Explore the Autonomous Region of Asturias
From Mountains to Coast: A Tour of Asturias’ 8 Counties
Asturias is a small principality in the north of Spain, known for its natural beauty, with rugged coastline, mountainous landscapes, and lush green forests. It is renowned for its dairy products, particularly milk, cheese and yogurts. You can find the historic cities of Gijón, Avilés, and Cudillero there.
The 8 Counties in Asturias
Asturias is a region located in the north of Spain, which is divided into eight administrative areas called “comarcas” or “counties”. These counties are further divided into municipalities or “concejos” in Asturian language.
Avilés
Caudal
Eo-Navia
Gijón
Nalón
Narcea
Oriente
Oviedo
In addition to these eight counties, Asturias also has several other interesting places to visit, such as the Asturian Coastline, which has several beaches and seaside towns, and the Picos de Europa National Park, which has some of the most impressive mountain landscapes in Spain. Asturias is also known for its gastronomy, with dishes such as fabada asturiana (a hearty bean stew), cachopo (a stuffed veal dish), and sidra (Asturian cider) being some of the most popular.
Adventures in Asturias
From Mountains to Coast: A Tour of Asturias’ 8 Counties
Asturias is known for its rugged coastline, majestic mountain ranges, rich culture, and excellent gastronomy.
Monte Naranco
Monte Naranco gives you an incredible view of the city of Oviedo below. You will find historical Santa María del Naranco sitting on its slopes.
Sculptures scattered around Oviedo
Oviedo is an open-air gallery filled with over 100 sculptures scattered throughout the city. So many sculptures. So little time.
Avilés
Located in the northern coast of Asturias, Avilés is known for its industrial heritage and modern architecture. The city of Avilés is the third-largest in Asturias and has a lively cultural scene, with several museums and theaters. The county is also known for its seafood, with the port of Avilés being one of the largest fishing ports in Spain.
Popular destinations in Avilés include the historic center, the Oscar Niemeyer International Cultural Centre, and the beach of Salinas.
Caudal
Located in the southeastern part of Asturias, Caudal is known for its mining history and mountain landscapes. The county has several natural parks and protected areas, such as the Natural Park of Las Ubiñas-La Mesa and the Redes Natural Park. The capital city of Mieres is an important industrial and cultural center, with a rich mining heritage.
Popular destinations in Caudal include the Santa Cristina de Lena church, the town of Teverga, and the ski resort of Valgrande-Pajares.
Eo-Navia
Located in the western coast of Asturias, Eo-Navia is a rural area known for its traditional architecture and landscapes. The county is crossed by two rivers, the Eo and the Navia, which provide water to the many farms and orchards in the region.
The town of Castropol is a popular destination in Eo-Navia, with its medieval castle and picturesque streets.
Gijón
Located in the northern coast of Asturias, Gijón is the largest city in the region and a popular tourist destination. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with several museums and festivals throughout the year. Gijón is also known for its beaches, such as San Lorenzo and Poniente, and for its cider production.
Popular destinations in Gijón include the Roman Baths, the Laboral City of Culture, and the Aquarium.
Nalón
Located in the central part of Asturias, Nalón is known for its coal mining heritage and for being the birthplace of several prominent Asturian writers. The county has several museums and cultural centers, such as the Museum of Mining and Industry and the José Luis García del Busto Foundation.
The town of Langreo is the capital of Nalón and a popular destination, with its historic center and mining past.
Narcea
Located in the southwestern part of Asturias, Narcea is a mountainous region known for its natural parks and hiking trails. The county is crossed by several rivers, such as the Narcea and the Ibias, which provide water to the many forests and meadows in the region.
The town of Cangas del Narcea is the capital of Narcea and a popular destination, with its medieval castle and wine production.
Oriente
Located in the eastern coast of Asturias, Oriente is a scenic region known for its beaches and mountains. The county has several natural parks, such as the Picos de Europa National Park and the Redes Natural Park.
The town of Llanes is the capital of Oriente and a popular destination, with its historic center and beaches.
Oviedo
Located in the central part of Asturias, Oviedo is the capital city of the region and an important cultural and economic center. The city has a rich history, with several historic buildings and monuments, such as the Cathedral of San Salvador and the University of Oviedo. Oviedo is also known for its cider production and for being the birthplace of several famous Asturian writers, such as Leopoldo Alas and Ramón Pérez de Ayala.
Popular destinations in Oviedo include the Campoamor Theatre, Campo de San Francisco (San Francisco Park), and the Museum of Fine Arts of Asturias.
