The map of Asturias is dotted with beautiful towns that will conquer you. If you like nothing more than to explore the countryside and nature during your vacation, this region is the ideal destination for you. As a recommendation, we encourage you to start your trip by visiting the most beautiful towns in Asturias that we propose below.
Beautiful towns in Asturias to visit during your holidays
Rural tourism is becoming an increasingly popular option among travellers. And it’s no surprise, as it has a lot to offer. Nature not only wraps you in a world of tranquility, away from the hustle and bustle of cities, but also lends itself to all kinds of outdoor activities , such as hiking, water sports and mountain sports. And that without mentioning the authentic flavors of Asturian gastronomy. Exploring the most beautiful towns in Asturias with images is a fantastic way to enjoy all this and more.
Whether on the coast or inland, these are places that exude charm . With centuries of history behind them, these towns are shrouded in myths and legends that want to be explored. Some places in Asturias are almost impossible to describe with words. The best option is to come and meet them for yourself.
Cudillero
Ask anyone to name one of the most beautiful villages in Asturias and they will mention Cudillero. Located in a natural curve in the coast, the seaside town is invisible until you arrive at it. Approaching the almost vertical slopes is a riot of brightly colored houses and steep streets that will bring you closer and closer to the sea.
Cudillero offers many ways to pass the time. We recommend visiting the amphitheater, walking through the historic center and following the blue fish on the walls to the highest point of the town with its spectacular views. This small town is also wrapped in stunning beaches, each with its own character. Among them we can mention: El Silencio, Concha de Artedo, Puerto Chico and Oleiros .
Ribadesella
If there is any place that can compete with the beauty of Cudillero, that is Ribadesella. Also on the coast, the town is the gateway to the Picos de Europa mountain range . The historic center has been restored and is pedestrianized, making it an ideal place to walk and take a walk in the fresh air. As you walk, you will come across architectural gems such as the Casa de los Ardines and a 16th-century building that is the current town hall .
The beaches of Ribadesella are a real joy. La Atalaya beach is hidden and home to natural pools, while Santa Marina beach has a promenade lined with pretty holiday homes. Nearby, there are small hamlets, such as Tereñes, Cueves and Sebreñu , to name a few, where the lifestyle is authentically Asturian. Do not miss everything you can see and do in Ribadesella.
Near Ribadesella there is a very peculiar cave, the Cuevona de Cuevas del Agua . It can be explored on foot or by car and gives access to the small town of the same name.
plains
It should come as no surprise to learn that Llanes has a long tradition as a holiday destination: it is an absolutely charming seaside town. The historic center is one of the best preserved in Asturias and there are plenty of cider houses where you can begin to get to know the local culture and its inclination for the alcoholic apple drink.
The historic center is full of elegant townhouses, a 15th-century basilica, a medieval tower, and the casino. The best way to explore it is, needless to say, by taking a walk. It is also worth visiting the Llanes coastline, which has no fewer than 30 beaches . From small coves to long stretches of sand, this stretch of coastline will captivate you. El Sablón is the town’s beach.
Cangas de Onis
Nestled inland, Cangas de Onís is a small town with a great history. The Battle of Covadonga took place here, which is said to have been the beginning of the Christian conquest to recover Al-Andalus.
What best defines the town is the Roman bridge that is decorated with the Victoria Cross , one of the most recognizable symbols of Asturias. Cangas cuisine is like nowhere else. Local shops sell the most delicious traditional products . If you can, head to the market to try the cheese produced in the Picos de Europa .
Cangas de Onís is located near the beautiful mountainous landscapes of the Montaña de Covadonga and Picos de Europa natural park.
This area is famous for cattle ranching , so drive carefully (especially when heading towards the Covadonga lakes) because the cows literally jump onto the road.
Port of Vega
No list of the most beautiful towns in Asturias is complete without Puerto de Vega. Breathing romance, the coastal town has been a source of inspiration for many artists. Traditional fishermen’s houses and large houses belonging to West Indian residents line the harbour, painting a pretty picture.
This is a town with a long agricultural and fishing tradition. To learn more about it, visit the Juan Pérez Villamil Ethnographic Museum. Or better yet, you can stroll from bar to bar, breathe the fresh air of the Cantabrian Sea, drink a glass of cider and gaze at the Cantabrian waters from a terrace.
The three
Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, Lastres is another traditional fishing village , which has recently become a tourist destination par excellence. Do not miss the views from the Mirador de San Roque , from where you can even admire the Picos de Europa National Park .
Luarca
A wonderful little town, full of whitewashed houses with a traditional seaside charm that northern Spain is famous for. It looks even prettier when the sun goes down, especially after a rainy day.
Taramundi
And to finish our list, we return to the interior with one of the most picturesque towns in Asturias. Taramundi perches on a slope, nestled between the valleys and the mountains . The atmosphere in this town is truly unique, with the green mountains creating an extraordinary sense of calm. The bell tower of the parish church will catch your eye, as will the views from the highest point of the town.
Taramundi houses one of the largest forts in Asturias. Dating back to the Bronze Age, the fortress was taken over by different rulers and was a center of trade. The town is also known for its knife-making tradition. You can’t leave without buying one as a souvenir. Another of the town’s attractions is its mill museum , the largest in Spain with no less than 19 mills. As you can see, Taramundi is a destination with a lot to explore.
