Asturias is a small principality in the northwest of Spain. Squashed between the glistening peaks of the Cantabrian mountains and the Bay of Biscay, Asturias is home to great natural beauty, a rich cultural heritage and varied culinary traditions. It is a land of gushing rivers, lush forests and impressive mountains whilst its dramatic coastline is punctuated by towering cliffs, secluded coves and over two hundred beaches. More than one-third of Asturias’ land area constitutes protected nature reserves, the largest in Europe. The bustling Asturian towns are another draw. From the mondaine chic of Oviedo to care-free Gij贸n, the largest Asturian towns each have a distinct character that is definitely worth exploring. Hence, there are plenty of things to do in Asturias to keep visitors occupied for days or weeks!
Through the centuries, the mountains and the sea played a pivotal role in shaping the history and culture of Asturias. Shielded by the lofty peaks of the Picos de Europa, Asturias was one of the few regions on the Iberian peninsula that escaped the conquest of the Moors in the 8th century. Marked by the famous battle of Covadonga in 722 A.D., the ‘Reconquista’ (the movement to liberate the Iberian peninsula) began in Asturias – a fact that till this day instills much pride among Asturians. These days, excellent road and air links make Asturias (map) a lot more accessible but it still remains an off-the-beaten path destination for many tourists. There are no hordes of tourists in Asturias, but rather a multitude of natural, historical and cultural gems waiting to be discovered. Here are ten things to do in Asturias:
Ten things to do and see in Asturias
1. Visit Oviedo
Oviedo is a delightful city for a leisurely stroll. Admire the eclectic architectural styles, visit the Cathedral, walk around the El Fontan market or sit at one of the many terraces and order a cider. Discover which part of the human anatomy is mimicked by Calatrava’s Congress Centre. And head up to nearby Monte Naranco to admire pre-romanesque art at a UNESCO World Heritage site and for stunning views of the city.
Search for hotels in Oviedo (Booking.com).
2. Discover the rich culinary traditions in Asturias
From the famous grilled meats at Tierra Astur in Oviedo to the freshest seafood at Casa Lin in Avil茅s, or Asturian refinement at La Corrada del Obispo in Oviedo and the gastronomic delights at San Pelayo in Llanes, Asturias is a treasure trove of culinary highlights. Choose some of the best dining options from Mesas de Asturias, a collection of restaurants and cider taverns that stand out on account of their excellent quality and service.
3. Go hiking in the Picos de Europa
The Picos de Europa National Park offers spectacular scenery and some of the best hiking trails in Spain. Visitors can also opt for a guided drive through the park with leisurely strolls along the shorter trails. The views of the impressive peaks, verdant slopes and deep-blue lakes are astounding. Check out this tour of Picos de Europa from Santander.
4. Drink from the fountain at the Covadonga Sanctuary
If you’re not married, a single sip from this fountain will get you tying the knot within a year – at least, that’s what the locals say. 馃檪 If you’re already married, well, simply enjoy the refreshing, sweet taste of this pure mountain water.
5. Visit the impressive Laboral Cultural Centre in Gij贸n
This elaborate complex is an architectural gem. Located in the outskirts of Gij贸n, the Laboral City of Culture boasts an immense square flanked by grand buildings with stunning fa莽ades.
Search for hotels in Gij贸n (Booking.com).
6. Visit the Centro Niemeyer in Avil茅s
The Centro Niemeyer is a stunning cultural centre in Asturias. Designed by the famous Brazilian architect, Oscar Niemeyer, the complex features striking colours, seductive curves and fascinating exhibitions.
Search for hotels in Avil茅s (Booking.com).
Read more about Centro Niemeyer.
7. Mingle with the locals at a sidreria
Sidrerias or cider taverns are an integral part of Asturian culture. Locals gather at their local cider tavern for a round of cider, delicious food and the latest gossip. Sooner or later, you’ll be invited to try your hand at pouring cider. Go for it!
8. Stay at an historic indiano house or ‘Casonas de Indianos’
‘Indianos’ were emigrants who returned from the Americas in the 19th century. After making their fortunes in the New World, they returned to the motherland and built stunning villas, many of which are now museums or hotels/B&Bs. The Casona de la Paca hotel in Cudillero is a gorgeous example.
9. Explore the Asturian coast
Go surfing or simply laze at one of the 200+ beaches. Stroll around picturesque fishing villages like Cudillero or walk the coastal path above the cliffs of Llanes.
Search for hotels in Cudillero (Booking.com).
10. Visit UNESCO World Heritage and Biosphere sites in Asturias
There are many of them, from the Tito Bustillo caves (with its unique paleolithic cave art) to the Covadonga lakes, one of five World Biosphere sites, these sites are testament to the rich cultural and natural heritage of Asturias.
How to get to Asturias
Asturias can easily be reached by air from Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia. There are also international connections with London and Paris. Asturias Airport is located in Castrill贸n, 14km from Avil茅s, 40km from Gij贸n and 47km from Oviedo. The principality also makes for a great road trip, which would also allow you to explore the rest of northern Spain and the neighbouring Basque Country. Check for rental cars:
Note: my trip to Asturias was part of a blog trip organised by the Tourism Board of Asturias and Tourism Spain.
[…] my trip to the principality of Asturias, I had the privilege of being one of the first people to experience the luxurious wonders of the […]
[…] Read about things to do in Asturias. […]
[…] Read more about things to do in Asturias. […]
[…] Read about things to do in Asturias. […]
Thank you for the correction. I’ve changed the date.
Cheers,
Keith
Good Morning,
good post about Asturias. However please note there’s a big mistake in it.. The battle of Covadonga was fought in 722 a.d. nos in 822… 100 years before!
[…] Read the accompanying post: “Ten Things To Do in Asturias“. […]
I have seen the rose-coloured Santa Maria basilica at the Covadonga Sanctuary and it is truly something you must all go to view in person. Love these tips, great blog!
[…] Read the accompanying post: ‘Ten Things To Do in Asturias‘. […]
Thank you very much for your comment Cristina! Very happy that you like the post. I think those ten things definitely sum up the best that Asturias has to offer and I hope many visitors will read this post before their visit.
Kind regards,
Keith
Your post is great!!!!!! you’ve really captured the atmosphere of Asturias, the hidden kingdom in the mountains. I agree those are the top ten you can not miss in Asturias. Thanks Keith. From ASTURIAS every one says so !!!!
Amazing pictures…what a great introduction to one who knows little about Asturias. You capture the fresh seafood at Casa Lin so well…yummy.
You’re welcome! It’s not hard to write about Asturias. You have an absolutely stunning homeland!
Cheers,
Keith
Hi!
Thanx a lot for this great post about my lovely homeland Asturias!
Great work!
Cheers!
Hi Andy,
Thanks for your lovely comment. Asturias is truly stunning and yes, it’s pretty incredible that it still is pretty much off the beaten path. It’s so different from the rest of Spain too.
Cheers,
Keith
Fabulous post, Keith and great images. You’ve really whetted my appetite for a visit to Asturias! It seems incredible that such a diverse and clearly stunning part of Spain could have remained shy of the popular tourist trail…until now 馃檪