome too. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about La Molina gorge.
But first, have a look at all the canyoning options available throughout the Principality.
But first, have a look at all the canyoning options available throughout the Principality.
Beginner's Guide to La Molina Gorge, Asturias
The La Molina gorge is located in Cabrales, in the village of La Molina. The river flowing through the gorge is the Casaño river. It lies within the Picos de Europa National Park.
It's one of the most beautiful and popular gorges in Picos de Europa. The route is short and ideal for beginners as well as those with canyoning experience. You'll feel like you're in a natural water park amidst stunning scenery.
This gorge maintains the most consistent water flow throughout the year. The recommended season is summer, as the descent is typically only possible between June and September.
The difficulty level is beginner II and the total duration of the descent is approximately 2-3 hours.
The setting is magnificent, shaped by water erosion on the rocks. It features lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters.
Throughout the route you'll encounter various water slides, climbs, jumps, water caves, siphons, pools and abseils that will make the experience unforgettable.
The gorge is 700 metres long and divided into two sections.
The first part is very narrow, with dark areas, semi-caves, water jumps and sections you'll need to swim through. This is the most aquatic section, accessed via an abseil of about 7-8 metres. Here you'll find waterfalls of 4-5 metres that plunge into pools. This section is particularly beautiful and fun.
Next you'll encounter a water slide and two jumps of 4 and 6 metres. After completing these, you'll finish the first section and emerge from the dark area.
As this section opens up, the second begins. The second section is a magnificent chaos of boulders, forming caves and aquatic labyrinths where you'll do an abseil and navigate a siphon.
In the second pool, for the more adventurous, there's a 7-metre jump only suitable for those with more canyoning experience.
Inside the caves you'll abseil about 5-6 metres to reach the aforementioned tunnels. In the tunnels you'll find numerous powerful waterfalls.
The descent concludes with a siphon requiring you to dive through to reach another area where you can do one final jump.
