Uncover Northern Spain’s Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer

Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Pristine Beaches Without the Crowds

Asturias is home to some of Spain's most beautiful and pristine beaches, many of which remain relatively undiscovered and crowd-free. The coastline here is characterized by sweeping stretches of golden sand, dramatic cliffs, and crystalline waters in shades of azure, turquoise, and emerald.

One standout is Playa del Silencio, whose name meaning “Beach of Silence” aptly describes its peaceful and secluded vibe. Located near the fishing village of Cudillero, this golden sand beach is surrounded by verdant cliffs and overlooks the Bay of Biscay. Its relatively remote location keeps crowds away, so you’re likely to have this slice of paradise mostly to yourself.

Further west down the coast is the equally stunning Playa de Torimbia, situated between the beautiful coastal towns of Llanes and Ribadesella. This wild beach has fine golden sand bordered by rocky cliffs and backed by a lush green forest. The pristine turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. As an added bonus, the beach has limited parking, which also helps keep crowds down.
For the ultimate remote beach escape, head to Playa de Guadamía near the tiny fishing village of Niembro. Only accessible on foot via a 20-minute clifftop walk, this beach sees barely any visitors. Be rewarded with over a mile of soft sand flanked by soaring cliffs. The beach’s isolation makes it feel like you’ve discovered your own private tropical paradise.

What else is in this post?

1. Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Pristine Beaches Without the Crowds
2. Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Outdoor Adventures in the Picos de Europa Mountains
3. Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Seafood Straight from the Cantabrian Sea
4. Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Prehistoric Cave Paintings and Roman Ruins
5. Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Get Your Surf On in Ribadesella
6. Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Tapas, Cider Houses and Local Cheese

Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Outdoor Adventures in the Picos de Europa Mountains

Asturias isn't just about its picturesque coastline - it's also home to the majestic Picos de Europa mountain range. This rugged, limestone massif offers an array of outdoor adventures for the intrepid traveler. Towering peaks, verdant valleys, and crystal-clear lakes make this a true hiker's paradise.
One of the most popular activities is tackling the challenging Cares Gorge Trail. This dramatic route, carved by the Cares River, winds its way through a narrow, 3,300-foot-deep canyon offering awe-inspiring views at every turn. The entire trail spans around 7 miles one-way, but experienced hikers can complete the full out-and-back trek in a day. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, shorter, less strenuous sections of the trail can be explored.
For a true wilderness escape, head to the remote Covadonga Lakes. This glacial lake system sits nestled high in the Picos, accessible only by a scenic drive and then a moderate hike. The turquoise waters and surrounding peaks make for a truly breathtaking scene. Spend the day picnicking, swimming, or simply soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere.
More adventurous travelers can tackle technical rock climbing routes in the park. The limestone cliffs provide thrilling challenges for skilled climbers. Guided trips can be arranged for those new to the sport, ensuring a safe and memorable experience.
In the winter months, the Picos transform into a prime destination for skiing and snowshoeing. The Fuente Dé cable car provides access to the upper reaches of the mountains, opening up a network of groomed slopes and backcountry terrain. It's an idyllic setting to carve some turns or explore the peaceful, snow-covered landscapes on snowshoes.

Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Seafood Straight from the Cantabrian Sea

When it comes to dining in Asturias, the region's renowned seafood takes center stage. With its prime location along the rugged Cantabrian coastline, Asturias has ready access to some of the freshest and most flavorful catch in all of Spain. From succulent oysters and clams to juicy lobsters and tender whitefish, the culinary offerings along this stretch of northern Spain are truly superlative.
One must-try dish is the fabada asturiana, a hearty stew made with white beans, morcilla (blood sausage), and chunks of pork like tocino (cured pork belly) and chorizo. While the beans are the star of this Asturian classic, the briny undertones from the seafood used to flavor the broth elevate the dish to new heights. Many local restaurants offer their own signature rendition, each one more mouthwatering than the last.
Another local specialty is percebes, or goose barnacles, a delicacy prized for their unique, briny flavor and firm, almost crunchy texture. These prehistoric-looking crustaceans cling to the rocky coastline, and harvesting them by hand is a perilous endeavor undertaken by skilled local divers. Their labor-intensive harvesting process and limited supply make percebes a sought-after treat, so be sure to sample them while visiting Asturias.
Those with more adventurous palates may want to try another local delicacy - quirlós. These tiny, pale-green sea snails are plucked from the rocky tidepools and served simply boiled or sautéed in garlic and olive oil. Their distinctive, almost nutty flavor profile is an acquired taste, but well worth exploring for true seafood enthusiasts.
Of course, no visit to Asturias would be complete without indulging in the region's exceptional fish. The cool, nutrient-rich waters of the Cantabrian Sea yield an abundance of pristine whitefish, like hake, sole, and monkfish, as well as oily, omega-3-rich options like anchovy, mackerel, and bonito. These fish are often prepared with minimal fuss, allowing their fresh, briny flavors to shine.

Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Prehistoric Cave Paintings and Roman Ruins

Asturias is a treasure trove for history and archaeology enthusiasts, boasting an impressive array of prehistoric cave paintings and Roman ruins that provide a captivating glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.

One of the must-visit sites is the Tito Bustillo Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses some of the best-preserved Paleolithic cave art in Europe. Discovered in 1968, the cave features stunning examples of charcoal drawings and ochre paintings, including depictions of bison, horses, and deer that date back over 18,000 years. Visitors can take a guided tour through the dimly lit chambers, marveling at the intricate details and the sheer artistry of these ancient works.
Just a short drive away, the archaeological site of Campa Torres in Gijón offers a glimpse into Asturias' Roman past. The ruins, which date back to the 1st century BC, include the remains of a defensive wall, a temple, and a residential area, providing a fascinating window into the daily lives of the region's Roman inhabitants. Visitors can explore the well-preserved structures and learn about the region's strategic importance during the Roman era.
For a truly immersive experience, head to the Archaeological Park of San Pedro de Nora, where you can stroll through the remains of a Roman villa and discover the intricate mosaics that once adorned its floors. The site also features a small museum that showcases the artifacts and tools uncovered during excavations, offering a deeper understanding of the region's ancient past.

Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Get Your Surf On in Ribadesella

Asturias isn't just about its serene beaches and dramatic coastline - it's also a prime destination for surf enthusiasts. Tucked along the region's western shores lies the charming town of Ribadesella, which has gained a reputation as one of the best surfing spots in northern Spain.
The key draw is the consistent and powerful waves that roll in off the Cantabrian Sea. Ribadesella's strategic location between two headlands creates ideal conditions for swells to build up, offering a thrilling and challenging ride for surfers of all skill levels. Beginners can catch their first waves on the mellower, beach-break options, while more experienced surfers can tackle the gnarly reef breaks that produce impressive, barreling waves.
One of the premier spots is Playa de Santa Marina, a long, sweeping stretch of golden sand that's renowned for its punchy beach breaks. The waves here can reach over 10 feet during the peak winter months, attracting daredevil big-wave riders from across Europe. But don't worry - there are also gentler sections perfectly suited for those just starting out.
Just a short drive down the coast, Playa de Vega is another popular surfing destination, offering a diverse range of breaks that cater to surfers of varying abilities. Beginners can focus on the mellow whitewash, while intermediates and advanced surfers can challenge themselves on the powerful, barreling waves that form over the offshore reef.
For those seeking a truly uncrowded surf experience, head to the remote Playa de Guadamía. This hard-to-reach beach sees minimal crowds, allowing you to carve up the waves in blissful solitude. The only catch? You'll need to be prepared to hike for about 20 minutes to access this hidden gem.
No matter which beach you choose, you'll find a welcoming surf community in Ribadesella. The town is dotted with surf schools and equipment rental shops, making it easy for newcomers to get outfitted and pick up the basics from experienced local instructors. And when you're not in the water, you can refuel with fresh seafood, sample Asturian cider, and soak in the charming coastal ambiance.

Uncover Northern Spain's Hidden Gem: Why Asturias is the Coolest Coastal Destination this Summer - Tapas, Cider Houses and Local Cheese

Asturias is a veritable gastronomic paradise, offering a captivating blend of traditional Asturian fare and contemporary culinary innovation. Beyond the region's renowned seafood, the local food and drink scene is a true standout, promising a delightful sensory experience for any discerning traveler.
At the heart of the Asturian culinary tradition are the region's iconic cider houses, known as sidrerías. These convivial establishments are the perfect place to sample the distinctive, tangy cider that flows freely from wooden barrels. The art of pouring the cider, known as "escanciar," is a time-honored ritual where bartenders deftly raise the cider-filled pitcher high above their heads, allowing the liquid to cascade into the glass below. Pair this local libation with a selection of traditional Asturian small plates, or "pinchos," such as the savory chorizo, the salty fabada stew, or the oh-so-creamy queso de Cabrales.
Speaking of cheese, Asturias is renowned for its exceptional dairy products, particularly its artisanal blue cheese. The Cabrales variety, with its pungent, veined rind and rich, crumbly interior, is a true regional specialty. Produced in the remote, mountainous regions of Asturias, Cabrales is crafted using raw cow, sheep, and goat's milk, resulting in a complex, umami-laden flavor profile that's unlike any other blue cheese. Beyond Cabrales, the region boasts a diverse array of other artisanal cheeses, each with its own distinct character and terroir.
For a truly immersive culinary experience, head to the vibrant food markets that dot the Asturian landscape. In the lively Mercado El Fontán in Oviedo, you'll find an array of stalls brimming with the freshest regional produce, from just-caught seafood to locally sourced meats and handcrafted cheeses. Wander the vibrant aisles, sample the wares, and soak up the convivial atmosphere as you rub elbows with the locals.