Want to get to know the “Ireland of Spain”?
Asturias is a breathtaking region in northwestern Spain and will definitely be your new favorite vacation spot. From lush mountains, incredible beaches, picturesque cities, and mouth-watering cuisine — it is a region that truly has it all. And to top it all off, it’s known for producing the best cider in Spain! What’s not to love?
Many people consider Asturias to be Spain’s hidden gem, and in this blog, Smart Insiders will give you the scoop on what to experience and do in this diamond-in-the-rough. Let your wanderlust take over and explore the astounding Asturias with our top 3 spots: Oviedo, Gijón and Cabo Peñas.
Oviedo
Gijón is a coastal city filled with vibrant streets and pastel hues. No other city in Spain has so much character and charm!
The old fisherman’s quarter of Gijón is called Cimavilla, and you can find it on a hill overlooking the glistening water. Cimavilla is the oldest area of the region, with remains dating back to the Roman Empire! Here, you will find an abundance of seafood restaurants and cider bars buzzing day and night. Do you feel like soaking up the sun with a drink in hand? Relax and watch surfers catch waves on San Lorenzo Beach, the most famous beach in the city. And for history buffs, if you make your way to the west of San Lorenzo Beach, you will find ancient Roman baths built around 100 A.D called Termas Romanas de Campo Valdés. Here, you will discover more about how the Romans believed in the healing properties of medicinal baths.
Gijón is a definite Smart Insiders favorite! It is also a very lively place with an active nightlife, especially at Gijón Marina, so it is the perfect place for young people to have a good time.
Cabo Peñas
Many tourists make a pit stop at Cabo Peñas to enjoy the breathtaking seascape. Cabo Peñas (The Cape of Rocks) is the northernmost part of Asturias, with cliffs more than 100 meters above sea level. The unique strip is one of the main attractions of Asturias, given its natural beauty and impressive views of the sea.
Marvel at the waves crashing against the unique rock formations and revel in the beauty of nature. Enjoy the rumbling lullaby of the waves that will give you a deep sense of tranquility with spectacular panoramic views to match. It is also crowned with the Peña lighthouse, the most important and far-reaching light-house in Asturias. You can visit the lighthouse maritime museum next door to find out more about the lighthouse, the Asturian coast, shipwrecks and storms, as well as models of marine species. It is also a great spot for hiking and has amazing beaches!