11.02.2026 20:01
The gold particles that appeared in the river flowing through a small town in northern Spain quickly attracted worldwide attention. Visitors flocking to the Nalvegas River in the Asturias region are given pans to experience real gold panning, while the village has become a new destination for both tourism and curious onlookers.
The small town of Nalvegas, located in the Asturias region of northern Spain, has come to the forefront with an extraordinary wealth offered by nature. The river that runs through the village has attracted the attention of both the scientific community and tourists with the gold particles it has carried for centuries.
WEALTH SHINING IN THE RIVERBED
The waters flowing from the mountainous terrain erode the rocks, revealing visible metal particles along the river. The town, home to about 200 people, has become an international focal point thanks to this natural formation.
According to geologists, the formation of gold in the region dates back millions of years. The quartz-rich rock layers that cracked due to movements in the Earth's crust paved the way for the formation of gold veins along with hot mineral-laden fluids. Over time, erosion has transported these accumulations to the riverbed.
PANS FOR GOLD WASHING ARE GIVEN TO VISITORS TO THE TOWN
The gold washing events held every summer bring together both the local people and visitors. While participants try to sift gold pieces from the sand using traditional methods, tourism in the town also gains momentum. After a short journey from Oviedo, visitors to Nalvegas are given gold washing pans. This experience, conducted in harmony with nature, offers a chance to live the centuries-old tradition firsthand.
THE POSSIBILITY OF A LARGE RESERVE IS ON THE AGENDA
Expert studies indicate that there may still be significant amounts of gold in the riverbed. While precise measurements are ongoing, the region's potential to host a serious natural reserve is being discussed.