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10 Gorgeous Places to See in Asturias, Spain

Known worldwide for its awe-inspiring natural views, magical coastline, majestic medieval architecture, and traditional cider, the Asturias region of northwest Spain is unparalleled in more ways than one.
Sucheta Pradhan
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Asturias or have been there before, it will never cease to amaze you. Here’s our handpicked list of 10 most gorgeous places to see in Spain’s most beautiful region!
Located in Picos de Europa mountains, the parish of Covadonga has to be on your itinerary. Besides natural beauty, it is also a place of great religious significance.
#1: Covadonga
Go hiking to the stunningly beautiful Covadonga Lakes in the Picos de Europa National Park.
Feel close to God at the magnificent Sanctuary of Covadonga, a major pilgrimage center for people of Asturias.
#2: Oviedo
The capital of the Principality of Asturias, the exotic, beautiful, clean, pleasant and pristine city of Oviedo deserves a spot on Asturias travel list.
Known for its little markets selling pretty goodies, this city is the shopper’s paradise.
Oviedo is highly pedestrianized, which means there are ample opportunities to stroll through the city and take some Instagram-worthy shots.
#3: Castañeras
Castañeras is a small village in Asturias, which is surrounded by some of the most tranquil and beautiful beaches in Spain.
Head to the stunning Playa de Silencio, ‘the Beach of Silence’, and enjoy the crystal clear waters, views of majestic green cliffs, and white and grey sand.
Another picturesque beach near Castañeras is the stunning Playa de Gueirua that offers majestic views of the ocean, and can be reached from Playa de Silencio through a scenic trail.
#4: Gijón
One of the most picture-perfect locations in Asturias, Gijón is the city that flawlessly blends the old with the new.
The most famous tourist spot in Gijón is the San Lorenzo Beach, where people flock to swim, dive, soak in the sun & sand, and to dine by the waterfront.
Don’t miss going to Termas Romanas De Campo Valdés, the archaeological site of ancient Roman Baths located to the west of San Lorenzo Beach.
#5: Avilés
One of the major cities in Asturias besides Oviedo and Gijón, Avilés boasts a number of museums and art centers, medieval churches, and stunning beaches.
Visit the Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre or simply Centro Niemeyer, the most iconic landmark of Avilés, and marvel at its fantastic futuristic architecture.
If you’re up for some surfing on the sea or simply want to bask in the sun, make way to the famous Salinas Beach, one of the most popular tourist destinations in town.
#6: Llanes
Just north of Picos de Europa mountain range lies the pretty medieval city of Llanes, known for its pristine beaches and top-notch scenic views from the hill that overlooks the city.
In case you only have a day to spend in Llanes at your disposal, choose to spend it on the Playa Torimbia, a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with exhilarating seaside views.
Andrín Beach is another beautiful place to visit in Llanes, which is not only a famous surfing spot in the region, but also an amazing seaside resort.
#7: Ribadesella
Another colorful seaside town in Asturias, Ribadesella is home to a thriving fishing community and boasts a mesmerizing coastline and a slice of prehistory.
Head to River Sella for surfing, sunbathing, kayaking, or just for a leisurely evening stroll along the bank. The river’s eastern shore is adorned by a network of pretty plazas and narrow streets.
What makes Ribadesella special is the 35,000-year-old Tito Bustillo Cave that has some stunning prehistoric art.
#8: Cudillero
By far the prettiest little town in Asturias, Cudillero is famous for its cascade of colorful houses built on a hill that faces the sea.
Take a walk within the town to admire its enchanting beauty and simplistic fervor.
The ocean views you get from the hill are simply stunning and extremely picture-perfect.
#9: Cangas de Onís
The capital of a municipality of the same name, Cangas de Onís is known to be a popular rural tourism destination in Asturias.
The best-known landmark of Cangas de Onis is the 14th century Roman-style stone bridge that has been built across the Sella River.
Approximately 27 sq. mi. area of Cangas de Onis forms part of the Picos de Europa National Park, which makes it an ideal location for mountain hiking and trekking.
#10: Bandujo
Bandujo or Banduxu, one of eight parishes in Asturias’ Proaza municipality, is a medieval village built on picturesque mountain terraces.
The village boasts of several medieval structures, including the Church of St. Mary and the Tower of Tuñón.
Take a stroll across the village to soak in the beauty of its high-roofed medieval houses and to enjoy magical mountain views.