ASTURIAS
Asturias is Spain’s green heart, a land where the mountains meet the sea. This region is a true natural paradise, blending rugged coastlines with the peaks of the Picos de Europa.
This is a place of myths and legends, a realm of ancient kingdoms and wild nature. It offers an experience of Spain far removed from the fiery stereotypes, where tradition and landscape are in perfect harmony.
Most Popular Attractions
Oviedo City Core:
Oviedo Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral, also known as the Holy Metropolitan Basilica Cathedral of San Salvador, in the heart of the city.
Historic Old Town (Casco Antiguo): A charming labyrinth of streets filled with elegant squares, historic buildings, and cider houses.
Archaeological Museum of Asturias: Located in the former convent of San Vicente, it houses a fantastic collection of regional artifacts.
Pre-Romanesque Monuments: A UNESCO World Heritage site, including the churches of Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo, and the fountain of La Foncalada.
Mercado del Fontán: A traditional market and surrounding square where you can find local products and experience the city’s daily life.
Gijón City Core & Coastal Attractions:
Cerro de Santa Catalina: A hilltop park offering panoramic views of the city and the coast, home to the iconic sculpture “Elogio del Horizonte.”
Cimadevilla: The city’s oldest neighborhood, a former fishing village with narrow streets and traditional Asturian architecture.
San Lorenzo Beach (Playa de San Lorenzo): The main urban beach of Gijón, a beautiful crescent of sand that stretches for over a kilometer.
Roman Baths of Campo Valdés: The well-preserved remains of a public Roman bath complex from the 1st century A.D.
Acuario de Gijón: A modern aquarium with a wide variety of marine species from around the world.
Avilés & Central Asturias:
Avilés Historic Center: A beautifully preserved old town with arcaded streets, elegant palaces, and the stunning Plaza de España.
Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre: A futuristic, multi-purpose cultural complex designed by the famous Brazilian architect.
Museo del Jurásico de Asturias (MUJA): A dinosaur museum shaped like a dinosaur footprint, showcasing one of the most complete collections of dinosaur fossils in the world.
Cider Houses (Sidrerías): A staple of Asturian culture; you can find them in cities and towns, where the traditional pouring of cider (escanciado) is a spectacle.
Picos de Europa & Eastern Asturias:
Lakes of Covadonga: Two stunning glacial lakes, Enol and Ercina, set high in the Picos de Europa National Park.
Picos de Europa National Park: Spain’s first national park, a breathtaking landscape of limestone peaks, deep gorges, and lush forests.
Covadonga: A historic and spiritual site with a basilica and a cave sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin of Covadonga, marking the beginning of the Reconquista.
Cangas de Onís: A charming town with a famous Roman bridge and a hub for exploring the Picos de Europa.
Ribadesella: A coastal town known for its beautiful beach, prehistoric Tito Bustillo Cave with Paleolithic art, and the Sella River.
Coastline & Western Asturias:
Luarca: A picturesque fishing village known as the “White Village of the Green Coast,” with a scenic port and cliffside cemetery.
Cudillero: One of Spain’s most charming fishing villages, with brightly colored houses clustered around a natural amphitheater.
Gulpiyuri Beach: A unique inland beach located a few hundred meters from the sea, formed by a collapsed cave with an underground connection to the Bay of Biscay.
Taramundi: A village famous for its traditional knife-making and a network of beautiful hiking trails through ancient forests.
Activities & Experiences
Hike the Cares Gorge: Tackle one of the most famous and spectacular hiking trails in Spain, a linear route that winds along a cliff-side path through the dramatic Picos de Europa National Park.
Discover the Lakes of Covadonga: Visit the stunning glacial lakes of Enol and Ercina, nestled high in the mountains. This area is a spiritual heartland and a gateway to some of the park’s most beautiful hikes.
Explore the Historic Center of Oviedo: Wander through the charming old town of the regional capital, visiting its impressive Gothic cathedral and enjoying a cider in one of the lively streets.
Visit the Sella River: Go whitewater kayaking, canoeing, or rafting on this iconic river, or simply watch the famous International Descent of the Sella, one of Spain’s most popular sporting events.
Go Caving in the Picos de Europa: Explore a different side of the mountains by taking a guided caving tour in one of the many limestone caves, some of which are hundreds of meters deep.
Hike in Somiedo Natural Park: Explore this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its pristine landscapes, glacial lakes, and the possibility of spotting brown bears.
Go Surfing in Gijón or Salinas: Head to the coast to catch some waves. The beaches of Gijón and Salinas are popular surf spots for all levels, with numerous surf schools offering lessons.
Learn to Make Cider: Visit a traditional “llagar” (cider press) to learn about the unique Asturian cider-making process, and, of course, learn to pour it correctly from a height (“escanciar”).
Visit a Fishing Village: Explore one of the many picturesque fishing villages along the coast, like Cudillero or Lastres, with their colorful houses clinging to the cliffs and their excellent seafood restaurants.
Explore the Pre-Romanesque Monuments: Visit the remarkable churches of Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo near Oviedo, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites and stunning examples of early medieval architecture.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Recommended: Asturias is a region of mountains, valleys, and secluded coastlines. A rental car is the most practical way to explore the diverse landscapes, from the Picos de Europa to the fishing villages along the coast. It gives you the flexibility to access more remote areas.
Public Transport:
Bus Network: The Alsa bus company provides an extensive network connecting major cities like Oviedo, Gijón, and Avilés, as well as many smaller towns. This is a reliable and affordable option for getting between urban centers.
FEVE Trains: The narrow-gauge train network (FEVE) offers a scenic and charming way to travel along the coast. It’s slower but provides beautiful views of the landscape that you wouldn’t see from a car or bus.
From the Airport: The Asturias Airport (OVD) is located in Castrillón, about 47 km from Oviedo and 40 km from Gijón. The airport bus (operated by Alsa) is an easy and affordable way to get to the main cities. Taxis are also available.
Dining Times: Lunch is typically eaten from 2 PM to 4 PM, and dinner often starts around 9 PM or later. Many restaurants close between these hours.
The Power of Cider: Cider is the national drink of Asturias, not just a beverage but a cultural ritual. It is typically poured from a great height to aerate it and served in small amounts, which are meant to be drunk quickly. Don’t be surprised if your glass is only filled a small amount at a time. This is called “escanciar,” and it’s a mark of local expertise.
The Weather: The region is known as “Green Spain” for a reason. Unlike the sunny south, Asturias is lush and green, with a higher chance of rain. Pack layers and a good waterproof jacket, as the weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains.
Mountain Rules: When hiking in the Picos de Europa, always check the weather forecast, wear appropriate footwear, and be prepared for sudden changes. Cell phone reception can be spotty in more remote areas.
Hidden Gems:
The Bufones de Pría: These are natural blowholes on the coast near Llanes. On stormy days, seawater is forced through the fissures, creating spectacular geysers. It’s a unique and dramatic natural phenomenon.
La Cuevona de Cuevas del Agua: You can drive or walk through a large natural cave to get to the tiny village of Cuevas. It’s a surreal and beautiful experience that feels like something out of a fairy tale.
Cudillero’s Lighthouse Trail: This walk offers a fantastic perspective of one of the region’s most famous fishing villages, with stunning coastal views and a less-crowded feel than the village center itself.
The Coastal Trail near the Cares Gorge: If you’re a hiker looking for a coastal alternative to the Cares Gorge, try the path near Llanes. It offers breathtaking views of the cliffs and the Cantabrian Sea.
Language: While English is spoken in the main cities, especially in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will be appreciated by the locals.
Top Restaurants
Sidrería El Gato Negro [$15-$25] – A classic, stone-lined bar in Oviedo’s old town, offering a true sidrería experience with traditional tapas and local cider.
El Lavaderu [$20-$30] – A typical Asturian inn with a street terrace in Oviedo, serving excellent homemade cooking like fabada and fabada con almejas.
Casa Chema [$25-$40] – Located just outside Oviedo, this spot is famous for its award-winning fabada and a deep commitment to traditional Asturian cuisine, including a focus on local produce.
El Mesón de Carceu [$20-$30] – A great spot in the Cangas de Onís area for hearty, simple Asturian food, including a top-rated cachopo.
Tierra Astur [$20-$35] – A bustling sidrería with multiple locations, popular with locals and travelers for its lively atmosphere and traditional Asturian dishes served in a rustic, communal setting.
Restaurante Casa Generosa [$25-$40] – Known for its generous portions of traditional Asturian food, with a focus on hearty starters like chorizo and blood sausages.
El Molín de Mingo [$25-$40] – Nestled in a picturesque country lane between Arriondas and Ribadesella, this restaurant is a local favorite for its traditional cuisine and idyllic setting.
Sidrería El Puerto [$20-$30] – A renovated sidrería in Ribadesella, offering a modern take on traditional Asturian food while maintaining a lively, authentic atmosphere.
Casa Poli [$20-$35] – A well-regarded traditional restaurant in Llanes, serving classic Asturian dishes in a building that dates back to the early 20th century.
Casa Fermín [$40-$60] – An elegant and historic restaurant in Oviedo, with a long-standing reputation for serving refined and updated Asturian cuisine.
El Bálamu [$30-$50] – Situated in the fishing port of Llanes, this restaurant specializes in authentic, traditional seafood dishes with a charming and genuine atmosphere.
Casa Eutimio [$30-$50] – Located in Lastres, this restaurant has been carrying on culinary tradition since 1964, offering a menu of excellent seafood and contemporary twists on classics.
El Corral del Indianu [$70-$100] – A stylish venue in Arriondas with a Michelin star, known for its creative interpretations of classic Asturian dishes and tasting menus.
Gloria [$30-$50] – A chic and modern restaurant in Oviedo, led by renowned chef Nacho Manzano, that focuses on traditional dishes with a contemporary flair.
NM [$80-$120] – A fine dining spot in Oviedo from chef Nacho Manzano, offering an intimate and modern experience with tasting menus that change with the seasons.
Farragua [$30-$50] – An upscale and stylish restaurant in Gijón known for its black-and-white decor and a modern menu that blends international and local flavors.
Cocina Cabal [$40-$60] – Located in Oviedo, this top-rated restaurant has an open kitchen and is known for its creative and innovative dishes.
La Salgar [$50-$80] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Gijón from the Manzano family, offering signature cuisine with a focus on local, seasonal produce.
Ayalga [$60-$90] – Located in the beautiful Villa Rosario hotel in Ribadesella, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a gastronomic experience of modern Cantabrian haute cuisine.
Güeyu Mar [$80-$120] – A culinary treat for seafood lovers in Playa de Vega, renowned for its use of the grill and for offering some of the best grilled fish in Spain.
Restaurante Real Balneario [$70-$120] – A Michelin-starred restaurant located on the stunning coastline of Salinas, offering an elegant and refined culinary experience with beautiful sea views.
El Retiro [$70-$120] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Pancar (Llanes) that creates traditional Asturian dishes with a cutting-edge, modern twist.
Auga [$80-$130] – Located in the marina of Gijón, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a focus on creative Spanish cuisine, especially seafood.
Casa Gerardo [$120-$180] – A Michelin-starred institution in Prendes that has been serving delectable dishes since 1882, masterfully blending tradition with creative contemporary offerings.
Casa Marcial [$150-$250] – Located in a remote village near Arriondas, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant by chef Nacho Manzano offers a truly exceptional and inventive fine dining experience rooted in Asturian traditions and ingredients.
Top Cocktail Bars and CLubs
Secreto a Voces (Oviedo): Tucked away in Oviedo’s city center, this cocktail bar offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with a focus on expertly crafted classic cocktails and innovative creations.
Gijón’s Little Bar (Gijón): As the name suggests, this small but perfectly formed bar in Gijón’s Cimavilla neighborhood is a hidden gem known for its creative drinks and relaxed, friendly vibe.
La Piel del Diablo (Oviedo): Located in the heart of Oviedo, this bar is celebrated for its unique décor and wide array of cocktails, from traditional favorites to exotic concoctions.
Dindurra Café (Gijón): A historic and elegant café in Gijón, facing the Jovellanos Theater, that transforms into a sophisticated bar in the evening, serving a variety of classic drinks and spirits.
La Terraza de la Salina (Avilés): A rooftop terrace bar in Avilés, offering stunning views of the city and the estuary. It’s a perfect spot for enjoying a sunset cocktail in a laid-back setting.
El Sol de Gijón (Gijón): Situated in the lively Calle Marqués de San Esteban, this bar is known for its energetic atmosphere and a great selection of shots and classic cocktails.
Coctelería Varsovia (Gijón): A stylish and sophisticated cocktail bar in Gijón, popular for its creative mixology and a wide selection of gins and other premium spirits.
Patio La Favorita (Oviedo): A charming cocktail bar with an outdoor patio, located in Oviedo’s historic center, offering a tranquil escape and a great list of signature drinks.
Savoy (Gijón): A classic and elegant cocktail bar in Gijón’s city center, known for its professional bartenders and an extensive menu of both traditional and modern cocktails.
La Santa Sebe (Oviedo): A cozy and welcoming bar in Oviedo’s Gascona street, a popular area for cider houses, that stands out for its well-made cocktails and friendly atmosphere.
El Café de Macondo (Oviedo): A literary-themed bar in Oviedo’s old town, offering a unique ambiance and a great selection of drinks.
El Rincón de la Luna (Gijón): This bar, found near Gijón’s San Lorenzo beach, is a chill-out spot perfect for enjoying a drink with a view of the sea.
Sidrería El Requexu (Oviedo): While primarily a cider house, this place near Oviedo’s cathedral also serves a surprising range of well-made gin and tonics and other simple cocktails.
La Botica Indiana (Avilés): A well-known franchise with a location in Avilés, offering a vibrant, tropical-themed setting and a wide variety of rum and fruit-based cocktails.
Café Central Gijón (Gijón): A traditional and popular café in Gijón’s city center that also serves as a great pre-party venue with a good selection of classic drinks.
La Real (Oviedo): One of the most famous clubs in Oviedo, located in the city center. It has multiple dance floors and a mix of music, from commercial hits to electronic beats.
El Jardín (Gijón): A popular nightclub in Gijón’s port area, with a beautiful garden terrace and a lively atmosphere. It’s known for a mix of commercial and reggaeton music.
Sala Tribeca (Oviedo): A well-regarded club in Oviedo known for its electronic music sessions, attracting local DJs and a younger, more alternative crowd.
Buda (Gijón): Located near Gijón’s San Lorenzo beach, this club is popular for its beach-party atmosphere and a mix of different music genres.
Salsipuedes (Gijón): A classic club in Gijón’s nightlife scene, known for its Latin music and lively, high-energy dance floor.
Club Orosco (Oviedo): A multi-level club in Oviedo’s city center, offering different ambiances on each floor, from reggaeton to house music.
Sala Albéniz (Gijón): A popular venue in Gijón that hosts both concerts and club nights, offering a great alternative to the usual electronic music scene.
Babylon (Oviedo): A trendy nightclub in Oviedo with a modern aesthetic, known for its diverse music and themed parties.
La Noche (Gijón): A large and energetic club in Gijón with multiple bars and a strong focus on commercial and mainstream hits.
The Big Club (Avilés): A central nightclub in Avilés, popular with a young crowd and known for its high-energy atmosphere and pop music.