Self-Guided Asturias' Coastline Walking Tour

Arrive at your hotel in the heart of historic Llanes, a captivating port town on Spain's Green Coast. Easily accessible from Oviedo, Santander, or Bilbao airports, this medieval gem awaits your exploration.

Spend the afternoon wandering through the charming streets to discover Santa María del Conceyu, a stunning example of regional Gothic architecture second only to Oviedo Cathedral. Browse local shops and cafés, chat with fishermen at the harbor, and master the art of pouring 'sidra' at one of the town's authentic cider bars. If the weather permits, relax at one of the two beaches right in town and soak up the coastal atmosphere.

Choose your own adventure today as you're dropped off in Vidiago, Pendueles, or Buelna to begin your coastal walk. Follow the scenic E-9 coastal hiking path as it winds through verdant pastures, dramatic limestone cliffs, and secluded coves. Share the trail with pilgrims from around the world walking the ancient Camino del Norte to Santiago de Compostela. Stop for refreshments and conversation at village cafés in Pendueles or Andrín, where you might exchange stories with fellow travelers over a cold beer or traditional meal. This gentle introduction to Asturian coastal walking offers flexibility and stunning Atlantic views throughout.

Set off from your hotel in Llanes on one of the most enjoyable sections of the Camino del Norte. This 19 km journey is full of interesting discoveries, including the famous inland beach and Natural Monument of Gulpiyuri, a unique geological wonder that is worth the 2 km detour. Along the way, you will pass several beaches and small villages, giving you plenty of chances to stop for refreshments, enjoy a meal, or take a refreshing swim in the sea.

If you prefer a shorter route, you can take a taxi or public bus to Póo de Llanes and begin your walk about 3.5 km into the stage. The day ends in Nueva de Llanes, where your luggage will be waiting at Hotel Don Tomás, a beautifully restored 19th-century colonial Casa de Indianos, decorated in elegant period style.

Today's circular walk showcases the raw power and beauty of Asturias’ coastline. Begin with a short taxi or bus ride to Belmonte before walking towards the spectacular Bufones de Llames de Pría, dramatic blowholes that roar and spray when the seas are rough or whisper mysteriously when calm. From here, follow traditional fishermen’s trails down to the scenic Guadamía rivermouth, enjoying constantly changing coastal views along the way.

Continue onward to the beautiful Playa Cuevas del Mar, a beach known for its striking scenery and its use as a backdrop in Spanish films. Take time to relax at the laid-back beach bar and soak in the atmosphere of this unique coastline. If you choose to stay longer and enjoy sunset, you can easily take a taxi for the final 3 km back to Nueva. This short but highly scenic walk offers a perfect introduction to some of Asturias’ most dramatic natural landmarks.

Experience what many consider the most spectacular section of the Asturian Coast as you walk from the Guadamía rivermouth to the historic port of Ribadesella. Along the way, admire a series of striking limestone formations, dramatic islands, and beautiful peninsulas that make this stretch especially photogenic and memorable.

In wet or windy weather, you can choose the safer inland route along the Northern Way, passing through peaceful rural hamlets and quiet countryside. Arrive in Ribadesella, a historic seaside town that has been a favored summer retreat for Spanish nobility since the 17th century and is known as one of the early centers of local tourism.

In the evening, enjoy the excellent dining options in the historic town center, with the option of the Michelin-starred Restaurante Arbidel. You can also visit the remarkable Paleolithic cave art at Tito Bustillo or explore its detailed replicas in the nearby museum.

Today, the Northern Saint James Way follows a stunning stretch of coastline, where you’ll pass an impressive eight sandy beaches. The route includes long, peaceful sections walking directly along the shores of Arenal de Moris, Espasa, and the beautiful La Isla, making it one of the most scenic days of the journey.

There is a short section of about 1 km along the old N-632 national road, but traffic is very light and quickly forgotten as the coastal views take over again. As the day comes to an end, the path turns inland along the Camino for the final stretch leading you to your cozy boutique hotel in central Colunga. If the full 21.5 km feels too demanding, or if you’re tempted to spend more time by the sea, the route can easily be shortened with a taxi or bus from Berbes, La Espasa, or La Isla.

Walk in the footsteps of giants today as you discover the enormous dinosaur footprints preserved in petrified Jurassic mud at La Griega Beach, a truly unforgettable and humbling experience. This final walk beautifully captures the essence of your week, combining a variety of terrains including muddy dirt tracks, tarmac lanes, ancient cobbled cart paths, and scenic fishermen’s trails.

Along the way, take time to absorb the breathtaking coastline near La Isla, pausing to create lasting mental snapshots of its unspoiled beauty. This circular route brings together all the diverse landscapes you have experienced throughout the journey, offering a perfect and memorable finale to your walking adventure along the spectacular coast of Asturias.

After breakfast, your memorable Asturian walking holiday comes to an end. Either walk to the nearest bus stop for onward public transport connections, or arrange an optional taxi transfer back to Llanes or directly to your chosen airport. Safe travels!