Things to do in Asturias

 Published 3 September 2026

In the Middle of Nature

As frequent visitors to Asturias, we have been drawn back time and again. Combining work and leisure in this breathtaking part of Spain has been an absolute delight.

Situated between the Cantabrian Sea and the Cantabrian Mountains, the natural beauty of Asturias is simply unparalleled. The valleys, cliffs, and beaches provide a perfect escape from our everyday routines.

During our stays, we've had the pleasure of exploring historic cities like Gijon and Oviedo, where the ancient churches and charming streets transport us back in time. It's a true cultural treasure trove. The blend of tradition and modernity here is great. The Picos de Europa National Park has become a favorite for us, offering a soul-stirring experience in the middle of the majestic mountains and dense forests.

Asturian Hospitality

But it's not just the natural wonders that have captured our hearts; the people of Asturias are welcoming and proud of their rich heritage. We've had the pleasure of tasting the delicious Asturian cuisine many times. The food ranges from stews to pincho's and seafood dishes. The cider tastings have been a highlight, and we've even joined in a local festivals in summer. Asturias has become a home away from home for us.

Eat:
Restaurant El Remedio

Experience culinary excellence at El Remedio, a restaurant that will make you feel right at home. In a peaceful garden on top of a hill, this nice restaurant provides a dining experience that is truly unique.

Majestic Cliffs Meet Culinary Art

As you enter, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea's majestic cliffs and the nearby 19th-century chapel. Through the large glass window surrounding the kitchen, you can watch Chef Samuel Fernández and his team work their magic, using seasonal ingredients to create original dishes. El Remedio is a celebration of the local produce and the surrounding land, while also embracing new and intense flavors. 

Elevating Flavors and Views

To complement your meal, you can try a nice selection of moderately priced wines. At El Remedio, the passion for cooking and the genuine desire to make you feel at home is evident. Prepare for a dining experience and sea views that will leave a lasting impression. And while El Remedio is not located in Asturias, but rather in the nearby region of Cantabria, it's still not too far from Asturias.

Restaurant El Remedio
Barrio Liandres, s/n 39527, Ruiloba, Cantabria
website

Eat:
Restaurant Narbasu

At Restaurant Narbasu, the essence of the land and its bounty is woven into a respectful and self-sustaining dining experience.

Owned by chefs Esther and Nacho Manzano, the restaurant is renovated in a comfortable style, mirroring the spirit of their renowned Casa Marcial, established in 1993.

Locally-Sourced Ingredients and Community Support

The menu at Narbasu has ingredients that are familiar to the chefs since their childhood, sourced from the surrounding region. Their commitment to working closely with local farmers, artisans, and producers shows their dedication to honoring the finest products they are provided with, further contributing to the prosperity of neighboring communities. 

Garden-to-Table Strategy

One of the nice features of Narbasu is its own large vegetable garden, tended by Esther and Nacho Manzano. With the natural rhythm of the seasons, they celebrate the diversity that each time of year brings, incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables into their dishes.

The restaurant's bond with its suppliers, developed over the years, has made them feel like family. The goal is simple: serve the best of Asturias and continue supporting rural development.

Impeccable Service and Authentic Flavors

During our visit to Narbasu, we experienced impeccable and professional service. The food quality was great, highlighting the dedication of the chefs to creating an authentic dining experience. Narbasu has left an impression on us, embracing the essence of Asturias.

Narbasu Hotel

Narbasu Hotel offers 23 rooms, divided into standard, special, and junior suites, with neutral colors. Guests savor a favorite moment during breakfast, surrounded by nature, with fresh fruits, artisan bread, and locally sourced products like Tineo butter and Los Caserinos yogurt. The views of Picos de Europa and nearby valleys add to the charm, making Narbasu a true haven of tranquility.

Esther and Nacho Manzano

Esther and Nacho Manzano, renowned Spanish chefs from Asturias, gained fame for Casa Marcial, a two Michelin-starred restaurant blending tradition with creativity. They also contribute to Narbasu, reflecting their commitment to local ingredients and community support. Respected figures in Spanish cuisine, their impact extends beyond Asturias.

The recommendation from the MICHELIN Guide

A Gastronomic Gem with a Green Mission.
Narbasu, a charming hotel and restaurant in the authentic 14th-century Palacio de Rubianes, showcases inviting guestrooms and excellent cuisine. The menu's focus on quality ingredients, sourced from its own kitchen garden and local producers, highlights their commitment to sustainability and support for the circular economy. Embracing the essence of the surrounding region, Narbasu is a shining Green Star in the MICHELIN Guide.

Narbasu Hotel & Restaurante
Palacio de Rubianes 33583 Cereceda
Website 

Eat:
Restaurante La Huertona

If you're looking for a natural dining experience in Ribadesella, look no further than La Huertona. With a philosophy that emphasizes careful treatment of ingredients and gratitude toward the products of the land and sea, La Huertona aims to share moments of quality.

Fresh Seafood and Seasonal Ingredients

While dining at La Huertona is not cheap compared to other retaurants in Asturias, the restaurant offers professional service and has a shaded terrace with a beautiful view. We have also heard that La Huertona varies its food prices according to the season, something we don't really like.

The menu has seasonal dishes selected daily by the chefs, and all fish is sourced from the Llanes and Ribadesella fish markets. Don't miss the chance to try their delicacies made with tender Ribadesella peas, sourced locally.

Award-Winning Fine Dining in Ribadesella

La Huertona has received accolades and mentions in various publications, including 2 'Repsol Suns' and a spot among Opinionated About Dining's list of top new restaurants in Europe. 

Located just 2 kilometers from Ribadesella, reservations are a must for this popular spot. Call or email the restaurant to secure your table, especially during the weekend and in the summer season.

Restaurante La Huertona
Carretera de la Piconera, s/n, 33560 Ribadesella
Website in Spanish

Eat:
Restaurante Vista Alegre

Having visited Restaurante Vista Alegre multiple times, we can confidently say has a nice cuisine and delightful ambiance.

Each time we dined here, the food impressed us with its authentic Asturian taste. From the delightful house pâté assortment (you have to try the sea urchin pâté) to the seafood paella and the beef escalopes with Cabrales cheese, every dish is a treat. For many years, we have also loved their stuffed onions filled with tuna. What also stands out is the amazing terrace. The setting is breathtaking, providing great sea views.

When planning to visit for lunch, we highly recommend making a timely reservation. The restaurant's popularity makes it essential to secure a table in advance. Restaurante Vista Alegre promises not only a good dining experience but also a professional servicel. 

Lunch with Asturians

Whether you're a local or a tourist exploring the charms of Asturias, Vista Alegre is a must-visit for those looking for an authentic taste of the region's culinary treasures. Don't miss the delightful Souflé de natillas almendradas or the Biscuit de manzana y sidra for a perfect ending to your dining experience. To ensure availability, contact the restaurant.

Vista Allegre
Website

Visit: Ribadasella

Ribadesella is a charming town situated at the mouth of the Sella River, divided into two parts by a bridge.

Western Shore

On the western side of the Sella River lies Playa Santa Marina, a beautiful large sandy beach with the majestic Mount Somos and Coberu in the backdrop. The 1,5 km long beach is a favorite spot for locals to take relaxing walks on clear days, and to do some surfing. Along the beach, there's a long boulevard with hotels and romantic 19th-20th-century mansions owned by aristocrats and "Indianos" (Spaniards who returned wealthy from the Americas). An excellent example is Villa Rosario, now a hotel, where you can also go for lunch or a drink; like we did. In this urban area, you'll find a mix of new and modernist architecture.

At the end of the western side of the beach, at the Pozu viewpoint, you can observe dinosaur footprints embedded in the cliff rocks. Adjacent to the beach, the Malecón Nature Park, a marshland, provides ecological value and serves as a passage for migratory birds. Walk through the park on its paved road and series of walkways and towers to get a close-up view of the flora and fauna.

Harbor Restaurants and Cider Bars

The Ribadesella harbor is an ideal place to taste some  seafood. The harbor market, La Rula de Ribadesella, located on the quay, supplies restaurants with the catch of the day.

Insider tip: Tito Bustillo Cave and Art Center

Nearby, in the Ardines Massif, lies the Tito Bustillo Cave, one of the most significant paleolithic art sites globally and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cave's rock paintings and engravings date back to between 33.000 and 10;000 BC. The cave, once inhabited by people, consists of 12 rooms, with only the main panel open to the public, showing the most significant number of depictions. Before entering the cave, it's recommended to visit the Tito Bustillo Art Center, located 250m from the cave entrance, offering a permanent exhibition and background information about the cave and its drawings. We really enjoyed our visit to Tito Bustillo Cave, which is one of the most beautiful caves in Europe.

Eastern Shore

On the eastern side, you'll find the historical center and central streets like Gran Vía or Comercio, hosting numerous commercial and recreational facilities. The old town, declared a historic-artistic site in 1973, features narrow alleys and colorful walls in various pastel shades. It boasts several stately 17th-18th-century houses, Romanesque churches, a Gothic and Renaissance chapel, and a beautiful Renaissance-style town hall. The heart of the neighborhood centers around La Plaza Nueva and La Plaza Ignesa, bustling with cider houses, cafes, and shops, creating a lively atmosphere, especially in the evening.

Paseo de la Grúa and Playa Atalya

Take a walk along the Paseo de la Grúa to admire ceramic murals created by the Spanish cartoonist Antonio Mingote, depicting the local history. Continue to the top of a hill, reaching the most beautiful viewpoint overlooking the city, the bay, and the Ermita de la Guia chapel. Playa Atalya, in a 1 km long bay, at the foot of Mount La Atalaya (also known as Corberu), is a lesser-known beach with fewer facilities than Playa Santa Marina, making it the perfect spot to relax.

Seven kilometers south of Ribadesella are the Cuevonas de las Cuevas de Agua, providing access to the village of 'Cuevas de Agua,' after which the caves are named. It's one of the few caves you can drive through. 

Visit: Gijon

Gijón, a lively city on Spain's northern coast, offers a rich cultural experience for visitors.

Explore the Archaeological Museum of Asturias to learn about the region's history, or discover contemporary art at the Revillagigedo Palace. The Laboral City of Culture is a modern cultural hub with galleries and events. Don't miss the Roman Baths of Campo Valdés to glimpse the city's ancient heritage. Gijón's music and theater scene, with festivals and performances year-round, adds to its cultural charm. Highlights to visit:

• Gijón Collegiate Church
• Museum of the People of Asturias
• Garden of Evaristo Valle Foundation Museum
• Campo Valdés Roman Baths
• Railway Museum (Gijón)
• Acuario de Gijón - Gijón Aquarium
• Revillagigedo Palace
• Atlantic Botanical Garden

In addition to its cultural offerings, Gijón also delights food and drink enthusiasts with its dining and bar scene. The city is known for its seafood, and you can try delicious Asturian cuisine at local restaurants. Be sure to try the Asturian cider, poured in a traditional "escanciar" style at cider bars. Gijón's streets come alive at night with numerous bars and taverns offering a wide variety of drinks and tapas. Read more.

Visit: Picos de Europa National Park

Situated across 11 charming villages, the Picos de Europa is Spain's only inhabited nature reserve. It invites travellers to a unique and unforgettable journey.

This region has seen the peaceful coexistence of rural life and nature for centuries. This has created a captivating environment with a remarkable diversity of wildlife. More than half of the animal species found on the Iberian Peninsula live in this region, in its meadows, lakes, mountains and forests. You can see a variety of fascinating creatures here, from roe deer and chamois to grouse and Egyptian vultures, all sharing this magnificent park.

We also love seeing the brown cows leisurely wandering the mountains. These cows are the source of the renowned beef that you can enjoy while visiting Asturias. 

For those seeking to explore the Picos de Europa, a wealth of possibilities are available. Accessible by car, the park offers over 30 self-guided routes, enabling visitors to experience its breathtaking beauty at their own pace. Additionally, three visitor centers provide information and guidance to plan the perfect adventure through this natural wonder. During the months of July to September, free guided tours are available in the three provinces encompassing the park, allowing visitors to gain deeper insights into its rich history and ecological significance. Moreover, 17 strategically located viewpoints beckon, offering awe-inspiring panoramas. Whether hiking through its rugged terrain, exploring charming villages, or simply enjoying nature, the Picos de Europa promises an unparalleled experience.

Visit: Real Sitio de Covadonga - Cangas de Onís

Exploring the Covadonga Basilica is a great experience, and a hidden treasure awaits those who walk up the path to the left.

The loud sound of rushing water catches the attention of people passing by, leading them to discover the Santa Cueva build into the mountain. Climbing up the side steps, visitors come across a small chapel, looking like a delicate dollhouse in the heart of the imposing mountain. But before going up, take a moment to admire the lake beneath the waterfall, where the flashes of copper from coins thrown in twinkle among the pristine green hues. Many believers have thrown coins over time, making wishes with humble offerings.

Spiritual Journey Through the Santa Cueva 

As you near the exit, the faint smell of recently lit candles fills the air, becoming the final touch of this journey. Before leaving, a large shelf decorated with numerous candles waits for you, with tourists patiently queuing to light their wicks – a symbolic light at the end of the tunnel. 

Eat: El Tonel 

Restaurante Sidrería El Tonel in Villaviciosa offers a simple blend of traditional and contemporary cuisine.

Their menu has Cantabrian meats, fish, and seafood, served with attention to detail. Established in 1994, El Tonel continues to impress us every time, with their dedication to professionalism and outstanding service. From Oricio-Stuffed Asparagus to Beef Ribeye, every dish reflects Asturias. For a nice and no-nonsense dining experience in Villaviciosa, visit Restaurante El Tonel.

Restaurante El Tonel
Manuel Álvarez Miranda 13, Villaviciosa
Website

Asturias has a way of pulling travellers back. After several visits, the appeal remains unchanged: a region where Atlantic landscapes and a deep cultural identity sit naturally side by side. Positioned between the Cantabrian Sea and the Cantabrian Mountains, Asturias offers a mix of valleys, cliffs and broad beaches that feel far removed from daily noise. Cities such as Gijón and Oviedo add another layer, their old churches and compact historic quarters giving a clear sense of time and place. The Picos de Europa National Park remains one of the region’s standout areas, a mountain range that feels both accessible and elemental. Yet it is not only the scenery that lingers.
Asturias is defined as much by its people as its landscapes: warm, steady hospitality and a food culture rooted in local produce and tradition.