The bare minimum: water, something to eat, a light rain layer and sunscreen in summer. Helmet and insurance are on us if you rent a bike. Not much more is needed.
This guide breaks it down by season (spring, summer, autumn, winter) and by profile (with kids, with dog, photographer). Signed by the Bicisendadeloso team, who have spent more than 20 years seeing what people forget.
The essentials (any season)
Eight things you have to bring whatever the weather:
- Water — at least 750 ml per adult. There are fountains in Entrago, Proaza, Buyera and Tuñón, but better to come prepared.
- Something to eat — sandwich, fruit, nuts. Proaza and Entrago have bars, but they close at midday in low season.
- Light rain layer — Asturias is Asturias. Even with sunshine, the weather can shift.
- Sunscreen — even on cloudy days, UV is high in May-August in this Mediterranean woodland.
- Charged phone — to call the transfer (if you rent with us), photos and emergencies.
- Comfortable trainers or sports shoes — no flip-flops or smart shoes.
- Layered clothing — in the tunnels and canyons the temperature drops 5-10 °C compared with outside.
- Small first-aid kit — plasters and an ibuprofen if you’re prone to aches. Nothing more.
What you DON’T need to bring if you rent with us:
- Helmet (we give a certified one, adults and kids).
- Map (printed copy provided).
- Pump, inner tube or wrench (provided with the bike).
- Insurance (included).
By season
Spring (March-May)
- Light rain layer mandatory.
- Fleece or warm hoodie.
- Long trousers.
- Sunglasses.
Summer (June-August)
- Cap or visor.
- High-factor sun protection (SPF 50).
- Light, breathable clothing.
- Extra water on hot days (>25 °C).
- Insect repellent (flies in damp areas).
Autumn (September-November)
- Same as spring with one extra warm layer.
- Light windbreaker.
- Long trousers mandatory.
Winter (December-February)
- Warm waterproof jacket.
- Thin or cycling gloves.
- Neck buff.
- Beanie if you feel the cold.
- Front bike light if you ride late (it gets dark at 17:30).
If you go with kids
- Spare clothing (at least a t-shirt and trousers — kids get dirty).
- Extra snacks (banana, biscuits, juice).
- Child seat or trailer: we rent these adjusted to weight and age.
- Hat/hood to protect from sun or rain while in the trailer.
- Wet wipes or tissues.
- A complete change of clothes in case of accidents (parents who remembered tell us so every time).
If you go with a dog
- Short lead or bungee (mandatory).
- Extra water and folding bowl for the dog.
- Bags to pick up their poo.
- Pet-friendly trailer if your dog isn’t used to running — we rent it (20 kg standard, 30 kg XXL, 40 € deposit).
- Canopy or shade on hot days.
- Don’t take them out above 25 °C if they are not acclimatised.
If you’re a photographer
- Camera with stabilised lens (low light in the tunnels).
- Light tripod or gimbal if you plan to shoot Valdecerezales.
- Wide-angle lens for the canyons.
- Short telephoto (70-200) for the bear enclosure.
- Spare battery (the tunnels drain batteries due to humidity).
- Empty cards (you’ll take many more shots than you think).
What you DON’T need to bring
- Knee or elbow pads — this isn’t mountain biking, it’s a flat greenway.
- Cycling shoes with cleats — overkill, normal trainers are perfect.
- Camelbak or large rucksack — a 750 ml water bottle is enough.
- Head torch — every tunnel has solar-powered lighting.
- Food for a whole day — Proaza has bars and cider houses.
- Dedicated GPS — the printed map we give you and your phone are more than enough.
Our advice
“What gets forgotten most is the light rain layer”. People in July at 28 °C convince themselves it’s not needed and then a 20-min downpour hits at 2 pm. Nothing dramatic. But you get soaked. Always, always a rain layer in your bag, even if the day starts with blue sky.
“What people overpack are useless extras”: three t-shirts, two trousers, a stuffed rucksack. Not needed. Small, light bag is the goal. The transfer takes your bag without any issue.
