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51 Best Things to Do in Asturias, Spain – Ultimate Travel Guide

Planning your trip to Asturias? Or just checking to see if you should add Asturias to your bucket list?

I’ve got you covered . We’ll see all the best things to do in Asturias, Spain.

This includes the most epic hikes , the best beaches , cool cities to explore and great cultural experiences . 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Where is Asturias in Spain

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The Principality of Asturias ( Principado de Asturias ) is one of the 17 autonomous communities of Spain. It’s located in the north west of the country, and is part of Northern Spain.

Asturias has borders with 3 other autonomous communities:

• Cantabria to the east
• Castile and León to the south
• Galicia to the west

Ready to discover Asturias? Here are the 3 main locations I recommend for your stay in Asturias:

• Picos de Europa National Park : THE best place to stay for hiking in Asturias! I recommend the Hostal Poncebos as the perfect homebase, the Hotel Picos de Europa for a comfy stay, and Casa Rural Priena to be right next to the Covadonga Lakes.
• Gijón : the biggest city in Asturias, centrally located and close to all main locations; perfect to mix architecture & nature and to experience the local nightlife. See the best hotels in Gijón
• Ribadesella : a coastal city right next to Picos de Europa, with easy access to plenty of beaches. See the best hotels in Ribadesella

Alright, let’s answer the question “What to do in Asturias, Spain?”. Asturias is a region mostly famous for its outdoors, so the guide focuses heavily on this side of travel. However there are also a few cool cities to discover, and of course great cultural experiences to be had.

Here are the 4 main things we’ll cover:

• Cultural experiences

Ready to learn what to see in Asturias, Spain? Let’s get to it!

There’s no shortage of great hikes in Asturias, and you could definitely spend quite a while in this region of Spain exploring all of the trails. The 2 main hiking areas are Picos de Europa, and Somiedo.

Picos de Europa was the first National Park in Spain, and it has the most hikes in my top 21 hikes in Asturias (10 out of 21).

Somiedo is a Natural Park , and is great for outdoors adventures & to see wild animals. It also has a lot of hikes in my best hikes list (4 out of 21).

Here are the best hikes in Asturias:

Lagos de Covadonga

The Covadonga lakes are for sure the most popular destination in Picos de Europa, and possibly in Asturias. These 2 lakes used to form the center of the Picos de Europa National Park, which has now expanded.

You can drive right up to the lakes, and go on a easy hike around the lakes. It’s a well-maintained path, family-friendly, and even if the hike is short I ended up spending the whole day there anyway.

Lagos de Covadonga Hike

Ruta del Cares

While it’s hard to beat the view of 2 alpines lakes, the landscapes of the Ruta del Cares hold their ground compared to the Lagos de Covadonga.

This day-hike is literally carved on the side of the mountain, and runs above the Cares river. You’ll get epic views all along the hike, and you’ll probably meet some friendly goats to keep you company.   

Ruta de Lagos de Saliencia

Want more lakes? Well you’re in luck, because Asturias has exactly what you need: the Lagos de Saliencia .

Located in the Somiedo Natural Park, the Lagos de Saliencia are 3 alpines lakes, right next from one another. Not as famous as other locations, but trust me it’s one of the best things to see in Asturias, Spain.

Best of all? You don’t need to hike for 10 hours straight to see them! There’s a parking lot right next to the lakes, and you can get to the first one within minutes. If you’re game, you can combine this hike with the Lago del Valle hike ; cross to the next valley to check another epic mountain lake.

Bufones de Pria Loop

Let’s move away from the 2 main hiking hotspots in Asturias, and hit the coast for this next hike: the Bufones de Pria loop.

The Bufones de Pria are massive geysers, where waves get through holes in the cliffs and blow up insanely high in the air.

Jose Luis Canales / CC BY NC

The hike starts from the geysers, and runs along the coast towards Ribadesella. On the way you have great views of the rugged cliffs, and you’ll discover some nice rock formations.

Xiblu Waterfall Hike

Let’s move south for the next hike, next to the border between Asturias and Castile and León.

The Cascada del Xiblu is a nice waterfall deep in the forest, and you’ll need to hike a bit to reach it. It’s one of the most off-the-beaten track adventures in Spain , and a great way to escape the crowds. 

The hike to the waterfall is also pretty sweet in itself, and depending on the time of year you’ll have different experiences: mysterious fog, fall colors, whistling birds, …

More Hikes in Asturias

I’ve listed above 5 of my favorite hikes in Asturias, but there are much more. If you plan to spend several days in Asturias, or if you want more ideas for hikes, check out my favorite hiking trails below:

• Poncebos to Bulnes
• Full circuit Poncebos – Bulnes – Sotres – Tielve – Poncebos
• Ruta Puertos de Aliva in Fuente Dé
• Horcados Rojos Summit
• Vega de Ario
• Brez Canal de Arredondas
• Ordiales Scenic Balcony Trail
• Lago del Valle Hike
• La Pornacal from Villar de Vildas
• Puerto de Somiedo to El Cornón
• Cabo Vidio Loop
• Llanes to Playa de Poo
• Ruta de la Cascada de Seimeira
• Ruta de las Xanas
• Tabayon Waterfall Trail

HIKING GUIDE: 21 Best Hikes in Asturias

Tired of walking too much? Let’s hit the beach and relax!

The coast of Asturias is known as the Costa Verde (Green Coast), and it’s full of incredible beaches . Except a few of them which are very popular, there’s a good amount of wild beaches with little to no crowds.

Here are the best ones:

Playa de Santa Marina

The first beach on the list is the Playa de Santa Marina, a long golden sand beach located in the coastal town Ribadesella.

It’s part of the popular beaches in Asturias, and it’s right in the heart of the town, so expect crowds. But the beach is long enough to find a cool spot for you and your loved ones, and the view from the beach is pretty impressive.

Amenities : showers, toilets, lifeguards, surf rental, food & drinks

Location : Playa de Santa Marina, Ribadesella

Playa del Silencio

Playa del Silencio (Silence Beach) is as the name implies a very calm beach, away from the crowds on most days. It has no amenities, and it requires a short hike downhill to reach, which is enough to deter big crowds.

The beach itself is made of stones & pebbles, but the view and the water clarity more than make up for it.

Read more:  Guide to Playa del Silencio

Amenities : /

Location : Playa del Silencio, Cudillero

Playa de la Cueva

Third up on the list is more than just 1 beach, it’s actually a place as a whole. The Playa de la Cueva is located in Cabo Vidio, a cape with a little lighthouse.

The whole area around the lighthouse is full of pretty beaches, epic views and spots to relax. All of this makes it one of the best places to visit in Asturias.

Read more:  Guide to Cabo Vidio

Location : Playa de la Cueva, Oviñana

Playa de Torimbia

The Playa de Torimbia is one of these beaches that made me say “Wait that’s in Spain?!”. It looks like a beach from a tropical island, and the crystal clear water certainly has much to do with it. 

It’s a popular beach, and particularly loved by nudists, even though it’s not officially a strictly-nudist beach. Answer is yes, you can go there with clothes on.

Jaime E. Osorio / CC BY-SA

Amenities : showers, lifeguards, beach bar in high season

Location : Playa de Torimbia

Playon de Bayas

Next up is Playon de Bayas, the longest beach in Asturias. This 2,800 meters long beach (1.7 miles) has more than enough space to be comfortable, even on hot summer days when the locals flood to the beach.

The beach has great waves, and you can even rent a surfboard directly on the beach if you’re up for a riding session.

Oscar F. Hevia / CC BY-NC-ND

Amenities : showers, lifeguards, surf rental

Location : Playon de Bayas

More Beaches in Asturias

I’ve listed above 5 of my favorite beaches in Asturias, but there are much more. If you plan to spend several days in Asturias, or if you want more ideas for beaches, check out my favorite beaches below:

• Ballota Beach
• Playa de Cuevas del Mar
• Playa de Gulpiyuri
• Playa de Rodiles
• Playa de la Griega
• Playa de la Atalaya
• Playa del Sablón
• Playa de Toró
• Playa de San Antolín
• Playa de Guadamía
• Playa de la Franca
• Playa de Cadavedo
• Playa de Poo

BEACH GUIDE: 19 Best Beaches in Asturias

Pretty sure you got your nature fix by now, with these 21 hikes and 19 beaches. How about we see some of the beautiful cities Asturias has to offer now?

Ribadesella

Ribadesella is a small coastal city, with around 6,000 inhabitants. The town is mainly famous for its unique position at the end of the Sella river, in between the river and the sea, with the Picos de Europa mountains in the background.

The town is a hub for outdoors activities: surf, hiking, biking, canoe in the river, and much more. It’s also home to one of the most popular Asturias tourist attractions, the Cueva de Tito Bustillo: a UNESCO World Heritage cave with prehistoric paintings on the walls, from 29,000 BC.

TRAVEL GUIDE: 15 Things to Do in Ribadesella

Find the best hotels in Ribadesella : Ribadesella Recommended Hotels

Llanes is another coastal town, and its historical center is one of the most gorgeous in Asturias. There’s plenty of things to do in the town itself: go play at the casino, visit the medieval tower or the Duque de Estrada’s palace.

The main beach in town is the Playa del Sablón, a half-circle beach right below the cliffs of the village.

Ego Irizar / CC BY-NC

Travel Guide: Llanes Tourism

Find the best hotels in Llanes : Llanes Recommended Hotels

Oviedo is the capital of Asturias, and obviously I had to include it in this list. It’s a great city to visit to immerse yourself in Asturian culture, whether it’s getting a taste of the local food or enjoying festivals & exhibitions.

The Old Town is the main attraction in town, with beautiful buildings from the Middle Ages, and the famous Oviedo Cathedral towering above the streets.

Travel Guide: What to Do in Oviedo

Find the best hotels in Oviedo : Oviedo Recommended Hotels

While Oviedo is Asturias capital city, Gijón is the most populated city in the Principality. This harbor town has a pretty special feel, where new & old peacefully coexist.

The Plaza Mayor and Playa de San Lorenzo will take you back in time with Roman architecture. On the other side of town you’ll find an artificial beach (Playa de Poniente) and modern buildings.

All parts of town are lively, and it’s a great city to combine sunbathing on the beach, visiting the Old Town and partying.

Travel Guide:  15 Things to Do in Gijon

Find the best hotels in Gijon : Gijon Recommended Hotels

And finally, the last city in this Asturias guide: Cudillero. It’s a tiny fishing village, tucked away on the Costa Verde, often overlooked. This colorful village is definitely worth a visit. On one hand you’ll enjoy the gorgeous view over the village, and on the other hand you’ll discover a typical Asturian fishing village.

And when you’re ready to leave the village, there are plenty of splendid beaches in the area, including Cabo Vidio and Playa del Silencio less than 20mn away.

Travel Guide: Discover Cudillero

Find the best hotels in Cudillero : Cudillero Recommended Hotels

More Cities in Asturias

I’ve listed above 5 of my favorite cities in Asturias, but there are much more. If you plan to spend several days in Asturias, or if you want more ideas for cities and small towns, check them out below:

• Covadonga and Covadonga Sanctuary (Basilica de Santa Maria la Real)

We’ve seen hikes, beaches and cities, and by now you probably have enough things on your list to plan a great Asturias trip. To finish off this Asturias travel guide, let’s see what goes hand in hand with discovering a place: the cultural experiences.

Try the local cuisine

Whether you go hike in the mountains or spend time in one of the major cities, you’ll be able to try some of that sweet Asturian cuisine. Asturias is a region that produces a lot of local products, and it’s mostly known for its cheese, meat and seafood. 

The classical cheese is known as Cabrales , a blue cheese made from cow, goat and sheep milk.

As you’ll see when roaming the hills & mountains of Asturias, there are a lot of animals: cows, sheeps and goats. Asturian shepherds produce some great quality meat, and locals eat an absolutely enormous amount of meat! 

And of course there’s great seafood in Asturias, with a lot of coastal villages living from the sea. You can order a marisco , a big old seafood platter that includes lobster, crab, clams, mussels, & more!

Drink sidra and learn how to pour it

Cider is a real tradition in Asturias. The Asturian cider is known as sidra , and it’s made with local apples. This kind of cider is pretty special, as it doesn’t have any gas, and the acidity of the apples is very strong.

To avoid the acid taste, the locals have a very special way of pouring the sidra: they put the bottle high above their head, and pour it in the glass they hold at their waist. When the cider crashes in the glass below, it oxygenates the cider and removes the acidity for a short while.

They serve you a culín , which is only a small quantity of cider in your glass. You need to chug the cider instantly, and then they’ll serve you again a drop of that sweet local cider.

Zulio / CC BY

You can try your hand at pouring cider, and you’ll notice the terraces of the restaurants are always wet from all the cider poured on the ground.

Learn Asturian

Truth is, almost all Asturian speak Spanish. If you speak Spanish, you won’t have any problem at all getting around in Asturias. More and more people speak English, but it’s mostly young adults; English is not that spread out among the older generation.

You’ll be fine in most cities & near main Asturias attractions. But if you go deep in the mountains and countryside, you’ll probably have to talk with your hands to get your point across.

In any case, it’s always fun to learn a few local words, and locals will appreciate you making the effort. Here are a few Asturian words:

• Hello = Hola
• How are you? = Como tas?
• Sorry = Perdón
• How much? = Cuanto?

If you’re with a friend, try this one: Esti señor va pagor por too (this guy will pay for everything). Señor for a guy and señora for a girl.

Damn, that was quite a lot of things! To make it easy for you to plan your trip, I’ve put all of these epic things to do in Asturias on a custom map.

And yes, it’s available for free.

To get my map of Asturias things to do , simply click on the image below to open it in Google Maps. Then click on the “star” icon to save it to your own maps.

Asturias is a diverse region, and as such the Asturias climate is also pretty diverse.

Due to its proximity to the sea, it’s never freezing cold nor burning hot. The climate is cool, with mild winters and warm summers. There’s usually a fair share of wind regardless of the season, so make sure to pack some windbreaker or scarf.

Fog is a common phenomenon, and can quickly appear; same thing for rain and thunderstorms. The climate can rapidly change, and go from warm to cold, windy and rainy.

More details:  Asturias Climate

Weather forecast:  Picos de Europa | Ribadesella | Oviedo

Planning a trip to Asturias and Spain? You can find below several other articles about this wonderful part of the world to help you plan your trip.

Asturias Guides:

• The massive Hiking Guide : Best Hikes in Asturias
• The Picos de Europa hiking guide: Hiking Picos de Europa
• Somiedo Natural Park guide: What to Do in Somiedo
• Beaches guide: Best Beaches in Asturias

And finally, if you need more inspiration , see all my Spain travel guides

I hope you enjoy your trip to Asturias and to Spain; if you have any questions, let me know in the comments below, I always reply.

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Hey, I'm Kevin

I'm a professional photographer, with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. I worked with countless travel brands, and my travel advice has been featured in major publications such as CNN, Forbes & the New York Magazine. But the best travel advice is definitely found here on my website! I'm all about adventure travel, hiking and exploring the outdoors - even if I often find myself exploring cities with my wife Nesrine. If you have any questions, leave a comment on this post or reach out by email at: [email protected]

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Wow, I am impressed. I have come across your info looking up some info, since I have already been hiking and climbing in this area 25 years ago and want to go back there. You have really found some of the most beautiful spots there and described them well, with relevant info. Beehunter

Thank you so much for your comment! We’re very pleased to know this post helps and is approved by experience travelers in the area 🙂

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‘Ser español es un orgullo’, the saying goes, ‘ser asturiano es un título.’ ‘If being Spanish is a matter of pride, to be Asturian is a mark of nobility'. Asturias, the sole patch of Spain never conquered by the Muslims is, some claim, the real Spain: the rest is simply tierra de reconquista (reconquered land).

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Experience the real Asturias. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Catedral de San Salvador

Oviedo's stunning cathedral complex was built mainly in Gothic and baroque styles between the 13th and 18th centuries. But its origins and greatest…

Palacio de Santa María del Naranco

On the slopes of Monte Naranco, 3.5km northwest of central Oviedo, this tall, narrow palace – built by Ramiro I (842–50), Alfonso II’s successor…

Cueva de Tito Bustillo

Some of Spain’s finest cave art, including superb horse paintings probably done around 15,000 to 10,000 BCE, is within this World Heritage–listed cave,…

Museo Arqueológico de Asturias

Partly within a restored 16th-century monastery, Asturias’ archaeology museum makes the most of the region’s archaeological riches through video and…

Playa de Torimbia

A beautiful, gold-blonde crescent bounded by rocky headlands and a bowl of green hills, 9km west of Llanes, Torimbia is truly spectacular. Turn off the…

Playa del Silencio

Silencio is one of Spain’s most beautiful beaches: a long, silver-sandy cove backed by a natural rock amphitheatre. It isn’t particularly good for…

Cercados Oseros

About 5km south of Tuñón (or a 1km walk south from the Área Recreativa Buyera, where cars can park), the Senda del Oso reaches the Cercados Oseros, two…

Museo de la Emigración

The small town of Colombres, 21km east of Llanes, has a particularly fine collection of indiano architecture –florid buildings of eclectic styles…

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With its cliffs, waves, landscapes, and recipes, northern Spain is a gorgeously green gem overlooked by many travelers

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Asturias Is the Unsung Spanish Vacation Destination You Need to Visit This Year

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Me and Asturias? We go way back. I first pitched up here in the mid-1980s as a backpacking student with an Interrail pass, riding the old-fashioned trains that rattled along the Cantabrian coast from Bilbao to La Coruña. I still remember my wide-eyed delight at seeing for the first time the verdant valleys rolling down to the sea, the huge beaches pummeled by big Atlantic breakers, the fishing villages stuck like limpets to the rocky coastline. Cold climates often imply caution and reserve, but there was a friendliness and warmth about the locals that reminded me—counter-intuitively, perhaps—of the laid-back Mediterranean.

Asturias is one of four regions along Spain's north coast, from Galicia in the west to the Basque Country in the east. The Principality of Asturias, as it’s officially known, brims with distinctiveness and diversity. It has its language, culture, and cuisine; its cool and damp climate harbors lush pastures, deciduous forests, and mighty mountain ranges. As a holiday spot, Asturias has historically been favored mainly by Spaniards, but as summer temperatures rise inexorably in the Med, a trickle of wised-up foreigners are choosing to take their vacations in these temperate northern climes.

The decades that followed that eye-opening Interrail trip saw me returning again and again. There was a memorable long weekend in Oviedo, the charmingly buttoned-up capital with its bustling provincial air; and another in Gijón—the polar opposite of Oviedo—a boisterous coastal town with a surf-tastic beach scene and a salty seaside vibe. In the rough-and-tumble harborside neighborhood of Cimadevilla in Gijón, I had my first swig of Asturian cider, which was poured in a thin stream into a flat-bottomed glass for a deliciously fresh (as well as intoxicating) draught.

More than anything, Asturias's food and drink kept me coming back for more. The wonderfully hearty local cuisine turns around classics like fabada asturiana, a rib-sticking stew of thumb-sized faba beans with cured pork meat and smoked sausage, and the creamy and unctuous rice pudding that is arroz con leche. I soon learned to value such fine asturiano ingredients as grass-fed beef and lamb, fish from the Cantabrian ports, and artisan cheeses—of which the region is said to have more individual varieties per square kilometer even than France . At a series of rustic eating houses run by the stalwart women cooks known as guisanderas (“stew-makers”), I ate my fill of down-home local favorites like onions stuffed with oxtail and maise-flour tortos with minced meat picadillo. But the excitement of new-wave Spanish cuisine had not passed the region by. A prime example was the restaurant Casa Marcial, which I first visited in the late 1990s when its chef-patron Nacho Manzano had not long been in charge of the rustic bar/shop/eatery previously run by his parents in the hamlet of La Salgar—and which now has three Michelin stars.

Over the decades, I must have made a dozen trips around this neck of the woods, making personal discoveries every time. One year, I spent a few days in the post-industrial town of Avilés, where Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer had just designed a new cultural center composed of curvaceous geometric forms in dazzling white. Driving east along the coast to Llanes, under the looming shadow of the Picos de Europa mountains, I was amazed to see how the concrete cubes of the harbor wall had been painted (by sculptor Agustín Ibarrola) in dazzling colors and madcap designs. All through the 2000s, I was obsessed with the unique Asturian heritage of pre-Romanesque churches dating from the sixth to ninth centuries. I plotted elaborate routes among these tiny, primitive, and almost unimaginably ancient buildings.

But if Asturias is big on culture, it’s even bigger on nature. The region has no less than 24 nature reserves, including a Parque Nacional and three of Spain’s largest Parques Naturales. Around a third of its surface area enjoys some sort of conservation status, making Asturias an ecological resource of inestimable value. Big treks in the deep country have long been a feature of my travels here. In the summer of 2009, in the company of mountain expert Guillermo Mañana, I made a four-day hike along the Camin Real de la Mesa, a Roman road winding spectacularly through the wild and lonely landscapes of Somiedo Natural Park. Wolves and bears still roam the silent valleys of the Principality’s unsullied interior, and a new kind of wildlife tourism has sprung up to cater for visitors keen to peer at them through telescopes. My bear-spotting safari with Wild Spain Travel in May 2022 was undoubtedly one of my life's most thrilling travel experiences.

Laura Walsh

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

Meanwhile, Asturias and I have become like some cozy long-term couple, comfortable in each other’s company, but not yet at the point where familiarity breeds contempt. When summer heats frazzle the south of Spain, I still head north annually towards those pristine beaches, those rolling valleys lined with oak and chestnut woods. And the latest chapter of this particular love story is both a happy ending and a promising new start. Reader, I’ve just bought a house here.

Where to stay in Asturias

Solopalacio.

Nothing about SoloPalacio conforms to conventional notions of country-house luxury. First, there’s the location: way down south in a little-populated, little-visited corner of the region among grandiose mountain scenery and hardscrabble villages. Then there’s the back story. The country seat of the aristocratic Miranda-Quirós family, a rambling rural property in the hamlet of Llanuces, was rescued from ruin by Madrid entrepreneur Carlos Díaz. With his partner, designer Sofia Tejerina, Díaz transformed the property into a collection of 11 apartments occupying various outbuildings and a chapel plus the original 16th-century dwelling house, opening as SoloPalacio in June 2023. The USP here is Tejerina’s extraordinary design for the palacio – a radically stripped-down aesthetic employing basic and often humble materials to strikingly beautiful effect. (Think ‘wabi-sabi’ but without the shabby.) The high-ceilinged interiors are devoid of decoration beyond the occasional hand-woven basket or rustic implement; the walls are ruthlessly, unsparingly white. Colour has no place in this warm monastic minimalism: it’s all about the touchy-feely textures of polished- cement floors, bare stone walls and architectural-salvage furniture. Bathroom fixtures might be cheap hardware-store staples, yet the big squishy sofas are acres of cool white linen. Forget five-star fripperies like the big TV, the room service menu, the chocolate on the pillow - though a coffee machine and a bottle of Asturian wine would certainly be nice. On the plus side, there’s a stone-built Wellness Space and an infinity pool with mind-boggling mountain views. It may help to ease the pain of the room rate (whose high-season ceiling of 1059€ has caused quite a stir locally) to know that Diaz intends all profits from the hotel to go towards social projects and conservation schemes in the vicinity. As I said, SoloPalacio is anything but conventional.

Pueblo Astur

This thoroughgoing makeover of an entire country village (Cofiño, near Parres) raised the bar for high-end accommodation in Asturias when it opened in 2016. The sprawling property, which encompasses a church, traditional wooden paneras (granaries), and stables housing rare-breed farm animals, also includes 30 rooms in converted village houses, an excellent spa, river pools for swimming, and two restaurants using produce from the farm. The result is an interesting fusion of rusticism with highly geared luxe.

As Asturias’ brightest and boldest city and a seaside hub of urban culture often compared to Brighton in the UK, Gijón is just the right place for this sleek, chic boutique hotel in a carefully restored 1931 art-deco building.

CoolRooms Palacio de Luces

Asturias has never been prodigal in really fine hotels, but Palacio de Luces is a notable exception. First opened in 2006, it was recently acquired by the small but energetic Spanish group CoolRooms, who have made their mark on what was already a remarkable building, combining as it does a 16th-century mansion in pale yellow stone with a modernist wing surgically grafted on to the original buildings. Natural light floods in from all sides through plate-glass windows affording huge views of meadows and farmland, the coastline stretching away to east and west, and the hulking form of the Sueve mountain range. The 44 bedrooms, distributed equally between old and new wings, have undergone a total refit since the hotel changed hands in 2018, sweeping away the earlier incarnation’s dowdy brown-and-beige interior in favor of an elegant contemporary-classic look in a palette of greens that almost feels like a continuation of the landscape. Service, pitched five-star high, never feels starchy or formal. Nearby Lastres has some great eating places, but it’s worth staying for dinner at the hotel restaurant Tella. The views from the dining room, through floor-to-ceiling windows opened wide on summer nights, are as delectable as Francisco Ruiz’s new-gen Asturian cuisine with its emphasis on locally sourced produce and cunning nods to the region’s Latin American connections.

Casona de Indias

This bijou 7-room hotel in a former casa de indianos (built for a successful emigré on his return from the Americas) is beautifully sited in a quiet rural setting within reach of the Redes natural park. Owner-manager Pedro Armas is a madrileño incomer whose well-judged taste and hospitality make the casona feel like a particularly well-upholstered and civilized B&B.

Parador de Corias

A former monastery in the remote southwest of the region, this imposing granite building (known as “the El Escorial of Asturias”) is a stand-out among recent incorporations to the state-owned Paradores chain. Having arrived at this out-of-the-way location, be sure to visit the nearby nature reserve of Muñiellos, one of Europe’s largest areas of first-growth deciduous forest and a haunt of the Cantabrian brown bear.

Hotel de la Reconquista

The storied Reconquista in Oviedo, all red velvet and antique wood, where dignitaries and celebrities lay their heads during the annual Princess of Asturias awards, is the kind of hotel that Spaniards describe as “de toda la vida”— it’s been there forever .

Casonas Asturianas

Founded 30 years ago in 1994, this association of farmhouse stays, foursquare village houses, and stone-built historic palacios continues to offer exceptional quality and value. It’s worth browsing the website to find jewels like Villa Argentina in Luarca and Casona de la Paca in Cudillero, both examples of the extravagant modernista houses built by wealthy Asturians on their return from the Americas in the early years of the twentieth century.

Where to eat and drink in Asturias

Restaurante guëyu mar.

Top-quality fish and seafood landed at the small-scale fishing harbors along the Cantabrian coast is a major selling point of Asturian eating. This celebrated beachside restaurant at Playa de Vega does a great line in whole fish (try the virrey, a firm-fleshed local species) cooked over coals or a la plancha.

Address: Playa de Vega, 84, 33560 Ribadesella, Asturias, Spain Website: gueyumar.es

Casa Marcial

In the same former farmhouse where his parents once ran a rustic shop and bar, Nacho Manzano now presides over a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, generally agreed to be the region's finest, where the food is both inventive and sophisticated but never loses touch with Manzano's asturiano country roots.

Address: 33549 Arriondas, Parres, Asturias, Spain Website: casamarcial.es

Casa Chuchu

This no-frills locale in the post-industrial town of Mieres looks like a standard-issue Asturian cider house, but it's actually way more interesting. Rafael Rodríguez pours natural wines, cult sherries, and new-wave ciders while his wife Natalia Menéndez serves a market-led menu that, depending on the day and season, might run from shellfish salpicón and stuffed onions to roast beetroot with anchovy and hazelnuts and hake with fresh apple and cucumber sauce.

Address: El Parque, s/n, 33610 Turón, Asturias, Spain Website: instagram.com/casachuchu

Calle Gascona

Cider is a pillar of Asturian life, and cider houses abound in the region. They usually serve plates of fried pixín (monkfish) and platters of cheese along with cider by the bottle. This Oviedo street, teeming with sidrerías, is good for a total immersion in cider culture and its curious customs, like the escanciado: The drink is oxygenated by expert servers pouring it from an arm’s height.

Address: C. Gascona, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain Website: gasconaoviedo.es

Vino de Asturias

Visitors to the deep green landscapes of the southwest corner of Asturias are often surprised to see vineyards among the oak and chestnut woods. In fact, wine has been made here since the ninth century, but is currently undergoing a revival, now with its own quality seal (Denominación de Origen Cangas) and forward-thinking bodegas like Antón Chicote, La Muriella, and Monasterio de Corias.

Address: Centro de Empresas de Obanca, 33800 Cangas del Narcea, Asturias Website: docangas.es

Asturias is one of our Best Places to Go in Europe for 2024 , part of our global guide to the Best Places to Go in 2024 —find more travel inspiration here .

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Discover why this stunning region is Spain’s best-kept secret

Beyond Barcelona, Asturias entices with gorgeous landscapes and world-class cuisine.

Sunrise warms the Picos de Europa, part of the Cordillera Cantabrica range that secludes Asturias from the rest of Spain.

This is a meal I could eat nowhere else, it occurs to me around the seventh course. I’m in the mountains of Asturias, one of Nat Geo’s Best Trips for 2020 , and I’ve been served a dish of sea urchin and ham that unites the coast and peaks of this northern Spanish province in a single bite. Two tables away, I see José Antelo raise his fork in triumph.

Antelo works as an air traffic controller in Barcelona . His brother, Luis, is a superior court judge in Madrid . They live in two of Europe’s top restaurant cities; they can enjoy memorable meals night after night without ever boarding a plane. But three or four times a year, they meet to eat in Asturias.

Asturias? This autonomous region of Spain lying along the Bay of Biscay, dense with trees that run up hillsides, dotted by wild marshland, and scalloped with tidy beaches, isn’t located between Madrid and Barcelona. It’s hundreds of miles from either. When I mention that, José laughs. “I’m sure you know why we come,” he says. “Nowhere else in Spain can you find so many flavors, such incredible variety, in such a small area. It is like an entire country.”

The coastal region’s rich seafood tops menus at acclaimed restaurants such as Güeyu Mar, in Ribadesella.

In the village of Arriondas, lavender scents the garden at Michelin-starred Casa Marcial, headed by chef Nacho Manzano, who grew up in the now renovated farmhouse.

We’re dining at Casa Marcial . Housed in an old mansion, or casona, decorated with window boxes and topped by a barrel-tiled roof, the restaurant sits at the top of a winding road in La Salgar, a mountain village that smells of pine. The coast is six miles to the north, as the Asturian wood pigeon flies. But La Salgar remains so deeply embedded in the hilly, heavily forested interior of the region that, I’m told, many of its residents spend their entire childhoods without ever seeing the water.

The Manzano family opened Casa Marcial in the middle of the last century as a general store, selling olive oil, cider, cattle feed, even clothing. In 1993, 22-year-old Nacho Manzano, the son of the owners, returned from the coast to start a restaurant. Gastronomes such as the Antelos love Casa Marcial, which has been awarded two Michelin stars. So do locals, who don’t dress up to eat there. But nobody more admires its modern Asturian cuisine—fresh, briny seafood such as razor clams, but also the thick bean stews of the mountain villages so pure and perfectly rendered—than other chefs.

On this November night, half a dozen chefs from across Spain have gathered to celebrate the restaurant’s 25th anniversary. They aren’t just paying homage; they are actually cooking for Nacho and about 50 of us diners. We eat plate after plate of food: more ham, roasted rabbit from the hills around the restaurant, and the salty, rubbery sea cucumbers that I’ve only had along the Spanish coast. By the time I head back over the mountain to my hotel in seaside Gijón, we’re nearly five hours into tomorrow.

Related: Check out these gorgeous photos of Spain .

Walking in the drizzle by the seawall where on summer days surfers congregate, I pass a rowboat filled with predawn fishermen. When I look around at where I am, and remember the mountain village I just left, José Antelo’s description hits home. Asturias is like an entire country.

Returning to the region for the first time in years, I’d driven north from Madrid a few days before. By the time I hit the A-66 highway, the mesa around me had been flat and brown for hours. At the northern edge of the province of León, I entered the Negrón tunnel—and emerged somewhere else, a land all its own. The highway curved through a valley rimmed with tall pines, past bulbous rock formations atop vertiginous slopes. I saw homes with picture windows cantilevered over stone-paved streets and ancient granaries perched on stilts. At times what I was seeing looked more like Ireland than Spain. There had been no official sign of demarcation when I passed from León to Asturias. It didn’t matter. I hadn’t needed one.

Cultural capital meets fun-loving port

I was heading for the Asturian capital of Oviedo, a compact city of roughly 220,000 residents separated from the slightly larger Gijón by rapidly encroaching suburbs. Each city has a proprietary social scene; you can be a VIP in one and all but unknown in the other. Oviedo has the better museums; Gijón has the beach. Twice a year, the Sporting Gijón and Real Oviedo soccer teams bring the rivalry to life before a full stadium.

Most visitors come upon Oviedo first. They seek out some of the best pre-Romanesque architecture in the world, 14 preserved buildings, including the tall, narrow ninth-century palace-church complex of Santa María del Naranco . I make a pilgrimage there as soon as I arrive. I enter a vaulted room made of stones the color of milk-clouded coffee. Only one other person is here. The windows are cut thick into the walls of the building, their shutters flung open to the breeze. I peer over a grove of trees and see the city spread out below.

Within the hour I’m making my way through Oviedo and find sculptures, it seems, on almost every corner; more than a hundred adorn the capital. Before I reach my hotel, I pass “La Maternidad,” a rounded woman with an equally rounded child by Colombian sculptor Fernando Botero , then Miguel Ortiz Berrocal ’s “El Diestro,” a metallic rendering of a bullfighter’s torso. Later, in a residential neighborhood, I’ll discover a conference center and office building designed by Santiago Calatrava that looks like a massive winged creature about to take flight. The next day, I’ll be transfixed by “El Regreso de Williams B. Arrensberg,” a statue of a trench-coated friend of artist Eduardo Úrculo , surrounded by suitcases and sporting a bemused expression as he gazes at the city’s cathedral.

The medieval town of Llanes is one of the top summer destinations in Asturias.

Oviedo’s artistic awakening has happened only over the last generation, just as Nacho Manzano started drawing international attention to his small restaurant in the mountains. The timing is no coincidence. “Before then, we didn’t think Asturias had much to offer the world,” explains Esther Manzano, Nacho’s sister, who has her own restaurant, La Salgar , in the center of Gijón. “We didn’t believe in ourselves. We didn’t have fantastic weather. We were very hard to get to—a long drive from anywhere, there were no flights. We just assumed nobody would want to come.”

Then two things happened: Europe’s new bargain airlines began flying intrepid tourists here in the late 1990s; and Woody Allen’s 2008 film Vicky Cristina Barcelona sent its characters to Oviedo for a weekend, causing filmgoers around the world to turn to each other in surprise. Why would anyone leave Barcelona to visit … Asturias? “Woody Allen told the world we exist,” Esther says. “He opened the world’s eyes, but he also opened our eyes.” A statue of the controversial writer-director stands off Calle Uria.

Explore more: Here’s a quick guide to Málaga, Spain’s sixth largest city .

Tourism has helped raise the standard of living in Asturias, giving restaurants like those run by Nacho and Esther Manzano a way to thrive. But it hasn’t changed the nature of the place. Spain entertained more than 80 million visitors last year, enough to overrun many of its best known places. Barcelona has become a set piece, far from the raucous port town it used to be. Madrid seems like an international shopping mall.

Asturias, however, remains regional, strong flavored, authentic. Menus in English are hard to find in Oviedo, and until recently they were all but absent elsewhere in the region. José Andrés —the Asturian-born, Washington, D.C. -based chef who has become a global sensation—wants to open a restaurant not far from where he lived as a child. If he does, I’m betting it won’t have an English menu either.

Asturias’s two largest cities are polar opposites. Oviedo, like many inland cities, tends to be insular, conservative, overtly polite, and socially inaccessible. Gijón is a port town, working-class and occasionally profane, but open to the sea and new ideas. Oviedo has an opera house and a full program to fill it. Gijón prefers its series of avant-garde festivals. I’m pleased that one of those festivals, Jazz Xixón, is under way at the Teatro Jovellanos when I arrive. I buy a ticket to see the Portico Quartet , an experimental band that was nominated for Britain’s Mercury Prize; other headliners will include the playful Spanish group El Viaje del Swing (The Journey of Swing). It’s easy to spot the blazing neon sign for Teatro Jovellanos, mounted high above the pedestrian mall of Paseo Begoña. Inaugurated in 1899, the theater was renovated shortly after the fall of ruler Francisco Franco in 1975 and bought by Gijón in 1995. It has served as a cultural centerpiece since.

I find Tonio Criado, the festival’s director, standing in the lobby underneath an enormous crystal chandelier. Criado grew up in a small inland town near Cangas de Onís before moving to Gijón. Now he wouldn’t live anywhere else.

“It’s the youngest city in the region, and the freshest,” he says. “You find that in our music, our cuisine, and our way of life.” When I ask him whether he feels more Spanish or Asturian, he doesn’t hesitate. “Oh, Asturian,” he says. “But really, I am from Gijón. What we are doing here couldn’t happen in Oviedo.”

The following morning I visit the Museum of the Asturian People , which sits just east of downtown Gijón. It sounds like a Cold War tourist attraction in an Eastern-bloc capital, but actually it’s a re-creation of a traditional Asturian village. The grounds include a 17th-century peasant house, a covered alley where the recreational bowling game called cuatreada is played, a bagpipe museum (bagpipes are a common musical instrument in Asturias and Galicia ), and several of the granaries—called hórreos —that are ubiquitous in the area. Inside the exhibition space, the topic of the day is food. I am astonished to see how rudimentary the kitchens were, even in urban areas, into the 1950s and 1960s.

Many of the dishes made in those kitchens are now served at Esther Manzano’s restaurant, La Salgar, named after the Manzanos’ hometown. A modern glass box attached to the museum, the restaurant isn’t officially affiliated with it, but their missions are aligned. If Casa Marcial is where the Manzano family adds an Asturian element to high gastronomy, La Salgar rewards Asturians with deliciously familiar food amid Gijón’s clamor. The idea was to have local diners taste quintessential versions of dishes they’ve been eating all their lives, such as arroz con pitu, a version of chicken, rice, and red pepper that every Asturian remembers from childhood. “Dishes of the home,” Esther declares, “served in a restaurant.”

Caves, wines, and more discoveries

Like San Francisco and Scotland , bad weather suits Asturias. I leave Gijón and head east along the coast under a steady drizzle. In August, Ribadesella attracts Spaniards who are desperate for a respite from oppressive heat. In November, with rain misting a cool morning, it becomes a particularly lovely local fishing village. Kids splash through puddles in the streets. Adults walk dogs. Shop owners stand in the doorways greeting friends.

Fashioned with locally mined pink limestone, the Basilica de Santa María la Real de Covadonga rises near the Holy Cave and its Virgin of Covadonga.

Built in the 9th century as a royal palace, Santa Maria del Naranco, in Oviedo, became a church in later years. In 1985, UNESCO designated the pre-Romanesque-style building a World Heritage site.

Not far away is the Tito Bustillo Cave , site of one of the more remarkable discoveries of the last century. In 1968 a group of amateur spelunkers realized that falling rocks many centuries before had sealed an opening of a cave. They returned with full gear and managed to make their way inside. When they did, they were surprised to discover that one cave opened onto another, and then another. On the walls, they found a magnificent series of cave drawings, dating back more than 10,000 years. Another mysterious drawing was made some 30,000 years ago, according to carbon dating.

Although the site has been validated by waves of experts, its existence continues to raise more questions than have been answered. Why, I find myself wondering, were drawings made in precisely the same place some 20,000 years apart?

I ponder that over lunch 15 minutes to the north, on a spit of beach. Güeyu Mar restaurant is a glorified shack marked by a huge plastic kingfish mounted over the doorway. Abel Alvarez, chef and owner, has been grilling fish here since 2007.

His menu consists of whatever the boats have brought in that day, supplemented by seafood in metal tins that Alvarez has preserved himself. There’s no meat of any kind, nor rice or potatoes, just seafood and local vegetables and excellent bread rolls. I eat razor clams and sardines, then grilled cockles and kingfish. I drink Asturian wine, which barely existed a decade ago, from the inland winery Dominio del Urogallo, the best of the few producers clustered on the western side of the province. The blend of three local red grape varieties has the stony freshness that I usually associate with cool-climate whites. Crisp and salty, it tastes like the sea.

Rain is falling again; when I step outside I see a vivid rainbow arcing from the trees atop the steep hills down to the water. Then I pivot inland. I stop in the hill town of Cangas de Onís, where a much photographed Roman bridge spans an unhurried stream.

From there the next morning, it’s a short trip to Covadonga, which is one of the most historic spots in Spain. You could make the argument that modern Spain began when the advance of the Moors was halted here by the Visigoth nobleman Pelagius, the founder of the Kingdom of Asturias, in 718.

A man makes the most of a Sunday afternoon in Playa de Cadavedo by taking a leisurely ride on a horse.

Playa del Silencio’s long, silver-coved beach is ideal for strolling, but not swimming due to the strong undercurrent.

Spaniards needed nearly 800 more years before they expelled the Moors, but the Battle of Covadonga marked the start of the reversal. The natural setting is breathtaking, with a serpentine road leading up a canyon, past a waterfall and then a small shrine. At the top, shimmering above the mist, rises the majestic, pink-stone Basilica of Santa María la Real de Covadonga .

I’ve visited before, but hadn’t taken the time to drive to the lakes above Covadonga in the Picos de Europa (Peaks of Europe) National Park. Now up another winding road I go, bound for those lakes. Trees fall away, and the view opens to a wide sky of cotton ball clouds.

More experiences: Try these lesser-known hiking trails in Europe .

Then I hear bells. They start softly, but soon their metallic jangle has drowned out the car radio. I round a bend and see sheep, what looks like several hundred of them, painstakingly crossing the road in front of a line of stopped cars.

I park and walk into the nearby brush, inhaling air so fresh that it sends a jolt of sharpness into my chest. The spiky peaks of the mountain silently surround me from a distance; all I hear is the din of the sheep bells, sounding like church bells ringing at high noon. A driver honks a horn in frustration, but that only makes the sheep stop in their tracks. With great deliberation, they look around. Satisfied that they can proceed, they resume their shuffle.

Eventually the stragglers get across. By now, the traffic probably snakes around the bend and halfway down the mountain. I see the cars start to move, but I can’t walk back just yet. The bells clank and the air crackles and the peaks look like cathedral spires. Around me is a sea of sheep with no shepherd in sight. I’ve never been anywhere like this. I don’t want to leave.

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What to see in Asturias: the 25 places you have to visit

Information

Asturias is a wonderful land with much to offer visitors.

Its municipalities will win you over. The charm of the majestic city of Oviedo, the unique atmosphere of Gijón, the exceptional villages of Cudillero and Llanes, and the beaches surrounded by an incredible green landscape make Asturias an outstanding destination.

For nature lovers, it’s also a place certainly worth a visit, as it’s home to some of the most marvellous landscapes in Spain.

The Cares route, the Somiedo Natural Park, and the Tito Bustillo cave are just some of the essential stops. Not forgetting the lakes of Covadonga, the natural jewel in the crown of Asturias, within the Picos de Europa National Park, or some of its spectacular beaches, such as Silencio beach or Gulpiyuri beach, the smallest in the world.

Lakes of Covadonga

Sanctuary of Covadonga

• Descent of the Sella

Silencio Beach

Gulpiyuri beach.

• Other beaches in Asturias

Bufones de Pría

Cangas de Onís

Ribadesella

• Cares Route
• The Bear’s Trail
• Picos de Europa

Redes Natural Park

Fernando alonso museum, jurassic museum, niemeyer cultural centre, mining museum.

Natural wonders not to be missed in Asturias

Lakes of Covadonga, a natural jewel in the Principality of Asturias

The lakes of Covadonga are one of the natural jewels in the Principality’s crown . They’re located in the municipality of Cangas de Onís and their main formations are two glacial lakes . In the depths of lake Enol, the larger of the two, an image of the Lady of Covadonga is submerged, and is taken out every 8 September to be carried as part of a procession. Slightly higher up, at an altitude of 1,100 metres, is the smaller lake Ercina . When the thaw occurs, a third lake appears, lake Bricial , which only contains water at that time of year.

Barceló Oviedo Cervantes

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A visit to this stunningly beautiful setting is usually combined with a visit to the Santa Cueva to greet the patron saint of Asturias. But there are so many options for hiking in this area that lovers of this activity usually come here more than just once. There are routes to suit all tastes, with various difficulty levels. One of the easiest, even for children, is a circular route of about six kilometres, which takes two hours to complete. This route passes through the Palomberu beech forest , the Buferrera mines , and the Príncipe viewpoint . From the viewpoint you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views. Another option to take in the magnificence of the landscape is the Entrelagos viewpoint.

Covadonga is a place full of symbolism because it was here that Don Pelayo defeated the Arabs who were occupying the region, which led to the beginning of the Reconquista period.

The religious complex of Covadonga is also one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in Spain by religious people. This complex includes several areas: the Santa Cueva , where the Lady of Covadonga, or “la Santina”, as she is known to locals is found, as well as the chapel, in Romanesque style, and the basilica of Covadonga. The basilica, built with pink marble stone obtained from the local mountains, is a stunning example of neo-Romanesque architecture. Both the temple and the route leading to it are very beautiful, and offer incredible views of the valley and the mountains.

The complex also includes La Casina, a place dedicated to prayer for the hundreds of faithful visitors who come here. And Casa de los Ejercicios , a retreat area where silence and spiritual activity are the norm. It has meeting rooms, chapels, and also rooms in which to spend a few days engaged in meditation.

History and spirituality permeate this area of the Principality of Asturias, and its natural beauty invites visitors to take to the trails. The surroundings of Covadonga are in the Asturian part of the Picos de Europa Nature Reserve.

Descent of the River Sella, sport and celebration

The International Descent of the River Sella is one of the most important events in Asturias. It’s a popular festival that “disguises” itself as a canoeing competition. It has taken place since 1929 and is held every year, during the second weekend in August, on the stretch of river that runs between the towns of Arriondas and Ribadesella .

What was originally simply a race for Spanish and foreign canoeists over time has become a festival that involves both towns in the celebration, with various activities, processions of decorated cars, litres of cider, and music. The descent of the River Sella has become increasingly famous over the years, and today attracts competitors of up to 15 different nationalities . It’s one of the most important tourist events in the Principality.

Descenso del Sella

The sporting event begins at 12 noon on Saturday, when the canoes set off from Arriondas to Ribadesella. The fun, however, begins the day before. A river train connects the main locations. In the Campos de Oba , in Lloviu , a massive pilgrimage takes place in which typical Asturian food is shared alongside the prize-giving ceremony for the competition.

One of the great attractions of this sporting event is that anybody can do it, at an amateur level, any day of the year. It’s an ideal thing to do with friends or even with family. Leaving from Arriondas, you can choose a descent of 6, 10 or 14 kilometres, depending on your physical condition, your personal circumstances or how much time you have.

Taramundi, among traditions and nature

Taramundi is a municipality in the Principality of Asturias, on the border with the Galician city of Lugo . Its capital, which bears the same name, is the starting point for idyllic walks that enchant visitors. It’s hard to resist the magic of this region surrounded by rivers, among mountains and valleys. The constant murmur of the water and its calm rhythm make it an unbeatable destination for those who long to leave the hustle and bustle behind. But nature isn’t the only attraction offered by this land of mills, cutlers, and blacksmiths. Its architectural and cultural legacy, its museums, its handicrafts, and cuisine are added attractions for a visit to the area.

There is a lot to see in  Taramundi . A pioneer in the field of rural tourism, this corner of Asturias delights hikers with varied routes. Bucolic landscapes, raised granaries, churches, hydraulic installations and a fort, one of the oldest in Asturias, await hikers. The church of San Martín , with its slender tower, rebuilt in the 18th century, stands out in the surrounding area. And very close by is La Rectoral , the old priest’s house.

On the outskirts of the town, restless visitors can’t miss a visit to a very interesting enclave, the Taramundi fort , which is one of the most important in the Principality of Asturias. The findings of various digs have revealed the existence of a settlement from the end of the Bronze Age. The remains of a wall and various buildings, including a sauna, take us back to the 1st and 2nd centuries, the time of Roman occupation.

Another place well worth a visit is the small village of Os Teixos . Here you’ll find one of the oldest ethnographic sites in Asturias, a display of various hydraulic installations that will pique the interest of children and adults alike. Nor should you miss As Veigas , eight kilometres from the town of Taramundi. Located in the centre of the Oscos-Eo Biosphere Reserve , the village emerges at the bottom of a valley that you can reach along a winding mountain road. Its wooded landscapes and river make As Veigas an ideal destination. Fishing, canoeing, horse riding, and mushroom picking are some of its attractions, as well as the fact that it’s close to the beach.

The Asturian coast has kilometres of deserted beaches of white and golden sand. Here nature blends into the green of the mountains and the blue of the sea. The natural coves hide genuine dreamlike picture-postcard sights. Some are surrounded by cliffs, others by green vegetation, and some are even made up of magnificent rock formations. Some of the most beautiful beaches in Asturias are difficult to reach, which allows you to enjoy them virtually on your own.

Among the most outstanding is Silencio Beach , one of the most beautiful in Spain. It’s located in Castañeras (in the municipality of Cudillero) and, as its name “silence” suggests, it’s a quiet, secluded beach. To get there you have to follow a signposted dirt track and go down some 100 steps. It’s about 510 metres long and is surrounded by imposing cliffs. Take your own picnic and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable day.

La Playa del Silencio

Just as appreciated as Silencio beach is the Gulpiyuri beach , declared a National Monument in 2001. It’s one of the most unique beaches in Asturias and one of the most sought after by visitors. What makes it such a special enclave is it seems far from the coast, and that isn’t what you’d expect from a beach. It’s also circular in shape, with about 50 metres of sand and is sheltered by cliffs and vegetation.

So, how does the water reach this beach? Quite simply, when the tide comes in, sea water enters through an underground conduit. It might appear to be a natural pool, but it isn’t, as it’s still affected by the high and low tides.

To see it you have to head to the town of Naves, in the municipality of Llanes.

Playa de Gulpiyuri

Other unmissable beaches in Asturias

To the list of recommended beaches in Asturias, we must add another selection of beautiful stretches of sand to Silencio beach and Gulpiyuri beach.

Visitors should be sure to not miss Torimbia beach , in Niembro (in the municipality of Llanes), in a protected landscape on the eastern coast. It’s a nudist beach, but welcomes all kinds of visitors. It’s 500 metres long and shell-shaped. It’s sheltered by enormous cliffs, making it a wild and virtually unspoilt beach.

Ballota beach is also a surprise along the Asturian coast.

You can find it in Cué (in the municipality of Llanes) and is another landscape protected due to its environmental importance. It’s a quiet beach with gentle waves and a very photogenic islet, Castro islet. And Rodiles beach , next to the mouth of the Villaviciosa estuary (in the municipality of Villaviciosa). It’s surrounded by a pine and eucalyptus forest and belongs to the Ría de Villaviciosa Nature Reserve . It’s one of the busiest beaches in summer and attracts surfers from all over Spain.

Also on the list is Cuevas del Mar beach , at the mouth of the Nueva river (in the municipality of Llanes), a protected landscape due to its vegetation and geological formations. Poó beach , next to the mouth of the river Vallina (in the municipality of Llanes), is considered to be one of the best beaches in Europe. And Andrín beach , in Andrín (in the municipality of Llanes).

And lastly, two more options: Penarronda beach , next to Santa Gadea (in the municipality of Castropol and Tapia de Casariego), which forms part of the Oscos-Eo Biosphere Reserve and has been designated a Natural Monument. And the Aguilar beach , in Muros de Nalón (in the municipality of the same name), where the Miradores route begins, a path that skirts the Asturian coastline to overlook the wild beaches from the top of the cliffs.

An unmissable visit in Llanes is to the well-known Bufones de Pría. This is the name given to a natural phenomenon that occurs on the coast of Llames de Pría. This phenomenon is caused by the erosive effect of the sea and rain on the limestone rock. Due to the wear and tear they produce, cracks are created that connect the sea with the surface of the cliff. With the force of the waves, air or water is expelled through these conduits under extremely high pressure. To see it, you have to go to the town mentioned above. There is also a bufones route, which takes around four hours to complete.

Los Bufones de Pría

Essential cities and towns

Oviedo, a majestic city caught between yesterday and today

Oviedo , capital of the Principality of Asturias, is a city that stands out for its elegance and peaceful nature. Everything about it conveys a feeling of cleanliness, order, comfort, and a sense of history. It’s as if Clarín’s words in his famous novel La Regenta don’t quite ring true.   In its pages the writer described this city as “ancient” and “extremely old, antiquated”. Time has passed and Oviedo has a new lease of life, adding new attractions to its traditional nature.

The city has become more modern and cosmopolitan. Hosting the Prince and Princess of Asturias Awards , which are given to important international figures, has contributed to this. But it still has the essence of yesteryear and it’s precisely this combination of yesterday and today that makes it so interesting. It’s this mix that filmmaker Woody Allen captured when he visited the city to receive the Prince of Asturias Award for the Arts. He described it as “a fairy tale town where everything is old, clean, and nice…”.

To this feeling, so well summed up by the New York director, we can add the care with which the people of Oviedo take care of their historical-artistic heritage. Allen, by the way, has a bronze statue, commemorating his stay, in calle de las Milicias Nacionales. The city preserves its treasures with care and doesn’t deny the past, but implements changes that enrich it. The recent opening of the city centre to pedestrians and the extension of the Museum of Fine Arts are proof of its progress.

There are many places of interest in Oviedo, the second most populous municipality in Asturias (after Gijón). In the old town, many statues will catch the eyes of visitors while they walk around. One of them is a statue of Ana Ozores , the protagonist of “La Regenta”. She appears very elegantly, with a book in her hands, in the Plaza de Alfonso II , in front of the Cathedral, an ideal place to stop and take in the pulse of the city.

The  Oviedo Cathedral , erected in honour of San Salvador, is one of the great assets of the capital of the Principality. It dates from the 15th century and is Gothic in style, but this is mixed with elements of other architectural styles. It has a single bell tower, which gives it a unique appearance. The façade was designed by Juan de Badajoz . Inside, the chapel of Santa Bárbara and the altar of Santa Teresa stand out. The balcony where the Holy Shroud and the Holy Chamber are exhibited is also outstanding.

La catedral de Oviedo

Nearby is the Asturias Museum of Fine Arts . It’s made up of two historic buildings: the 18th-century Velarde Palace and the 17th-century Casa de Oviedo-Portal. And a third, which has been expanded, was designed by the architect from Navarre, Francisco Mangado . In this space, visitors can enjoy outstanding works such as Jovellanos and the Portrait of Carlos IV, by Goya , or Christ on the Cross by Zurbarán . You can also stop to admire paintings by Regoyos, Sorolla, Nonell, and Ramón Casas , among other artists.

There are many attractions in the city, both in its old and new quarters. The historic quarter of Oviedo , with its maze of streets and its baroque and modernist façades, is well worth a leisurely stroll. In the vicinity of the Town Hall is the Fontán , a pretty little square with arcades surrounded by craft shops, cider bars, and a lively market. Churches, such as San Isidoro and Santa María la Real , can be found along the way. And historical buildings such as the University and palaces such as Valdecarzana palace, where today the Provincial Court is located, catch the eye.

It’s worth taking a walk along the Paseo del Espolón , where the Spanish emigrants who returned from America with great fortunes settled. And to take a break in beautiful parks such as Campo de San Francisco , where a sculpture pays homage to Clarín. Another lovely place in Oviedo is the Winter Park where you’ll find the open-air swimming pools of San Lázaro, the Children’s Palace, a skate park, and a labyrinth made up of 650 laurel trees. Those interested in hiking should know that the park links up with the Fuso de la Reina path.

Gijón, an interesting city behind the beach

The main image people have of Gijón , the one that sticks in the memory of those who visit it, is that of San Lorenzo beach . It measures a kilometre and a half in length and is the most popular place to have fun and to meet for the locals. It’s bordered by a stone wall along which the promenade stretches. The best way to take in the spirit of the city is to walk along it. It has 15 accesses leading down to the beach, with the best known being the Escalerona access. If the weather is good, it’s tempting to go for a swim or walk along the wet sand.

San Lorenzo is located between the church with the same name and the mouth of the river Piles. At one end of the beach stands the Church of San Pedro . And behind it the town rises. You have to discover its many places of interest once you’ve spent some time in or by the sea. San Lorenzo isn’t the only place to take a dip in Gijón. There are also other beaches such as Poniente beach, which is next to the marina and where the city’s Aquarium is located.

If there’s one place that delights visitors, it’s the old fishermen’s quarter of Cimadevilla . It’s a pleasure to lose yourself in its maze-like narrow stone streets and discover different places of interest. For example, the 18th-century Jovellanos Birthplace . Or the hill of Santa Catalina , overlooking the Bay of Biscay. This is the site of one of Eduardo Chillida’s most iconic works, In Praise of the Horizon . Here you can find the Plaza del Lavaderu, where the people of Gijón usually sit on the steps to have a glass of cider. As well as another popular meeting point, the Cuesta del Cholo . Here you’ll be surprised by the Cider Tree , a sculpture made from green bottles of the typical Asturian drink.

Iglesia de San Pedro en Gijón

In the centre of the city, buildings such as the Revillagigedo Palace , in Baroque style, stand out. It’s located in the marina area, next to the Collegiate Church of San Juan Bautista , and serves as a cultural centre. The Plaza Mayor , where the Town Hall is located, is another of those corners where you can feel the pulse of the city. The same applies to the Plaza de San Miguel and calle Corrida, which is full of terraces. Culturally, Gijón offers interesting visits. The Jovellanos Theatre offers a varied programme. And there are museums such as the Barjola Museum, dedicated to the expressionist painter, and open for temporary exhibitions. Other artists born in the municipality also have centres that keep their legacies alive, such as Evaristo Valle and Nicanor Piñole .

Among cultural buildings of interest is the Pueblo de Asturias Museum , on paseo del Doctor Fleming. It’s dedicated to the ethnography of the region and its exterior features a recreation of an Asturian village with its bowling green, its granary, and its bread baskets. It provides a kind of journey into the rural world of yesteryear.

Located around three kilometres from the centre, it’s worth visiting the Old Labour University of Gijón , better known as Labour City of Culture, or La Laboral. Declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco, it’s housed in a monumental building (270,000 m2), with a classicist style, designed by Luis Moya . Its tall tower and its elliptical church, now deconsecrated, stand out. The complex contains a theatre with a Hellenistic façade and the LABoral Art and Industrial Creation Centre, among other institutions.

Opposite, you can find the Atlantic Botanical Gardens , a modern space of 25 hectares. The so-called Garden of the Island, a historic garden more than 150 years old is protected and cared for here, and you can find the Natural Monument of La Carbayeda del Tragamón , a natural forest with trees up to 400 years old.

Llanes, cliffs, beaches, and outstanding monuments

The small town of Llanes stands on the edge of the Cantabrian Sea, with the Picos de Europa in the background. Two geographical features that already define the beauty of this place, which seems to have been painted by an artist in shades of green and blue. The beauty of the landscapes and its important architectural heritage make this corner of Asturias a prime tourist destination.

Just 48 kilometres long and with a population of approximately 14,000 inhabitants, the municipality of Llanes has the longest coastline in Asturias. Among the geological features of the area are its rugged cliffs, the result of the same karst erosion that has formed the Picos de Europa. At the foot of these cliffs are many beautiful beaches . There are around 40 of them, and many of them are small, with sand that can appear and disappear depending on the tides.

Among the best known is Toró beach , which can be reached on foot from the town with the same name. And San Antolín beach, with its wild nature, is a favourite among surfers. From here you can walk to Gulpiyuri , one of the area’s hidden gems.

A walk along the beaches of Llanes is an adventure for visitors. This bucolic route awakens the senses. Poó beach , about 3 kilometres from Llanes, is an excellent option if you’re looking for a quiet place to go with children, especially if the tide is high. Torimbia beach offers spectacular scenery and nudism is permitted here. The beaches of Ballota and Cuevas del Mar are also highly recommended.

But, in addition to the beaches, in Llanes visitors should let themselves be enchanted by the town’s old quarter. Here you’ll find monuments that have been declared Sites of Cultural Interest. The town was founded in the late Middle Ages and among its many charms it still conserves a large part of its walls. Of particular note is the Llanes tower , a defensive structure made of limestone dating from the 13th century.

On a stroll through the town’s cobbled streets, a visit to the Basílica Menor de Santa María de la Asunción de Llanes is a must. It’s characterised by its mixture of Romanesque and Gothic styles and has a Plateresque altarpiece in the central nave. It’s also worth visiting Gastañaga palace , an elegant Gothic building, the chapel of La Magdalena , the Posada Herrera palace or the Casino building, which is clearly inspired by Modernism.

In the town there are two other routes that will captivate you. The first is the Paseo de San Pedro . This is a path built between the cliffs and covered by a grassy carpet, which runs along the edge of the town from the port. It’s a sort of natural walkway, through which you can see the whole medieval town without any obstacles. In the background, the Cuera mountain range seems to rise directly from the sea and, if the sky is clear, you can see as far as the Picos de Europa.

The second route leads us to the Cubos de la Memoria , the undisputed symbol of Llanes. This is an installation in the port created by Agustín Ibarrola . The artist used the concrete blocks of the enclave to create different artistic works with them. He painted them with different motifs and colours, playing with the effects of water and light. There are many feelings that captivate the visitor in this unique space. In fact, the whole of Llanes is an intense stimulus for the senses.

Cudillero, among the most beautiful villages in Spain

Cudillero , located on the central-western coast of Asturias, 50 kilometres from Gijón, always appears on lists of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Its staggered and colourful houses, its viewpoints, and its spectacular sea views make this small and beautiful village a jewel in the Principality’s crown.

The network of slopes is a characteristic feature of the layout of this town that has a marine essence. To learn more about the importance of the sea in its history, we recommend a visit to the Didactic Classroom “Los pixuetos y la mar”. It’s located in a former fish market in the Plaza de la Marina. It offers detailed information on the village’s history and traditions, also known as Villa Pixueta, which alludes to the Bable dialect spoken by its inhabitants.

After this introduction, you can follow the route of the viewpoints (there are eight in total). It’s an exhilarating experience that offers extraordinarily beautiful views of the entire area. Among the most common options is the Espera route . It consists of a walk through the village, passing by four viewpoints: the Pico , the Contorno , the Baluarte , and the Palación . The other most popular route is the Recorrido de los Barrios Pesqueros , which passes the viewpoints of Cimadevilla and La Estrecha .

Puerto de Cudillero

A visit to the lighthouse is also a worthwhile trip. It stands at Punta Roballera , at a height of 75 metres. It can be reached by climbing some steps from the seafront promenade and following a small path.

Once in the village, the different houses of those Spanish emigrants who made their fortune in America, such a common sight in Asturias, are worth a visit. Surprising buildings such as the Quinta de Selgas palace , commonly known as the Asturian Versailles. If there’s a meeting point for the locals, it’s the Plaza de la Marina , the famous multi-coloured square, or amphitheatre, as it’s affectionately known. If there’s one place that appears in photographs time and time again, it’s the old port, with its brightly coloured houses. In line with local traditions, each family painted their properties and their boat the same colour so that the townspeople could quickly identify them.

Another square, San Pedro, invites you to visit the parish church. And after climbing the steep slopes of the streets of San Juan and Salsipuedes, you’ll reach the oldest building in Cudillero, the chapel of El Humilladero , a small Gothic building from the 13th century. If the weather’s good, you can’t miss the chance to have a swim at one of the surrounding beaches. With crystal-clear waters, they appear among spectacular cliffs. The Silencio beach stands out, with its shell shape. And La Cueva beach, in the nearby town of Oviñana.

Cangas de Onís. History, spirituality, and nature

The Asturian town of Cangas de Onís is located in exceptional natural surroundings, which in turn is one of the great attractions of the municipality that bears the same name.  The Picos de Europa, the river Sella, and the lakes of Covadonga are some of the places most popular with visitors to the area.

The Roman Bridge is well worth a visit as it’s one of the town’s most famous sights. It’s located over the river Sella and separates the municipalities of Cangas de Onís and Parres . The Victoria Cross , the icon of the Principality of Asturias, hangs from it. The Greek letters alpha and omega hang from its arms, symbolising the beginning and the end (the infinite extension of God).

Before leaving the village, you can visit the interesting chapel of Santa Cruz , a Catholic temple built on top of a dolmen. It pays homage to the Victoria Cross and is the burial place of Favila , the second king of Asturias, son of Don Pelayo and Queen Froiluba . It’s a good introduction before visiting the sanctuary of Covadonga .

A walk in the nearby Picos de Europa Nature Reserve is also a must. Located in the Cantabrian Mountains, it’s one of the best-preserved nature reserves in the world. Here you can enjoy a wide range of landscapes. Its fauna, featuring chamois, eagles, bears, and wolves, is a major attraction for animal lovers. The richness of its flora attracts both experts and the most curious of visitors.

Ribadesella, a majestic town with cave paintings

Ribadesella , one of the main towns on the descent of the river Sella, opens out onto the Bay of Biscay. Between the sea and the meadows, the small fishing village is a charming corner of Asturias that is hard to leave once you get to know it. Village houses and beach hotels coexist in this peaceful town. Here, visitors are surrounded by peace and quiet, and are enchanted by the essence of bygone times in the elegant streets of the town centre, such as calle López Muñiz , and in squares such as Plaza María Cristina .

The splendour of other times is reflected in distinguished mansions such as that of Ardines mansion, with the coat of arms of an illustrious family of merchants, sailors, and soldiers as well as the Pixuecu mansion or Collado mansion, famous because the painter Darío de Regoyos was born there. The town hall is housed in the Prieto Cutre palace , which is an example of Renaissance style from the 15th century.

The city has many other attractions that invite you to stay longer.  It has a marina and beaches as popular as Santa Marina , surrounded by palaces once owned by Spanish emigrants who made their fortune in America, now converted into hotels. A stroll through the old fishermen’s quarter, El Portiello , with its narrow streets, is well worthwhile. In this picturesque setting, the Escalera de Colores is particularly interesting, a staircase on which various residents, and sporting, cultural, and political representatives of the municipality have left their personal mark by painting a step and a phrase.

The municipality’s 80 kilometres offer beautiful routes such as the Molinos route and the possibility of visiting the Palaeolithic paintings in the Tito Bustillo cave . It’s home to one of the most valuable Palaeolithic cave paintings in the world. It was declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 2008. Engravings and zoomorphic paintings and other various technical and aesthetic artistic representations can be found in its 12 rooms. Visitors can only enter the most important one: the Main Panel room. The Cave Painting Centre provides visitors with comprehensive information on the area.

Avilés, much more than the Niemeyer Cultural Centre

For a long time, the main distinguishing feature of Avilés was its industrial nature. Being surrounded by the largest steel companies in Asturias helped to keep it out of the tourist spotlight. But that image has been consigned to the past. The Niemeyer Cultural Centre has given the city a strong international reputation and has placed it at the forefront of cutting-edge European cities. Avilés is no longer a grey, bland, and unknown place for tourists. Quite the contrary.

The Niemeyer Centre attracts many visitors. It’s a hub of attractions that encourages visitors to discover this Asturian town’s other undeniable charms. The old quarter, declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1955, is one of the most charming urban centres in the Principality. It’s formed around the Plaza de Pedro Menéndez de Avilés and has outstanding pedestrian areas such as La Galiana or calle Rivero, full of arcades, which leads to the Plaza de España . The Town Hall and other palatial buildings are located here.

Other equally lively squares in the centre of Avilés are the Plaza del Mercado , surrounded by balconies and wooden arcades, and the Plaza del Carbayu , in the old fishermen’s quarter of Sabugo , a good place to relax with a drink on one of its terraces. If what you fancy is a stroll, you should head for the Parque del Puerto or the Parque de Ferrera , one of the most beautiful and picturesque parks in Asturias. It’s designed in the style of a British public park and, long before it was opened to the public, it was the hunting estate of the Ferrera palace.

Other outstanding buildings in the city include the Valdecarzana palace , the oldest civil building in Avilés (14th century), with a Gothic style, as well the Church of the Franciscan Fathers , a small Romanesque-style temple (12th century), a treasure of the city’s religious heritage. In the surrounding area, it’s well worth taking a stroll along the Ría de Avilés estuary. A natural estuary that connects the city with the sea, next to the town of San Juan de Nieva and its beautiful sandy beach. And, of course, a visit to the Niemeyer Cultural Centre is a must.

Luarca, the white town on the green coast

Luarca , capital of the council of Valdés, is a charming seaside town, known as “the white town on the green coast”, which captivates with its beautiful views and contrasts. Situated on the western coast of Asturias, 92 kilometres from Oviedo, it’s located between high mountain walls and is crossed by the river Negro, which splits the town centre in two and crosses seven bridges before flowing into the beach.

Luarca, a stop on Camino de Santiago [Way of St. James], offers visitors the colour and the hustle and bustle of its port, but also the serenity of its viewpoints, ideal places to enjoy the silence and admire the breathtaking beauty of the Bay of Biscay. It’s well worth strolling through its streets, among fishermen’s houses and elegant mansions of Spanish emigrants who made their fortunes in America.

A tour of the town includes visits to the port and the Mesa de Mareantes , a stone building that is reminiscent of the place where the old sailors debated whether to go out to sea depending on the changes in the weather. It’s located at the top of the typical fishermen’s quarter of Cambaral , with its staggered streets, picturesque properties, and the impressive views from the lighthouse, in calle Atalaya, where, between the 15th and 16th centuries, there was an old defensive fort designed to protect the town from pirate attacks.

It’s also worth visiting the hermitage of the Virgen de la Blanca and the beautiful cemetery on the hill , with its spectacular views over the sea. One of the most illustrious residents of the Asturian town, Nobel Prize winner for Medicine, Severo Ochoa , is buried there. There’s a tourist route that takes in his favourite spots and offers a more personal and intimate view of the town.

Other points of interest in the town are the Fonte Baixa gardens , the largest private botanical garden in Spain, in the village of El Chano , which can be accessed from the fishermen’s neighbourhood. And the Parque de la Vida , a place dedicated to scientific dissemination and the preservation of the natural environment.

Luarca beach , in the vicinity of the port, is another of the top attractions of this corner of Asturias. Shaped like a shell, it’s sheltered by breakwaters and has some curious stones in the middle that separate it into two parts (Luarca 1 and 2). Other options for taking a dip in the area are Salinas beach , which can be reached on foot from the promenade, and Portizuelo beach.

Lastres, terraces overlooking the Bay of Biscay

Lastres , perched on terraces overlooking the Bay of Biscay, looks like a fairytale or film set. It’s impossible not to be captivated by the panoramic views from its elevated viewpoints, with the San Roque viewpoint being the most outstanding of all. It’s equally impossible to leave the place without having taken hundreds of photographs. Likewise when you visit the port area and the beach.

This town is also enchanting because of its cobbled streets, its houses with glazed balconies, its palaces and mansions with their façades decorated with coats of arms, its dark stone temples, and its clock tower. There are even many traces that suggest that dinosaurs once roamed the area, many of which can be seen in the unique Jurassic Museum , which is close to the town.

The aforementioned San Roque viewpoint is located in the so-called Campo de San Roque, presided over by the chapel of the same name, a small 17th-century temple in which the image of the saint, closely linked to the local fishermen’s guild, is venerated. A pilgrimage is held here every year, including a picnic, which takes place during a weekend in August.

This watchtower is a must-see in the town, as is the beach, which is considered a protected landscape. Lastres beach is also known as Astilleru beach, which is a reference to the fact that this is where the whaling ships that were so important to the area’s economy in the past were made and repaired. That is, until the current fishing port was built.

Lastres has become more popular and more visitors thanks to the TV series “Doctor Mateo” , which aired in 2010. For five seasons, the characters played by Gonzalo de Castro, Natalia Verbeke, Álex O’Dogherty, Gorka Otxoa, Rosario Pardo, and María Esteve, among others, walked through the streets of this beautiful Asturian town. The local tourist office even designed the Doctor Mateo route, which leads to ten points in these parts.

Arriondas, the town of the Descent of the River Sella

The small village of Arriondas , capital of the municipality of Parres , is brimming with charm in streets and squares where architectural styles overlap. You can admire a church, such as the church of San Martín, which showcases Asturian Romanesque architecture, as well as mansions that have the typical style of 19th century properties owned by Spanish emigrants who made their fortunes in America, such as Villa Juanita or the Chalet de los del Valle (Casa Cepa). We suggest that you stroll through its streets while taking your time, and to discover beautiful places such as Concordia Park , one of the most popular meeting points for the locals. Along the way you’ll come across a number of parishes and beautiful small palaces. And if your trip falls on a weekend, it’s a good idea to visit Llera Park, where there’s a market with more than 20 stalls offering a little bit of everything.

But make no mistake, most of the visitors who come to Arriondas do so because of its natural surroundings, which allows for countless excursions and one of the most famous activities in Asturias: the International Descent of the River Sella . This competition, which has a long history, began in 1933, continues to be held every year and attracts a large number of sportsmen and women. The river course for the competition is 20 kilometres long, but amateurs can do part of the route, either 6, 10 or 14 kilometres. Nobody can deny that this is a great plan for any summer.

Those who prefer the mountains will also find Arriondas a good starting point for interesting itineraries. One of the most popular is the route to Pico Pienzu , some five kilometres starting from the car park at the Fitu viewpoint and reaching the summit at an altitude of 1,161 metres. The walk and the views are well worth the effort. And to round off a weekend, you can include excursions to other iconic places in Asturias such as Cangas de Onís, Ribadesella, Lastres or the Basilica and cave of Covadonga.

Lastly, we must suggest that you have a gastronomic treat at the restaurant El Corral del Indianu , with its Michelin star that will give you a clue as to the quality of its cuisine. The Asturian José Antonio Campoviejo works magic with local produce using his creative genius.

Hiking in Asturias

The Cares Route, the best-known trail in Asturias

The Cares route is the best known trail in Asturias and probably in Spain. The route, originally laid out between impressive rock walls reaching an altitude of 2,000 metres , was originally designed for the workers of the Camarmeña hydroelectric power station . Over time, the route has become a favourite among hikers. It’s an excursion full of incredible beauty and suitable for almost everyone.

This corner of the Asturian mountains attracts hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world. Hikers can enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery in the Picos de Europa along the more than 12 kilometres of the route (almost 25 if you do the round trip). Most of the route runs parallel to the gorge of the river that gives it its name: the Cares. It’s often referred to as the Divine Gorge, as the almost magical beauty of the place is plain to see.

You can start this route from the León side, from the small village of Caín , or from the Asturian town of Poncebos . Several tunnels, opened on the river side, make the route very spectacular. The route also passes over three bridges (Los Rebecos, El Bolín, and the Camarmeña dam itself), from which you can admire the best and most spectacular views of the area.

Camino Ruta del Cares

The Bear Trail

The popular Bear Trail started at the end of the 19th century as the path of a mining train that was in service for almost a century. Today, along with the Cares, it’s one of the most spectacular hiking (and cycling) routes in northern Spain. Those who dare to walk or cycle along the Bear Trail have almost 60 kilometres, between Tuñón and Cueva Huerta or Ricabo (there are two branches), to discover the wildest parts of natural Asturias. These are very close to the habitats of the brown bear, one of the Principality’s natural icons. In fact, the route passes next to the so-called Cercado de los Osos , where several specimens of captive-bred plant-eating bears have been living for years.

It’s a well signposted and marked trail, surrounded by lush vegetation. Walkers cross dense forests and wooden bridges that cross spectacular slopes and tunnels (with lights) through the mountains. Thousands of sportsmen and women and nature lovers take this route every year.

Among the places of interest along the route are the following:  Tuñón , a pretty, typically Asturian village in which the Romanesque church of Santo Adriano de Tuñón (9th-12th centuries) stands out.  Proaza , a small village where the bears live in the enclosure. The Valdemurio reservoir , one of the most popular recreational areas on the route and the Valdecerezales gorge , a route that has been traced over millions of years along the course of the river Teverga, with enormous granite rock walls.

Ruta del Oso

It’s worth visiting the Quirós Ethnographic Museum , located in part of what used to be the town’s old mining area. The smelting furnaces, to be precise. Here you can get an insight into the way of life before and after the arrival of mining to the area. Meanwhile, the Teverga Prehistoric Park offers a complete overview of the Upper Palaeolithic period, through reproductions of archaeological finds in different parts of Europe.

Routes in the Picos de Europa National Park

This park is one of the most important in the country for several reasons. Firstly, because it was the first to be declared a National Park in 1918 (although at that time it was called P.N. de la Montaña de Covadonga) and because it’s home to one of the most important sanctuaries in Spain. Lastly, because of its scenic and orographic qualities as well as its flora and fauna.

Visitors to this park, which is part of three autonomous communities (Castile and León, Cantabria, and the Principality of Asturias), should have a good idea of what they want to see or experience. There are free organised visits, accompanied by the park’s own guides. In Asturias, we must decide initially whether we want to do a hiking route or a high mountain route, which requires more physical effort.

Among the many hiking routes in Picos de Europa , some of the most popular ones are:

• The Cares Route , which is of medium difficulty and, if done in its entirety, is more than 20 kilometres long (about five and a half hours).
• The Lakes Route , which starts at the Buferrera car park and passes through the Pedro Pidal visitor centre, the Príncipe viewpoint, the Buferrera mine, lake Ercina, lake Bricial, the Palomberu beech forest, as well as the Enol meadow and lake Enol. The distance is five kilometres and can be done in two hours and a half.
• Route to the Naranjo de Bulnes peak or Urriellu peak, the most iconic peak in the park. It’s a hike of about 12 kilometres, with a difference in altitude of 900 metres. You’ll reach the base of this peak, which is over 2,500 metres high, but it’s enough to enjoy its magnificence.

In Picos de Europa, there are also other more complex Gran Recorrido routes, the GR201, the Senda del Arcediano , 27 kilometres long and of medium-high difficulty, and the GR 2020, the Ruta de la Reconquista , which runs for 58.6 kilometres and is of high difficulty.

If you’re going to embark on an unknown route, we recommend downloading the maps from the Picos de Europa National Park website to avoid major problems, or going on a guided tour for a safer and more educational experience.

Senderista en los Picos de Europa

Recognised as a Biosphere Reserve by Unesco in 2001, the Redes Natural Park is made up of an area of glaciers, caves, mountains, forests and peaks reaching up to 2,000 metres.

All of this combined makes for a very attractive area for hikes of varying degrees of difficulty, with no shortage of rivers and beautiful gorges. If you’re not sure which route is the most suitable, the best thing to do is to visit the interpretation centre, where they’ll help you and provide you with a map. Don’t miss the permanent exhibition and its audiovisual material.

Parque Natural de Redes

Among the easiest and most recommended routes are those that lead to three surprising Natural Monuments . One of them is the Ruta del Alba , which starts in Soto de Agues, follows the course of the river Alba showing its waterfalls and small rapids and reaches a gorge at the end of the path.

The second route that may be of interest ends at the Deboyu Cave , of karstic origin, and which has a depth of 200 metres. The river Nalón flows into it, a very unusual sight that can be seen from the Colorau bridge (the exit of the river is from the Deboyu bridge).

Lastly, and no less impressive, is the route that leads to the Tabayón del Mongayu . This is the name given to a waterfall of more than 50 metres that falls in a spectacular fashion. It’s located near the village of Tarna and can only be reached by walking along the PR.AS-60, which starts in Tarna and crosses a beech forest until it reaches the waterfall.

There are many hiking routes that you can find on the Redes Natural Park website.

The most important museums in Asturias

One of the places that’s a must for motor racing fans is the Fernando Alonso Museum . This sportsman, the first Spaniard to win a Formula 1 title, has a themed space with a display of 270 exhibits, including overalls, helmets, boots, trophies, and some of the single-seaters he has raced in since his childhood.

Museo de Fernando Alonso

The museum is part of a much more ambitious sports complex with a sophisticated karting circuit , which can even host competitions, and the La Morgal Golf Course.

The  MUJA or Jurassic Museum  is one of the essential visits on any family trip to Asturias. Its originality begins with its architectural design in the shape of a dinosaur’s tridactyl footprint and continues in its collection, which is very comprehensive and informative.

Madre e hija en el Museo Jurásico.

We suggest setting aside a morning or an entire afternoon to enjoy everything it has to offer in its 2,500 m2 sized space, where there’s no shortage of reproductions and skeletons. Children especially enjoy the garden, where there are 20 life-size replicas of these incredible prehistoric animals that lived millions of years ago. Its location in the San Telmo area (Colunga) isn’t a coincidence, as sauropod footprints have been found here.

This complex of modern architecture is the work of the brilliant Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer , who got to work on it after being awarded the Prince of Asturias Prize in 1989. It’s a group of geometrically shaped buildings whose whiteness stands out in the historic centre of Avilés. The contrast is even more striking when compared with the industrial architecture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which occupies a large part of the estuary next to which the town is located.

Centro Cultural Niemeyer

The building has become the setting for the city’s major cultural events. It houses, among other spaces, the Film Centre , meeting rooms and offices, a shop, an educational space, and also a gastrobar.

It also has an auditorium and a huge exhibition hall called La Cúpula , which hosts exhibitions of all kinds of arts and activities. The Tower , an 18-metre-high viewpoint over the estuary, is a highlight of the tour. It’s a must-see for art and architecture lovers.

Few Spanish regions are as closely linked to mining as Asturias. For this reason, it’s a good idea to visit the town of El Entrego, in San Martín del Rey Aurelio, where tribute is paid to mining activity.

The Mining Museum can be seen as the guardian of the memory of this hard labour, as the tasks linked to the mines, machinery, minerals, etc. are spread over several rooms.

Its location has also been carefully chosen, as it’s very close to the historic San Vicente mine shaft , which was the first one to be self-managed by a mining union. The youngest of visitors will be attracted by some of the installations such as the cage or the reproduction of a mining shaft.

Museo de la Minería

The visit can continue in other nearby places, which are also good examples of industrial tourism, such as the Sotón mine shaft, declared a Site of Cultural Interest, the Ecomuseum of the Samuño Valley, and the factory of the company Sociedad Metalúrgica Duro-Felguera.

At Barceló Experiences you can continue your journey through the charms Spain has to offer, by visiting our complete tourist guides to other must-see destinations such as  Madrid ,  Cadiz ,  Valencia , Seville or  Granada .

Frequently Asked Questions

What places should I visit on my trip to Asturias?

Some of the wonders of Asturias that you must visit on your trip are the lakes and sanctuary of Covadonga, the Sella River, Taramundi or Gulpiyuri and Silencio beaches, as well as many other natural spaces that we mention in the article.

What are the most beautiful towns and villages in Asturias?

As well as essential stops in Oviedo and Gijón, you can't miss iconic towns such as Llanes, Cudillero, Cangas de Onis, Ribadesella, and Lastres on your trip.

How should I get around in Asturias?

By car is undoubtedly the most comfortable and flexible option, but you can also visit the main places of interest from Oviedo or Gijón by train or bus.

Related plans

Where to eat in asturias: from the cantabrian coast to the mountains, asturian festivities: tradition, nature, cider and entertainment, oviedo cathedral: historic and majestic, the lakes of covadonga: a glacial wonder.

The Ultimate 5 to 7 Days in Asturias Itinerary

Published on January 31, 2024

by Neota Langley

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Discover the secret side of Spain by planning a 5 to 7 days in Asturias itinerary. The official slogan is  “Asturias, paraíso natural” (Asturias, natural paradise) and there is no better way to describe this region on the north coast of Spain.

A real hidden gem, this region is well and truly off the beaten track. You won’t find the usual crowded beaches synonymous with Spain here, this is where the Spanish spend their holidays. Gastronomical delights paired with incredible vistas, endless hiking trails and pristine beaches.

Spend your days exploring the local gems before settling in to indulge in the region’s famed Asturian cider, smoky bean stews, and fresh seafood harvested from its abundant coastal waters.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Asturias?

Asturias is a region covering over 10,000 square kilometres so deciding how long you need to get the most out of the area can be tricky.

You could easily spend endless weeks and months delving into the beauty and history of this region and taking in cities like Oviedo or Gijón , but 5 to 7 days is the sweet spot for an adventurous holiday into the hidden side of Spain that you will never forget.  

With 5 days in Asturias, you will have plenty of time to visit traditional Spanish fishing villages, vibrant cities and head inland to discover the dramatic Picos De Europa National Park. Hike your way through the mountains and watch the sunset over the cliffs on the wild coastline.

For the first 5 days of our Asturias itinerary, we will be focused on the eastern side of the region, slowly traversing towards the west. You won’t have time to see everything this region has to offer but by following this itinerary, you’ll get to visit the hotspots. 

If you have additional time to spend in Spain and want to extend your holiday to 7 days, this will give you a little more time to delve deeper. Discover the far reaches of the region in the lesser-known national park Somiedo and explore the coastline along the western edge of Asturias, bordering Galicia.

Getting To & Around Asturias

Asturias is a more off-the-beaten-path destination, making it perfect for those seeking an authentic sense of adventure, but does this mean it is harder to get to and around?

While public transport links may not be as plentiful as the more built up regions, it is still possible to visit, especially with local tours such as this full-day tour that pick you up and whisk you away deep into the mountains, no car required.

However, if you want to travel independently and follow the route outlined below, then it’s going to be necessary to have your own vehicle to get around the region. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices for hire cars across several companies.

To reach Asturias, you have several options. If you are travelling from further afield, you will most likely be boarding an aeroplane.

There is an airport in Asturias itself but it is very small and only offers a handful of destination options so you may have to make use of the nearby Santander Airport or the larger Madrid airport then either hire a car or use public transport to reach your final destination.

If you are already in Europe, you can take a train to Asturias from most major cities in Spain. The biggest train station in Asturias is in Oviedo, providing easy access to the rest of the region from cities like Madrid . You can browse schedules here.

Buses also connect various Spanish cities to Asturias. If you are visiting during the off-season however it is worth noting there will be a reduced service so make sure to check up-to-date timetables before heading off. 

If you’re coming from the UK or Ireland, you can take a ferry to Santander or Bilbao and then drive or take public transportation to Asturias. This ferry takes 31 hrs however so it is by no means the fastest route. This does mean you could bring your own vehicle however, perfect if you are travelling by campervan. 

If you are an avid hiker, you will have heard of the pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago. This famous long distance hike traverses the northern half of Spain from the mountains of the Pyrenees to the city of Santiago De Compostela. The Northern Way (Camino del Norte) passes through Asturias, offering a unique way to explore the area.

5 to 7-Day Asturias Itinerary

This region has it all, plenty of high-octane adventures for the adrenaline seekers and endless beaches for those who prefer to sit back and relax with a glass of local sidra and some delicious tapas. 

Day 1 – Explore the East Coast

There’s so much to see and do along the Asturian coast. Endless beaches, dramatic cliffs, quaint fishing villages and hillside olive groves. The best way to see as much as possible is by taking a full day meandering along the coastal road on the ultimate Asturias road trip.

Lastres 

Perched on steep cliffs, Lastres is a charming fishing village straight out of a storybook. Breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea, blending maritime charm with dramatic landscapes.

Wander through cobbled streets, taking in the colourful houses adorned with vibrant flowers while fishing boats bob gently in the harbour.

Lastres is a haven for seafood enthusiasts, offering fresh catches at seaside restaurants. For the best views of the village, along the coastline and even across to the Picos de Europa mountain range, drive up to the Mirador de San Roque viewpoint.

Ribadesella

Another picturesque town along the coast, cradled between the Cantabrian Sea and the imposing Sierra del Sueve mountains, Ribadesella is home to cobbled streets adorned with traditional Asturian architecture, landmarks like the Church of Santa Maria and pristine sandy beaches, including the renowned Santa Marina Beach.

As you would expect from another fishing village, the cuisine on offer here is based around fresh seafood. Ribadesella is also a gateway to nature, with plenty of nearby excursions, hikes and cultural experiences such as exploring the stunning Tito Bustillo Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing prehistoric art.

Bufones de Pria

A true natural spectacle, these sea geysers send powerful jets of water high into the air, accompanied by an exhilarating symphony of echoing roars. Carved into chimneys in the cliff by the relentless force of the Cantabrian sea, these blowholes are mesmerising to watch. 

The best time to visit is at high tide, especially on a wild stormy day. This is when you will get the best show but this beautiful stretch of coastline is still worth visiting regardless of the tide and the weather. 

Gulpiyuri Beach

There are endless rocky coves, sandy beaches and harbours along this varied coastline. It’s difficult to pick just one to visit but the most intriguing by far is the Playa de Gulpiyuri. It is a true hidden gem. Technically classed as an ‘inland beach’ this natural marvel is tucked between limestone cliffs.

Gulpiyuri is a small, circular inlet connected to the Cantabrian Sea through underground caves. The turquoise waters gently lap against a small area of golden shore, a true tranquil oasis surrounded by lush greenery.

The final destination on our road trip along the east coast and the most convenient place to stay for the next 3 nights is Llanes. Llanes’ historic centre is truly enchanting, home to mediaeval architecture and the iconic Cubes of Memory, a modern art installation overlooking the sea.

Wander through cobbled streets, discovering quaint shops and traditional cider houses. Then, after indulging in the catch of the day, the best way to end the day is by taking a stroll to watch the sunset at one of the many beautiful sandy beaches accessible from the village including Playa de Toro and Playa de Sablón.

Where to Stay in Llanes

Don Paco – A cosy hotel in a converted convent, this is a great mid-range option in Llanes. They have free parking, double and family rooms available, an on-site restaurant and bar and a fab breakfast daily.

Apartamentos Turísticos Llanes – These apartments are a good choice for those after their own flat in Llanes. There are one-bedroom and studio options available, some with balconies or terraces.

Albergue La Estación – An excellent budget option, this hostel has a great, central location, kitchen facilities, a living room and dorms and private rooms available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Llanes hotels!

Day 2 – Hiking in the Picos De Europa

Ruta del cares.

Easily one of the most unique hikes in the whole of Europe, this route that weaves along the side of the Picos de Europa mountains is one you will never forget.

The most popular section starts in Poncebos, continuing for 12km until you reach Caín. It’s an out-and-back, 24 km full-day hike but if you wanted to do a shorter walk, you could easily turn around halfway. 

The route runs through the deep-sided Cares River gorge, the path precariously perched on the side of the cliff, tunnelling through caves, ancient bridges and past abandoned villages alongside plenty of mountain goats.

There really is no other hike quite like it, every corner you turn is jaw-dropping. It’s worth noting, the deep ravines, narrow paths and sheer drops are best suited to hikers with a good head for heights. 

Head back to Llanes for the evening after your hike. There may be minimal elevation gain on the hike but 24 km is a fair distance so you are bound to have worked up an appetite. Settle in for an evening in one of Llanes’ many restaurants and rest before heading back into the mountains on day 3.     

Day 3 – Covadonga

Covadonga .

Nestled deep within the Picos de Europa range, Covadonga is a hidden mountain village near the with a profound cultural and spiritual significance. You can get here by this full-day tour or this full-day tour if you’re not driving.

The focal point is the Covadonga Sanctuary, a historical building cut into the side of a rock face where the Basilica of Santa María la Real and the Holy Cave pay homage to the legendary Battle of Covadonga in 722 CE. 

The village itself is fairly small, with just one restaurant, a smattering of local homes and a few hotels. It is worth stopping in Covadonga to visit the Sanctuary but the main reason we have led you up this winding mountain road is our next stop, the Lakes of Covadonga.

Going to or from the village, make sure to make a stop in the nearby Cangas de Onís municipality where you can see the beautiful Roman Bridge in the village.

Lagos de Covadonga

Surrounded by lush meadows and craggy peaks, you will find two pristine glacial lakes—Enol and Ercina. Casting mirror perfect reflections of the limestone mountains that tower above them, these lakes are truly breathtaking. 

There is a short hike over the hill to view both lakes but if you want to explore more of this area’s endless natural beauty, this is the starting point for several excellent longer hikes. This is the perfect place to take a picnic, especially when the sun is shining – the grassy hillside provides excellent mountain views, ideal for enjoying some local cold meats, cheese (including the noteworthy Cabrales Cheese) and wine. 

During the summer months the Covadonga lakes are only accessible via shuttle bus from the village of Covadonga. Outside of the peak tourism season, you can drive up in your own vehicle. 

After another day exploring the best of the Picos de Europa National Park, it’s time to head back to Llanes. This is your last evening in this picturesque coastal town so if you are a food enthusiast, tonight is the perfect night to go all out in the town’s Michelin Star restaurant El Retiro . A family run restaurant with a keen focus on traditional Asturian cuisine, cooked to perfection.   

Day 4 – Gijón

San lorenzo beach.

Our itinerary continues in the region’s largest city, Gijon. Perched along the coast, right in the centre of the region this maritime city is the central hub of Asturias. Here you will get a real feel for the more metropolitan side of the region, indulge in delicious Spanish cuisine and discover the history of this mediaeval city.  

Take a leisurely morning walk to San Lorenzo Beach, one of Gijón’s most iconic stretches of sand. The sea breeze, lapping waves, and the stunning views of the Bay of Biscay. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a refreshing morning swim or simply relax with a cup of ‘cafe con leche’ on the golden sands.

Cimavilla, the historic old town of Gijón is not to be missed. Explore its narrow streets filled with charming local stores and restaurants.

Try a traditional sidrería for lunch, where you can taste the local cider and indulge in Asturian specialities like fabada (bean stew) or fresh seafood dishes caught that morning off the coast. There are multiple museums, galleries and the 18th-century Revillagigedo Palace to explore throughout the afternoon. 

For unbeatable views of the bay, especially as the sun begins to set, take a stroll up the cobbled paths and through the lush green park to Santa Catalina hill. At the summit you will find Elogio del Horizonte, created by the sculptor Eduardo Chillida. This is the perfect place to enjoy a tranquil escape from the urban bustle. 

After watching the sunset, it’s time to explore the vibrant nightlife scene here in the region’s largest city. Explore the bars and pubs around Plaza Mayor and Cimavilla for a taste of the local nightlife. From traditional Asturian cider houses to modern cocktail bars, there is something to suit everyone. 

To make the most out of the city and its nightlife, you will want to find accommodation in or around Gijon. Because of its central position, you could easily opt to stay in this coastal city for the rest of your trip. 

Where to Stay in Gijón

Hotel Alcomar – Overlooking the seaside promenade, this hotel has plenty of comfortable rooms on offer along with a daily breakfast, 24-hour reception and a bar for guests to enjoy.

El Môderne Hotel – A chic, modern hotel in the centre of Gijón, there are double rooms and suites to choose from. There is also a daily buffet breakfast and a fitness centre.

Apartamentos Bahia San Lorenzo – These seafront apartments are a great self-catering option in Gijón. There are one- and two-bedroom flats on offer and the property has a lot of amenities to offer guests.

Gijón Surf Hostel – Centrally located in Gijón, this hostel is great for backpackers. There are several dorms to choose from along withe nice communal areas and a shared kitchen to prepare meals.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Gijón hotels!

Day 5 – Oviedo

Oviedo old town.

The official capital city of the Asturias region, Oviedo is another picturesque city that you don’t want to miss. With traditional stone houses, flower-filled courtyards, and narrow winding streets, you would be forgiven for thinking you had been transported to a bygone era.

Begin your day by strolling through the charming streets of Oviedo either independently or on a walking tour . Admiring the rustic architecture along the way.

Visit the central square, Plaza de Alfonso II and marvel at the 8th-century Cathedral of San Salvador. This sacred site has undergone various transformations over the centuries, blending Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance influences.

You can also take in the lovely Plaza del Fontán, another gorgeous square in the city.

Oviedo’s Countryside

Oviedo is not a coastal city but what it lacks in ocean views, it makes up for with lush countryside, rolling hills and towering mountains on the horizon.

You can either head out into the pastures beyond the city streets for a relaxing stroll or, for some green spaces within the city itself, head to the central Park San Francisco. 

If you choose to head outside of the city centre, than make sure to make a stop at the Iglesia de San Miguel de Lillo, a 9th-century church that is absolutely beautiful. Nearby, there is the Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco, also constructed in the 9th century.

Visit a Sidrería

Asturias is synonymous with sidra (Spanish for cider), a drink made from fermented apples. This historic beverage is part of the foundations of this region, and is part of local culture and folk law.

If you have reached day 5 of this itinerary and have not yet sampled a glass, Oviedo is the place to do it. Gascona is a street right in the centre of the city, full of traditional Sidrerías.

Make sure to watch the bar person pour the sidra, it’s usually done from a great height to create bubbles and can be quite the spectacle. 

If you have 5 days to devote to your itinerary for Asturias, Oviedo is the perfect place to end your trip. From here, you have convenient access to airports and public transport options for your onward journey. 

Day 6 – Somiedo Mountains

Located about 1.5 hours from Gijón, Somiedo is an incredible area to explore on a road trip through Asturias.

Declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, this enchanting natural park is home to towering mountains, emerald lakes and traditional stone villages hidden amongst the hills. You can also take an organised tour here from Gijón or Oviedo.

This area is a haven for hikers, with endless trails to discover, meandering their way through dramatic landscapes, mountain villages and lush green valleys.

Lakes of Saliencia

The Lakes of Saliencia include three glacial lakes, perched high in the Somiedo mountains. The Valle del Lago route is a 11km day hike that leads you from the Alto la Farrapona car park through meadows and ancient forest to reach all three of the emerald lakes.

The elevation profile is moderate at just over 400m. Beyond these lakes, there is another, hidden up in a mountain combe. You could easily extend your walk to also include Lago del Valle but this will add another 8 km and over 600m of elevation. 

Pola de Somiedo

Spanish mountain villages have a certain charm to them, cobbled streets, old stone buildings and the friendliest locals. Pola de Somiedo is no exception, a quaint village in a breathtaking setting.

If you didn’t pack a picnic for your hike, this is a great place to grab a bite to eat before heading back into the mountains to discover the traditional stone cabins.

Wandering through the Somiedo National Park, you are likely to spot groups of small huts, scattered around lush pastures. These tiny houses were once used as shelters for shepherds who farmed these alpine meadows, usually with a flock of goats, sheep or cattle.

These alpine meadows, known as “brañas,” were rich in nutrients and had plenty of natural water sources but the unpredictable nature of the weather in mountainous regions meant the shepherds needed shelter, a home away from home. These thatched cottages, known as ‘teitos’, make the perfect place to hide out from the storms. 

There are several hiking trails that lead you to these abandoned mini villages but the most noteworthy are Saliencia, Mumián and Pornacal.

From here, you can either return to Gijón for the evening or opt to change accommodation to somewhere along the west coast. Cudillero is a beautiful small fishing town or you could head to the slightly larger Luarca.

Day 7 – West Coast of Asturias

Most of the sites on this day can be visited as part of an organised tour if you’re not driving.

Avilés is the third largest city in Asturias, after Gijón and Oviedo. The historical centre unfolds like a living museum, perfectly preserved mediaeval streets, buildings and the highlight, Plaza Mayor, surrounded by architectural gems like the Palacio de Ferrera and the Church of San Nicolás.

A captivating blend of the old and the new, Avilés is the perfect place to start your day before heading west along the coastline. Tuck into a fresh flaky pastry and a cup of coffee on the harbour before taking a stroll through the cobbled streets. Don’t forget to look up, the architecture here is particularly special. 

Our next stop on this trip to Asturias is the picture postcard village of Cudillero. A maze of colourful buildings adorned with vibrant flowers make up this little fishing village, built into the side of a steep hillside on the Cantabrian Sea.

Its narrow, winding streets lead to a bustling harbour filled with fishing boats and seafood restaurants. The iconic viewpoint, La Garita, offers a panoramic vista of the village and the Bay of Biscay. You can either climb up the metal staircase to the viewpoint from the harbour or, you can park in the car park at the top of the hill. 

Playa del Silencio

It wouldn’t be a coastal road trip without stopping in at one of the incredible beaches along the route. There are beaches along the Asturian coastline to suit everyone, from long stretches of white sands and turquoise waters to town beaches, close to amenities. 

Playa del Silencio is a real hidden gem, tucked away at the base of towering cliffs. Whilst this may not be the best beach for swimming and the shores are full of pebbles not soft white sand, this cove is one of the most spectacular on the entire north coast of Spain.

It is truly unique and could easily be mistaken for a screenshot from Jurassic Park. Huge cliffs covered in dense shrubs and if you are lucky, you may even spot the gigantic European Vultures flying overhead. 

To access this beach, you will have to walk down the side of the cliff – but don’t worry, there is a pathway with sturdy metal bannisters to hold onto.

Known as the “White Town on the Green Coast,” due to its natural setting and white buildings, Luarca is home to pristine beaches, a working harbour, and a charming old town. 

Before you lose the daylight, make sure to visit the Gardens of the Fonte Baxa. This botanical garden is the largest private botanical garden in Spain and is home to thousands of plant species as well as sculptures and water fountains.

This is the perfect place to end our road trip, especially if you happen to be passing through at dinner time, you don’t want to miss out on the locally caught seafood and traditional Asturian dishes. As the light fades, take an after-dinner stroll along the harbour. The atmospheric sparkling lights of the village to your right and the gentle sway of the ocean to your left. 

Have More Time?

If you have more than a week in Asturias, there are endless options to extend your stay. If you are an avid hiker, climber, mountain biker or general outdoor enthusiast, you may want to base yourself in the Picos de Europa National Park for longer than the 2 days in this itinerary.

Kayak or canoe your way down the famous Rio Sella River – originating in the Picos, you can travel the entire way down the river to the Cantabrian Sea. If you want to explore more of this mountain range, Potes is an excellent base. 

From the mountains to the sea, if you would prefer to spend your extra time exploring hidden coves, colourful fishing villages and the bustling towns along the coast, there are plenty of options. Visit the tiny port of Ortiguera, with its slate-roofed fisherman’s cottages amongst vegetable gardens or explore more of the many beaches.

Playa de Rodiles is considered to be not just one of the best beaches in Asturias but in the whole of Spain. Visit the white sands of the (optional) naturist beach, Playa de Torimbia or go off the beaten track to the smaller Playa de San Antonio.  

You could also continue either east or west to explore other regions in Northern Spain, including Galicia to the west or the Basque Country to the east, where you can visit historic cities or eat local cuisine in cities like San Sebastian .

Visiting the North of Spain feels as if you have stumbled upon one of the best-kept secrets in Europe. Asturias is home to the real trifecta, charming mediaeval towns and cities, rugged mountains and an incredible, varied coastline.

There is something in this region to suit everybody and, after a day of exploring, you get to tuck into some of the world’s best food. It doesn’t get any better than that.

Are you planning to visit Asturias? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Neota Langley

Neota is a writer for The World Was Here First. Born and bred in Cornwall, she can usually be found with hiking boots on, ready to embark on an adventure. For the last 6 years, she has travelled throughout Europe in her self-built campervan with her trusty canine companion, Ivy. She loves exploring France, the Nordics and spending time in Alpine destinations.

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Asturias Spain

 asturias spain, visitor guide & tourist information.

Known for its lush landscapes, diverse geography, and warm hospitality, Asturias offers a unique blend of coastal charm, mountainous terrain, and charming towns and villages.

Asturias is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, earning it the nickname "Paradise of Spain."

From the stunning beaches of the Costa Verde to the rugged peaks of the Picos de Europa National Park , the region boasts an array of natural wonders.

In this picturesque region you can explore charming coastal villages like Cudillero and Lastres, take scenic hikes through the Covadonga Lakes, or explore the powerful Nalon River flowing through the picturesque Redes Natural Park .

Steeped in history and tradition, Asturias boasts a rich cultural heritage that reflects its Celtic and Roman past.

The ancient town of Oviedo, with its impressive Gothic cathedral and historic old town, exudes an old-world charm.

Nearby, Gijon offers a vibrant arts scene, contemporary museums, and lively festivals.

The prehistoric cave art found in Tito Bustillo and the medieval Castro de Coana offer fascinating insights into the region's ancient past and are well worth visiting.

Best Places To Visit in Asturias

Here are 15 top places to visit in Spain's beautiful Asturias region:

• Picos de Europa - Asturias' soaring mountain range with stunning trails and villages like Covadonga dotted among the peaks.
• Oviedo - Historic capital featuring an immaculate medieval old town and renowned art museum housing Spanish masterpieces.
• Cudillero - A postcard-perfect fishing village cascading down a hillside to a tiny port.
• Playa de Gulpiyuri - This hidden beach is accessible only at low tide through sea-carved tunnels in the cliffs.
• Cabo Penas - Dramatic sea cliffs and sweeping views up and down the coastline.
• Cueva de Tito Bustillo - See prehistoric cave art and carvings within this UNESCO-listed cave.
• Los Cares Gorge - Jaw-dropping gorge traversed by trails and the Camino del Rey footbridge.
• Llanes - Vibrant coastal town with pristine beaches hemmed by the Picos de Europa towering in the distance.
• Playa del Silencio - Peaceful golden sand beach surrounded by verdant forests.
• Cabrales Cheese Caves - Tour underground caves aging the region's famous pungent blue cheese.
• Cider Houses - Sample Asturias' crisp cider poured from barrels at charming rural sidrerías.
• Bulnes Village - This remote mountain village reachable only by footpath seems frozen in the past.
• Puerto de Tarna - Rustic fishing village along the wild Norther Coast overlooking crashing waves.
• Jurassic Museum of Asturias - Interactive museum showcasing the region's dinosaur fossils and geology.
• Asturian Food - Fabada stews, seafood, Cabrales cheese, cider and more demonstrate Asturias' hearty, coastal cuisine.

Asturias is a gastronomic paradise, celebrated for its delicious cuisine and traditional dishes.

Asturian cider is loved throughout Spain, it is traditionally poured holding the bottle high above your head "escanciado" style. Cider is the goto drink in Asturias and is best enjoyed at a local sidreria (cider bar).

The region's hearty stews, like fabada Asturiana, and seafood delicacies, such as "pixin" (anglerfish), are a treat for the taste buds.

Foodies will find plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants such as Restaurants Auga, El Recetario and Farragua all located in Gijon, and the stunning Restaurant Ayalga which can be found in Ribadesella.

Throughout the year, Asturias comes alive with a plethora of festivals and events that showcase the region's vibrant culture.

The International Bagpipe Festival in Oviedo, the Nava Cider Festival, and the Feast of Our Lady of Covadonga are just a few examples of the lively celebrations that take place here.

Here, you can immerse yourself in traditional music, dance, and local customs during these festive occasions.

Adventure seekers will find lots of opportunities for outdoor activities in Asturias such as hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing in the Picos de Europa, each one providing unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in surfing , kayaking, and sailing along the rugged coastline. The region's rivers and lakes also offer fishing and canoeing opportunities.

Asturias offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all preferences and budgets.

From charming rural guesthouses and boutique hotels to luxury resorts and camping sites, you are sure to find the perfect place to stay to enjoy this amazing region in Spain.

10 Interesting Facts About Asturias

• Asturias has strong Celtic roots, evident in its traditional music, folklore, and customs. The region's distinct bagpipe music, known as "gaita," is an essential part of its cultural heritage.
• Asturias is home to some of the most important prehistoric cave art sites in the world. The Tito Bustillo Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site , contains well-preserved rock art dating back over 35,000 years.
• The Sanctuary of Covadonga , nestled in the Picos de Europa mountains, is a significant religious and historical site. It was the birthplace of the Christian Reconquista and remains an essential pilgrimage destination.
• https://santuariodecovadonga.es/
• Asturias is famous for its cider culture. The traditional "escanciado" method of pouring cider from a height is a unique ritual enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
• Asturias produces an array of delectable cheeses, with " Queso Cabrales " being one of the most famous. This blue cheese is made from cow, sheep, and goat's milk and has a distinctive taste.
• The Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago passes through Asturias, attracting pilgrims from around the world. The region's lush landscapes and picturesque villages offer a serene and rewarding journey.
• Asturias is part of the "Jurassic Coast," renowned for its fossil-rich cliffs and beaches. Palaeontologists have unearthed many ancient marine fossils from the area, making it a paleontological treasure trove.
• The region is known for its unique architecture, including the distinctive Asturian wooden balconies, known as "galerias." The charming rural villages boast well-preserved traditional architecture.
• Asturias is blessed with a diverse coastline that spans over 200 miles. From beautiful sandy beaches to rugged cliffs and sea caves, the Costa Verde offers breathtaking coastal scenery.

Best Things To Do In Asturias

Explore the Picos de Europa National Park:

Asturias is home to the stunning Picos de Europa, a mountain range that offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Spain.

Here, you can explore the park's hiking trails, go rock climbing, and enjoy activities like birdwatching and mountain biking.

The Fuente De cable car provides access to the higher elevations, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks.

Visit the Covadonga Sanctuary:

The Covadonga Sanctuary is a must-visit religious and historical site in Asturias.

Located amidst the Picos de Europa, the sanctuary is dedicated to Our Lady of Covadonga, and it holds significant importance in Spanish history as it was the site of a decisive battle during the Christian Reconquista.

Here, you can explore the basilica, chapels, and the cave where the Virgin of Covadonga is believed to have appeared.

Have Fun on a Sella River Canoeing Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable Sella River canoeing adventure starting at Arriondas, a village in the municipality of Parres, Asturias. This is where the River Pilona joins the River Sella, in a picturesque narrow valley.

During the summer, the stretches of the Sella River where the tour takes place are characterised by gentle waters, with fewer rapids and less canoe traffic.

For a family-friendly experience, consider the initial section from Las Rozas to Arriondas. This part lasts around 1 to 2 hours, and is ideal during the summer months, offering a balanced mix of fun and relaxation.

However, if you're seeking a more adventurous journey, the spring season provides a more thrilling experience.

Indulge in Asturian Cuisine:

Asturias is known for its delicious cuisine, and no visit to the region would be complete without trying some of its signature dishes.

Taste the famous Fabada Asturiana, a hearty bean stew with pork, and enjoy the region's excellent seafood, including fresh fish and shellfish.

Don't forget to try the famous Asturian cider, poured in the traditional "escanciado" style.

Discover Oviedo's Historic Old Town:

The capital city of Asturias, Oviedo, boasts a charming historic old town filled with narrow streets, squares, and beautiful buildings.

Explore the impressive Oviedo Cathedral , visit the historic churches, and wander through the lively Mercado El Fontan , a traditional food market.

Don't miss the opportunity to see the iconic Asturian wooden balconies, known as "galerias," which adorn many buildings in the city.

Relax on Asturias' Gorgeous Beaches:

Asturias' coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches that offer a perfect escape for relaxation and water activities.

The region is home to some of the best beaches in Spain including those at Andrin, La Vega, El Sablon, Xivares, Rodiles, and Torimbia.

Enjoy a day of sunbathing, swimming, or surfing while soaking in the natural beauty of Asturias' coastline.

Take Part in a Festival:

Asturias, a festival haven, captivates with its vibrant celebrations. The region embraces its rich cultural heritage through a myriad of lively festivals.

From the traditional religious Semana Santa processions to the exuberant Antroxu carnival, Asturias comes alive with music, dance, and colourful parades.

Some of the best festivals in Asturias include the Natural Cider Festival , held in Gijon from the 18th to the 27 th of August.  The Asturias Peoples' Day Celebration is another fun event which is held in the village of Navelgas during August.

For foodies, the Baby Eel Festival is well worth visiting. It is held in the village of  L´Arena from the 3 rd to the 5 th of March. Another one is the delicious Rice Pudding Festival held in Santolaya on the second Sunday of May.

The Gastronomy of Asturias

Asturias, boasts a rich and diverse gastronomic tradition deeply rooted in its history and natural resources.

Asturian cuisine is celebrated for its hearty and flavourful dishes, artisanal cheeses, and distinctive drinks, making it a culinary destination worth exploring.

Historical Roots:

Asturian cuisine reflects its historical influences, including Celtic, Roman, and Moorish, as well as the legacy of the medieval Reconquista. This blend of cultures has shaped the region's unique gastronomy.

Most Famous Asturian Cuisine:

Fabada asturiana:.

Often considered the national dish of Asturias, fabada is a rich and comforting bean stew made with large white beans, chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), and saffron. It's slow-cooked to perfection and served piping hot.

Cachopo is a delightful Asturian dish made by sandwiching two large veal or beef fillets with ham and cheese, then coating it in breadcrumbs and frying until golden. It's a hearty and indulgent dish.

Sidra (Cider):

Asturias is famous for its traditional cider culture. Sidra is poured from a height to aerate it, and it's typically served in a "culín" or small glass. It's tart, effervescent, and a perfect accompaniment to Asturian cuisine.

Asturian Cheeses:

The region produces a variety of artisanal cheeses, with Cabrales being the most famous. Cabrales is a blue cheese made from cow, goat, or sheep's milk and boasts a strong, tangy flavour.

Pastel de Cabracho:

This unique dish is a creamy, terrine-like concoction made from scorpionfish, eggs, and spices. It's often served with toast and enjoyed as a seafood delicacy.

Asturian Wines:

Asturias is not as famous for wine as some other Spanish regions, but it does produce notable wines, especially the "Vino de la Tierra de Cangas."

This region's wines are often made from indigenous grapes such as Albarín, Verdejo Negro, and Carrasquín.

They are known for their distinctive character and are gaining recognition in the wine world.

Where To Stay In Asturias

Thinking of visiting Asturias and not sure where to stay?  Here then are a few of the best locations and most beautiful spots you should consider.

Oviedo : As the capital of Asturias, Oviedo is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Staying in Oviedo allows you to explore its historic old town, filled with medieval architecture, museums, and lively plazas. The city also serves as a great hub for day trips to other parts of Asturias.

Gijon: Located along the Asturian coast, Gijon offers a blend of urban living and seaside charm. The city boasts beautiful beaches, a lively cultural scene, and a historic fishing district known as Cimavilla. Staying in Gijon allows easy access to both the city's amenities and the stunning coastline.

Cangas de Onís: Nestled in the heart of the Picos de Europa, Cangas de Onís is a gateway to the region's natural wonders. This town is an excellent choice for those seeking outdoor adventures, with hiking, mountain biking, and river activities right at your doorstep.

Covadonga: This picturesque village is famous for its sanctuary and the nearby Lakes of Covadonga, a stunning natural area within the Picos de Europa National Park. Staying in Covadonga provides a serene escape surrounded by mountain landscapes.

Llanes: Llanes is a coastal gem known for its stunning beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming old town. It's an ideal location for beach enthusiasts and those who want to explore the Asturian coastline.

Lastres: Perched on a hill overlooking the sea, Lastres is a quaint fishing village with narrow streets and colourful houses. It offers a tranquil coastal escape with breathtaking views.

Cudillero: Often described as one of Spain's prettiest fishing villages, Cudillero is known for its cascading houses clinging to the cliffs above the harbour. Staying here immerses you in the charm of a traditional Asturian seaside village.

Ribadesella: This coastal town is famous for its beautiful beaches and caves. It's a great base for exploring both the coastline and the surrounding natural wonders.

Popular Hotels in Asturias

Looking for inspiration on where to stay in this picturesque region of Spain? Here are a few places you might like to consider.

• Oviedo: The capital city offers a range of accommodations, from boutique hotels like Hotel Clarín , perfectly situated for exploring historic sites.
•  Gijon: Gijon City Centre, the Hotel Santa Rosa is within a 10-minute walk of San Lorenzo Beach and Plaza de Jovellanos
• Cangas de Onís: If you're drawn to the Picos de Europa National Park, staying at Parador de Cangas de Onís offers a unique experience in a historical building.
• Ribadesella: For coastal beauty, Hotel Villa Rosari o offers a blend of modern comfort and scenic surroundings, ideal for relaxation and beach access.
• Llanes: Explore charming fishing villages from Hotel Don Paco , a family-run hotel close to both beaches and the town's vibrant atmosphere.
• Cudillero: Immerse yourself in the colourful charm of this fishing village at Hotel Casona de la Paca , a traditional Asturian manor house.
• Aviles: Just a short walk from the Aviles River in the Old Quarter you will find the Hotel Alda Palacio Valdes , a popular place to stay just steps away from San Sebastian Bridge and Plaza Espana.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Is asturias nice to visit.

Yes, Asturias is a beautiful region in Spain known for its lush landscapes, charming villages, and stunning coastline.

What is Asturias Spain known for?

Asturias is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the Picos de Europa National Park, as well as its rich cultural heritage and traditional cuisine.

Is Asturias different from Spain?

Asturias is an autonomous community within Spain, so it is a part of Spain with its own regional government and culture.

Does Asturias have a beaches?

Yes, Asturias has a rugged and scenic coastline with numerous beautiful beaches, some of which are ideal for surfing.

How do you get to Asturias Spain?

You can get to Asturias, Spain, by air through Asturias Airport or by train and bus services from major Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona.

Is Asturias worth visiting for tourists?

Asturias is definitely worth visiting for tourists who appreciate natural beauty, outdoor activities, and authentic Spanish culture.

Why is Asturias popular?

Asturias is popular for its unspoiled landscapes, including mountains, forests, and coastline, delightful cuisine, and stunning beaches, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Do they speak Spanish in Asturias?

Yes, Spanish is the primary language spoken in Asturias.

Are people in Asturias friendly?

People in Asturias are generally known for their friendliness and warm hospitality towards visitors.

What are some fun facts about Asturias?

Fun fact: Asturias is famous for its cider (sidra) culture, and you can enjoy traditional cider houses known as "sidrerías." The Somiedo Natural Park and Muniellos Forest, are UNESCO Biosphere Reserves and it is home to the popular Descenso Internacional del Sella, a famous canoe race down the Sella River that draws participants from around the world.

How many days do you need in Asturias?

To fully explore Asturias, a stay of at least 5-7 days is recommended to experience its diverse attractions.

What is the prettiest village in Asturias?

Cudillero is often considered one of the prettiest villages in Asturias, known for its colourful houses and stunning coastal views.

What is the closest international airport to Asturias Spain?

The closest international airport to Asturias, Spain, is Asturias Airport (OVD), which connects to some European destinations.

What kind of food do they eat in Asturias Spain?

Traditional Asturian cuisine includes dishes like fabada (bean stew), seafood, and a variety of cheeses, including the world-renowned Cabrales ( Goats Cheese ).

Getting Around

Getting to asturias and transportation.

Getting to and around Asturias is relatively easy, thanks to its well-connected transportation infrastructure.

Here's how to get to and navigate this captivating region:

Arriving by Air:

Asturias Airport (OVD): The primary gateway to Asturias is Asturias Airport, located near the capital, Oviedo. It offers domestic and limited international flights, making it convenient for both domestic and international travellers.

Arriving by Train:

Oviedo Railway Station: The main train station in the region is Oviedo Railway Station (Estación de Oviedo), which connects Asturias to other Spanish cities, including Madrid, Barcelona, and Bilbao.

Motorways: The A-8 motorway, also known as the Autovía del Cantabrico, runs along the northern coast of Spain, passing through Asturias. It provides access to the region by car from both the east and west.

Getting Around:

Car Rentals: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Asturias, especially if you plan to visit remote areas or the scenic Picos de Europa. Major car rental companies have offices at Asturias Airport and in larger cities like Oviedo and Gijon.

Buses: Asturias has an extensive bus network that connects cities, towns, and rural areas. ALSA is one of the major bus companies serving the region.

Trains: The region's train network is operated by Renfe. While train travel within Asturias is limited, it can be a comfortable way to travel between cities and explore neighbouring regions.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available in cities like Oviedo and Gijon and can be a convenient mode of transportation within urban areas.

Local Transportation: In cities like Oviedo and Gijon, you can rely on local buses and trams to navigate the urban landscape.

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Asturias (Province)

Pola de Lena

Cabo de Peñas

Cangas de Onís

Ribadesella

Places not to be missed

Tito Bustillo Cave

Set in a group of Palaeolithic caves.

Revillagigedo Palace

This adjoins the collegiate church of San Juan Bautista.

Picos de Europa National Park

Spread across the provinces of Asturias, Cantabria and León, the…

San Julián de los Prados Church

San Julián de los Prados is also known as Santullano, and was the…

Santa Cristina de Lena Church

It was built around the year 850 and is one of the most…

San Miguel de Lillo Church

This religious building has the World Heritage designation and…

Santa María del Naranco Church

The architectural structure of what was once the residence of…

Covadonga Sanctuary

Covadonga is the place where the Re-conquest began under king…

Oviedo Cathedral

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Asturias in Spain

I was born in Gijon which is a medium-sized city on the coast of Asturias in Spain. I’ve been living here for most of my 32 years. My love of nature and the outdoors began when I first picked up a surfboard at the age of 16. The search for good waves forced me and my friends to explore the coastline.

We found amazing beaches tucked behind mountains cascading to the sea and wide-open windswept sand dunes just waiting to be explored. A couple of years later (when I was totally lost on what to do next in life), I had the chance to try a reflex camera. I enjoyed it from the first click.

Suddenly, I had the power to capture my vision of the world. What’s better – people liked the photos I was taking. I was hooked from then onwards.

Why Visit Asturias in Northwest Spain

Asturias is off the beaten track. We’re not exactly inundated with tourists. Most visitors to Spain want guaranteed sun, beaches with turquoise waters, paella and fiesta – so they head to the Mediterranean or the south. This makes Asturias a quieter and more authentic region of Spain.

Sure, the weather is unpredictable but the rain is why we’re the garden of Spain and part of the Costa Verde. If you like adventures, the outdoor life and access to nature then this could be the perfect little paradise for you.

The thing I like most about Asturias is the fact that you can have all kinds of experiences in a very small place. You can hike a 6000-foot mountain in the morning, surf a wild beach in the afternoon and have dinner in a charming fishing village at night. The food and wine is as good as any place in Spain .

Cities are not too big and they all have “Casco Viejos” (Old Quarters) which reveal the history of the province. These towns were home to seafarers, fishermen and warriors who defended the towns from invaders.

Unique People and Culture of Asturias

I think the people here are not the most naturally open people. Although, other Spaniards consider us to be kind, helpful and authentic. People might not invite you into their house on day one but they will definitely show you the beauty and culture of Asturias and soon you will be friends.

The culture differs to the rest of Spain quite a lot. This is especially true when comparing Asturias to the south. We have more in common with Ireland or Scotland than we do with Andalusia . There is a lot of mythology related to nature and also the remains of the Celtic culture.

In fact, the traditional instrument of this region is not the guitar but the bagpipes! This unique instrument heavily influences our music.

My Favourite Places in Asturias: Lagos de Covadonga & Playa de Xago

It would be difficult to choose just one favourite place as Asturias is full of places I love for one reason or another. Lagos de Covadonga has to be one of my favourite places. Just picture two beautiful lakes beneath big mountains which are surrounded by green fields where cows graze.

I remember going there as a child with my father and being impressed by the beauty of it. I am not surprised that now it is a very popular place. Playa de Xago is definitely another favourite spot. It’s a wide and wild beach.

Sometimes when I’m stressed, sad or bored – all I need to do is drive over with my surfboard, score some nice waves and enjoy the sunset from the sand dunes. Xago will always cheer you up and put you in a good mood.

7-Day Travel Itinerary for Asturias

To take advantage of Asturias – a mix of experiences in the mountains, sea, villages and cities – you need at least seven days. And you might want to stay longer once you taste the gastronomic delights.

If you fly into Bilbao or come from France by car, start by spending a night on the eastern edge of Asturias in Llanes. The neighbouring coastline is full of little beaches and stunning cliffs – some of which include “bufones” or “gestures” where waves shoot up through the rocks like a fountain!

This area is also perfect for hiking, horse-riding and other activities. You also get to take advantage of the narrow streets of the Old Town of Llanes on foot. From there book into the Parador de Cangas de Onis or find another launching pad to take in some history and views of the Picos de Europa.

Cangas de Onis has an iconic humpback Roman footbridge but it’s the invaders who came after that who created much of the folklore of the area. About 1300 years ago the area was “reconquered” from the Moors under the leadership of Pelayo or Pelagius. His statue can be seen across Asturias.

Pelagius and his troops, depending on who you believe, either received sustenance in the Caves of Covadonga or were inspired by a statue of the Virgin there. The natural cave is now home to a church and shrine. And you’re not far from the Lagos de Covadonga that I mentioned before.

If you enjoy the mountains and the outdoors, the Picos de Europa National Park will show you some of the country’s biggest – including the famous Urriellu peak. Here you can spot the climbers on their way to the top looking like little ants in the middle of that 2300 foot wall.

Spend a day there trekking and checking out the miradors or take cable cars to enjoy the heights. Driving back to the coast, you should visit Ribadesella and go kayaking on the green waters of the Sella River. This is a summertime tradition and you will fall in love with the seaside villages.

Especially a place called Llastres which was the location of the Spanish television series Doctor Mateo . Get lost in the narrow streets that negotiate the hillside village and find fantastic seafood restaurants tucked into different vantage points overlooking the Cantabrico or the Bay of Biscay.

From there, head to Gijon, the biggest city of Asturias. It’s dominated by the two-kilometre long San Lorenzo beach. This beach is bordered by bars and restaurants. There’s also a promenade where visitors can watch the beach life and stunning tide transformations change throughout the day.

There are surfing schools for beginners or you can just chill in one of the quiet plazas in the old town, which is near old Roman Baths and narrow streets full of nightlife. Gijon is a great place to hang out for a few days.

Other must-visit cities in Asturias include Oviedo and Aviles. Both of which are close to Gijon. Oviedo is the cultural heart and capital of the Asturias province known for its fine architecture. Aviles, on the other hand, is a one-time industrial city that hides an alluring old town and cultural centre.

To end the trip, head west to Cabo de Penas and Cabo Vidio. These two places offer breathtaking views over the sea and are dominated by lighthouses. If you want to get back to fishing villages, try visiting Luarca and Puerto de Vega. The Asturias airport is close to Aviles and Gijon.

Incredible Food Scene of Northwest Spain

This is one of the best areas of Spain to enjoy eating! You can have any kind of food here but the fish and seafood will always make your day. Try the local pixin (monkfish). It’s the best-tasting ugly fish you’ll ever eat.

There are several high-end restaurants in Asturias and the traditional restaurants specialize in Fabada Asturiana (beans with chorizo) and Cachopo, the local steak/cheese/ham schnitzel or cordon bleu equivalent.

The best places are “sidrerias” (cider houses), another Asturian tradition. You can’t just pour the apple concoction into your glass – you must hold the bottle over your head and keep the glass tilted at your hip to catch it.

It’s worth a visit to a sidreria just to see the local camareros demonstrate this skill while you eat authentic Asturian food. And you better be hungry!

Best Accommodation Options in Asturias

There are plenty of options to stay here in Asturias depending on your style and budget – from high end paradors to Airbnbs. I would recommend spending some nights in a casa rural. These are traditional houses in a village or in the middle of nature that were turned into a guest house.

Houses such as these are perfect to chill at, meet the local people and immerse yourself in the culture of Asturias in the most authentic way.

In Gijon there is a wide range of accommodation but if you are looking for something different I would recommend North Surf House . This hostel offers the chance to practice some activities like yoga, pilates and of course, surfing. It’s the perfect place to relax during your visit to the city.

If you’re looking for something slightly more fancy then don’t miss Tierra del Agua . This eco-resort has an infinity pool, a little spa and a nice restaurant among other things. Tierra del Agua is situated in the middle of the mountains next to a natural park. You are going to love this place!

And if the budget isn’t a problem, there is an amazing place called Puebloastur . This five-star luxury resort is situated in the middle of the mountains and is probably the best in Asturias. To be honest, I haven’t been able to afford it but one day I will go! It looks incredible.

Favourite Experience: Lagos de Covadonga in Winter

Three years ago I went back to Lagos de Covadonga after a long time without visiting. It was winter and I couldn’t believe my eyes. The lakes were frozen and were surrounded by a beautiful snowy landscape with the last sun rays lighting the peaks of the mountains in the background.

In summer this place is crowded but at that moment I was almost the only one there. The mood was just perfect. I thought: “Wow, I should explore my own backyard more often.” At that time I was in the habit of travelling to far away countries. I realised that my own backyard had so much to offer.

Key Tips for your Visit to Asturias

The weather can change in the blink of an eye in Asturias so bring a good raincoat, a light sweater for nighttime when it can get cold, and bring some comfortable shoes because you are going to walk and hike a lot.

Public transport is good and cheap between the cities but rent a car if you want to visit remote places in the mountains or explore the coast and all the beaches and villages that aren’t served by buses.

At the restaurants feel free to ask the waiters if you are ordering too much because they don’t like wasting food. You can get a bottle of sidra for €2 so make sure you pace yourself because the hangovers are memorable!

I also recommend learning some Spanish before visiting. English is not commonly known, especially in the villages. If you go on to learn a few words in Asturian then you will definitely win people’s hearts and affection.

My last piece of advice (which sounds contradictory) is to enjoy Asturias and not tell people! As I said, the charm is that it’s off the beaten track. The major highway across the north was only completed this century.

If you find a fantastic vista or a stunning location away from the masses, keep it to yourself. By doing this, travellers are always going to be welcome here. Everyone has the right to visit paradise at least once!

BY JAVI SANCHEZ IG: @JAVISPICS WWW.JAVISANCHEZFOTOGRAFIA.ES

Author:  Javi Sanchez

Javi Sanchez is an Asturian boy who has been taking photos since he was 18. You can find him on Instagram at @javispics where he shares some amazing photos of Spain.

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Everything to Know Before Traveling to Asturias – Explore Asturias

Everything to Know Before Traveling to Asturias

There is no better way to describe Asturias than its slogan, “ Asturias, paraíso natural ” (Asturias, natural paradise), which is perfect summary of this magical place. I believe it is one of the most unknown parts of Spain, literally “ Spain’s best kept secret .” Most of the tourists I came across in Asturias were actually Spanish, and the non-Spanish ones were here for the Camino de Santiago which passes through Asturias. This region has everything: tall beautiful mountains, many natural parks, breathtaking coast, and magical small villages. It is completely green in a way I have only seen in movies and there are countless animals such as cows, goats, and horses in every corner, including along the highway!!

Table of Contents

Asturias (in Asturian: Asturies), officially the Principality of Asturias, is an autonomous community in north-west Spain. The most important cities are the communal capital, Oviedo , the seaport and largest city Gijón , and the industrial town of Avilés .

The key features of Asturian geography are its rugged coastal cliffs and the mountainous interior. In the eastern range, the Picos de Europa National Park contains the highest and arguably most spectacular mountains, rising to 2,648 meters (8,688 ft). Other notable features of this predominantly limestone range are the Parque Natural de Redes in the central east, the central Ubiñas south of Oviedo, and the Parque Natural de Somiedo in the west. The Asturian coastline is extensive, with hundreds of beaches, coves and natural sea caves.

Asturias is bordered by Cantabria to the east, by Castile and León to the south, by Galicia to the west, and by the Bay of Biscay to the north.

How To Get to Asturias

Direct flight to Asturias : you can arrive to the Asturias airport, OVD, located around Avilés. According the the OVD Airport site , the airlines that fly through the airport are: Air Europa, Air Nostrum, Evelop, Iberia, Volotea, and Vueling.

Note: There are not many flights that pass through this airport, which is why it is sometime cheaper to fly to another airport in Spain.

Flight to nearby airport – Santander : the Santander Airport, SDR, is a great option, located less than 2 hours from Oviedo and Gijón. You can usually find cheaper flight flying to or from this airport. From there you can get to Asturias with BlaBlaCar (ridesharing app), direct bus, a bus to the main bus station of Santander and then another bus to Asturias (both bus options are with ALSA), or with a rented car.

Flight to central airport – Madrid: the Madrid airport, MAD, is huge and therefore has more frequent and sometimes cheaper flight options. From there you can get to Asturias with a rented car or BlaBlaCar (ridesharing app) which will take about 4.5 hours WITH tolls. If you want to avoid the toll payment make sure you set your GPS to skip those. You can also arrive to Asturias with a bus (ALSA) which will take you about 6 hours, depending on how many stops it makes.

Additional ways to arrive to Asturias include bus with the company ALSA, train with the company RENFE, or by car!

What to See

There is so much to see in Asturias that sometimes it can be difficult to decide. I think every visitor should combine visiting the coast, the mountains (highly recommend the Picos de Europa), and some of the small towns or “big” cities. Here are a few posts that can help you plan your trip to Asturias: 12 Places You Must Visit in Asturias Itinerary: 7 Days in Asturias Itinerary: 5 Days in Asturias Itinerary: 3 Days in Asturias 4 Asturias One-Day Hikes Accessible with Public Transportation Or you can browse all the Hiking Posts in the blog

Transportation

Public transportation in Asturias exists, yet it is not the best, which is why I have a many posts on things you can do in Asturias using public transportation. The bus company is Alsa and the train companies are Feve for within the area and Renfe for traveling between regions. Gladly, There are many things you can see with public transportation, so stay positive! The 3 main cities are well-connected with Alsa buses every 30 minutes throughout the day. I even wrote about 4 Asturias One-Day Hikes Accessible with Public Transportation .

Renting a car is fairly easy and prices can get as low as 10-15 Euros per day. You can do so in the Asturias Airport (OVD) or in one of the main cities: Oviedo, Gijón, or Avilés.

If you don’t have a car, or just prefer to visit some places in Asturias with a guide, Civitatis has a lot of great excursions leaving from different points in Asturias.

Weather is definitely the main issue when traveling to Asturias. The beautiful green hills come with a price, and it is the rain. However, the sunny summer days are absolutely perfect which is what makes Asturias the perfect Summer escape for locals who live in the hotter areas of Spain such as Madrid and Andalucia.

You should definitely check the weather forecast before making any plans. Keep in mind that summers are mild and, on the coast, winters also have relatively benign temperatures, rarely including frost. The cold is especially felt in the mountains, where snow is present from October to May. Both rain and snow are regular weather features of Asturian winters. In coastal or near-coastal areas, daytime high temperatures generally average around 12 °C (54 °F) – 13 °C (55 °F) during winter and 22 °C (72 °F) – 23 °C (73 °F) in summer.

The Asturian Sidra

Sidra is an important part of the Asturian culture and it is definitely something you should know about! Asturian people love drinking sidra in any occasion, whether it is with dinner or just as a casual sit-down with something to snack. It is light, refreshing, and fairly cheap (normally less than 3 euros per bottle).

Sidra is an alcoholic beverage made from the fermented juice of apples. In Asturias sidra is considered not only a beverage but an intrinsic part of the culture and folklore; it is poured in very small quantities from a height into a wide glass and is done to get air bubbles into the drink (as you can see in the picture). But don’t worry, you don’t need to pour it like that. The waiter at the bar/restaurant will pour you sidra in the glass whenever you request. Some restaurant even have a device that pours sidra for you! BUT, you have to drink all the sidra in the glass in one time, or people will look at you like you’re crazy ad might even make a comment.

I absolutely adore the food here! So many options and so much variety!!  In Asturias, you can find delicious cheese, meat, seafood, bread, and much more. Some highlights of the region (there are many more) are the Cabrales cheese which is a type of blue cheese, the cachopo which is a layered meat, cheese, and sometimes vegetables that is deep-fried, and the fabada that is a soup with local huge beans and meat. The best part – the food is fairly cheap and the portions are gigantic!

• The weather changes pretty fast, in the same day you can be at the beach in your bathing suit and later on freezing in the rain under your umbrella. Make sure you pack properly for every climate possibility!
• People in Asturias are very nice so feel free to ask for help or just talk about the weather (very common conversation). Locals also know the best secret places to visit so asking for a travel recommendation usually turns out great!
• When it comes to food take advantage of the Menu del Dia which usually offers you a 3 course meal for 10-15 Euros. It s usually a pretty good deal and in Asturias you will get great portions, so always ask if there is a Menu and what it offers. The menu is during lunchtime Monday-Friday and most of the time includes an appetizer, main course, dessert, drinks, and bread.
• On Sundays and Mondays some of the restaurants and local businesses are closed, make sure you take that into account when making plans!
• You can also find cool events in Asturias on this website: http://www.asturiasdefiesta.es

Need help planning your visit to Asturias?

Let us take care of all the details! We offer customized travel planning services to ensure that your experience in Asturias is unforgettable. Contact us today by filling out the form HERE or clicling the picture below to get more information.

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• 15 Must Visit Attractions In...

Must-Visit Attractions in Asturias, Spain

Explore Asturias, the rugged coastline of northwest Spain , dotted with world-class surfing beaches near Gijón, quaint medieval towns such as Oviedo, and the beautiful Covadonga Lakes in the Picos de Europa National Park.

Forget flamenco, pueblos blancos and arid, dusty landscapes of orange and brown – they all belong to Andalucia. Asturias, on the other hand, couldn’t be more different from the south of Spain: wedged in between Galicia and Cantabria on the country’s northwestern coast, it’s a land of glacial mountains, sea-beaten cliffs and lush countryside. Here is our pick of the best attractions in this often-overlooked region.

1. Marvel at the Bufones de Pría

Natural Feature

Carved out by the sea and wind over millennia, the blowholes of Pria are chimneys connecting the ocean with the cliffs above. On windy days, the force of the waves hitting the coast forces the expulsion of water and air from these vertical chambers, resulting in columns of up to 10m (33ft) in height. To see them in action, head to the small town of Llames, from where a clifftop hiking route of about four hours begins and ends.

2. Admire the view from the Mirador del Fitu

For some of the most unforgettable views in Asturias, head to the Mirador del Fitu, a scenic balcony situated a 45-minute drive east of Gijón. As if the hill itself weren’t high enough, a concrete platform built in 1927 provides a few extra metres of elevation, enabling you to survey what seems like half of Spain. Weather permitting, you’ll be able to see the mountains of the Picos de Europa National Park, the rocky coastline of Asturias, and towns such as Ribadesella, Colunga and Villaviciosa.

4. Go cider tasting at Calle de Gascona

Bar, Restaurant, Spanish

Calle de Gascona in Oviedo is the focal point of the cider culture in Asturias. It’s lined with over a dozen sidrerías , the name given to taverns and bars that specialise in the signature tipple of the region. Staff at these establishments pour the dry, flat sidra in a way that generates maximum bubbles and flavour – by pouring it from above head height into a glass held almost at their knees, somehow without spilling a drop. Among the best are La Pumarada and Tierra Astur.

5. Hike the Senda del Oso

Hiking Trail

The Bear’s Trail follows the course of a mining railway constructed in the late 19th century. Beginning in the village of Tuñon (a 25-minute drive south of Oviedo), it forks into two routes, one ending in Cueva Huerta, the other in Ricabo: both are 30km (19mi) long and require around seven hours to complete. Key sights include Proaza’s wildlife reserve, where you can see the rare Cantabrian brown bear in its natural environment, and the dizzying Valdecerezales Gorge.

6. Discover underwater creatures at Acuario de Gijón

Looking to entertain the kids on a rainy day? The Gijón Aquarium is one of the best attractions in the region, home to 4,000 marine creatures across 400 different species. You’ll be able to spot everything from bull sharks and loggerhead turtles to red piranhas (just watch those little fingers). The aquarium also supports more than 20 conservation projects around the world, including an initiative to repopulate local river salmon.

7. Get lost at the Jardín Botánico Atlántico

Botanical Garden

The Atlantic Botanic Garden is located just southeast of Gijón. It is home to a whopping 2,000 varieties of plants, many of which are native to northern Spain and the Atlantic coastal regions. Make sure to visit the Garden of the Island, a historical garden dating back more than 150 years, and the Natural Monument of La Carbayeda of El Tragamón, a natural forest with 400-year-old trees.

8. Learn to surf at Playa de San Lorenzo

The Asturias coastline is home to some of the finest surf spots in Spain . San Lorenzo, the long crescent-shaped strip of sand in Gijón town centre, is a great place to learn how to ride waves. A number of surf schools dot the shoreline, offering lessons to help you master the basics. Once your arms feel like churros, head to a pintxos bar to refuel. More experienced surfers should head to Xagó for a larger, more consistent swell.

9. Visit Oviedo Cathedral

The gothic cathedral of San Salvador, or Oviedo Cathedral, lies along the Camino del Norte ; it is a major stop for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela . It was built in the late 13th century and is one of the most impressive in Asturias. Walk around the cloisters and chapter house, then visit the Holy House, a pre-Romanesque building dating to the ninth century and now a Unesco World Heritage Site.

10. Visit the Asturias Museum of Fine Arts

The Asturias Museum of Fine Arts houses one of the finest public collections in Spain in a four-building complex near Oviedo Cathedral. The permanent exhibits consist of 15,000 items and span the 14th century to the present day, showcasing works by Spanish artists such as El Greco, Goya, Picasso, Dalí and Miró. There are also pieces by European Renaissance masters including Titian and Reubens, as well as extensive collections of sculpture, drawing, photography and cinema posters.

11. Uncover dinosaurs in the Jurassic Museum of Asturias

Not many people know it, but northern Spain was a prime dinosaur location during the Jurassic and Mesozoic eras. Hundreds of dinosaur bones and fossils have been discovered in the regions of La Rioja and Asturias, so it’s a great place for any dino-crazed little ones, or those who simply want to discover more. Keep your eyes peeled for the giant diplodocus in the garden outside.

12. Trace ancient wall art in Cuevas de Tito Bustillo

Travel back in time to 10,000 BCE, when early humans painted rock art on the walls of the Tito Bustillo caves, just outside Ribadesella. You’ll be able to make out details of horses, reindeer, as well as (unusually in ancient rock art) whales and dolphins. There are also many pictures of the female form. The guided tours are well worth listening to, but are only conducted in Spanish.

13. Swim at Playa del Silencio

Playa de Silencio means the Beach of Silence and it’s located just outside the village of Castañeras. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the area: a stunning crescent of white and grey sand, surrounded by towering green cliffs and lapped by turquoise waves. Although don’t expect a host of facilities here – this undisturbed spot has no lifeguards or places to eat. Despite this, it is popular in summer and can often get quite busy. Part of the beach is also used by naturists.

14. Peek inside the Santuario de Covadonga

Church, Natural Feature

Ever visited a chapel tucked away inside a cave? Stroll around the basilica inside the Sanctuary of Covadonga – or even attend Sunday service. It sits in the Picos de Europa National Park, surrounded by misty peaks and verdant valleys. Not only is there a church, but also a grand 19th-century basilica which houses the tombs of Asturian royalty. You’ll enjoy the stroll up along lush trails to the chapel itself.

15. Explore the Picos de Europa National Park

Explore one of the largest national parks in Spain. Covering an area of 64,660ha (159,778 acres), it has glacial lakes, limestone peaks and incredible hiking trails. It’s no wonder this park has been designated a Unesco Biosphere Reserve. Highlights include the beautiful Lakes of Covadonga. Read our guide to the best hiking trails in the Picos de Europa to find out more.

Mark Nayler contributed additional reporting to this article.

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The World Through a Lens

A Local’s Tour of Asturias, Spain’s ‘Natural Paradise’

After a decade spent living abroad, a photographer returns to her homeland — and revels in the breadth of its beauty.

Ribadesella, a small town in eastern Asturias. Credit...

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Photographs and Text by Mónica R. Goya

• Nov. 2, 2020

At the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, with travel restrictions in place worldwide, we launched a new series — The World Through a Lens — in which photojournalists help transport you, virtually, to some of our planet’s most beautiful and intriguing places. This week, Mónica R. Goya shares a collection of images from northwest Spain.

Asturias, a region in northwest Spain that’s separated from the Castilian Plateau by the Cantabrian Mountains, is a land of contrasts. Once an industrial and mining powerhouse, the area has earned its nickname, Natural Paradise; a third of its territory is now environmentally protected.

This year I had the chance to spend over two months there. It was a unique opportunity to rediscover my homeland after a decade spent living abroad. Asturias boasts a range of forests — oak, beech, chestnut, birch — and a mostly unspoiled coastline. Its beaches come in all sizes: a palette of turquoise blue waters surrounded by imposing cliffs and green pastures.

Traces of the region’s pastoral heritage are still visible. On a hike through chestnut woods, I spotted a corripa, a circular stone enclosure built near a tree to store its chestnuts in their burrs, a way of prolonging their shelf life.

The region is also dotted with hórreos, ancient wooden granaries built on stilts, and protected by heritage status since the 1970s.

And since tending the land is rooted in the soul of many locals, you’re never far from a bursting vegetable garden.

Asturias is home to just over a million people, half of whom live along the region’s midline, where its main three towns are: Oviedo, the capital city, which showcases immaculately preserved pre-Romanesque architecture, and the harbor towns of Gijón and Avilés.

Somiedo, one of Asturias’ seven UNESCO biosphere reserves , is as far as it gets from the sun-drenched Spain of most people’s imagination. There, I was moved by the timeless beauty of the teitos, little thatched roof huts scattered across the emerald valleys. Often associated with the pre-Roman settlements known as castros, these traditional buildings are an important part of the culture of the Vaqueiros de Alzada, a nomadic people who practiced a transhumant lifestyle and who used to stay in the teitos while moving their cattle to the high mountain grazing pastures in the summer. Today there is an emerging movement to prevent this cultural heritage from vanishing.

Western Asturias, where Cantabrian brown bears roam free, is considered the cradle of rural tourism in Spain. (The bears’ presence is on the rise, a result of conservation efforts.) There, castros abound and stone houses with slate roofs are the norm. Ancient oak forests — such as Muniellos, the largest in Spain and one of the best preserved in Europe — as well as beech and birch woods are at their prettiest in autumn, when the deciduous trees put on a show.

Across Spain, many areas that are partially uninhabited because of a rural exodus come back to life in the summer. On the way to my grandmother’s village, I took the slower route, visiting the charming fishing villages of Llastres, Cudillero and Luarca. I took time to reflect on the many rural Spaniards who emigrated to the Americas over a century ago — and to reflect on the legacy of the indianos , the few who made fortunes abroad and returned to their hometowns to build grandiose mansions and, sometimes, schools, thereby helping to reduce the widespread illiteracy among the rural classes into which they were born.

Picos de Europa, created in 1918, is the only national park in Asturias. Its exquisite natural beauty cannot be understood apart from the shepherds who for centuries have shaped the park’s landscapes, tending their livestock and producing award-winning cheeses such as Cabrales and Gamonéu, still aged in difficult-to-access caves.

Around 80 percent of all Spanish cider is produced in Asturias, and sidrerías, or cider houses, are a staple in society. Local customs call for natural cider — which is traditionally poured into a wide-mouth glass from high above — to be drunk quickly, in one go. The local cuisine is hearty, the portions abundant and locals’ gluttonous reputation not unfounded.

Despite the never-ending engineering works to link Asturias with Madrid by high-speed rail (a project scheduled to be completed by 2010 and still underway), visitor numbers are increasing annually. Last year, a record 2.3 million visited Asturias, 82 percent of them Spanish nationals.

And yet, in August, Asturias is a green oasis where I can blissfully find trails to walk in silence for hours without encountering another soul.

Mónica R. Goya is a London-based journalist and photographer. You can follow her work on Instagram and Twitter .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation.

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This Asturias Road Trip Itinerary Will Show You the Secret Side of Spain

November 24, 2022

Taste the green side of Spain with this Asturias road trip through the vivid peaks and crashing coast of the north. This itinerary also combines well with a road trip through Galicia.

See also the best road trips in Spain and don’t miss this guide on what to eat in Asturias.

Table of Contents

Why plan an Asturias road trip?

Asturias is still a hidden gem in Europe. An almost fairytale place where green cloaked mountains crash into the Cantabrian Sea. It’s a place for adventurers, with hiking paths, nature reserves, deserted coves, medieval villages and secret crypts riven into the rock.

All combined with an unmistakable identity. A place where cider sits next to tapas and hearty fadeba stews fire up the hearts of locals.

It’s a place that surprises me each time I visit. A place of natural beauty, yes, but also history at the heart of modern Spain. It helps, too, that it has some great spas and gorgeous hotels.

The winding roads and secret locations mean that the best way to explore the place is by car. So, I’ve gathered together the perfect itinerary for you to plan your Asturias road trip.

Disclosure – I last travelled to Spain in partnership with Green Spain and Traverse as part of the #inGreenSpain project. As ever, as always, I kept the right to write what I like. Otherwise, there’s just no point. Also, if you book or buy through any of the links on this page, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no extra cost to you Thank you!

What is Green Spain?

The autonomous region of Asturias is part of the “Green Coast”, a name given to an area that includes Cantabria, Galicia, Asturias and the Basque Country.

Not only green by nature, it’s green by development, too, with an eye on sustainability and a dislike of mass resorts. This Asturias road trip is designed for those who need a week far from the big cities, to inhale the air of the forest and get in touch with their inner selves again.

How to use this Asturias Road Trip Itinerary

If you’ve decided to go on a road trip through Northern Spain, you have two realistic options. Either rent a car and enjoy the freedom. Or book a guided tour and enjoy the stress free flow of knowledge.

I’ve travelled to Asturias a few times, now, and this itinerary is loosely based on my last trip, with a few tweaks here and there. If you’re a keen hiker, slow this down to a seven day itinerary, and give yourself more time on the trails.

You can follow it as an independent traveller or use it for inspiration to book onto a guided trip.

Ready for a new adventure? Let’s take a look at this Asturias Road Trip.

How to Get to Asturias

There are three main ways to reach this part of Spain: plane, bus, and train.

The easiest way to arrive in Asturias is by plane. The main airport (OVD) receives direct flights from Paris, Barcelona, Madrid, and London, and from here, there’s only a short drive to San Esteban de Pravia, where your road trip begins.

If you land in Madrid, one of your best options to reach Asturias is to take the bus. It is a cheap way of travelling, but you must be prepared to spend 5 hours on the road even before your trip begins.

Travel more comfortably from Madrid by train. Although the prices are higher, this route offers beautiful views that make up for it and Spanish trains are very comfortable.

Of course, you could start your road trip through Asturias right away if you land in Madrid or Barcelona. Rent a car and enjoy some of the best road trips in Spain.

How to Get Around Asturias

Asturias has small towns and villages, so you can simply walk or take a taxi or bus if your legs are too tired. Typically, the most you would pay for a taxi to get you from one side of a town to another is around £7.

Travelling between towns and villages is also simple and cheap, with buses departing every day early in the morning and running up to 11 PM. Trains are available, but it is more difficult to create an itinerary based on their schedule since there are not too many options.

Really, your best bet for independent travel in Asturias is to have your own wheels. Which is why most of this article is based on an Asturias road trip.

If you choose a tour, this is no longer your problem, of course, as the tour company will be in charge of the transfer services.

• Recommended reading: how to plan a road trip by yourself

Day 1: Arrive in Asturias

Your Asturias road trip begins at the airport with a quick transfer to San Esteban de Pravia. Either join your tour or pick up your rental car and start the 20 minute journey.

San Esteban de Pravia

This picturesque small town was once one of the most active on the peninsula due to its coal port, the first in Spain, which helped San Esteban’s economy to grow. Today, the loading docks and cranes are no longer used, but they stay in place as huge artefacts of what this port used to be, lending a certain nostalgia to the whole place.

Here, the longest river in the region, El Nalon, meets the Cantabrian Sea. Unsurprisingly, this results in great fresh fish and seafood, with monkfish a highlight.

San Esteban de Pravia is the starting point for the breathtaking Route of the Viewpoints, and this makes it the best place to start your Asturias itinerary.

Where to Stay in San Esteban de Pravia

El Gran Hotel Brillante – this fabulous hotel has spacious rooms and the best view over the sea. It recently went through an extensive renovation, so everything is brand new. The food is also great and traditional and the staff are friendly and helpful. Check availability for El Gran Hotel Brillante here.

Day 2: San Esteban de Pravia – Senda de los Miradores – Cudillero – Cadavedo – Cangas de Narcea

The second day of your Asturias itinerary takes you along the Nolan River to discover a stunning landscape with pine and eucalyptus groves, gorgeous viewpoints, and wild beaches. Lace up those hiking boots for a mild to moderate day on the trails.

Hermitage of the Holy Spirit

Start your day at Mirador del Espíritu Santo in San Esteban. The small chapel is situated on the highest point of the coastal path of Muros de Nalon and offers a stunning view over the Bay of Biscay. It is often used for weddings since it is easily accessible by road.

Senda de los Miradores: Hike the path of the viewpoints

From the chapel, your hike continues along the Senda de los Miradores, the path of the viewpoints. It travels along the coast of the Cantabrian Sea, through a portion of the Bajo Nalón region amid wild beauty and luxuriant forests. The Senda de los Miradores takes you further to the beaches of Focarón and Los Espinos, surrounded by the majestic mountain range of the Pico de Europa, sometimes shrouded in mist.

Prepare to breathe the freshest air in Europe as you cross the pine and eucalyptus forests to a calm rest area where you can have a sandwich and some tea and enjoy the scenery before getting ready to explore the Atalaya viewpoint.

You are once again high, looking at the dazzling waters of the Cantabrian Sea that blend with the sky at the horizon. From Atalaya, you can spot the Vidio lighthouse, once the only guide for the seamen sailing at night in this area. Look down to be dazzled by the roughness of three beaches: La Atalaya, La Conchiquina, and La Cazonera.

 As you leave the town of Muros del Nalón behind, you are welcomed into the same rich vegetation of pine trees and eucalyptus leading you to the end of this route, the Aguilar beach. Beautiful landscapes open up ready for the grand finale.

And only when you get very close to the beach, do you begin to understand how soft the sand is, even in the middle of this rocky land.

Cudillero: the rainbow fishing town

Allegedly founded by the Vikings, the cute and curious town of Cudillero reaches from the sea up along the mountains in a terracotta wave of tumbling, characteristic houses. The word cudillero means “elbow” and once you’ve climbed to the main viewpoint and gazed back down at the time, you can see why. In the peak season, Cudillero is one of the most popular tourist spots. But even in the early days of September, the crowds subside and you’ll have the place to yourself. Keep an ear out for the local language pixueto and look for the local gems, the quiastolita. These natural stones show the shape of the Celtic cross when they’re sliced in two.

Cadavedo, Valdés

The next stop is in this small village in Valdés, which in 1954 was awarded the title of “Most Beautiful People of Asturias” and in 2022 the “Exemplary village of the Princess of Asturias Awards”. Cadavedo is famous for its many hórreos, some rustic granaries specific to Asturias, and its Indian architecture. 

Its stunning Ermita de la Regalina is also a main attraction. This church clings to a grassy headland surrounded only by the beauty of the mountains and the sandy beaches that slide into the sea.

In Cadavedo, you have the chance to meet those who take the famous El Camino de Santiago (also known as the way of St James) going from San Sebastian to Santiago de Compostela.

Lunch at El Casino

Rest your feet and restock on energy at one of the local restaurants in the village. El Casino is one of the most popular, with a nice terrace right on the grass and a friendly, chatty atmosphere. You shouldn’t expect something fancy, but the food is good, and their ice cream is definitely worth trying.

Cangas del Narcea

As the end of the first day, head to Cangas del Narcea for dinner and a walk around one of the richest wineries in Asturias. This area is fascinating with its picturesque old town and biosphere reserve that offers a wide range of trails through the heart of the forest.

But the real highlight is the Parador de Corias, a hotel housed in an 11th-century building, the former Benedictine Monastery of St. John the Baptist of Corias. The vineyards surround the hotel, giving it a very romantic vibe and a walk between the rows of grapes in the gentle light of sunset will soothe even the most jaded of travellers. Plus, you can finish with a glass of wine from one of the best wine regions in the country.

Dinner at Parador de Corias

It’s difficult to find another restaurant that can beat dining inside an old monastery, so don’t even bother. Enjoy dining at your hotel this evening. As expected, since this is a luxury hotel, the food and services are nothing but exceptional. The Parador also focuses on traditional, regional dishes so expect to taste the hearty stews of caldareta and fadeba, with requeson yoghurt mand honey as dessert.

Day 3: Cangas del Narcea – Oviedo

Lace up those boots again as your itinerary takes you through one of the most spectacular nature reserves in Spain and leaves you in a thermal springs spa.

Altu del Campillo

The first stop is at the Altu del Campillo viewpoint, which is one of the best places to see the valley of Degaña and its deep green and blue landscape. The Asturias road trip itinerary continues to the viewpoint of Fonduveigas, where if you’re incredibly lucky, you can spot some brown bears. Other viewpoints are just a 10-minute drive from each other, so stop for more amazing views until you reach the entrance to the national park reserve.

Moal – Tablizas through the Muniellos Biosphere Reserve

Moal is the entry point to the Integral Natural Reserve of Muniellos (Biosphere Reserve) that takes you along the Tablizas river to the Muniellos Visitor’s Reception Center in Tablizas. This is a relaxing walk through a chestnut wood where you will find the traditional “corripas” where chestnuts are gathered and left until they become easier to open.

To enter the reserve, you will need a permit, so plan ahead if you’re keen to go hiking here.

For a break from the green side of spain, head out of the wildness and straight into one of the most cosmopolitan towns in the area. Oviedo is not the typical sleep fishing village or former industrial town that makes up the landscape of Asturias. Instead, it’s a popular destination for those interested in history, shopping, and trying food at restaurants with several Michelin stars.

Itself a UNESCO World heritage Site, this beautiful city has a university, a grand cathedral and a series of places and temples dating back to the 8th and 10th centuries. Take a break in one of the many squares around the town and sip some local Asturian cider. Pair it with some Vidiago or Cabrales cheese, almond cake, and ore frixuelos.

Oviedo can get pretty crowded during the high season, as it’s a useful point on many routes which cross Asturias and Galicia. It’s the main base for the Picos de Europa National Park and Cangas de Onís and a key location on several Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trails. So, in short, book ahead.

Where to Stay near Oviedo

Head to the Hotel Las Caldas Villa Termal , a sprawling complex with a thermal spa and spacious restaurant based on the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles.

Day 4: Picos de Europa, Covadonga and Cangas de Onís

It’s time for the big hitters: the Picos de Europa National Park, the birthplace of modern Spain and the Celtic cross that simply is the symbol of Asturias.

Mirador de San Roque, Lastres

The first stop on today’s itinerary is in Lastres, a charming fishing town with narrow cobbled stones and houses situated so close to each other that it is almost impossible for the beams of the Bay of Biscay to invade them. The Mirador de San Roque in Lastres offers a dazzling view over the city and the sea, opening your appetite for more natural beauties. And worry not, they are on their way.

Stand in Dinosaur Footprints at La Griega Beach

As if the beaches weren’t impressive enough, La Griega goes one step further by providing real, actual dinosaur footprints pressed into the rock. Stand in the imprints and get a sense of just how huge these creatures used to be.

Mirador del Fitu, Colunga

At 1,100 metres above sea level, Mirador del Fitu offers a 360-degree view that will stop you in your tracks. From here, you can see the Ponga Natural Park and the Sueve Nature Reserve, along with the mighty Picos de Europa National Park. And if you look to the south, Cangas de Onis and Covadonga appear on the horizon.

Mirador del Fitu to the Majada de Bustacu Route

This 3-kilometre trail takes you through a small wood until you reach the Majada de Bustacu high mountain meadow. I know I keep writing it but spectacular views await here, with the Cantabrian Sea shimmering on one side and the Picos de Europa on the other. This is the best place to spot the lovely Asturcones horses, one of the purest breeds of ponies in the world. 

Cangas de Onís: the famous spot in Asturias

This town is famous for its Roman Bridge with a reproduction of the Victoria Cross that hangs from its centre. Stop for lunch at Vega Redonda cider house , where you can try Asturias’ home cider brand, poured from a great height and drunk in a single slurp.

• Read the secret to pouring Spanish cider here.

Lugos of Covadonga (Enol and Ercina)

The day is still young, so your trip continues to visit some of the highest lakes in Asturias. Situated in the heart of the Picos de Europa Natural Park at an altitude of over 1,000 metres, Enol and Ercina are accessible through an easy climb, and theirstill waters and stunning surroundings attract thousands of tourists every year.

The Royal Site of Covadonga

Do not miss the Royal Site of Covadonga to learn one of the most important stories about the foundation of Asturias. In this place, it is said that King Pelayo defeated the Moors and started his campaign of recovering the Iberian Peninsula from the “barbarians,” aka the Moors.

Enter the waterfall-hidden cave to find the sanctuary of “La Santina” and take a few moments to meditate and embrace this unique Spanish monument of spirituality.

Ribadesella

The last stop is the seaside town of Ribadesella, famous for its prehistoric Cave of Tito Bustillo, which was inhabited by humans before the year 10,000 BC. 

Where to stay in Ribadesella

Hotel Villa Rosario is a fantastic pick for accommodation. A sumptuous villa with amazing views of the sea, luxurious rooms, and excellent breakfast options, it forms one of the famous Indiana houses that line the seafront.

Day 5: Ribadesella – Cabo Peñas, Gozón – Asturias Airport

The last day of your Asturias road trip still has plenty going on. Today, stroll around the town of Ribadesella and hike up to the viewpoint. Then discover the Cabo Peñas before heading back to the airport.

Head to the cave to see the marks made by some of the earliest humans to live in this region. Take a walk on the Santa Marina seafront or stop for a coffee in one of the many restaurants. Finally, stretch your legs by hiking up to the viewpoint that shows the unusual outline of Ribadesella in all her glory.

Cabo Peñas, Gozón

On your way to the airport, there’s the last stop and an amazing one at that. Drive to the Cabo Peñas Protected Area to visit the lighthouse there. It’s been in operation since 1852, guiding sailors across the treacherous yet beautiful Asturian coast.

When to Visit Asturias

The best time of the year for an Asturias road trip is between June and September. Compared to other regions of Spain, which become scorching hot during this period, Asturias enjoys comfortable temperatures that tend to stay below 30 degrees Celsius. The weather is typically sunny with sporadic rain, so prepare for everything and always pack a waterproof.

During the winter, the cliffs of Asturias are covered in snow, and the region becomes home to ski lovers. Christmas fairs are held in every city, and New Year’s Eve is celebrated with sumptuous parties.

In October, many villages hold hazelnut festivals, whilst bigger cities like Gijon and Aviles are famous for their summer music festivals.

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Travel Guide To Asturias

The rain in Spain falls mainly in the north, which keeps it lush, green and blessedly free of tourists. Delight in the empty beaches, delicious cheeses and ciderhouses of Asturias, one of Spain's four 'autonomous communities' facing north into the Cantabrian Sea along with Galicia, Cantabria and the Basque country. The region is vibrantly urban in parts, but profoundly rural in others. It is maritime, but also mountainous - utterly distinctive, but oddly hard to pin down.

Where to stay in Asturias

Ballota, Cudillero, Asturias (00 34 985 598 111; www.artehotel.net ). A curious example of what can happen when you put urban minimalism in a rural context. This is not high design, but 'domestic modern', breezily put together with affordable materials in black, white and primary colours. Everything is brand new. Not to everyone's taste, maybe, but certainly refreshing. £

CASONA DE BUSTIELLO

Carretera Infiesto-Villaviciosa km16, Piloña, Asturias (00 34 985 710 445; www.hotelcasonadebustiello.com ). Rambling country house in a splendid rural setting on an 11-hectare finca , with stables, a conservatory for cold, bright days, and nine guest rooms. £

CASONA DE LA PACA

El Pito, Cudillero, Asturias (00 34 985 591 303). A splendid casa de Indianos (see Villa La Argentina below for an explanation) from 1877, set in a garden of camellias and magnolias. Chintzy, comfortable, English-style decoration. £

CASONA DE SAN ANDRES

San Andrés, Bárcena del Monasterio, Tineo, Asturias (00 34 985 804 071; www.sanandreshotel.com ). Clean-lined, renovated farmhouse that's dog-friendly, family-friendly and refreshingly unpretentious. Owner Iris Garcia is your super-helpful host. £

Carrales, Caravia, Asturias (00 34 985 853 272; www.elbabu.com ). Between the Sueve mountains and the coast, this stone village house was brought radically up to date by its owners and architect Ricardo Lajara. The design is clever and chic, using neutral colours and modern materials, from RSJs to lime-and-mortar rendering. £

LA POSADA DE BABEL

La Preda, Llanes, Asturias (00 34 985 402 525; www.laposadadebabel.com ). Few rural hotels in Spain are more daringly contemporary than this. The design scheme is original and fascinating, and it works superbly in its rural context. Two suites and 10 rooms are housed in four highly individual buildings. £

LA RECTORAL

Taramundi, Asturias (00 34 985 646 760; www.larectoral.com ). The village of Taramundi, hard by the Galician border in a lush sylvan setting, was an early pioneer of rural tourism and is now almost entirely given over to it. La Rectoral is its most comfortable hotel, housed in what was once the rectory. £££

Comandante Vallespín, Oviedo, Asturias (00 34 985 274 060; www.librettohotel.com ). The hotel to stay at in Oviedo was until recently the Reconquista, a grand old pile done out in suffocating 19th-century style. The M Hotel and is sister establishment, the Libretto, have brought a breath of fresh air to a city as yet unused to contemporary style. M occupies a round tower-block a little way outside the old city, with rooms cleverly incorporated and thus unusually shaped. Decor is quirkily post-modern, with a touch of brothel kitsch in the zebra-skin alcove behind the beds. £££

NH PALACIO DE FERRERA

9 Plaza de España, Avilés, Asturias (00 34 985 129 080; www.nh-hotels.com ). This restored 17th-century palace, on the main square in Avilés, makes a wonderful base for a visit to this rather under-appreciated city. ££

PALACIO DE PRELO

Prelo, Boal, Asturias (00 34 985 620 718; www.palaciodeprelo.com ). This modest 'palace' in a remote hamlet in western Asturias, lay in ruins until Antonio Gomez Mendoza, an economist and Oxford don, transformed it into a small, luxury hotel. He has seamlessly combined rustic and modern, using local chestnut wood for the ceilings and multi-coloured slate for the floors, and lovingly preserving parts of the original house, such as the extraordinary chapel. The surroundings are beautiful, the silence deep. £££

TORRE DE VILLADEMOROS

Cadavedo, Valdés, Asturias (00 34 985 645 264; www.torrevillademoros.com ). Sea breezes provide the air-conditioning at this former farmhouse with a medieval stone tower on the flat coastal shelf known as the 'Rasa Costera'. The interior design fearlessly combines the original stone with concrete columns, bright colours and plate-glass windows. Rooms are on the small side. £

VILLA LA ARGENTINA

Villar de Luarca, Asturias (00 34 985 640 102; www.villalaargentina.com ). The Indianos were immigrants from Asturias who returned from the Americas with vast fortunes and built extravagant, colonial-style casas . Several are now hotels; this one, built in 1899, makes for a charming place to stay and is competitively priced. £

VILLA ROSARIO

6 Dionisio Ruisánchez, Ribadesella, Asturias (00 34 985 860 090; www.hotelvillarosario.com ). This stunning casa de Indianos , an Art Nouveau masterpiece on the seafront at Santa Marina beach, dominates the surroundings with its delicious façade in Mediterranean blue. The first-floor suite is vast. £

Where to eat out in Asturias

CIDER HOUSES

CASA MUNIZ 16 La Lila, Oviedo, Asturias (00 34 985 203 259). Long-established sidrería just off Gascona (Oviedo's main cider drag). A little pricey but good, with plenty of atmosphere and free pinchos (snacks) handed round the tables.

EL TITI Basoreu, Nava, Asturias (00 34 985 716 711). This sidrería , run by Vicente 'Titi' Lafuente, sits in rolling countryside with views over apple and pear orchards and the mountains of Peña Mayor. Not far away is Nava, the cider capital of Asturias.

LA ZAMORANA Hermanos, 38-40 Felgueroso, Gijón, Asturias (00 34 985 380 632). Gijón's most prestigious cider house and seafood bar.

SIDRERIA EL PLANETA Tránsito de las Ballenas, Gijón, Asturias (00 34 985 346 508). There are excellent fish dishes, including an impeccable besugo a la espalda (whole fish split down the middle and baked in the oven), at this classic sidrería with panoramic views of Gijón harbour.

SIDRERIA TININ 18 M Caso de la Villa, Ribadesella, Asturias (00 34 985 861 261). Tinin is one of several sidrerías around the port of Ribadesella specialising in seafood raciones washed down with cider.

TIERRA ASTUR 1 Gascona, Oviedo, Asturias (00 34 985 20 05 02; www.tierra-astur.com ). On Gascona, this sidrería is run by the reliable Crivencar group and is pleasantly decorated in rustic style. A small shop near the entrance sells Asturian products. Crivencar also has a bigger shop up by the central market.

Sarah James

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli

RESTAURANTS

CASA GERARDO Carretera, Prendes, Asturias (00 34 985 588 7797; www.casa-gerardo.com ). Both the arroz con leche and the fabada asturiana , twin pillars of the local repertoire, reach a pitch of perfection at Casa Gerardo. These days, however, under Pedro Morán and his son Marcos, this renowned restaurant is as well known for inventive modern cooking as for traditional Asturian staples.

CASA MARCIAL 10 La Salgar, Arriondas, Asturias (00 34 985 840 991; www.casamarcial.com ). Chef Nacho Manzano holds court in what was once the family home, in a bucolic setting outside Arriondas. Manzano's reinterpreted traditional cuisine has won him two Michelin stars: maize tortillas with onion confit, egg, cream and Cabrales cheese, and his crunchy pancetta with fabada vinaigrette and raw vegetables are definitely worth trying.

EL ROMPEOLAS El Puerto, Tazones, Asturias (00 34 985 860 287). Famous for its delicious fritos de pixin (deep-fried monkfish), locally landed andaricas (crabs) and oven-baked fish.

GALLERY ART & FOOD 118 Carretera de la Costa, Gijón, Asturias (00 34 985 196 666). This new place - a combination of art space, contemporary restaurant and trendy watering-hole - has revolutionised the food scene in Gijón.

RESTAURANTE SIDRERIA JORGE Calle del Muelle, Asturias (00 34 985 648 211). Super-fresh fish and shellfish, just off the boat, are the best reasons to come here. Caldeirada , a mixed fish stew (originating in Portugal), is typical of the cuisine around Navia, as is venera , a kind of almond tart. https://www.cntraveller.com/article/travel-guide-asturias

What to see in Asturias

BUILDINGS AND MONUMENTS

ANCIENT SITE OF CASTRO DE COANA Coaña, Asturias. Driving inland from Navia on the AS-12, this neolithic site looms on a hilltop above the road, outside the town of Coaña. Castros (fortified villages) are two-a-penny in Asturias, but this one, with its honeycomb arrangement of circular stone huts, is impressive.

CHURCH OF SAN JULIAN DE LOS PRADOS, OVIEDO Oviedo, Asturias. It was once surrounded by meadows; now a motorway access road screams by. The interior of this ancient church (dating from the late eight century) is magical. San Julian is famous for its murals, which are geometrical and richly coloured.

CHURCH OF SAN SALVADOR DE VALDEDIOS Valdediós, Asturias. El Conventín ('The Little Convent'), as it's known locally, is a well-preserved late-ninth-century church in the lovely village of Valdediós, a few miles outside Villaviciosa.

PALACE OF SANTA MARIA DEL NARANCO, OVIEDO Monte Naranco, Oviedo, Asturias. This pre-Romanesque building, in a hillside pasture of Monte Naranco above Oviedo, is an exquisite little palace in pinkish stone, built for Asturian King Ramiro I in the mid-ninth century, and converted to a church in the 12th century. The entire corpus of Asturian pre-Romanesque architecture has now been declared a World Heritage site.

RURAL HOUSES AT BRANA DE LA PRONACAL, SOMIEDO Parque Natural de Somiedo, Asturias. Brañas were the communities of stone shacks which were inhabited by shepherds during their long stays in the high pastures in summer. This braña , in the heart of the Parque Natural de Somiedo, is one of the biggest and best-preserved in Asturias, and is still partly in use. It is reached on foot from the village of Villar de Vildas.

FUNDACION ARCHIVO DE INDIANOS: MUSEO DE LA EMIGRACION, COLOMBRES Quinta Guadalupe, Colombres, Asturias ( www.archivodeindianos.es ). Asturias' museum about the phenomenon of local emigration to Cuba, Argentina and Mexico is housed in the Quinta Guadalupe, built by Iñigo Noriega Laso when he returned from Mexico a rich man in 1906. A collection of documents and objects, as well as the house itself, throw light on this fascinating subject. The quinta 's gardens are among the finest in the region.

MUSEO DE LA SIDRA - THE CIDER MUSEUM Plaza Principe de Asturias, Nava, Asturias ( www.museodelasidra.com ). Drive out to the orchards and the rolling hills between Nava, the capital town of 'La Comarca de la Sidra' (Cider County), and Villaviciosa.

TOWNS AND VILLAGES

CIMADEVILLA Gijón, Asturias. Gijón's old town, once the fishing quarter, still has loads of atmosphere and some great cider houses.

CUDILLERO Cudillero, Asturias. This attractive harbour town has something of a Mediterranean look when the sun is on it, picking out the colours of the brightly painted façades. The town has its own dialect, pixueto , shown off once a year on 29 June at the fiesta of San Pedro.

LASTRES Lastres, Asturias. Just when you thought the authentic working fishing village was a thing of the past, you come across Lastres: a real gem, bursting with salty charm.

LUARCA Luarca, Asturias. For many, Luarca is the most pleasant and genuine of all Asturian coastal villages. The village still depends largely on fishing to survive, and tourism has not yet made much of an impact. Mesón de la Mar on the harbourside does good seafood tapas.

PUERTO DE VEGA Puerto de Vega, Asturias. A perfect little fishing port midway between Navia and Luarca, reminiscent of the harbour villages on Cornwall's coast, only without the trippers.

TAZONES Tazones, Asturias. Little white houses with coloured balconies crowd up the cliffside, stone pathways rising steeply among them. Just 15 minutes' drive from Gijón on the new motorway, Tazones is in danger of becoming a victim of its own picturesqueness.

Things to do in Asturias

PLAYA DEL AGUILAR

East of Cudillero, Asturias. This splendid beach is reached by a narrow road which winds down through eucalyptus woods. Summer weekends see it fill up with families from nearby Avilés.

PLAYA DEL BARAYO

Near Sabugo, Asturias. The beach forms part of a natural park in Valdés, which includes a river estuary inhabited by otters. A path from the clifftop leads through forests and fields down to a superb stretch of sand. Few visitors bother to make the half-hour trek, which is why you should.

PLAYA DEL SILENCIO

Near Cudillero, Asturias. This aptly named beach (one of Spain's most beautiful) near Cudillero is remarkable not so much for the sand-and-stone beach itself, as for its impressive surrounding landscape of rock formations, cliffs and meadows. The bay encloses a circle of calm water for snorkelling.

PLAYA DE POO

Between Ribadesella and Llanes, Asturias. Popular with families, this is one of a string of pretty beaches between Ribadesella and Llanes. It follows the narrow mouth of an estuary, the rising tide transforming the energetic breakers into a peaceful lagoon. Various restaurants serve seafood and Asturian specialities.

PLAYA DE TORIMBIA

Niembro, Asturias. A spectacular, sweeping arc of sand, reached on foot from a clifftop car park, close to Niembro, west of Llanes. A small chiringuito above the beach sells drinks and snacks. Torimbia is known as Asturias' main nudist beach.

PLAYA DE VEGA

La Vega, Asturias. Reached through a narrow gorge with lush vegetation harbouring rare species, plant and amphibian. The village of La Vega is charming, the wide beach and dunes well preserved, and a few decent restaurants complete the picture.

( www.feve.es ). This narrow-gauge train creeps along the coast from Santander to Gijón and back, stopping at every tiny station along the way. Don't be in a hurry: the service runs just once or twice a day, depending on the season.

When to go to Asturias

Summers are warm, with plenty of sunshine, though cooler, cloudier and wetter than elsewhere in Spain. Autumns and winters tend to be fairly wet and cloudy, hit by depressions from the Atlantic. The best month to go is July.

The best way to get around Asturias

BY TRAIN Asturias and Santander is on Spain's national train grid - RENFE ( www.renfe.es ) trains run from many parts of the country and stop in Oviedo and Gijón.

BY BUS When travelling from one part of Asturias to another, or from Spain's interior to the province, check the regional bus company ALSA's schedules ( www.alsa.es ).

Travel tips for Asturias

CLASSIC ASTURIANO DISHES

Fabada - the signature dish of Asturias: a powerful stew of fabas (big white beans) with smoked chorizo, ham, morcilla and bacon.

Cabrales - Asturias has no fewer than 43 cheese products, making it undoubtedly the cheese capital of Spain. Cabrales, a powerful cow's-milk blue cheese, is a worthy rival to both Stilton and Roquefort, and possibly finer than either.

Empanada - shallow covered pie with a thick crust and various fillings such as tuna, minced meat or sardines.

Fritos de pixin - deep-fried monkfish chunks.

Torto de maiz - small maize-flour tortilla, often fried until it puffs up.

Pote - take-no-prisoners stew, typical of western Asturias, containing potato, cabbage, mixed meats and sausages.

Lacón - sweet-cured ham from the shoulder.

Chorizo a la sidra - chorizo in cider.

Arroz con leche - creamy rice pudding: the Asturiano dessert.

Casadielles - puff-pastry sweetmeats with walnut stuffing.

CIDERHOUSE RULES

Cider consumption in Asturias requires the drinker to observe three certain rules: \1. Sidra natural (natural, still cider) must always be served escanciada . The verb 'escanciar' means to tip the cider from the bottle into the glass from as great a height as possible, so that it splashes on the side of the glass (always thin and flat-bottomed) and becomes cloudy and oxygenated. The waiter will do this for you, or you can try it yourself. (No one will mind, except you, if most of the cider ends up on the floor.) \2. Once poured, the glassful must be downed in one. The oxygenating effect of escanciada only lasts a few seconds, after which the cider is thought to 'die'. \3. It is considered polite to leave a little cider in the bottom of the glass, to be thrown either on the floor or into a receptacle provided. This practice dates from the days when the glass was often shared between drinkers: the remaining liquid would be rinsed around the glass and thrown away before passing it on.

A 2 WEEK ITINERARY FOR ASTURIAS: NORTHERN SPAIN’S PARADISE

A two-week itinerary for Asturias in northern Spain is not enough to see all this region has to offer, but it’s a start. 

There are lots of reasons to love this corner of Spain, one of my favorites.

Asturias’ moniker, “Spain’s natural paradise” is well deserved. The region is greener and more lush than other parts of Spain to the south, hence its nickname, “the green coast.” 

This 2-week itinerary for northern Spain, particularly Asturias, will take you to snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, sparkling sunny beaches and picturesque medieval towns.

The northern coast of Spain stretches for over 345 km along the Bay of Biscay. The area is dotted with sandy beaches, soaring cliffs and some of the most picturesque fishing villages in all of Spain or even Europe.

As a history buff, I fell in love with Asturias. The region’s history dates from the Paleolithic, around 36,000 years ago. Cave paintings dating from this period are found throughout the region.

Asturias has a collection of 1,200-year-old UNESCO World Heritage palaces in Oviedo, the region’s capital city.

Perfectly preserved medieval villages make for an ideal historical tour. 

Contemporary art is also visible in Asturias’ museums as well as world-renowned cultural organizations like the Oscar Niemeyer Center in Aviles.

Asturias is also foodie heaven. After all, this is Spain!

Here is a two-week itinerary for Asturias that can be stretched or condensed to fit time constraints or interests. A collection of unique and extraordinary experiences that only northern Spain and Asturias can deliver.

If you fly into Asturias airport, you likely will arrive in the airport near Oviedo, an ideal place to begin your journey. 

You can rent a car in the Asturias airport when you land.  The airport is about a 30-minute drive from the city of Oviedo.

Another alternative is to take a taxi or bus from the airport to Oviedo then rent a car when you are ready to continue your two-week itinerary.

Table of Contents

Oviedo: First Stop on a Two-week Itinerary for Asturias in northern Spain

Oviedo has it all. Top museums include the Museums of Fine Arts and Archeology . 

The city’s wide plazas are ideal for strolling.  Plaza Porlier is where you’ll find the Cathedral of San Salvador built in the 1300s in a jumble of architectural styles; Baroque, Gothic, Renaissance and pre-Romanesque.

The Plaza del Fontán, located in the city’s old town has been used as a marketplace for centuries.

The more modern Plaza de la Escandalera , located in the downtown area, is surrounded by elegant buildings and right next to Oviedo’s pedestrian commercial streets.

Three can’t-miss structures around Oviedo are the UNESCO World Heritage monuments from the 9th and 8th centuries CE.

These remarkably well-preserved, pre-Romanesque structures include the church of Santa María del Naranco, formerly the residence of Asturian royalty. 

Nearby are the churches of San Miguel de Lillo and San Julián de los Prados where you can still see wall frescoes that are over one thousand years old!

You definitely want to add them to your itinerary for Asturias.

Oviedo is not just about history and culture.  It also punches above its weight when it comes to cuisine.

One standout restaurant on one of the main plazas is La Corte de Pelayo , specializing in traditional Asturian cuisine (they claim to have the best fabada , Asturian bean stew, in all of Spain).

Try to get a window seat to enjoy the views of the expansive plaza and avenues outside.

A short walk from La Corte de Pelayo is pedestrian Gascona Street with traditional Asturian restaurants lining both sides of the street. 

This is also where you find the sidrerias , or cider bars, where waiters pour alcoholic cider into a glass from several feet in the air without missing a drop! 

One expects Oviedo to be the traditional Spanish town with the massive cathedral in the central plaza surrounded by medieval monasteries, convents, churches and winding cobblestone streets. 

Yes, there’s that, along with riveting museums and art galleries.

What one does not expect is the atmosphere of party central that exists in this city.

There are three main sections of the city reserved for extreme revelry, each more fun than the next.

Cider Street is where you’ll find cider served from bottles held up to four feet away from the glass, and great regional cuisine in all the restaurants.

Local musicians wander in and out of these restaurants performing and encouraging the patrons to join in the revelry.

Add to that some of the best wine in all of Spain and the result is the Spanish version of a rip-roaring good time.

Sometimes the patrons follow the musicians out to their next stop to continue the fun. It’s unique and one of the best places to experience in Asturias!

On most nights local musicians play traditional Asturian music to accompany the cider-fueled revelry. 

Even the customers will join in the singing and sometimes follow the musicians out to the restaurant next door.

A meal here is a must-have experience. It is the Spanish equivalent of a rip-roaring good time.

Tapas Street has a myriad of counter-service bars offering killer tapas.

The more upscale North Street offers gastronomic works of art at surprisingly reasonable prices. 

I’ve stayed in a couple of hotels in Oviedo but my favorite is the Campoamor , mainly because of its location. It sits right across the majestic Campoamor Theater.

It is also within walking distance of the Old Town, the commercial streets and the city’s expansive parks.

Other places to stay in Oviedo .

Tour Asturias’ Mining Culture

Asturias has traditionally been a coal-producing region delivering up to 70% of Spain’s coal needs. 

To understand Asturias, it helps to understand the mining culture and history. 

The Mining and Industry Museum , MUMI for short, about 20 miles southeast of Oviedo, is just the place to learn. 

The MUMI is not just a museum in the traditional sense.  It is a re-creation of the mining experience.

The displays and exhibits show mining life from the previous centuries to modern times.

The highlight of the museum is traveling in a mining elevator shaft to a recreated mine complete with coal carts and winding tunnels. 

Insider tip: The exhibit is so realistic that I actually believed I was descending 600 meters (almost 2,000 feet) deep into the earth and reaching an abandoned mine! Don’t make the same mistake.

The MUNI provides a unique learning experience made all the more effective because it’s a lot of fun.

The Port City of Gijon

Oviedo to gijon: 35 km north via a66.

From Oviedo, head north to the port town of Gijon with its Roman ruins, top-notch museums, oceanside promenade and an abundance of Michelin-rated restaurants . 

For a traditional sidreria, or cider bar, with traditional Asturian cooking, try El Otro Mallu . They have great 3-course daily specials for lunch. You just can’t beat their fresh seafood.

It is from Gijon that the majority of Asturian emigrants left their homeland for the new world in the Americas.

So many left that the city honors the Asturian mothers, who grieved over their departing children, with a statue on the promenade.

If you have time, don’t miss Cabo de Peñas, 30 km north of Gijon. This is the northernmost point of Asturias jutting deep into the dark, blue Bay of Biscay. 

The view of the soaring cliffs is stunning and provides outstanding photo opportunities (which I missed when I ran out of batteries on my camera). 

The view is impressive from the lighthouse but is even more spectacular if you climb beyond. This is likely to be a highlight of your 2-week Asturian tour.

Gijon is worth a deep and leisurely stay, especially in the summer months when the beaches beckon. 

There is certainly enough here to keep a family busy for a couple of days.

Insider tip: Try to have a seafood meal here, or anywhere on the coast.

Accommodations in Gijon.

Picturesque Lastres

Gijon to lastres: 62 km east via a-64.

Lastres is the first of many oceanside fishing villages and beach towns you will encounter on this 2 week itinerary for Asturias. 

It has a population of about 1000 people and a whaling heritage evident in the town’s signs and decorations.

Walk down its winding streets and alleys to the port and stroll around until you find yourself a nice seafood shack and relax. 

A nice town to have a break and experience a Spanish fishing village.

Llanes, the Town that Has It All

Lastres to llanes: 52 km east via a-8.

Llanes is one of the larger oceanside towns on this itinerary for Asturias in Spain’s north coast. 

This area is dotted by dozens of beaches many of which are said to be the best in Asturias.

Llanes has a small but interesting Old Town with a defensive medieval tower and 13th-century wall surrounding the town.

For a small town, Llanes has a remarkable collection of good local restaurants. 

One that you should not miss is La Tertulia.  No matter who I asked for a restaurant recommendation, the response was always the same, La Tertulia . And boy were they right! 

This place is a legend. In a country like Spain where eating well is culturally ingrained, La Tertulia stands out. This is one meal (octopus) I will remember years from now.

Llanes is the ideal town to park yourself for one or two nights to explore the surrounding attractions.

This will prevent you from checking into yet another location because there is that much to see nearby. 

The perfect place to stay is the centrally located, welcoming and well-appointed Hotel Miracielos . 

The breakfasts are hearty and feature Spanish specialties. There is a cozy bar that gets lively at night. The rooms are comfortable and the staff could not be more hospitable. A lovely experience.

Cueva del Soplao  (Soplao Caves) 

Llanes to cueva del soplao: 46 km east on e-70 then south on ca-181.

The Cueva del Soplao is a network of 250-million-year-old caves with spectacular interior formations.

Although it is only 46 kilometers from Llanes to the Cueva, they are 46 torturous, winding and challenging kilometers. 

Insider tip: Give yourself twice the amount of time necessary to get to the caves.   This is especially important because you need to have timed reservations in order to visit the caves. 

You can buy your tickets, €13.50 for adults, at the caves but they may be sold out so buy online beforehand to ensure you get the visiting times you want.

The visits are controlled in order to protect the environment and to avoid large crowds.

To enter the caves you take a little train similar to a mine cart. You proceed in the dark, led by an employee with a flashlight until you reach a clearing.

It is at this clearing that they turn the lights on for the first time.

The first sight of the stalagmites, stalactites and crystalized formations is astonishing as you continue to other cavernous areas through winding paths. I’ve never seen anything like it.

The guide’s explanations are interesting enough for a layperson and detailed enough for someone who wants more information on the geological formations of the cave. 

You return via the same train and are deposited at the gift shop (of course).

Journey through Medieval Santillana del Mar

Cueva del soplao to santillana del mar: 43 km via ca 850 and a-8.

Continue east to the medieval town of Santillana del Mar.

Santillana is actually a few minutes from the Asturian border in the region of Cantabria but as long as you’re close by, it is worth going out of your way for.

Described by French philosopher, Jean-Paul Sartre as “the prettiest village in all Spain,” this picturesque little town of 4,000 looks much like it did in the Middle Ages. 

The winding cobblestone streets are lined with perfectly -preserved stone houses dripping with flowerpots.

Little alleyways open to sunny plazas with fountains and lounging, lazy cats.

The town’s historical highlight is the Colegiata de Santa Juliana, an impressive church with accompanying cloisters. 

The structure was built to house the remains of the town’s patron saint, Santa Juliana who was martyred for her faith.

The original church dates from the 9th Century, but the major structure you see today dates from the 12th Century.

A good place for lunch in Santillana is El Porche Restaurant featuring local fare at decent prices. The lunch special for €14 is good value in a pleasant environment right smack in the center of town.

If you are interested in Spanish emigration to the Americas in the 19th and 20th Centuries, about 30 km west of Santillana in the town of Colombres is the “Archivos de los Indianos” or the Archives of Spanish Emigrants to the Americas. 

It is a museum explaining the history of Spanish emigrants; where they came from, where they emigrated to and what their lives were like in the new world.

It has an Ellis Island feel to it. If your ancestors came from this part of the world, as mine did, you will find this exhibit fascinating.

About 30 minutes west of Santillana de la Mar is the town of Colombres.

This town houses the most important location for the study of Asturian and Spanish emigration to the Americas, the Fundación Archivo de Indianos, Museo de la Emigracion .

It is a cultural foundation for the gathering, organizing and study of Asturian emigration in the 19th and 20th Centuries.

This town and the foundation are especially significant for descendants of the Asturian emigrants, such as myself.

Cangas de Onis, Gateway Path to Picos de Europa

Santillana del mar to cangas de onis: 112 km via a-8..

Cangas de Onis is generally accepted to be the gateway to Picos de Europa National Park.

This is another good town to park yourself for a couple of days to see everything the area has to offer; the town, the national park and the Covadonga complex of Basilica, the holy cave, the museum and lakes.

It definitely should be part of your itinerary for Asturias.

The area of Cangas de Onis is where the Battle of Covadonga was fought marking the successful beginning of the reconquest of Spain from the Moors in 722 CE.   

Today the town straddles the Sella River along with the Roman Bridge, the town’s iconic symbol dating from Roman times.

The town has a pretty main street lined with flowers, open-air cafes and stores selling local artisanal products.

Insider tip: Visit one of my favorite statues. One monument that stands out in Cangas is the statue of the Asturian Emigrant, a spunky character with a suitcase and eyes fixed on the distant future.

Where to stay in Cangas de Onis.

Picos de Europa National Park

Established in 1918, Picos de Europa is one of the oldest national parks in Europe. 

The park is about 246 sq. km of mountain range, rushing rivers, deep gorges and even deeper caves.  Eagles, vultures and wild goats are everywhere.

The occasional wolf or Cantabrian brown bear are not unknown.   This is a hiker’s paradise straddling the two Spanish regions of Asturias and Leon. 

One of the most popular hikes is the Cares River Trail which takes hikers over suspension bridges and through natural tunnels.

I had been hearing and reading about hiking the Cares River trail in Picos de Europa National Park for years.

The park is a hiking mecca filled with breathtaking trails and home to some of the best hikes in Asturias .

The Cares River trail is said to be the most challenging, running right through the heart of the national park between the provinces of Asturias and Leon in northern Spain. 

The land is crisscrossed by rivers, deep gorges and dotted with lakes, forests, and peaks, some over 7,000 feet high. 

The wild landscape is vast and just stunning.

HOW TO HIKE THE CARES RIVER TRAIL IN PICOS DE EUROPA

The recommended round-trip hike covers 24 kilometers.

You can start the trail in either of the two provinces.  We started from Poncebos in Asturias to Cain in the province of Leon. 

Armed with walking sticks, a block of local cheese and a slab of bread we started out.  Next time we’ll remember to bring hiking snacks .

Other than the first couple of kilometers, which are very steep, the trail is easy terrain albeit high.  It runs parallel to the Cares River for a good 6 to 7 hours back and forth.

The trail is alarmingly narrow in some parts high above the river which flows along the valley floor.

Now and again the path takes you through small tunnels carved out of the rock and across bridges that hang precariously over the abyss.

All the while, rocky mountainsides tower up on either side of the trail.

Throughout the trail we saw abundant wildlife; mountain goats, eagles and I still insist I saw what looked like a bobcat though no one else did. 

Vultures are disturbingly pervasive. Try negotiating a narrow mountain pass several thousand feet above a plunging gorge with 10 vultures circling over your head. Talk about nerve-racking.

Safely back in the village, we tried the regional specialties , goat cheese, fabada (sausage and bean casserole) and pote asturiano (bean stew with potatoes and meat).

These are heavy dishes designed to keep mountain folk going for hours during the winter months.  It was delicious but made me want to sleep instead. 

Of course, the wine and local cider helped.

There is so much to do in this often neglected but unique part of Spain.

There are several adventure sports outfitters in the area offering rafting, caving, climbing, biking, paragliding, horseback riding, and kayaking. 

Here is even greater detail on the best hike in Spain’s Picos de Europa National Park.

Where to stay in Poncebos, Asturias .  Where to stay in Cain, Leon.  

With all that this beautiful part of Spain has to offer, I left wondering how long it would be before other travelers discovered its many charms.

The historic Covadonga route

Cangas de onis to the basilica de covadonga: 10 km via as 262.

Depending on how much of the Covadonga structures you want to see, an outing here can last from a few hours to two or three days. There are many top sites to see.

The Basilica de Santa Maria la Real de Covadonga, a very impressive church built in the late 1800s entirely of pink limestone.

Besides being beautiful, the fact that such a magnificent structure was built on a mountaintop over 100 years ago, in the middle of nowhere, is remarkable.

La Santa Cueva (Holy Cave) de Covadonga. What is impressive here is the little church built directly into the cave overlooking a waterfall.

As you walk around you will marvel at this feat of engineering.

The Museum of Covadonga tells of the history of the area particularly the Spanish reconquest of 722CE from the Moors. It also displays religious works of art.

The Covadonga Lakes. This is some of the most beautiful scenery in Spain.

The area is dotted with lakes and surrounded by snow-capped mountains and rolling hills. It is perfect for hiking and photographing nature.

Colorful Cudillero

Covadonga to cudillero: 126 km via n-634 and a-8.

Now it’s time to leave the crisp mountain air of eastern Asturias and head back to the sunny beaches of the northern coast.

Cudillero is the quintessential Spanish fishing village.  The colorful little houses crowd around the dock area and climb ever higher onto the mountainous cliffs.

An ideal afternoon is to have a fresh seafood meal in one of the town’s many waterside restaurants then walk it off exploring the winding streets and alleys of this ancient town.

If you fall in love with this picturesque fishing village, you can stay an extra day or two to hike the trails along the cliffs or walk a portion of the Camino de Santiago pilgrim trail that also passes through Cudillero.

At this point, you may have run out of time in which case you can head back to Asturias airport near the town of Aviles half an hour away. 

Or head to Taramundi for a trip to another world.

On your way to Taramundi from Cudillero, make sure to stop in the little town of Ribadeo, which has no great claim to fame other than being the home of the seafood restaurant, Cofradia de Rinlo . 

This place is amazing! Have a meal here and you’ll see what put Ribadeo on the map.

Call ahead of time to reserve and be prepared to wait.  This unassuming little eatery is always packed.

Accommodations in Cudillero

Lush, Green Taramundi

Cudilleros to taramundi: 103 km via a-8.

When you are in Taramundi you are in deepest Asturias almost on the border with neighboring Galicia.

Here the people speak an amalgam of Galician and Asturian different from what you hear anywhere else.

The town lies in the Turia Valley which is crisscrossed by several rivers.

It is this combination of water, sunshine and a temperate climate that gives Taramundi its lush, green appearance. The vegetation is thick and abundant.

The ancient little stone houses peek through the leafy vegetation.  The rivers, creeks and rushing streams are everywhere. 

Sounds of rushing water is heard almost everywhere you go.

The accessibility to rushing water helped Taramundi become a milling town.

Today you can visit the Museo de Molinos or Mill Museum to see how mills have been operating for hundreds of years. 

Another tourist attraction is the family-operated Asturian Knife Museum and shop. 

For a €2 admission fee the attendants will show you how knives are made and their collection of all manner of cutlery.

In the backyard is what is billed as the “largest knife blade in the world,”  a massive blade that may, indeed, live up to its reputation.

With an ever-declining population and slim commercial prospects, Taramundi has capitalized on its natural beauty. 

Rural tourism is now the growing tourism segment. 

Many of the abandoned farmhouses have been turned into tourist accommodations where hikers and other nature lovers stay and wander the stunning countryside. 

If you can spare a couple of days in Taramundi, do it! It will be one of your favorite spots in this itinerary for Asturias.

Aviles: Last stop on your 2-week itinerary for Asturias

Taramundi to aviles: 128 km via a-8.

Sadly, you’ve come to the last leg of your 2-week itinerary for Asturias. But there is still plenty to see in Aviles, a pleasant city of 80,000 people.

The city was named after Pedro Menendez de Aviles, a Spanish conquistador who explored Florida and settled in St. Augustine, the first continuously inhabited European town in the U.S.  

Aviles is a port town with good restaurants, wide plazas with stone arches, tree-lined avenues and interesting regional museums. 

The town also has a nice collection of architecturally significant 12th and 13th Century churches like St. Thomas of Canterbury and St Nicholas of Bari.

In 2011 the city opened the Oscar Niemeyer Cultural Center Complex in the city’s estuary area.  

Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer has called the complex “an open square to humankind, a place for education, culture and peace.”

This is Aviles’ answer to Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum; a collection of architecturally unusual and unique buildings housing mostly contemporary art. 

It is worth a stop during your 2-week itinerary for Asturias if you have the time.

Aviles is about 20 minutes from the Asturias regional airport. 

Most connecting flights to Madrid and other key cities leave in the morning so you might want to stay the night in Aviles.  If you do, I recommend Hotel Valle de Oca .

They have parking nearby, a good restaurant and it is reasonably priced.

What are your thoughts on this itinerary for Asturias? Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world and for good reason.

Make sure to explore other exciting destinations in Spain with this handy Spanish travel guide .

If you want to know more about the region before you go, check out these excellent travel guides.

Love Spain? Check out the off-the-beaten-track region of Extremadura , cosmopolitan Barcelona , and remote Gran Canaria.  

What are your thoughts on a 2-week itinerary for Asturias?  Did I miss anything?  What do you think of this itinerary for Asturias? 

Let us know in the comments section below.

And please don’t forget to share this post.

BTW, if you are getting ready for your trip, make sure to take advantage of these useful,  money-saving links  to book your trip:

• Research and  book your flight  with  Skyscanner . I have found them to be the best because they list all airlines including the budget ones. You are always sure of having researched all options.
• For  car rental around the world, Discover Cars has flexible pickup and drop-off options, I recommend   Discover Cars .
• Book your accommodation  with  Booking.com . I find they have a wide selection and a nice, user-friendly, transparent website.
• Protect your trip  and, more importantly, protect yourself with travel insurance. I use  Travelinsurance.com  and have been very happy with them.
• Looking for a  small group tour  to unforgettable destinations with top professionals?  Intrepid Trave l is your choice.
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• Need a visa?   Get your visa  for all countries with   Passport Visa Exp ress.
• Looking for a cool walking tour to explore a city? My favorite walking tours are offered by Take Walks.
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I personally use, and can recommend, all the companies listed here and elsewhere on my blog. By booking through these sites, the small commission we earn – at no cost to you – helps us maintain this site so we can continue to offer our readers valuable travel tips and advice.

Talek Nantes

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When is the best time to visit Asturias?

One of the most frequently asked questions from people who want to go on holiday to this region is: when is the best time to visit Asturias? They might have heard stories about rain, fog, and even snow. And it’s not without reason that the whole northern coast of Spain is called Costa Verde , or Green Coast, right? Without rainfall, it would not be so lush and green here! Therefore, I thought it would be good to give some insiders tips on what’s the best period to visit Asturias.

What’s the weather like in Asturias?

People who plan to visit Asturias, or even think about moving here, frequently ask: does it indeed rain so much here? Being from the Netherlands, I might not be totally objective since I am used to rain, wind and the cold, but hereby my answers: yes, it rains more than in the south of Spain. Yes, it may rain the whole day. Yes, it may rain several days after each other. And yes, this also can happen during the summer months.

Here’s some data about rain in Asturias

Because of its location between the Atlantic Ocean and a mountain range ( cordillera Cantabrica ), winters in Asturias are mild and rainy, while summers are relatively cool. On average, Asturias receives 1000 mm of precipitation per year, with a peak in the period between November and April.

Tip: do you want to have a very detailed and accurate weather forecast for Asturias? And do you understand Spanish (or can use Google Translate)? Then the website El Tiempo de JAVIMO is a great source!

However, there’s lots of sun too! Temperatures in summer average around 23 °C. This of course means that there are several warm days of about 28 °C where you can enjoy Asturias’ many beaches. The ocean’s water temperature is around 20 °C, perfect for a refreshing dive! Moreover, the waves along this part of the Cantabrian coast, combined with the wind, makes a great spot for surfing.

Even in winter, when the sun starts to shine, it warms up immediately, allowing you to take out your jacket. Temperatures in winter are around 14 °C in the coastal zones, while in the mountains and inland, temperatures frequently drop below 0 °C. Still, unfortunately for this Dutch lady, there’s not many places for ice-skating, but there’s many other winter sports you can do in Asturias (see next section)!

What kind of activity can you do in Asturias during the year?

In winter, there are three ski stations at the border with the province of Castilla y Leon that you can visit. A popular activity in winter as well is snowshoe-walking ( raquetas de nieve ). You can go out on your own, but there are also many active tourism companies organizing guided snowshoe walks. When the weather is not too good, you can still visit many nice museums, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes in Oviedo, or the Jurassic Museum of Asturias.

Hiking can be done all year round, but the best times to do this is from mid-April till June and September- October. Spring flowers in the mountains and flowering heather and an explosion of autumn colors make for a fantastic experience in nature, whereas hiking temperatures are very pleasant. Of course, you can also hike in July and August, but best is then to start earlier, to avoid the heat around noon. This is especially advised when walking long distances, for example the Camino de Santiago.

Sunbathing can of course best be done in July and August, but I am still surprised how nice it is to visit the beach in Asturias in September and October. Especially at midday or in the afternoon, temperatures are very pleasant. Moreover, the autumn sunlight in the late afternoon creates a very nice atmosphere.

My main advice, also for the summer months: wear layers!

Depending on the exact season, it’s always good to bring t-shirts, a vest, light pants and a (rain)jacket. Check the weather forecast in the morning and bring sunscreen, a cap, or warm pants and a winter jacked, if deemed necessary. Don’t forget that in the coastal areas, such as Gijon, the weather is often much milder than in the more mountainous areas only an hour’s drive away. Based on personal experience and stupid mistakes, we now always bring warm jackets and pants with us in the back of the car when going to the mountains, just to be sure…

Another factor to take into account when deciding when to visit Asturias…

The weather is indeed an important factor to take into account when planning your visit to Asturias. Another factor that you can consider is the amount of people visiting. While Asturias is still relatively unknown among visitors from abroad, international tourism has increased in 2022 as compared to pre-Covid times. It is expected that the number of international visitors will only increase in the coming years. Moreover, people from southern Spanish regions visit the north in summer to escape the heat. Therefore, if you want to escape the crowds, a few recommendations:

• If you want, or only can, travel in July and August, try to visit a few places that are less known. The coast in Asturias is never far away, and there are many great Casas Rurales a bit more inland. Also, you can visit less famous Natural Parks such as Ponga or Redes . I bet you will find it as beautiful, or even better, than the Lagos de Covadonga!
• Try to travel outside of the high season. May, June, September and October are very nice months to visit Asturias. You have more space at the main tourist attractions such as the Ruta del Cares. Sometimes, you even have a whole beach for yourself! Also, prices are (much) lower. Besides, if you stay in a locally owned accommodation, you help the local community gaining additional income in a period of the year where they usually earn less. Those are good reasons beyond looking to the weather, right?

So, when do I think is the best time to visit Asturias?

Taking into account the weather, the type of activities, and the number of visitors, I would say mid-April-June and September- October are the best periods to visit Asturias. July and August are also very nice, but take into account that accommodation prices are much higher and some places crowded. Thus, make sure you book your summer trip well in advance, or include some lesser-known places in your itinerary!

Do you want additional information about when it’s the best time for YOU to visit Asturias? Or need help in planning your trip and itinerary? We help you plan an unforgettable stay with our customized trips and handcrafted itineraries !

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Asturias: Spain’s best-kept secret

Home » Blog » Adventures » Asturias: Spain’s best-kept secret

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I’ve been home for a month, and I’ve been dragging my feet about writing my first post introducing Asturias, Spain . Not because I didn’t want to or anything like that, but mostly because I didn’t want to share it!

I am so selfish!

There’s a first time for everything, and this might be one of my first big travel moments of not wanting to divulge the secret of a destination simply because I don’t want the word to get out because it is THAT amazing.

I really don’t understand it, but this little region of Asturias has to be Spain’s best-kept secret (map here ). How it is not the most visited region is beyond me. I found myself constantly surprised, I took about a million photos and I had the biggest grin on my face the entire time. And man, when it was time to leave? I basically cried on the train all the way to Barcelona.

For me, all of Asturias is a fairytale, a place unchanged by time and unaffected by the outside world.

I’ve held Asturias on a pedestal in my mind for years and years, a place I knew I’d love but never had the time, money or means to get up there. I’ve always had this viral photo in the back of my mind for Asturias, and I’ve loved northern Spain ever since I spent a year in La Rioja . As a cheap backpackers and broke English teacher in Spain, it was not the easiest place to travel around, mostly because you need a car to see it properly.

Though there is plenty of public transport and I did travel there and back by train with my Eurail pass to Oviedo, I knew I wanted to do a road trip. The last hour of the train ride through the mountains I basically had my faced smooshed against the window ooh-ing and ahh-ing over the amazing landscapes thinking GET ME OFF THIS TRAIN! I wanted to see it all!

Finally getting to visit this region of Spain I had been thinking about for years was a dream come true! While I might have been nervous at first that it wouldn’t live up to my imagination, it actually blew me away to the point where I wanted to move there.

Here are 10 reasons why I fell in love with Asturias, Spain.

1. Climbing among the Picos

One of the main reasons I really wanted to visit Asturias was for the mountains. A lush green region filled with snowcapped peaks, it is definitely not the stereotypical image you might have for Spain. It looks more like Ireland or Switzerland than dry southern Europe. And Asturias’ horizon is defined by the beautiful Picos de Europa (the Peaks of Europe) mountains, with the  Naranjo de Bulnes  mountain dominating the skyline.

Especially since I moved to New Zealand, I have become obsessed with mountains. I love looking at them, climbing them and just being in alpine environments. And the mountains of Spain had been calling to me for years and years.

While I write more in depth about the walks and beautiful spots I explored in the Picos on this trip, there are three spots I MUST mention now because they completely and utterly wowed me.  And I just have to share. Even though I don’t want to.

The first is this village above, called Sotres .

It’s the highest village in the Picos de Europa mountains and it’s the most picturesque, historical mountain town you could ever possibly imagine. Picture crumbling old farmhouses covered in wildflowers beneath snowcapped mountains, lambs frolicking about and beautiful stone houses tumbling down the hills with terracotta roofs with cowbells twinkling in the distance.

Basically the entire time I was there, I kept thinking, this place CANNOT be real. It’s too perfect.

The second place was hiking to the  Refugio de Urriellu , a mountain hut at the base of that iconic mountain peak in the national park. I adore hiking and have barely explored hikes in Spain, so it was a dream come true getting the opportunity to walk among these beautiful mountains and through historic farmland.

And finally, another beautiful hike was walking to the historic village of Bulnes, another beautiful mountain village in the mountains. And until 2001, the only way to get there was to hike. Yes, hike. Since then a tunnel train funicular has been built in the mountain for the few locals that are left, but if you have time and it’s a beautiful day, you should take the old route along with the mountain goats.

It is really an amazing experience and means you definitely earn a beer in the village at the top.

2. Trying out the local cider culture

Mar, montaña y manzana –  or the three “m”s that I kept hearing over and over again while in Asturias: “sea, mountains, and apples.” If there are three words to describe Asturias, it would be these. The beautiful mountains of the Picos. The incredible coastline and seaside villages that define it’s northern borders, and then the amazing cider culture.

While living in other parts of Spain, I quickly became familiar with Asturian hard cider, mostly from the dramatic way it’s poured. There is an amazing culture around la sidra asturiana that I’ll delve into in another post, but it was worth mentioning here because it’s one of the things I love about the region.

All over Asturias you’ll find sidrerias , cider bars, where you go with friends after work for a snack and to share a green bottle of cider, which is poured in a specific way to aerate the cider. Unless you’re me, then you just spill it everywhere.

3. Falling in love with the colorful fishing towns

Because the entire northern side of Asturias is wild coastline, there are dozens and dozens of the most picturesque seaside fishing villages I have ever seen. There are so many it’s hard to keep them straight!

Colorful houses and bright shutters decorate these little towns and the water around them is usually tropical turquoise, not something I was expecting at all!

Brightly colored boats bob around in the calm harbors waiting for their turn at sea, and life moves around completely unchanged in these towns. It really is extraordinary!

Ribadesella

4. Reliving the history there

In the Middle Ages, Asturias was its own separate kingdom in Spain. Because it was tucked away so far north, it never really came under Muslim rule and eventually became the heart of the Reconquest of Spain by Christians. I majored in Spanish and focused on Spanish history in college so it’s a place I’ve been reading about for years and years.

In 722, the Christians had their first victory over the Muslims in a place called Covadonga, which is now a holy site in Asturias in the mountains. There are two stunning mountain lakes you can visit and walk around.

Trust me, this place looks like Switzerland more than Spain.

5. Meeting the friendliest people

While I’ve found Spaniards to be a generally friendly bunch, at least once they get to know you, that being said, I found the asturianos to be exceptional. I wanted to hug and be friends with everyone here! Which I did, and trust me, nothing baffles Spaniards more than when you go in for a big old American style hug instead of the polite cheek kisses.

I think a lot of it has to do with the fact that Asturias, like New Zealand, has a small-town feel to it. Even the cities like Oviedo feel small; it’s like you know everyone. While places like this are my absolute favorite types of travel spots, sometimes I get nervous because I hate being the outsider, something amplified in Spain due to my American-ness. But luckily I didn’t have any problems at all and everyone I met, seriously everyone, was just extraordinary. So friendly and open, helpful and patient.

To me, nothing speaks more volumes about a place than the kindness and attitude of its locals. In that respect, Asturias is a winner!

6. It’s the stuff of legends

Is it just me, or do you guys think all of these photos could be used to illustrate a children’s fairytale book?

I mean seriously Asturias, stop it. I don’t have enough memory cards to handle all the beauty you threw at me in a week. Misty mountain sunrises, crumbling abandoned ruins covered in vines and flowers, moss covered bridges (that trolls definitely live under) and fairytale mansions left, right and center. Not to mention every great place and every beautiful spot had an amazing story to go along with them.

Oh, and did I mention it’s home to some of the most amazing animals? Bears and wolves still roam the mountain forests in Asturias and it’s even home to an endangered historic mountain pony called an  asturcón . Seriously?

7. Tasting the most amazing seafood

I am going to have to keep this part short and sweet because it not, I am going to cry because I miss Asturian food so much!

I absolutely love seafood, something Asturias has plenty of, my god. I made sure almost every meal had some type of seafood in it and it all blew me away.

Take me back!

8. Discovering Casas Indianas

Around 100 – 150 years ago there was a big wave of immigration between Asturias and Central and South America (The East Indies), to places like Cuba, Mexico and Argentina. Those Asturians who became wealthy over there, maintained ties with their homeland and built enormous colonial style houses in Asturias called Casas Indianas .

It’s frankly a bit jarring to be driving through the lush green Asturian countryside with its medieval villages and stone houses and then to come face to face with a four story pastel colored mansion that looks like something you’d see in downtown Havana.

I absolutely love them and kept looking for them all over Asturias, especially because so many of them are totally abandoned. It’s like a time warp. Seriously, I couldn’t believe these amazing historic homes have been left to the weeds.

9. Exploring old Oviedo

I am not going to lie, Oviedo has been on my radar since I first watched Vicky, Christina, Barcelona and Javier Bardem whisked away the leading females for a spontaneous weekend in Oviedo. Um, yes please!

Thank you Woody Allen!

A beautiful small city in the mountains of Asturias, Oviedo had a little village feel to it, and it was a place where you felt like you could really get to know it. It was a quirky, livable city.

10. Walking along the wild beaches

I was expecting harsh, wild rocky coastlines in Asturias, something I imagined for the north coast of Spain, an area unprotected from the heavy strong Atlantic. But what I wasn’t expecting was to find plenty of soft fine white sand beaches and clear blue water AND crazy wild coastline.

It felt almost tropical!

11. It’s as if time stands still

Apart from its fairytale landscapes, beautiful green rolling hills and sharp tooth mountains fading in and out of the clouds in the distance, Asturias feels almost like time stands still, that things tick away in the same way as they always have, for thousands of years.

Pastors walk by with their sheep. The famous cabrales blue cheese is aged in ancient caves in the same way it always has. There is this feeling of simple, clean living in Asturias that is so far removed from the hustle and bustle of bigger cities.

It’s really hard to put into words, but I feel like I’ve never been in such a mellow place.

12. And of course, it’s Spain’s best-kept secret – no one there!

And of course my favorite thing about Asturias is that it really feels like one of Spain’s best-kept secrets. There are hardly any tourists, and definitely not very many foreigners. I didn’t speak English the entire time I was there.

It felt like I had the place to myself to explore! Undiscovered, hidden gem, off the beaten path. You name the travel cliche and Asturias hit the mark.

I’m already planning a trip back!

Have you heard of Asturias, Spain? Ever been? Have I convinced you to visit? Have you ever felt this way about a place you’ve discovered while traveling?

Many thanks to Eurail for getting me to and from Asturias and for Tourism Asturias for hosting me while I was there – like always, I’m keeping it real, all opinions are my own, like you could expect less from me.

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258 Comments on “ Asturias: Spain’s best-kept secret ”

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Your photos are incredible!

I’ve never heard of this place before but it sounds amazing! It really is a hidden gem

Then you do not know Castilian and Aragonese history.

I was in asturias a month ago and LOVED the picos mountains they were so pretty! THe whole of northern spain (along the camino de santiago route) is incredible actually, and I love that, for now at least, it’s less well known than the south!

I love northern Spain too!

liz I will go to there next semester with erasmus+ exchange program what do you prefer to me abou there

You’ve more than convinced me to visit. The beaches there really do look tropical! Reading this post made me feel actually a little devastated to not have immediate plans to visit Spain in the works.

time to start planning then!

I spent a weekend in Asturias in October 2012 ( here ‘s my recap if you’re curious), and I absolutely fell in love with it as well. I would kill to go back and spend more time there.

Love it, I would die to go back too!

Dear Liz, Thank you so much for sharing this beautiful article and for your kind words. While reading it, I was almost in tears – like everytime I listen to the bagpipes playing the Asturias hymn (you know what I mean). By the way, I am coming over to Gijón tomorrow. Guess where I come from ?. Keep on enjoying your trips and Puxa Asturies. Take care. All the best. Eva.

Hello Liz! That was a beautiful write up of what looks like a stunning place. I was going to visit this July with my partner, one problem is that neither of us speak any Spanish. I’ve travelled many countries where English is not spoken often and some are more difficult than others. So I suppose my question to you is that would we get along ok without very very minimal Spanish?

Wonderful Article. Our family on my Husbands side lives in Asturias and we have visited and I would love to return. We must have at least 60 plus cousins there. My husbands father was born in the home, in what is now the barn, in Gallejon, I think that is the City. Our relatives still live in the house. I hope to return again someday soon. Rosie – La Mesa, CA (San Diego)

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11 Top Places to Visit on Your Next Trip to Spain

Posted: January 25, 2024 | Last updated: January 25, 2024

One of the best places to visit in Spain is Mallorca, where you can hop on the Tren de Sóller.

Photo by Francesco Lastrucci

It’s true: Spain is a country every type of traveler can enjoy. This may surprise those who mostly associate the country with its golden beaches and flamenco (as I did before my nine-month stint in La Rioja), but the Iberian Peninsula kingdom comprises 17 autonomous communities—like Madrid and Andalucia—and they encompass a wide spectrum of cultures. Throughout Spain you can come across people like the Basques and the Catalonians, who speak their own language, and landscapes that span centuries-old palaces, mountain peaks, and even valleys full of cherry blossoms in the spring.

So yes, absolutely dig into that platter of paella in Valencia to experience Spanish culture. But think about visiting these 10 other places, too. Because while many of the best places to visit in Spain are well-loved, some offer a side to the country that may surprise you.

1. Mallorca

Balearic Islands

Off Spain’s eastern coast is the island of Mallorca, a prime example of Spain’s mixed history. Here, travelers can find traces of its former Roman, Moorish, and Christian occupants, like the 800-year-old La Seu , a Gothic sandstone cathedral, or the Arab baths in Palma de Mallorca’s historic center . But to limit your stay to the island’s capital is to miss some of Mallorca’s most beautiful landscapes. Beyond its clear-water beaches, the 1,405-square-mile island has dozens of designated cycling routes and underground cave systems that have hosted pirates and Moorish soldiers. Take in the beauty of the island on a hike up the UNESCO-recognized Puig Major , Mallorca’s tallest mountain at 4,711 feet.

The stairs out of Madrid ’s Sol metro station put travelers in the midst of the bustle of Spain’s capital. Appropriately located in the heart of the country, Madrid is home to some of the best museums, restaurants, and nightlife. The 16th-century Plaza Mayor —which has been the setting of everything from fiestas to executions—is evidence that it still keeps its ties to tradition and history. Grab a bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich) in one of the plaza’s nearby storefronts or slip out of the city’s nonstop energy in the 350-acre Retiro Park, which is within walking distance from the Museo Nacional del Prado and Puerta de Alcalá. Just don’t siesta too much and miss out on any tapas bar crawls you have planned for the evening.

3. Barcelona

This coastal city takes an unabashed approach when it comes to differentiating itself from the rest of Spain, from the Catalan language to the warped, bright-colored facades of Antoni Gaudí’s buildings. Whatever gives Barcelona that je ne sais quois, it’s certainly resonating. Barcelona is a magnet for people from all over the world (more than 30 percent of Barcelona’s inhabitants were born outside of Spain), drawing travelers to stay for its beaches , year-round calendar of festivals, and markets. For the first-time visitor, a walk down the three-quarter-mile Las Ramblas is a must: The tree-lined pathway leads pedestrians through kiosks, neighborhoods, and historic buildings before stopping at the Mediterranean.

Warm people, sunny days spent sipping sangria, and trees full of oranges—that relaxed, siesta-loving attitude of Spain is available in Seville. The capital of Spain’s Andalusia autonomous community still bears plenty of marks from its past under the Moors. One of the most beautiful places to explore its history is the Royal Alcázar of Seville, an 11th-century palace sporting walled gardens and geometric, patterned arches that have been featured in Game of Thrones and Lawrence of Arabia . Stop and smell the jasmine at Plaza de España, and walk along the curving wall featuring 52 colorful mosaics that depict all of Spain’s provinces.

5. Picos de Europa National Park

Asturias, Cantabria, Castile and León

While lounge-worthy stretches of beach characterize Spain’s south, Picos de Europa National Park is a prime example of the green, dramatic landscapes that dominate the north. The 250-square-mile national park was the first established by the Spanish government in 1918 and includes alpine peaks, meadows, and lakes that feel similar to landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Explore the jagged edges of the Cantabrian Mountains along the 7.5-mile long Ruta del Cares , or look for local wildlife like the roe deer and Egyptian vultures.

6. Valle del Jerte

Extremadura

Looking for a cherry blossom alternative to the crowds of enthusiasts in Japan and Washington, D.C.? Head to Extremadura, the Spanish region that borders Portugal between March and April (timing the cherry blossoming is a bit of a guessing game), when Valle del Jerte bursts in a sea of white as 2 million cherry trees bloom. Flower enthusiasts can tour the 144-square-mile area by taking a road trip down Spain’s N-110 road, which winds through the Cáceres province and crosses through the region’s 11 small villages known as pueblos . Come at the right time and you may be able to catch the flower festival as the villages celebrate the season with markets and exhibitions.

7. San Sebastian

Basque Country

The origins of the Basque people are up for debate, but the ethnic group—spread throughout southern France and Spain’s eponymous autonomous community—has developed a culture unlike the rest of the country. San Sebastián is one of the cities found in Basque Country, where Euskara is spoken on the streets—forgo the hola and greet people with kaixo —and the steep cliff sides resemble those in Ireland or Scotland. Indulge in small plates known as pintxos of prepared cod and local bounty, but make some reservations too, because the food scene here is top notch: 10 Michelin-starred restaurants are spread throughout this city of 190,000.

8. Cudillero

Many of Spain’s big cities attract tourists from around the world, so much so that its beautiful small villages can be overlooked. Cudillero is one of the nearly 20,000 pueblos found throughout Spain, and a lovely one at that: Located by the Bay of Biscay, this fishing village of around 5,000 people is a masterclass of slow living by the sea. Colorful, orange-roofed houses dot the hillsides, which also serve as vantage points for panoramas of both town and ocean.

9. Rioja wine region

La Rioja, Basque Country, and Navarre

Spread across three different autonomous communities, the Rioja wine region is known for its tempranillo grapes, which produce the tannic, full-bodied red varietals of the same name. The region’s ideal grape-growing conditions are thanks to the Ebro River, which snakes throughout the area’s rolling hills. Admire the scenery with a glass in hand and learn about winemaking at a winery, known locally as a bodega. Some of the most attractive, like Lopez de Heredia, are in pueblos like Laguardia and Haro; the latter hosts an annual wine festival in the summer.

10. Santiago de Compostela

During the Middle Ages, people walked from the south of France to the northeastern tip of Spain as a way to show faith, establishing a 500-mile route known as the Camino de Santiago. Santiago de Compostela, the capital of Galicia, is the endpoint of this pilgrimage and punctuates the end of the trip with its Romanesque-style cathedral. Even if you’re not a pilgrim, this city is a worthwhile place for exploring religious history and some of the dishes Galicia has to offer, from regional cheeses to seaside delicacies like percebes (aka barnacles).

11. Valencia

Despite being more than 2,000 years old, Valencia is still innovating toward a sustainable future as the European Green Capital 2024 (in addition to being one of the places featured in AFAR’s Where to Go in 2024 list). If you stop by the city, skip the usual systems of transport and pick up your bike and walking shoes. There are more than 125 miles of bike lanes throughout the city, and dedicated green spaces like Turia Garden make it easy to walk off that paella. For a piece of tradition, stop by during March, when larger-than-life floats descend on the city for the Las Fallas celebration.

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