Places to Visit in Asturias: Explore the Coast and Mountains of Northern Spain

The autonomous region of Asturias lies on Spain’s north coast, bordered by Galicia and Cantabria, with the Bay of Biscay to the north and the Cantabrian Mountains to the south. The region’s 300km coastline features over 100 pristine beaches and protected harbours, many framed by dramatic cliffs. Inland, the limestone Picos de Europa mountains dominate the scenery, reaching heights of 2,648 metres at Torrecerredo and offering spectacular vistas, deep ravines and picturesque river valleys. This geographical diversity means which there are some fabulous places to visit in Asturias for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Beyond its natural wonders, Asturias holds a special place in Spanish history as the birthplace of the Reconquista, the centuries-long campaign to reclaim the Iberian Peninsula from Moorish rule. This historical significance is reflected in the region’s wealth of pre-Romanesque architecture, a unique style which flourished between the 8th and 10th centuries.

Asturias is also renowned for its distinctive cuisine, featuring hearty stews, fresh seafood and the famous Cabrales blue cheese. The region’s culinary landscape is further enriched by its status as the heartland of Spanish cider production, where the traditional pouring of sidra from a great height is a spectacle in itself.

Despite its many attractions, Asturias remains relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, offering visitors an authentic, less commercialized Spanish experience which encompasses charming coastal villages, majestic mountains, ancient churches and vibrant urban centres.

Best Places to Visit in Asturias

Oviedo

Oviedo, the capital of Asturias, is a city which seamlessly blends its medieval past with modern sophistication. Known for its cleanliness and pedestrian-friendly historic centre, Oviedo offers visitors a delightful mix of architectural treasures, cultural institutions and gastronomic delights.

The heart of Oviedo’s old town is dominated by the Gothic Cathedral of San Salvador, a 14th-century masterpiece which houses the Holy Chamber, a pre-Romanesque chapel containing priceless relics. The cathedral’s distinctive spire serves as a beacon visible from much of the city.

Oviedo’s pre-Romanesque heritage, recognised by UNESCO, is evident in churches like Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo. These 9th-century structures, perched on Monte Naranco overlooking the city, represent some of the finest examples of pre-Romanesque architecture in Europe.

The city’s more recent history is celebrated in the Campo de San Francisco, a park in the city centre where visitors can stroll among centuries-old trees, feed the peacocks, or simply relax on a bench with locals.

Oviedo’s cultural offerings are equally impressive. The Fine Arts Museum of Asturias houses an extensive collection spanning from the 14th to the 20th centuries, including works by El Greco, Goya and Picasso. For a more contemporary experience, the Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre in nearby Avilés, offers a striking venue for exhibitions and performances.

The city’s gastronomic scene is a point of pride for Oviedo. The Fontán Market, a beautifully restored iron-and-glass structure from the 19th century, showcases the best of Asturian produce. Meanwhile, Calle Gascona, known locally as “Cider Boulevard”, is lined with traditional sidrerías where visitors can sample Asturias’ beloved apple cider.

Oviedo’s literary connections are celebrated through various statues scattered throughout the city, including one of Woody Allen, who famously declared Oviedo “a delicious, exotic, beautiful, clean, pleasant, tranquil and pedestrianised city” after filming parts of his movie “Vicky Cristina Barcelona” here.

Gijón

Offering a mix of urban beaches, maritime heritage and modern attractions, Gijón is the largest city in Asturias. Situated on the coast of the Cantabrian Sea, Gijón has transformed from an industrial port into a vibrant cultural centre and popular beach resort.

The city’s main beach, Playa de San Lorenzo, is a stunning urban strip of golden sand which stretches for nearly three kilometres along Gijón’s coastline. Its promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants, is perfect for leisurely strolls or cycling, offering beautiful views of the Cantabrian Sea.

Gijón’s old fishing quarter, Cimadevilla, sits on a peninsula jutting out into the sea. This charming neighbourhood, with its narrow streets and colourful houses, is home to the Revillagigedo Palace and the Clock Tower, both important landmarks. At the tip of the peninsula stands the Elogio del Horizonte (Eulogy to the Horizon), a monumental concrete sculpture by Eduardo Chillida which has become an emblem of the city.

The city’s rich maritime history is showcased in the Atlantic Botanical Garden, one of the northernmost in Europe and the Aquarium, which offers an immersive journey through the various ecosystems of the Cantabrian Sea. For a deeper dive into local history, the Museum of the Asturian People (Museo del Pueblo de Asturias) provides fascinating insights into traditional Asturian life and culture.

Gijón is also known for its Roman past, evident in the well-preserved Roman baths at Campo Valdés. These thermal baths, dating back to the 1st century AD, offer a glimpse into the city’s ancient origins.

The city’s gastronomic scene is a delightful mix of traditional Asturian cuisine and innovative modern restaurants. The Mercado del Sur, a beautifully restored modernist building, is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of local produce and gourmet products.

Gijón’s cultural calendar is packed with events throughout the year, including the Semana Negra (Black Week), an annual festival celebrating crime fiction and the Gijón International Film Festival, one of the most important film events in Spain.

Picos de Europa National Park

The Picos de Europa National Park, straddling Asturias, Cantabria and Castilla y León, is a dramatic landscape of soaring limestone peaks, deep gorges and green valleys. As Spain’s first national park, established in 1918, it offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country and is a haven for hikers, climbers and nature enthusiasts.

The park is divided into three main massifs: Western (Cornión), Central (Urrieles) and Eastern (Ándara). Each offers a distinct landscape and range of experiences. The iconic Naranjo de Bulnes (Picu Urriellu in Asturian), a limestone monolith in the Central Massif, is a symbol of the park and a challenge for experienced climbers.

For less experienced visitors, the park offers numerous well-marked hiking trails of varying difficulties. The Ruta del Cares, often called “The Divine Gorge”, is one of the most popular. This 12km trail, carved into the sides of a deep limestone gorge, offers breathtaking views and is accessible to most reasonably fit walkers.

The park’s diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of flora and fauna. It’s one of the last refuges of the Cantabrian brown bear and home to wolves, wildcats and numerous bird species, including the rare Cantabrian capercaillie and the bearded vulture, recently reintroduced to the area.

The Lakes of Covadonga, Enol and Ercina, located in the Western Massif, are another highlight of the park. These glacial lakes, surrounded by green meadows where cattle and sheep graze freely, offer a serene contrast to the park’s rugged peaks. The nearby Sanctuary of Covadonga, with its holy cave and basilica, adds a cultural and historical dimension to the natural splendour.

Several charming mountain villages within and around the park, such as Cangas de Onís and Potes, serve as excellent bases for exploring the area. These towns offer a taste of traditional Asturian mountain life, complete with rustic architecture, local crafts and hearty cuisine.

The park’s visitor centres, particularly those at Sotama and Cangas de Onís, provide valuable information about the park’s geology, ecology and cultural heritage, as well as up-to-date information on trail conditions and wildlife sightings.

Llanes

Llanes, a picturesque coastal town in eastern Asturias, offers a perfect blend of beautiful beaches, rich history and stunning natural landscapes. With its well-preserved medieval old town and over 30 beaches within the municipality, Llanes is a jewel of the Costa Verde (Green Coast).

The town’s historic centre is a maze of narrow streets and squares, dominated by the 15th-century Torre del Castillo, the only remaining part of the town’s medieval fortifications. The Plaza Mayor, with its distinctive arcaded buildings, is the heart of the old town and a hub of local life.

Llanes’ maritime heritage is evident in its picturesque port, where colourful fishing boats bob in the water. The port is protected by the 16th-century Capilla de la Magdalena and features the striking ‘Cubes of Memory’, a modern art installation by Agustín Ibarrola which has become an emblem of the town.

The coastline around Llanes is nothing short of spectacular. Beaches like Playa de Toró, with its distinctive rock formations and the sheltered cove of Playa de Gulpiyuri, an unusual inland beach formed by underground seawater channels, showcase the area’s geological diversity. The coastal path, or Senda Costera, offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the Picos de Europa in the distance.

The town comes alive during its many festivals, the most famous being the Fiestas de San Roque in August, featuring parades, music and the exciting ‘Descenso Internacional del Sella’, a canoe race down the Sella River which has become a major sporting event in the region.

Ribadesella

Situated where the River Sella meets the Cantabrian Sea, Ribadesella is a picturesque coastal town with a stunning coastline. It lies close to the Tito Bustillo Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site which houses some of Europe’s most significant Palaeolithic art. Discovered in 1968, the cave contains vivid paintings and engravings dating back to around 22,000 BC. While the original cave is closed to the public to preserve the delicate artwork, the town offers an impressive replica and interpretation centre.

The town itself is divided by the Sella estuary into two distinct areas. The old quarter, with its narrow streets and traditional Asturian architecture, lies on the western bank. Here, visitors can admire the Palacio de Prieto Cutre, a fine example of 17th-century noble architecture and the Chapel of Santa Ana, perched on a promontory offering spectacular views of the town and coastline.

On the eastern side of the estuary, the more modern part of town is home to the beautiful Santa Marina Beach. This urban beach, with its golden sands and calm waters, is a favourite spot for both locals and tourists. The beach is flanked by the Paseo Princesa Letizia, a delightful promenade lined with Indianos mansions which were built by Asturians who made their fortunes in the Americas.

Ribadesella’s strategic location along the Coastal Camino de Santiago (the Northern Way) adds a layer of spiritual significance to the town. Pilgrims have been passing through Ribadesella on their way to Santiago de Compostela for centuries and today’s visitors can follow in their footsteps along scenic coastal paths.

The town truly comes alive during the first weekend of August with the celebration of the Descenso Internacional del Sella (International Descent of the Sella). This famous canoe race, which begins in nearby Arriondas and ends in Ribadesella, transforms the town into a vibrant festival of sport and Asturian culture. The event attracts thousands of participants and spectators, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s passionate sporting traditions.

Gastronomically, Ribadesella shines with its fresh seafood and traditional Asturian dishes. The town’s restaurants serve up delectable local specialities such as arroz con bugre (rice with spider crab) and oricios (sea urchins). Of course, no meal in Ribadesella would be complete without sampling the local sidra (cider), poured in the traditional Asturian style from a height to aerate the drink.

For nature enthusiasts, the surrounding area offers numerous hiking and cycling trails. The nearby Sierra del Sueve mountain range provides breathtaking views of the coastline and opportunities to spot wild horses roaming freely.

Covadonga

Located in the foothills of the Picos de Europa, Covadonga holds a special place in Spanish history and mythology. It was here, in 722 AD, that the Visigoth nobleman Pelagius (Pelayo in Spanish) defeated the Moors, marking the beginning of the Reconquista, the centuries-long campaign to reclaim the Iberian Peninsula from Islamic rule.

The focal point of Covadonga is the Sanctuary, a complex which includes the Holy Cave, the Basilica and the Collegiate Church of San Fernando. The Holy Cave, perched dramatically on the side of Mount Auseva, houses a chapel dedicated to the Virgin of Covadonga. According to legend, the Virgin appeared to Pelagius before his victory and her statue in the cave remains an important pilgrimage site.

Above the cave stands the striking neo-Romanesque Basilica of Covadonga, its pink limestone façade a stark contrast to the green mountains surrounding it. Built in the late 19th century, the Basilica offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The Collegiate Church of San Fernando, located between the cave and the Basilica, houses the tombs of Pelagius and Alfonso I, the first two kings of Asturias. The church’s museum contains a collection of religious art and historical artifacts related to Covadonga’s significance in Spanish history.

Beyond its religious and historical importance, Covadonga serves as a gateway to the Picos de Europa National Park. The nearby Lagos de Covadonga (Lakes of Covadonga), Enol and Ercina, are popular destinations for their scenic beauty and hiking opportunities. These glacial lakes, surrounded by lush meadows where cattle graze freely, offer a serene counterpoint to the dramatic mountain scenery.

Covadonga is also famous in the world of cycling. The gruelling climb to the Lagos de Covadonga has been a legendary stage in the Vuelta a España (Tour of Spain) cycling race since 1983, challenging even the most accomplished climbers.

Cudillero

Cudillero, a small fishing village on the Asturian coast, is often described as one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Its distinctive layout, with houses seemingly stacked upon each other on a hillside around a small harbour, creates a picturesque scene which has made Cudillero a favourite among photographers and artists.

The village’s history is deeply intertwined with the sea and despite the growth of tourism, fishing remains an important part of local life. The small harbour, protected by two breakwaters, is still home to a fleet of fishing boats which supply the village’s restaurants with fresh seafood daily.

Cudillero’s charm lies in its narrow, steep streets which wind up the hillside from the harbour. These streets, some so narrow they become staircases, are lined with brightly painted houses, each with a unique colour scheme. Legend has it which this tradition of colourful houses helped fishermen identify their homes from the sea.

At the top of the village sits the Humilladero chapel, offering panoramic views of the village and the Cantabrian Sea. The climb is steep but rewarding, providing the perfect vantage point to appreciate Cudillero’s unique layout and scenic beauty.

The Plaza de la Marina, near the harbour, is the heart of village life. Here, visitors can watch fishermen mending their nets or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants which line the square. Local specialties include ‘pixín’ (monkfish), ‘merluza a la sidra’ (hake in cider sauce) and ‘oricios’ (sea urchins).

Cudillero’s beaches, while not as numerous as in some other coastal areas of Asturias, are notable for their natural beauty. The Playa del Silencio (Beach of Silence), a short drive from the village, is particularly stunning, with its crescent of pebbles and sand surrounded by cliffs.

The village comes alive during its festivals, particularly the L’Amuravela on June 29th, when a local fisherman delivers a humorous speech in the local dialect, recounting the events of the past year. This tradition, dating back to the 16th century, offers insight into Cudillero’s unique culture and sense of community.

Interestingly, Cudillero is home to a unique linguistic curiosity – the pixueto dialect. This local vernacular, sadly teetering on the brink of obsolescence, adds another layer of cultural richness to the village’s already abundant charm.

While Cudillero has become increasingly popular with tourists in recent years, it has managed to retain its authentic charm and working fishing village atmosphere, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Asturian coastal life.

Lastres

Lastres is another charming hillside town on the Asturan coast which overlooks the Cantabrian Sea. This traditional fishing village has managed to preserve much of its historic character, with whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs and narrow streets which meander through the old town.

The town’s cultural and historical heritage is reflected in its landmarks, such as the baroque-style Church of Santa María de Sábada, which dates back to the 18th century and stands prominently over the village. Walking through the streets offers a glimpse into Lastres’ seafaring past, while the bustling port continues to be a hub of activity for local fishermen.

Beyond the town itself, visitors can explore nearby attractions like the Museo del Jurásico de Asturias (MUJA), which delves into the region’s rich paleontological history with impressive dinosaur fossil displays.

Tazones

This diminutive coastal village punches above its weight in terms of culinary and historical significance. Tazones is renowned for its marine bounty, with local restaurants serving up some of the finest seafood in Asturias. The village’s distinctive architecture, characterised by colourful wooden balconies adorning stone houses, creates a charming maritime atmosphere.

Tazones boasts an unexpected historical claim to fame: it was here which Charles V, soon to become Holy Roman Emperor, first set foot on Spanish soil in 1517. This event is commemorated in the village during the Fiesta del Desembarco de Carlos V which adds an intriguing historical dimension to this otherwise unassuming fishing community.

The 18th-century Church of San Miguel, perched on a hill overlooking the village, is a notable landmark. Its elevated position offers spectacular views of the village and the Bay of Biscay beyond.

Villaviciosa

Surrounded by apple orchards and home to numerous cider houses, Villaviciosa is recognised as the capital of the Asturian cider industry. The town’s historic centre, anchored by an impressive Plaza Mayor, showcases architectural marvels spanning centuries. The 13th-century Church of Santa María de la Oliva is a prime example of Romanesque architecture in the region.

Villaviciosa’s appeal extends beyond its urban centre. The nearby Rodiles beach is a paradise for surfers, while the Ría de Villaviciosa estuary is a protected nature reserve, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities and scenic walking trails.

The annual Cider Festival in September is a highlight of Villaviciosa’s cultural calendar. This vibrant event celebrates the region’s cider-making tradition with tastings, competitions and cultural performances, offering visitors a true immersion in Asturian culture.

Luarca

Luarca is located on a natural harbour with white houses cascading down green hills towards the sea. The port, once a bustling whaling station, now hosts a small fishing fleet and pleasure boats. The town’s layout reflects its history, with narrow streets winding through the old quarter and leading to the main square, Plaza Alfonso X El Sabio. Luarca’s religious architecture includes the neoclassical Church of Santa Eulalia.

Notable landmarks include the Mesa de Mareantes, a stone table where fishermen’s guilds once gathered, and the Luarca Cemetery which features elaborate mausoleums of wealthy emigrants who returned from the Americas. The town’s culinary scene showcases fresh seafood and traditional Asturian dishes.

Surrounding Luarca, the rugged Asturian coastline offers scenic beaches and walking trails. The nearby Barayo Nature Reserve provides a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, attracting nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Somiedo Natural Park

The Somiedo Natural Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers which has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is home to iconic species such as the brown bear and Cantabrian capercaillie, making it a crucial area for conservation efforts. Its diverse landscapes, ranging from dense forests to high mountain pastures, offer myriad opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching and photography.

Somiedo is also known for its unique cultural heritage, particularly the traditional ‘brañas’ – summer pastures with distinctive stone huts used by shepherds. These structures, some of which have been converted into rural accommodations, offer insight into the traditional pastoral way of life in the Asturian mountains.

The town’s culinary tradition features hearty mountain fare, including dishes like fabada asturiana (a rich bean stew) and locally produced Cabrales cheese. These gastronomic delights provide a taste of authentic Asturian cuisine.

FAQs About Asturias

When is the Best Time to Visit Asturias?

Rest assured which by visiting Asturias you’re going to see some stunning scenery but bear in mind which this is one of the wettest regions in Spain with some parts having as much as 2000mm annually. Summer in Asturias is generally warm and sunny although not without rain. The winter weather varies significantly between the coast and the interior mountains. Along the coastal strip the winters are generally mild and wet but in the mountain areas they can be very cold and snow is likely between November and May.