AOW's Travel Tips from: Asturias, Spain

Asturias, where the Cantabrian Mountains meet the ocean in the northwestern corner of Spain. Roughly a third of its territory is protected, so there’s still a sense of discovery and wildness as you walk or drive from one village to the next. Much of the area traverses through Camino del Norte, a gorgeous 865 km (537 mi) walking route. It’s an unpretentious region that allows you to get a feel for real life—the people are reserved but warm and easy to speak with once you engage. 

I stayed in Llastres and really enjoyed it as a base to explore the rest of the region. It’s a low-key, funky place—don’t go if you’re looking for anything fancy. For me, that’s the beauty and charm of it.

Eats: 

Some of my fave eats - A long, beautiful lunch full of scallops, crab and cider at La Tortuga, in the fishing village of Tazones. Plus we loved Bar El Muelle in Lluanco, a local spot where you can enjoy fresh seafood by the harbor. And El Escanu in Lastres, our favorite spot to people-watch and enjoy the local cider. 

When you’re in the area, in addition to the cider, try the variety of Cabrales blue cheeses and of course grab a bowl of fabada, a rich white bean and sausage stew. 

When you have cider in Asturias, it is poured into a wide-mouth glass from high above and is meant to be drunk quickly, in one go. Pouring from high above improves the cider’s aromas, flavors and texture.

Craft Spotting: 

If interested in bringing something handmade back from Asturias or following the craft trail, check out: https://artesania.asturias.es for atelier addresses. Ceramic lovers, be sure to check out the work of Raul Mouro - @artnomada.

Nature Lovers Asturias is For You - The region’s seemingly endless walking trails were a highlight. There’s something for everyone, from the beautiful Picos de Europa National Park for more adventurous hikers, to calm coastal trails that connect small fishing villages, where you can stop to enjoy a long lunch with breathtaking coastal views. 

-Annie