Oviedo’s Social Centres Promote Routes and Outdoor Activities to Encourage Active Living and Contact with Nature

Oviedo’s social centres have launched a programme of routes and outdoor activities designed to invite citizens to rediscover the territory from a healthy, participatory perspective that is open to all ages. Guided walks, group outings and activities in natural environments form part of this initiative, which aims to encourage active lifestyles and strengthen people’s connection with the surrounding landscape.

Walking, sharing time outdoors and maintaining an active routine not only improves physical fitness, but also contributes to emotional well-being and the creation of social networks—factors that are increasingly valued in community policies. These activities transform natural spaces into places for meeting, learning and living together.

One of the programme’s key features is its intergenerational approach. Many of the routes are designed for older adults, families, young people and children to take part together, creating shared experiences that strengthen bonds between generations. Early contact with nature also helps children develop greater environmental awareness and a closer relationship with their surroundings.

This way of understanding culture—as an everyday experience that is accessible and connected to people’s lives—is fully aligned with the values promoted by Oviedo’s candidacy for European Capital of Culture 2031. The project advocates a vision of culture that contributes to well-being, fosters participation and recognises the territory as a living space, where heritage, landscape and community are interwoven.

The routes and activities organised by the social centres are an example of how culture can be integrated into daily life, promote healthy habits and strengthen social cohesion, while inviting people to look at their surroundings with fresh eyes and enjoy them collectively.