The park contains 13 individual watermills, most of which were actively used until the mid-20th century.
The mills were historically powered by diverted channels of the Anllóns River to grind corn and wheat for local farming families.
The site was historically known as the 'Mills of Verdes' before being developed into a formal recreational park.
The architectural style of the mills features local granite stone, typical of rural A Coruña construction techniques.
The park is maintained by the local municipality to preserve the historic rural landscape while providing public access to the river.
The area is home to a significant population of native river trout and aquatic bird species.
Refugio de Verdes is a lush, riverside recreational area situated along the Anllóns River in Coristanco, Spain. The site is defined by a collection of over a dozen traditional stone watermills, many of which have been restored and remain integrated into the natural forest landscape. The park features a network of well-maintained walking paths, wooden footbridges, and stone steps that cross over the river and between the mill structures. Visitors will find communal stone tables and barbecue pits built directly into the riverside scenery, designed for outdoor dining. The riverbank is densely shaded by native deciduous trees, including alders and willows, which create a cool microclimate during warmer months. The site serves as a preserved example of Galician rural heritage, showcasing how historical milling infrastructure interacted with the local environment. It functions as a public leisure space for hiking, picnicking, and observing river wildlife.
The central stone bridge crossing the river, providing a view of the mill cluster.
Bring a portable grill set if you intend to use the stone barbecues, as the facilities are rustic.
Wear shoes with good grip, as the stone paths and wooden walkways can become slippery near the water.
Carry insect repellent if visiting during the summer months due to the proximity to the river.
Avoid swimming in the river, as currents and hidden stones near the mill channels can be hazardous.
Practice 'leave no trace' principles; keep noise levels low to respect the natural setting.
