Asturias archivos - Page 2 of 4 - VOLARE MAGAZINE

Oviedo is the ideal city for a perfect escape, and it has everything you can imagine: a beautiful, well-preserved old town, museums, theatres and other really interesting cultural spaces, places to savour the delicious Asturian cuisine, shops for browsing and making some nice purchases, markets, a cider boulevard, a wine route, traditional cafés and confectioners, green routes and spaces for strolling and relaxing, and urban spas.

And as if that wasn’t enough, it’s surrounded by charming villages, spa resorts, Pre-Romanesque art, golf courses, riding clubs, green paths and more.

In fact, you’ll find everything you could possibly wish for in and around Oviedo.

A delightful Old Town

Oviedo is one of those welcoming, stress-free cities with an Old Town that’s well worth a visit. It’s very well preserved and it’s a clear testimony to the origins of the city, through to the present day. The city was of great importance in the Early Middle Ages, when it was the capital of the Kingdom of Asturias and home to the court of King Alfonso II of Asturias,, the creator of El Camino de Santiago, or St. James’s Way.

So one of the most customary sights is that of the pilgrims coming to visit the Cathedral of El Salvador, giving the city a multicultural and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

The Cathedral of El Salvador is one of the city’s most impressive buildings, with its Holy Chamber, its Garden of the Kings, its pilgrims’ cemetery and its Romanesque tower. And right next to the cathedral stands the church of San Tirso el Real, thought to have been built at the request of King Alfonso II in the 9^th century. Only the upper part of the apse wall with a three-light window remains of its ancient Pre-Romanesque structure.

But there are many other buildings of interest, both civil and religious, in styles ranging from medieval, renaissance and baroque to contemporary. And, of course, there are plenty of restaurants and small shops, etc., giving the area a vibrant atmosphere.

You could, in fact, say that Oviedo’s Old Town never sleeps, as it’s full of life both day and night.

The world capital of Pre-Romanesque art

Oviedo could, without doubt, be described as the world capital of Asturian Pre-Romanesque Art, as various parts of the city and its surrounding areas are home to most of the Pre-Romanesque monuments that have survived until the present day, and which were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1985.

The Holy Chamber of the Cathedral, the churches of Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo (both on the slopes of Mount Naranco), the Foncalada fountain (the only surviving example of a civil construction in Spain intended for public use in the Early Middle Ages and which is still in use today), and the church of San Julián de los Prados are just some examples of this Pre-Romanesque Art in the Asturian capital.

A city steeped in culture

Oviedo’s identity stands out for its culture. It can be found in its museums, such as the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts, both housing important collections and legacies, as well as in its theatres, such as the Campoamor and the Filarmónica, as well as in its Auditorio Príncipe Felipe.

It can also be seen in its exhibition halls and its Congress Centre, and in its numerous multi-purpose spaces, which are always holding exciting and interesting events.

Palacio de Congresos Oviedo — Palacio de Congresos

In short, Oviedo lives and breathes culture.

Oviedo, the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy in 2024

Oviedo is a gastronomic city par excellence. In fact, its qualities in this area have resulted in it being awarded the title of Spanish Capital of Gastronomy for 2024. The city is deserving of such recognition due to it “being the standard bearer of Asturian cuisine, a cuisine that wins you over”. Dishes such as fabada (bean stew), cachopo (a veal, cheese and ham dish) or its unrivalled cheese varieties and excellent shellfish. “Oviedo seduces the nation’s palate” said the jury who awarded this distinction.

Oviedo is also a city with a very sweet tooth, as it’s widely known for its traditional sweets and pastries, with unique creations such as its carbayones (puff pastry delights with almond cream) and moscovitas (chocolate and almond biscuits).

As you stroll through the centre of Oviedo, you’ll soon come across renowned traditional confectioners, where you can buy something sweet to enjoy as you go along, or to eat there and then, in a warm and friendly atmosphere. And some of the bakeries are so old and so well preserved that they make great photo opportunities to remember your visit by, as is the case with Camilo de Blas and its famous carbayones, or with Rialto and its moscovitas.

It’s also a place where the cafés always have a great atmosphere and where “having a coffee” is a deeply rooted custom for building friendships, socialising and relaxing. So it’s easy to find these pleasant places in the centre of this friendly city.

In general, Oviedo’s cuisine is plentiful, varied and of good quality. Lunch spots, long-established bars, cafés, restaurants, cider houses, etc.; a whole range of places to suit all tastes and pockets.

In Oviedo you can take a tour of different culinary routes, from traditional dishes to the most cutting edge and innovative cuisine, and from Asturian cooking to different trends and dishes from around the world.

The Cider Boulevard, not to be missed!

The Cider Boulevard is on Calle Gascona, one of the city’s oldest streets, which is now pedestrianised and over 20 years ago became an iconic place for enjoying the cider culture of Asturias.

tierra astur Gascona — Restaurant Tierra Astur calle Gascona

This vibrant, bustling area houses numerous restaurants, bars and cider houses where you can try a wide range of traditional Asturian dishes, always nicely balanced with cider.

Watching the still cider being poured or enjoying a delicious fabada, a cachopo, an Asturian cheese board and much more besides, is an unforgettable experience, in a warm and lively setting at any time of the day.

The Wine Route, an attractive leisure option

Oviedo’s Wine Route consists of four central streets: Campoamor, Manuel Pedregal, Río San Pedro and Fray Ceferino. These streets are full of small bars and restaurants where you can try traditional Asturian cuisine, as well as international fare and signature dishes. So there’s something for all tastes.

The area is always full of life, where you can have a few glasses of wine, some beers, have lunch, dinner or a cocktail or two, enjoying the city’s nightlife.

An ideal place for shopping

In Oviedo there’s a wide range of shopping options: from the large shopping centres to the boutique stores and traditional markets.

The city has some well-known shopping streets such as Calle Uría and its surrounding area, with a great selection of shops selling clothes, accessories, etc. There are also the pedestrianised streets in the Old Town, as well as some specialist shops that are popular with locals and visitors alike.

One of the nicest and most typical places to have a look around and to go shopping is El Fontán market, where you can buy garden products on Thursdays, and where it’s bustling every day as there are lots of shops around where you can buy all kinds of Asturian items. On Sundays there’s a flea market.

mercado el fontan oviedo — El Fontán Market

In the area of El Fontán you’ll find the covered food market, with its stalls of meat, fish, different varieties of Asturian cheese, fruit, etc. An historic building full of character.

A green city

Oviedo is a green city. It has numerous walking and cycling routes on the outskirts, as well as many green spaces throughout the city itself, the most iconic being – right in the heart of the city – the Campo San Francisco park.

parque san francesco oviedo — Campo San Francisco

There are also urban spas, pleasant terraces, etc. where you can switch off completely, in an ever-friendly environment.

So, this and much more besides, makes Oviedo the perfect getaway destination!

Easter in Asturias is marked by Semana Santa (Holy Week), with all its traditions, processions, festivities and other events. It’s the ideal time to live and breathe Asturias in a unique and special way, making the most of your holidays or just for a short break, whether in the city or in the countryside.

A bit of history

The history of Holy Week in Asturias is rich and ancient, dating back to the Council of Trent in the 16th century, which introduced important changes in the Catholic faith that were decisive in the origin of Holy Week as we know it today.

Brotherhoods began to emerge to relive the Passion and Death of Christ. The first of these was founded in Oviedo/Uviéu.

Gradually, during the Baroque period, Holy Week began to take root in Asturias. In 1682, the Royal Brotherhood of Our Father, the Good Jesus of Nazareth (Real Hermandad de Nuestro Padre el Buen Jesús Nazareno), began its activities in Luarca/Ḷḷuarca, where it founded a School of Christ.

The following centuries saw periods of greater or lesser splendour, and it was in the 20th century, in the 1940s, that the Brotherhoods re-emerged, only to recede in the 1960s and regain popularity in the 1980s and 1990s. As a result, Holy Week in Asturias today has numerous brotherhoods and processions that are experiencing real growth and renewed passion.

Curiosities of a unique Holy Week

Holy Week in Asturias keeps alive some interesting and joyous traditions. One is wearing something new for the first time on Palm Sunday.

Another beloved tradition is that on Easter Sunday, godchildren take palm leaves to their godparents, who hang them on their balconies or keep them at home until next year.

After receiving the palm leaf from their godchildren –or even if they don’t– godparents traditionally give them a gift at the end of Holy Week. Some still opt for a chocolate cake or figure, in shapes that change according to fashion, as well as typical Easter eggs or chocolate bunnies. Although the “bollo” –as it is called– does not necessarily have to be a sweet, it can be any other kind of gift.

Another colourful and tasty tradition is found in the windows and displays of confectioners’ shops, where the best works of their master chocolatiers are displayed, inspired by monuments, characters and all kinds of creations and reproductions.

When it comes to cakes, many towns in Asturias have their own traditional creations, such as the Roscón de Pascua from the mining regions, a puff pastry filled with almonds and meringue and decorated with coloured feathers, which can be several tiers high. The ancestor of this cake was the famous Pegarata, a bread roll in the shape of a cake containing boiled eggs, chorizo, bacon and ham.

Another very typical Easter pastry is the traditional Mantecado de Avilés or Mantecado Imperial de Avilés, traditionally given by the godfathers and godmothers of the city to their godchildren on Easter Sunday.

Not forgetting the fact that some brotherhoods have a tradition of serving a special lemonade with all these sweets, made with fresh lemon juice, home-made liqueurs and flavoured with cinnamon and sugar.

Fiesta season

Easter in Asturias promises to be full of events and attractions. Among these, the Asturias Festivals of Tourist Interest, some of which are held during the Easter holidays, deserve special mention.

These are: Holy Week in Avilés, Holy Week in Villaviciosa, the Living Stations of the Cross in Villanueva de Oscos, and the horse races on the beach in Ribadesella.

However, there are other places in Asturias where the Holy Week celebrations are intense and where you can enjoy the festivities to the full. These include Oviedo/Uviéu, Gijón/Xixón, Luarca/Ḷḷuarca (Valdés), Lluanco/Luanco (Gozón), Candás (Carreño), and L’infiestu (Piloña), among others.

Dozens of parades, processions, living Stations of the Cross, etc. fill the streets of towns and villages with a mixture of devotion and a unique festive atmosphere, always accompanied by unrivalled local cuisine.

After Passion Week two other festivities of great interest to tourists round off the holiday calendar: the Bollo in Avilés and the Painted Eggs (Huevos Pintos) in Pola de Siero.

The El Bollo Festival (Fiesta de El Bollo) originated at the end of the 19th century as an event of community life and popular participation to celebrate the arrival of spring and the end of Lent. They are held at the end of Holy Week, on Palm Sunday and Easter Monday.

The name of the festival comes from its gastronomic component, a buttered and iced sponge cake in the shape of a four-leaf clover called a Bollo. On Easter Sunday godparents treat their godchildren to a buttered bun in return for the palm leaf received on Palm Sunday. The Bollo is made with butter, flour, egg and sugar.

A large parade of decorated floats, giants and big-headed people, brass bands and folklore groups parade through the streets of the town at midday on Easter Sunday and in the afternoon on Easter Monday. The floats are designed and built by various community associations and reflect allegorical spring scenes or elements that represent the city. The festivities are rounded off by a variety of musical performances: Havanera choirs, Celtic music and open-air dances. Then at midnight, there are fireworks displays over the Ria.

On Easter Monday, a huge public cookout takes place in the streets of the Old Town and in the city’s parks. On average, twelve thousand people sit down to talk and eat food prepared at home or ordered from restaurants along a continuous line of tables stretching for more than four thousand metres through the streets of the Old Town. Younger people flock to the city’s parks to enjoy their meal out on the grass.

The Painted Eggs Festival in Pola de Siero (Fiesta de los Huevos Pintos) is always held on the Tuesday after Easter Sunday. From the early hours of Easter Tuesday, the centre of La Pola Siero takes on an incredible atmosphere, especially around the market, where dozens of stalls are decorated for the occasion, offering the chance to see and buy painted eggs, or Huevos Pintos, with a huge variety of decorations and sizes, although most of their designs and motifs are inspired by traditional Asturian culture, with many different sayings and symbols.

A very special moment of the festival is the blessing of the painted eggs in the square in front of the town hall, after which there is a celebration of cider, good food, bagpipes and revelry, which continues into the early hours of the morning.

Other options

In addition to the most typical processions and events of the season, Easter in Asturias offers many other alternatives.

The different museums and cultural spaces have a specific Easter holiday schedule.

For example, the Tito Bustillo Cave Art Centre (Ribadesella), the Jurassic Museum of Asturias (Colunga) and the Prehistoric Park of Teverga organise children’s workshops and activities for the whole family, as well as permanent and temporary exhibitions.

The Pre-Romanesque Centre, in Oviedo/Uviéu, also organises activities.

The Pepe el Ferreiro Ethnographic Museum in Grandas de Salime hosts live demonstrations of traditional crafts, children’s workshops and a temporary exhibition on the knowledge and role of women in the rural world of western Asturias.

Another option for an enjoyable Easter break is to take a guided tour of Laboral City of Culture, including going up to the viewpoint for a spectacular panoramic view.

And for a foodie experience, the Taramundi Cheese Fair is a good option.

Meanwhile, for nature lovers, Easter is the ideal time to indulge in outdoor activities and rural tourism.

An unforgettable Easter holiday in Asturias

Traditional fiestas, cultural visits, stunning spring landscapes… if you decide to spend Easter in Asturias, you are bound to find the perfect plan for you! Are you ready?

Are you planning on visiting Asturias soon? We’d love to accompany you with some music, so we’ve prepared a playlist of Asturian music for you, featuring local artists!

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3hMdoO7kIw9rY5T7NmDfDt

And to find out more about this lovely region, we got in touch with Anabel Santiago, an iconic artist from Asturias. A singer and teacher, she was also a TV presenter and has acted in both shorts and feature-length films. We asked her a few questions to see what she thinks about your forthcoming destination and whether she has any tips for you.

Hi Anabel, thanks for agreeing to this interview! You’re the leading exponent of the traditional Asturian style of song known as “la tonada“. Could you tell us a bit more about this genre of music and what makes it different from other styles of folk music?

The tonada is the vocal genre that’s identified most with our tradition in Asturias. It’s a kind of freestyle singing that’s usually sung a cappella, although it’s often accompanied by bagpipes or by a traditional tambourine. It has a basic melodic structure but differs from other styles due to its complex melisma, or its vocal turns and cadences. The tonada deals with themes that relate to everyday village life, working in the fields, the lifestyle, affairs of the heart, and there’s also room for irony and humour. Many people are no doubt unfamiliar with this vocal expression, but that makes it no less interesting, as it’s the first cousin of genres such as cante jondo or jota aragonesa.

We know that you’ve played a key role in modernising the Asturian tonada to bring it closer to the younger generations. Within this context, could you tell us a bit more about the traditional festivals that are still celebrated in Asturias and where we could experience some authentic traditions?

The traditional festivals in Asturias tend to be associated with the feast days of the local patron saint (or other figure) and are celebrated in the “praos”, or pastures, along with our most popular drink, which is cider, and with dancing. They are characteristic of our region because they’re not just festivals, but they’re places where we get together to dance, meet someone, socialise and enjoy the village and its people.

Apart from the festivities, we have the chigres (bars or cider houses) where we sing and have fun in a similar way. This is where the songs, or canciones de chigre, come from, with common themes that everyone sings about while drinking cider or after dinner. There’s currently a movement for restoring this very social expression of our tradition with the staging of numerous festivals based on the cancios de chigre, to promote and raise awareness of this particular kind of entertainment and connection to our traditions.

The Asturians’ attachment to their own culture is well known. How would you describe the strong bond Asturians have with their culture and traditions, and how do you think this connection has influenced their preservation and the way people joyfully share aspects of Asturian culture?

We Asturians are renowned for talking everything up. We like sharing and taking pleasure in what is ours. So wherever we go or whenever we welcome people from elsewhere, we do it in spades. We’re proud of our unique cuisine, folklore and mountainous landscape. I think that this pride and approach to life causes us again and again to fight to protect what is ours, although there’s still a need for more cultural support and more involvement on the part of young people. That’s why it’s essential to promote our music and adopt new ways of working with traditional music, as both I and other fellow artists of the genre have been doing for years.

And what is it about Asturias that you are passionate about personally? Is it its amazing natural beauty, its rich culture, its beautiful beaches or its delicious food?

Personally, I love the number of folixas (festivities) and themed festivals we have. For example, the fiesta vaqueira in Aristébano, paying homage to our western culture, or the number of festivals celebrating our locally produced cheeses or cider, such as the festival del quesu Gamonéu or Cabrales or the natural cider festival in Gijón or Nava. At these kinds of events, gastronomy, nature, music and traditions all go hand in hand. You don’t find that way of bringing all the different cultural aspects together in many places in Spain.

On the subject of food, what typical dishes must we be sure to try in Asturias?

This is a classic, but you can’t come to Asturias without trying fabada [a bean stew]. Secondly, a nice cachopo [veal fillets with ham and cheese], with rice pudding or frixuelos [a kind of crêpe] for dessert.

Is there maybe a pretty little town that not everyone knows about and which you could suggest we visit?

I love the sea, so as little gems I’d recommend a stroll around Luanco and a visit to Puerto de Vega. They never disappoint.

And finally, if you could book your next holiday with Volotea, which destination would you like to visit and why?

I love travelling. My last trip was to the Greek Islands, but I keep thinking about taking a break in Naples, to try its food, soak up the charm of its streets and people, and, of course, to see Pompeii and its history.

Thank you, Anabel!

Asturias is a land that can be explored in a multitude of ways: on foot, on a bicycle, by motorbike, by car, on horseback, etc. Cycling is definitely one of the healthiest and most enjoyable ways of discovering the Natural Paradise, where there are some wonderful easy routes for exploring beautiful spots, while getting a bit of exercise at the same time.

These routes are ideal for families, as you can enjoy some amazing places without much effort!

Vía verde del Ferrocarril del Eo in San Tirso de Abres

The town of San Tirso de Abres, at the westernmost part of Asturias, is the starting point of a simple hiking route called Vía verde del Ferrocarril del Eo (PR AS-300). This ‘Green Way’ is ideal for families, whether walking or cycling. And this pleasant trail runs along an old disused railway line, where you’re surrounded by nature, as you discover industrial architecture, waterfalls, tunnels, salmon ladders and beautiful suspension bridges along the way.

The characteristics of the route are ideal for having fun without overexerting yourself, as it is straight and practically flat. The route from San Tirso de Abres to the border with the province of Lugo is 7km long, plus another 7km back, making a total of 14km, with an overall drop of only 45m and a duration – at a leisurely pace – of around three and a half hours.

Senda del Oso

The Senda del Oso (Bear Path) follows the route of an old mining railway, which has now been converted into one of Spain’s most popular Green Ways. It runs through the municipalities of Santo Adriano, Proaza, Quirós and Teverga. It’s ideal for calmly enjoying nature, as you don’t need to be fit for this route. Although you can walk it, you’re better off cycling for an unforgettable ride.

For a relaxed itinerary, the best option is to start off in Entrago (Teverga), and from this town ride continuously downhill – making it a very enjoyable excursion – to Buyera (Santo Adriano), at the lowest point of the route, and where there’s a recreational area very close to the bear enclosure, where you can see the bears Paca and Molina.

The distance between Entrago and Buyera is 18km, downhill, which you can easily cover in around two hours or two and a half hours, passing through wonderful woodland areas, a ravine, tunnels, bridges and villages.

Vía verde de El Tranqueru en Carreño

This Green Way in the municipality of Carreño, and just over 1km long, was originally a modest mining railway, whose most spectacular section from a scenic point of view was between the stops of Perlora and Xivares, in the municipality of Carreño.

This unpaved track runs between the rocks of the cliffs and in some places practically flies over the Cantabrian Sea!

This short but delightful route will give you the opportunity to access the beach at El Tranqueru (which you can only reach via this Green Way), and at the other end of the Way, Xivares beach is another place of natural interest.

Vía verde de Fuso en Oviedo

The Fuso Green Way (18 km there and back) starts at the Parque de Invierno park in Oviedo/Uviéu, and is almost completely flat and well surfaced, so you can walk it, cycle it or even roller skate it. It also has the advantage of picnic areas being located at different points for you to take a rest or have a snack.

After bridges, woodland, old mills and several tunnels (some of which are quite long), as well as spotting birds and other native species and seeing peaks and mountains in the distance, you’ll reach your destination at Fuso de la Reina, where you can see the waters of the longest and largest river in Asturias, the Nalón, with the thermal waters of Les Caldes, with its refurbished baths and spa, close by.

Coastal path from Poo Beach to Niembru in Llanes

The coastal path crossing the municipality of Llanes and coinciding in some sections with the Northern Way or Coastal Way, is a great itinerary for enjoying on two wheels.

We would recommend a manageable route of approximately 9km, between Poo beach and the Niembru ría. It passes through some beautiful coastal scenery, cliffs and beaches, always against the backdrop of the Sierra del Cuera and Picos de Europa mountain ranges.

A unique setting in which to pass by beaches such as San Martín, Celorio, Borizu, Troenzo, Sorraos and Barro, to end your ride at the port of El Vao, in Niembru, with its beautiful ría.

The villages of Asturias have always been one of the best places for enjoying a peaceful and healthy life. Now more than ever, these villages are special places, a source of health and wellbeing, not only because of their location, the fresh air or the centuries of knowledge handed down and cherished through the generations, but because of the wide range of options to bring you happiness, pure and simple.

You’ll see how in the village, everything is an asset to you and yours, and you’ll find an endless source of personal wellbeing.

Pure air and idyllic landscapes

In the villages of Asturias, the landscape creeps in through the doors and windows, and hangs from the telephone lines and the raised granaries. Lush greenery and foliage, mountains, valleys, rivers, streams, trees or woodland, as well as pure air, accompany you on your rural wanderings, making the best travel companions.

Step into the village and a whole world of unspoiled nature will unfold before you!

rural tourism asturias — © Alejandro Brana

Training the body and soul: indoor and outdoor activities

Asturian villages are an infinite fountain of resources for you to enjoy to the full. There is, in fact, an extensive and varied range of both indoor and outdoor activities available. Some rural accommodation facilities offer workshops on different subjects or programmes designed around yoga, meditation and other relaxation exercises. You can also arrange your own walking trips or hire specialised guides for interpretive trails, wildlife spotting, etc.

And, of course, there are tour companies operating in the area, offering all kinds of excursions: canoe descents, horse riding, 4×4 routes, surfing, paddle-surfing, trekking, etc.

hayedo de montegrande asturias — © Tania Crespo

Food of a lifetime, local produce and Landscape Cuisine

Good food obviously plays a fundamental role during your stay in a village in Asturias. Here it’s so easy to be seduced, as everything is delicious, as well as very healthy and fresh.

Breakfasts in the rural accommodation establishments are always amazing; in fact, they’re bound to be one of the highlights of your holiday. You’ll want for nothing with a village breakfast, and all homemade: bread, honey, butter, jam, seasonal fruit and nuts, homemade sausages, etc. It will certainly set you up for the rest of the day…

And when it’s time for lunch, you’re really talking, with those age-old recipes that form part of that intangible cultural heritage of Asturias.

asturias rural gastronomy — © Alejandro Brana

Restorative silence, natural sounds and slowing down

Especially at night, silence helps to relax your mind and is a determining factor of a good night’s sleep, far from the noise pollution of the city.

In the daytime, the silence of the countryside combines with very natural sounds to compose a unique symphony, in which the birds, the wind, the tree branches, the cats and dogs, the cowbells and the shepherds’ voices all play their part.

One of the advantages of country life is that you adapt to the pace of your surroundings, a pace that becomes more human and less stressful. In the village you have time for everything: to sleep as long as you like, to enjoy a leisurely breakfast, to read, chat, go for a walk.

A magical atmosphere that changes with the seasons

The villages are steeped in magic. In an Asturian village it’s easy to find the goblin-like creature known as a trasgu lurking, or to suddenly come across the busgosu (the spirit of the forest) or the cuélebre (the winged serpent-dragon), or to hear the song of a xana (the water spirit). In Asturian villages, myths and legends are everywhere. There are specific places that feature in legends and there are legends in many places.

The magic is also embellished with the characteristics of the seasons, as every season is different, with its own geophysical and metaphysical “point”.

A pleasant, educational world, where the little ones can have the time of their lives

The villages of Asturias boast an admirable cultural and ethnographic heritage, which is so clear to see. The traditional architecture of Asturias, both civil and religious, is extremely rich.

Raised granaries, mills, churches, palaces, hermitages, farmhouses, bowling alleys, etc., combine harmoniously to give you an understanding of what life was like in the past and what remains of it today. There are also some very interesting ethnographic museums in certain towns and villages.

The villages of Asturias seem to have been designed for children to have fun. As well as the freedom of movement and timings enjoyed there, unlike city life, there are so many things to stimulate their creativity and imagination: all kinds of flora and fauna, hidden corners, landscapes, locals to tell them stories of times past, etc.

Staying in idyllic spots

On this journey through the many good things and qualities of staying in a village, one strategic choice is your accommodation. And also in this respect, the rural tourist establishments in Asturias offer you the best of the village: comfort, wellbeing, hospitality, peace and quiet, and a whole host of options for a pleasant, leisurely, educational and active stay.

The excellence of rural accommodation in Asturias is represented by the Club de Calidad de Hoteles Casonas Asturianas (Quality Club of Hotels in Asturias) and by the members of the brand of village houses and rural apartments, Aldeas Asturias Calidad Rural. In both cases, the accommodation itself and its surroundings, as well as the impeccable service, make country breaks truly special and the experience of a lifetime.

So, when you’re thinking about spending a few days relaxing and switching off, surrounded by nature, your best bet will be to stay at one of the establishments of Casonas Asturianas and Aldeas Asturias Calidad Rural!

Autumn is an ideal time to enjoy Asturias, where you’ll find something no matter your interests or fancies, be it a heading to the nature trails for different levels; tantalise your taste buds at the food festivals by sampling Asturias culinary arts; a plethora of museums and shows; ecotourism at its best in cities that welcome you with open arms…

In short, a stunning range of activities and interesting options that’ll exceed your expectations, even if you’re the energetic or demanding type.

Hit the road!

Forget the summer, autumn is a time for staying in shape mentally and physically or even for getting in shape. And I promise you, in Asturias you’ll do just that! The options for walking along trails, caleyas or canals that lead you to beautiful places are endless, as you make your way through unparalleled landscapes, dream villages and magical spots, with a special charm that’ll ignite the spark to achieve your personal goals. It forests, rich in different colours this time of year, offer a unique and truly unmissable view.

Personally, I’d recommend these as the best forest trails in Asturias!

Enjoy the local cuisine!

Asturian gastronomy is one of the ways to look after yourself and make you feel healthy both body and mind. The time is now for homemade, slow-cooked stews, to be enjoyed by the fireside in the villages, or on friendly stoves in the cities!

It is a time for the seal of quality of Asturias’ Cocina de Paisaje in this land renowned for having world-class local products, using simple ingredients and excellent produce to create mouth-watering dishes. The region specialises in comfort food, even when fine dining or by grills and confectioners. Local, quality food, with produce that expresses the region’s culture and tradition, which can only be truly appreciated here.

Wow your sense with a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Even a time for celebration.

The coming months offer a host of food festivals in Asturias, some of which are so emblematic that they are Tourist Interest Festivals like the grape harvest in Cangas del Narcea, the Desarme (Disarmament) festival in Oviedo/Uviéu, the Gamonéu cheese festival in Benia (Onís), the hazelnut festival in L’Infiestu (Piloña), the turnip festival in Sotrondio and the stuffed onion festival in L’Entregu/El Entrego – the latter are both in San Martín del Rey Aurelio.

You see… Autumn in Asturias is utterly delicious! Check out the truly unmissable dishes here!

Vibrant Museums

If museums and cultural activities are your thing, Asturias is for you. There are urban, rural, and open-air museums and the themes are incredibly varied: art, ethnography, sport, collector’s items… You’ll never be bored!

Museo de los Molinos, Taramundi. © Juanjo Arrojo

The museums are all dynamic, with permanent and temporary exhibitions. These are my favourite ten “musts” here!

An ecotourist’s paradise

If it’s ecotourism you’re after, look no further! Everything you need to connect with nature is at your fingertips: Observing flora and fauna, photographic and audio-visual activities, discovering the greatness of the Atlantic Forest, the biodiversity of the coast and so much more.

Whether you like birdwatching, the great land mammals – especially the Cantabrian brown bear -, or marine wildlife; or if you are interested in the plant world, and especially forests, Asturias offers you variety and quality. Plus, if it’s autumn, all the better, because the colours of the leaves offer a stunning chromatic range.

Check out the best ecotourism ideas for this autumn here!

Chill-out Cities

One very special feature of the three cities of Asturias – Oviedo/Uviéu, Gijón/Xixón and Avilés – is that they are very relaxing. Their size, culture, buzzing social life and the vibrancy of everyday life there make them peaceful yet fun. And very walkable! They’re all well connected, so you can travel from one to another very easily. The three cities are equidistant, just half an hour apart by car or public transport.

Oviedo/Uviéu is the starting point of the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James) and its medieval origins give it a majestic feel, particularly in the old town. Gijón/Xixón preserves its military and Roman past and is a beautiful coastal city with dozens of spots for enjoying the Cantabrian Sea. Avilés, on the other hand, has one of the best-preserved old towns in northern Spain and an estuary that is unique in Cantabria.

There’s loads to do and see in each!

If there’s something you will find in Asturias, it’s viewpoints to feast on the beauty before your eyes. There are all kinds of viewpoints: on the coastline and inland, overlooking the sea and the mountains, completely natural and manmade, so you can benefit to the maximum from all the options of the thousands and thousands of landscapes. Furthermore, many of them are part of gorgeous trekking routes.

Here are 10 viewpoints that will definitely make you fall in love with Asturias landscape – that is, if you aren’t already in love.

Mountain viewpoints

A Paicega

The A Paicega viewpoint, in Pesoz, stands in a former workers’ settlement, built in the 1950s for the workers building the Salime dam. Even though it is now abandoned, time seems to have stopped, and it’s worth stopping to take in the amazing view of the Navia River, the Grandas de Salime dam, and the surrounding mountains.

El Fitu

The El Fitu viewpoint, in Parres, is one of the best-known in Asturias and offers stunning views of the Sueve and Picos de Europa mountains and the Cantabrian Sea. On clear days, you can even see the city of Gijón/Xixón.

Mirador de la Reina

The Mirador de la Reina viewpoint is one of the most popular in the Picos de Europa National Park. It is by the side of the road going up to the Covadonga Lakes, in Cangas de Onís. From there, you will have a 360º view, with the Picos de Europea mountains behind you, all the way to Onís, Cangas de Onís, de Parres, Cabrales, and the Cuera mountains. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Cantabrian Sea in Ribadesella and Llanes.

Muniellos

Muniellos, in Cangas del Narcea, is considered the forest among forests. Visiting it is an astounding experience. On the road leading up to Connio mountain pass, exactly on kilometre 11, there is a small lay-by, where you can park and take in the lovely view of Muniellos, with information panels too.

Coto Bello

The Coto Bello viewpoint is one of the most beautiful belvederes in Aller, at the heart of Asturias’ Central Mountains. There, at the site of a former outdoor mountain mine, after ten kilometres up a sinuous road, stands this viewpoint. An information sign shows all the local peaks: Peña Mea, Peña Negra, Pico Torres, El Toneo, El Estorbín, La Liebre, Ranéu, Ranoriu, La Texera, and el Carrascón, among others.

Coastal viewpoints

La Boriza

The La Boriza viewpoint, in Llanes, affords spectacular view of Andrína beach, to the East, and Ballota beach, to the West. You will also be able to see the town of Llanes and the Cuera and Picos de Europa mountains, as well as a wide view of a large part of the Eastern coastline. An unforgettable spot.

Cabo Busto

Cabo Busto is one of the main natural promontories on Asturias’ West coast. It is in Valdés, near a lighthouse and Bustu village. The view from Cabo Busto includes beaches and cliffs, as well as a glimpse of the town of Luarca, and the vastness of the Cantabrian Sea.

Cabu Peñes

This is the northernmost point in Asturias, located in Gozón, and its majestic cliffs make it a privileged location to view a large part of the coastline. In addition to its amazing views, you can visit the lighthouse, whose ground floor has been turned into a Visitors’ Centre and the Peñas Centre for the Marine Environment. You can also walk along the cliffs on a pedestrian path with explanatory panels about the local environment.

San Roque

This is one of the best-known viewpoints on the Asturian coastline, located in the town of Llastres, in Colunga, because it offers stunning views: the beauty of Llastres and its beaches, La Griega beach, and the Picos de Europa mountains in the background.

You can drive up to this viewpoint, which has a small parking area, as well as leisure facilities with a children’s area, a barbecue area, a fountain, and tables. And all this next to San Roque chapel.

El Sablón

In Cudillero, very near Oviñana village, this is considered one of the most stunning viewpoints in Asturias. It stands at the top of the cliffs, and there’s a bench to take in the amazing view. It’s only a 15-minute drive from the town of Cudillero, one of the most popular tourist areas in the West coast of Asturias.

Asturias is without a doubt an authentic eco-paradise. When you feel nature’s pull, it’s allure, it’s tranquillity washing over your, you’ll know exactly what I mean.

Rediscover yourself as you discover new landscapes, new species of flora and fauna, new sounds, and unique experiences.

It’s beauty is within reach, and waiting to be experienced and photographed. Capture that unique and unforgettable moment in time!

Animal watching

Asturias is a great spot for some good old-fashioned local, Iberian wildlife watching. Bears, wolves, deer, chamois, wildcats, genets, and otters are just a handful of species that call this Natural Paradise home. The brown bear stands out as one of the most eye-catching species you can spot here, because it’s the largest land mammal on the Iberian Peninsula.

Try your hand at bird- or marine-mammal watching (can you spot the whales and dolphins?), which are the other two parts of this trio of natural attractions.

Breathe that forest air

During your stay, Asturias’ forests will act like a new set of lungs. Oak groves and beech wood, chestnut trees, birch trees, yew trees and holly… There’s an unbelievable richness to the local flora, and the forests will no doubt end up becoming one of your favourite places to visit.

Asturias’ mythical yet very much real forests of Asturias, places such as Muniellos, in the west, or Peloño, in the east, will leave you with memories you won’t soon forget.

A coastline of dinosaurs

Scour the near-50 kilometres of coastline from Gijón to Ribadesella for fossilised dinosaur footprints (ichnites) – they’ll get you thinking about the curious inhabitants who lived here more than 150 million years ago!

All along Dinosaur Coast, as it’s come to be known, beautiful beaches such as Tazones or Merón in Villaviciosa, or La Griega in Colunga, and cliffs such as the Tereñes in Ribadesella, will reveal a period of Earth’s history that’s totally different to the one we live in today.

Breath-taking landscapes from the best viewpoints

Asturias is known for its beauty and natural interest, which, of course, makes it ideal for walking, active tourism, or simply getting back to nature in the wilderness and hideaways.

With hundreds of viewpoints at every peak, on every mountain, down every road, and in every town you visit, be sure to take it all in and awe at these unparalleled landscapes.

Routes to keep you physically and mentally fit

There’s lots of different routes you can enjoy, and they’re perfect for maintaining both your physical and mental health and appreciating the great charm they offer.

There’s no doubting the iconic status of the Natural Cantabrian Mountain Range Path, which runs a 600-kilometre-long course right through the inside of Asturias.

If ecotourism is part of your travel philosophy and you’re after trips where you’ll be surrounded by natural environments, Asturias is the perfect destination.

Volotea celebrates its 10th anniversary! To celebrate this important milestone, we invite you to retrace the company’s 10 years through the discovery of 10 Volotea bases.

On 5 April 2012, a new low-cost airline made its first flight from Venice to Cagliari. Since then, Volotea aircraft have crossed European skies, transporting more than 40 million passengers and connecting more and more cities: today we have over 100 destinations in 16 countries with a map of 360 routes, and keep growing.

Volotea cities are the heart and essence of flying so, to celebrate our anniversary, we thought we would introduce you to some of our operational bases.

We invite you to leave with us on a journey back in time to discover 10 cities that have made the history of the company. 10 bases, one per year, the year of their inauguration.

2012: NANTES

The charming old town, the relaxing green spaces and the dynamic cultural life will win you over as soon as you set foot in Nantes.

This lively city located along the Loire estuary is full of tourist attractions and art displays; the many works of art and museums have in fact contributed to giving new life to the city, renewing its industrial heritage.

Unmissable experiences in Nantes:

Cycle along the green line to discover one of the most “bike-friendly” cities in France
Spend an evening at the Hangar à bananes, one of the many bars, restaurants and displays overlooking the Loire
Discover the installations on the Estuaire Trail between Nantes and Saint-Nazaire
Taste Muscadet wine in the city bars or exploring the vineyards in the Nantes region
Immerse yourself in culture visiting the city’s main monuments and museums, like the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, the Cathedral, and the Museum of Fine Arts

2013: PALERMO

Palermo will cast a spell on your senses: eclectic, chaotic, fragrant, colourful, with a fascinating millenary history that peeps out on every corner, Palermo is a continuous discovery. Its rich cultural heritage, its exotic, lively personality, its fantastic gastronomy, and its paradise beaches near the city are just some of the things that make Palermo one of the most surprising destinations in Italy.

Unmissable experiences in Palermo:

Visit the Cathedral and the catacombs
Try the street food and Sicilian specialties
Take a swim in the many dream beaches along the Palermo coast
Explore the Teatro Massimo and the entire historic centre

2014: ASTURIAS

Asturias is famous as a true paradise for lovers of nature and active life: lush natural parks, long wild beaches where you can surf or relax in the sun, mountains to explore where you can do some fantastic trekking… But those looking for a culture break will not be disappointed by Asturias: the cities, the charming small villages and the traditional museums are unmissable, as well as the rich local gastronomy. You will always be warmly welcome!

Unmissable experiences in Asturias:

Visit the three main cities of the region: Oviedo, Gijón, and Avilés.
Unwind in one of the stunning local natural parks , where time seems to have stood still
Try the local specialities in one of the charming seaside villages, such as Llanes or Cudillero
Surf the waves at one of the endless local beaches, like Peñarronda.

2015: VERONA

Ever since Shakespeare chose it as the setting for his famous tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, Verona has earned a reputation as the romantic city par excellence. Indeed, this Unesco World Heritage city will conquer anyone’s heart, thanks to a well-preserved historic centre, a Roman Arena where unmissable operas are staged, a splendid province where rolling hills give unique wines to the world. And who wouldn’t like to sip a spritz while lazily watching life from one of the city’s magnificent piazze?

Unmissable experiences in Verona:

Attend a concert in the dreamy Verona Arena
Enjoy a break from exploring the historic centre in Piazza delle Erbe, the beating heart of the city
Declare eternal love to your partner (or to yourself) under Juliet’s balcony
Have a delicious aperitif and taste the excellent local wines, such as Lugana or Valpolicella
Take a trip to Lake Garda, with its Mediterranean climate, its spas, and the charming villages scattered along its shores

2016: TOULOUSE

Lively Toulouse, France’s fourth largest city, is known as “the pink city” for the colour of its buildings, which take on a particularly striking hue in the light of sunset. The beautiful Vieux Quartier, the historic centre, seamlessly flows into the more modern and busy part of Toulouse, a cutting-edge research hub as well as an important university city. The diverse urban landscape has a beautifully melancholy air when viewed from the old bridges over the Garonne.

Unmissable experiences in Toulouse:

Stroll through the alleys of the Carmes district
Enjoy a show in one of Toulouse’s cultural institutions: La Cave Poésie or the Cineteca, both on rue du Taur
Enjoy local delicacies and wines and go shopping in the elegant Saint-Etienne district
Like Nantes, Toulouse also has its own space dedicated to giants: the Giant Machines in the Montaudran district
At sunset, take a relaxing walk along the banks of the Garonne and admire the incredible view over the Dôme de la Grave!

2017: BILBAO

If you are an architecture fan, Bilbao is undoubtedly a must. With its avant-garde museums, including the incredible Guggenheim, and futuristic buildings, the city has focused on new architectural trends and culture to recycle its industrial past. We feel you should also know that some of the best chefs in the world have opened their restaurants here, and the beaches near Bilbao are spectacular. Already looking for a plane ticket to the Basque Country, are you?

Unmissable experiences in Bilbao:

Marvel at the Guggenheim’s stunning titanium building and admire its collection of modern art
At lunchtime, take a tour of the different bars in the picturesque Casco Viejo to do some “picar” (nibbling) on pintxos and txacoli (the local sparkling wine)
Treat yourself to a dreamy boat ride along the Ría, the urban estuary where the river meets the sea
If you visit the city in early July, don’t miss the huge BBK music festival, where world-famous musicians perform every year

2018: ATHENS

Athens, the birthplace of democracy, is one of those cities you absolutely must visit once in a lifetime. Not only because of its incredible historical heritage, which is a real draw for tourists from all over the world, but also for its irresistible atmosphere: Athens knows it has a lot to offer, but it doesn’t seem to give too much importance to its own beauty. It is precisely this informal and somewhat anarchic air that made us fall in love with her. Trust us on this.

Unmissable experiences in Athens:

After making a stop at the Acropolis, discover the most authentic Athens by following the advice of our local experts
Greek cuisine is a true explosion of flavours; try its most distinctive dishes in Plaka restaurants
Discover the hipster soul of Athens and its vibrant cultural and nightlife in more alternative neighbourhoods, like Metaxourgeio
Enjoy the view of the city from the top of Mount Lycabettus, preferably at sunset
Depart from here to discover the wonderful Greek islands, such as Mykonos or Santorini

2019: CAGLIARI

The capital of Sardinia is a delightful town on a human scale, perfect for a break from the island’s paradise beaches but also to enjoy a cultural weekend any time of the year. In the charming fortified district of Castello you can take a walk through history and enjoy splendid views of the city, while in the port area you will be greeted by the salty air and typical trattorias serving gorgeous fish dishes. A few kilometres from the town centre, the lovely coastline is particularly lively in the summer months, while the lagoon areas are the home habitat of pink flamingos and many other bird species.

Unmissable experiences in Cagliari:

Enjoy the view of the city and its surroundings from one of its seven hills
Treat yourself to a delicious aperitif at Saint Remy fortress
Immerse yourself in the history of Sardinia with a visit to the National Archaeological Museum
Spend the afternoon swimming and the evening lounging around at Poetto beach
Watch the diverse aquatic fauna in Molentargius Park

2020: NAPLES

Could its proximity to Mount Vesuvius be the reason why Naples releases so much energy? Or is it the influence of its three millennia of history, which have seen a succession of invasions, attacks, and natural disasters, forging the character of this city so strongly? Whatever the explanation, no one can remain indifferent to the chaotic but absolutely irresistible personality of this city that assaults its visitors’ senses. The smells of Neapolitan gastronomy, the noises of traffic and street vendors, the colours of the hanging clothes and the Nativity figurines, the view of its gulf, one of the most beautiful in the world… Naples is not a destination, it’s a state of mind that cannot be described. One you need to experience.

Unmissable experiences in Naples:

Take a leisurely stroll through the alleys of the historic centre, a World Heritage Site
Prepare your stomach for the local street food: pizza, sfogliatelle, babà, cuoppo, and so on and so forth. And of course don’t forget na tazzulella e cafè!
Explore the city from an alternative point of view from underground Naples
Plan a trip to Pompeii and the beautiful islands in the Gulf of Naples

2021: LYON

The home city of the Lumière brothers is not only pilgrimage site for cinephiles, but for all art lovers. With over 20 spectacular museums, gorgeous UNESCO-protected neighbourhoods, and cultural offerings for all tastes, elegant Lyon bewitches beauty lovers. Good food also has its home here: your mouth will water constantly in the gourmet capital of France.

Unmissable experiences in Lyon:

Get lost in the corridors of the Musée des Confluences as you go on a journey through the history of humanity
Try typical Lyonnaise cuisine in the local bouchons
Find the many street art works scattered around the city
Witness the evocative performances of the Festival of Lights, held every year in early December

And the Volotea cities continue to increase: the latest arrival is Lille, the new base we opened in 2022. We invite you to discover all the cities you can reach with our flights and keep getting inspired, discovering, travelling!

There’s no doubt that Asturias is a paradise of flavour in the broadest sense of the term.

You’ll often feel like you’re being fed by the very landscape itself, and you wouldn’t be wrong: there’s a reason the concept of the ‘landscape kitchen’ has its roots in Asturias’ delicious gastronomy. The variety and uniqueness of the Asturian landscape translates into a gastronomic diversity just begging to take the region’s unforgettable colours, smells, textures and flavours and put them right on your plate.

Asturias is a landscape kitchen, whose core values are its products and those who know how to care for it, the producers, alongside others who know how to turn it into delicious, nutritious and unforgettable meals. Local expert artisans and chefs are joining forces to offer a unique cuisine reflecting the region’s soul.

A cornerstone between tradition and innovation

The fundamental elements of Asturian cuisine have a well-deserved reputation for excellence. Garden produce, wild nuts and fruits, meats, sausages, fish, seafood, honey, milk, cheese… The list goes on, and everything in Asturias is of the highest quality. The area’s exceptional variety means local produce has remained at the very heart of local cuisine.

The ingredients here boast their own seal of quality, and form the perfect foundation for a cuisine steeped in tradition that chefs across the region are building on with their own very personal creations.

Traditions such as the gochu (pig) slaughter, amagüestos (feasts featuring chestnuts), picking apples and making cider, cider-tasting and wine-harvesting, to name a few, not only show the region’s world of flavour and rich history, but also translate into unforgettable dishes.

And Asturias has a team of front-line master chefs eager to build on this base of key elements and tradition. In their own unique and creative universe, they’re using their wide-ranging knowledge of local produce and the savoir-faire of their ancestors to explore the qualities and possibilities of this produce in full.

Asturias, the landscape kitchen, is a mix of cutting-edge trends such as slow or zero-kilometre food, ‘seasoned’ with sustainability in mind, environmental and climate friendliness, and respect for the inhabitants’ local environment.

The ambassadors of the landscape kitchen

Women and men, men and women, all from different generations. They’re deeply dedicated to their craft, adopting traditions, constantly creating, and passing on their know-how. They’re honest like the land, intrepid in the kitchen, and with ample backgrounds and experience to spare, they want to put this Natural Paradise and its Landscape at the forefront.

In Asturias, you can literally eat the landscape. So what are you waiting for? Come and get stuck into its cuisine!