Asturias or natural paradise, as it is
known in Spain, is one of the most distinctive regions in all of Spain. Located on the northern coast of the Iberian Peninsula, the area has been blessed with a stunning geography and exceptional natural richness. Young mountain ranges give way to lush green landscapes and rivers that flow down to the wide coast with its excellent beaches.

The coast is about 354 kilometres long. It is an ever changing succession of wide beaches, others which are more secluded, small coves, wild cliffs, fishing villages with typical houses overlooking their harbours, rural villages next to the sea, small towns and bigger ones.

Today Asturian settlements abound with authentic picturesque flavour, in the maritime towns and the valley hamlets and mountain villages. In contrast to these quiet towns, the geographic centre of Asturias corresponds to an important urban triangle formed by Oviedo, the capital; Gijon, a city with a beautiful beach; and the more industrial town of Aviles. These varied landscapes, urban and pastoral, are united and framed by the towering mountains to the south and the ocean to the north.

The eastern part of Asturias is the nicest region of the entire Spanish North Coast and is made up of many villages and towns like Colunga, Caravia, Lastres, Villaviciosa, Ribadesella, Cangas de Onis, Cabrales, and Llanes
amongst others.

There is a variety of sport facilities ranging from golf to skiing. Fishing is particularly popular, where salmon and trout are found in abundance in many rivers, lakes and reservoirs. Sailing, diving and surfing can be practiced anywhere along the coast and yacht harbours such as that at Gijon are particularly good.

Asturias is also known for its gastronomical delights. The natural (hard) cider is famous, as is the unique manner of serving it, descanting (escanciar) it from on high so that it foams up as it splashes into the glass held low in the other hand. The cheeses, meat, fish and seafood of the region are also superb.

The inhabitants of Asturias have long been known, and rightly so, as hospitable and friendly people. Asturias: a region that is both entirely unique and typically representative of Spain at the same time. Come see for yourself!