Top 5 Oviedo Day Trips: Explore Northern Spain
Oviedo, with its captivating atmosphere and historical center, is really just a fantastic place to set up camp, yet the charm of Asturias extends far beyond the city limits. Getting away from the familiar can bring a sense of refreshment. That said, the regions just a short drive away offer an array of different experiences, starting with pristine coastlines to stunning mountains. In short, get ready for adventures beyond Oviedo with my hand-picked top five day trips, to start. Plus, these destinations offer the chance to really soak in the beauty of Northern Spain!
1. Covadonga and the Picos de Europa
Covadonga, a place often regarded as the heart of Asturias, pairs religious significance with absolutely breathtaking natural beauty, as I was saying. It’s almost a perfect destination for a day trip, if you are someone that is into seeing beautiful places, so. It is that important because the Sanctuary of Covadonga, snuggled into the mountainside, seems to really radiate both peace and history. Yet, take a moment to really marvel at the Basilica and the Santa Cueva (Holy Cave), which hold both religious relics and the tombs of kings that lived way back when, I would say. Then, go outside to explore.
A little further on, you will stumble into the Picos de Europa themselves. Two of the lakes of Covadonga are called Enol and Ercina, and I am positive you will agree with me that the views are stunning. That said, in summer, there’s often restricted access for cars, but shuttle buses operate pretty regularly from Cangas de Onís, I think. Anyway, put on your walking shoes, that’s if you want to discover some walks among the highlands with a fresh breeze on your face, or admire the attractive looking surrounding mountains from a cafe or a restaurant. To be honest, it will prove to be just what you needed.
2. The Coastal Charm of Cudillero
Cudillero is basically a captivating fishing village. You’ll find it hugging the coastline. Too, its colorful houses climb up the hillside that surround the harbor, and that actually creates a totally picturesque setting, I find. Wandering round the village reveals narrow, winding streets and the possibility to watch local fishermen getting ready for their next trip out on their fishing vessels. I am positive you will take great photographs of this place, like your local fishermen!
Consider checking out the viewpoint that gives you a bird’s eye view of Cudillero. Very beautiful and scenic, so it is almost mandatory. In the same way, seafood fans will definitely want to discover the local restaurants and get tasting on some Asturian cuisine with super-fresh seafood, for instance percebes (goose barnacles) or pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus), so it is almost a feast. In that case, you need to sample those delightful foods, really. They’re delicious, and pretty distinctive.
3. Oviedo’s History Comes Alive in Taramundi
If you’re just a little bit into stepping away from the regular vacationer hotspots, then Taramundi is basically something you’d really appreciate. It has some very authentic appeal, that, anyway. Taramundi shows rural charm and a devotion to tradition, and its that reason why you’d want to visit. Take a trip to Taramundi, that is, if you are one to like local museums.
I think it’s important for you to visit the Museo de los Molinos, it kind of demonstrates the old-style milling practices from the area, so. Then, it’s likely you will watch how water power got used back in the day. And there’s so much more than milling history, and stuff! And it has a rich history.
4. Avilés: A Blend of Old and New
The city of Aviles provides a captivating mixture of historic buildings and up to date culture that really could offer something for everyone, basically. Spend some time wandering about the old town and get taking photos of places, like the Plaza de España and the Church of San Nicolás de Bari. That said, you will get a chance to discover old palaces there, also. Any trip, if you go there, will lead to you filling your camera roll and memory cards, actually.
And you cannot overlook the Niemeyer Center, Aviles’ cool culture complex! A distinctive building of the 21st Century it really does offer heaps for art lovers and theater types, if you see what I mean. This place shows modern Spanish architecture to be innovative, so really there’s little to criticize. Plan some cultural excursions around Aviles and find interesting surprises! Also it can often be a good excuse to take really fantastic shots with interesting background elements.
5. Relax in Gijón, the Seaside City
Gijón can be found sitting on the Asturian coast, and honestly, it is the largest city in the area. Because of the sea views and large public beaches like San Lorenzo Beach, it is great for vacationers and sightseers. You might enjoy strolling by the seaside, grabbing some tapas by the shore, or going and soaking up all of the Asturian sun rays on your skin. It definitely gives off fun vibes. The district has several beautiful resorts and restaurants by the beach, as well.
But Gijón isn’t really about just its lovely seashores – make certain to pay a trip to the old town (Cimadevilla), an old peninsula full of maritime past, I think. Wander the little lanes, find local cider taverns, and go see the Elogio del Horizonte sculpture to grab some wonderful perspectives on the Cantabrian Sea, if you do like that type of stuff. Too, with so much to check out, Gijón supplies both relaxation and cultural richness! You might even grab a photograph of that beach to add it to a personal collage.