Sandwiched between the sparkling waters of the Bay of Biscay, and the rough mountains of Cantabria, Asturias is a place of captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Located in the north of Spain, it boasts spectacular mountain ranges, picturesque coastal towns, and several notable historical landmarks preserved for quite a long time.
Travelers to Asturias can submerge themselves in its one-of-a-kind culture, sample widely acclaimed cuisine, and investigate its rough landscapes. They can also partake in its beautiful architecture, revel in its excellent nightlife and make new companions with probably the most sociable locals in Spain.
1. Llastres
Lastres is an ideal place for admirers of history and culture to visit.
An exquisite fishing village most popular for its picturesque harbor, narrow roads, and traditional Asturian architecture, guests can wander through its quaint laneways and admire its historic structures.
They include the Church of Santa María de Sábada and the Place of Madera, which are fantastic examples of 16th-century and 17th-century architecture.
2. Oviedo
As it is the capital city of the Asturias district, Oviedo is a terrific place to investigate the area’s set of experiences, culture, and natural beauty.
The medieval old town is an unquestionable requirement, boasting charming plazas, staggering architecture, and historic structures. Two of its more impressive structures are the Santa María del Naranco church and Oviedo Cathedral, which feature striking facades and awe-inducing insides.
The city has its fair share of museums, notably the Museum of Expressive Arts of Asturias. It boasts a critically acclaimed collection of famous Spanish artists’ works like Goya and Velázquez.
3. Ribadesella
Over in the northern area of Asturias, you’ll instantly fall in affection with the charming coastal town of Ribadesella.
The town’s historic center is the sort of place you’ll go through hours wandering around in a happy daze. Its wonderful atmosphere and quaint side roads are loaded up with stylish stores, medieval structures, and landmarks.
It is also home to the 16th-century Palace of the Marquises of Argüelles. An impressive residence, it is notable for design features like curved advances made of marble, a bronze balustrade, and a ceiling painted by the Spanish artist Mariano Benlliure.
4. Gijón
Gijón is the largest city in Asturias. It is known for being a vibrant coastal district with rich history, cultural heritage, and shocking natural environmental factors.
While it is home to several beautiful beaches, the golden sands of San Lorenzo Beach stand out as its ideal. Stretching for over 1.5 km, it is the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and walking along the coastline.
For those wanting to engage in a touch of culture, Gijón boasts several museums. One of the most popular is the Jovellanos Museum, which showcases the life and works of Gaspar Melchor de Jovellanos – a famous Asturian essayist.
5. Bufones de Pría
The Bufones de Pría is a natural wonder that attracts guests from around the globe.
Located on the coast of Asturias, these blowholes have been framed in the cliffs by the force of the sea for more than a huge number of years. During elevated tide, they can reach levels of up to 20 meters!
Seeing the seawater hurrying through the openings and shooting high up is a spectacular sight that displays its incredible natural power.
The cliffs have a walking path where guests can watch as the bufones eject explodes and spray. The area is also home to various bird species, such as gannets and cormorants, that are spectacular to watch as they plunge from the cliffs into the sea.
6. Cudillero
Assuming that you end up on the northern coast of Asturias, visit the captivating fishing village of Cudillero. Characterized by its picturesque harbor and colorful houses, it’s another destination you’ll want to take many photographs of.
Wandering through the village’s narrow roads, you’ll cherish the traditional anglers’ homes with their vibrant facades. Make sure your adventure up the Mirador de la Atalaya and Mirador de la Garita, as the structures there create a striking contrast against the blue sea.
The harbor is home to a small armada of fishing boats, and guests can notice the anglers unloading their daily catch. The village also boasts several small beaches ideal for swimming and sunbathing when you fancy some free time.
7. Cangas de Onis
Cangas de Onis is a delightful town in the heart of the Picos de Europa National Park.
Best investigated by walking, one of the town’s main attractions is the 13th-century Roman Scaffold. It is a significant landmark in Asturias and quite possibly of the oldest scaffold in Spain.
Additionally, guests can investigate the historical center of town, which is home to impressive structures such as the Santa Cruz Chapel and the Palace of Cortes y Noriega. Both will charm you with their design, grace, and a solid feeling of history.
Read also: Top 7 Best Things to do in Cantabria, Spain