Where to begin to describe Asturias, the greenest and one of the most attractive provinces in Spain?
It is a region in northern Spain that attracts many tourists with its beautiful mountain scenery, cozy villages and rich cultural heritage. Asturias has a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age, and as a region that preserves its traditional culture and language, it attracts tourists looking for an authentic experience of Spain.
Location and nature
Asturias is located in the northwest of Spain, between Galicia and Cantabria. To the east it borders the Cantabrian Mountains, which offer beautiful views and a mountain climate. The western border of the province is washed by the Atlantic Ocean, which creates an excellent microclimate and allows visitors to enjoy wonderful beaches and crystal clear water. The capital of Asturias is Oviedo.
Asturias is also a place where you can enjoy the beautiful nature. Beautiful parks spread throughout the province, filled with a variety of flora and fauna. One of the most famous natural attractions is the Pico de Europa, which covers 640 square kilometers and is the highest point in northern Spain. It is an incredibly beautiful place, with high mountains, wild nature and crystal clear rivers.
Culture and history
When it comes to Asturias' cultural heritage, the region is famous for its beautiful cathedrals, castles and historic towns. One of the most famous monuments is the Church of Saint James in Oviedo, which was built in the 9th century, as well as the Cathedral of Saint Salvator and the Palace of Bustillo. Other popular cities in Asturias are Gijón and Avilés, which have their own architectural treasures and cultural events.
It is also known for its traditional culture and art. Many of the province's museum collections reflect the region's interesting history. Traditionally, locals paint their balconies and windows in different colors, which gives them a unique mood and beauty.
Asturias also has its own language, Asturian, which is recognized by the Spanish state as a regional language. Asturians are proud of their language and culture, and through the efforts of the regional government, the Asturian language is becoming more widespread and popular in the region.
Kitchen
Asturias cuisine is another of its most famous attributes. This region of Spain is known for its seafood, as well as the dishes that make Asturias famous: fabada (beans with sausage), Asturian cheeses (Queso Cabrales, Queso Gamoneu, Queso de Pria) as well as the famous cachopo (jamon and cheese between two large fillets of veal, breaded and fried in olive oil). We recommend trying all of this as soon as you arrive in Asturias.
Well, of course "cider” (a traditional apple juice drink), which is a symbol of Asturias. When pouring the “cider”, the bottle is raised and the drink is poured into a glass from a height of about one meter. This is done so that the drink is saturated with oxygen and gets a fresh taste. Drinking cider and seeing the pouring process itself is a must in the local “cidererias”. One of the most popular in Asturias is Sidrería Tierra Astur.
There are also many winemakers in the region who grow grapes on the slopes of Pico de Europa and in other mountainous areas.
Entertainment
For those who love adventure, Asturias offers many active leisure activities such as hiking, mountaineering, kayaking and paragliding. The region also has many beaches for those who want to enjoy the warm northern sun and the ocean, enjoy surfing or go fishing. There are many tourist routes (rutas) on which you can see places with the history and culture of the region. You can also visit traditional fairs and festivals that take place at different times of the year.
Conclusion
The province of Asturias is a wonderful place to relax, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature, visit interesting museums and architectural monuments, try local cuisine and take part in various events and festivals. This region of Spain may interest both people who love active recreation and those who are looking for peace and comfort.
If you are planning a trip to Spain, we recommend including Asturias in your itinerary. This region deserves your attention and we are sure that it will not leave you indifferent. Visit Asturias and enjoy its beauty, culture and hospitality!
