Asturias

 

The Weather
It is never really cold in this part of Asturias and hardly ever gets too hot. Year-round the countryside is lush and green. But all that green comes at a price… It rains a lot. A lot! In any season of the year, you can expect a good shower or a fine drizzle at any time. That also means that humidity is very high, especially here in the village of La Pereda, which is nestled at the foot of a mountain range that often stops the clouds from going further inland. It is quite normal for a thick layer of mist to hover over La Pereda, while the sky is clear and blue over the sea.

A grey day might be expected, but the weather may suddenly improve, too. Nothing is prettier than a dark blue sky set against all shades of green. Spring and autumn often offer days warm enough to spend at the beach, with fewer people than in the peak months of July and August.

At any time, it's always a good idea to bring a sweater and raincoat. 

Location
Llanes is an excellent location from which to explore the area. With mountains, beaches, and many quaint villages around, there is plenty to do, no matter what the weather is like. Hiking, cycling, relaxing at one of the many beaches, or trying out one of Asturias’ famous dishes - it is all within reach from our house in La Pereda. 
La Pereda is a quiet hamlet with a cute church and an abandoned Asturian bowling court, but little else. It's location offers strategic access to many beaches and other locations without having to pass through the town of Llanes, which in the summer months can be heaving with people and traffic. 

In the nearby village of Parres (1.5km) there's a small grocery shop (El Chispún) and a bar/restaurant, El Fresnu. 

Transportation
The nearest airports are:
Santander (1 h by car)
Oviedo (1h 10m by car)
Bilbao (2h 15m hours by car)

Llanes is accessible by bus (Alsa) from:
Santander (1h 30m)
Oviedo airport (2 h) 
Bilbao (a 3h 10m)

Our house in La Pereda is located 3.8km from Llanes, and there is limited public transportation back and forth, so a car is recommended. There are car rental services at the airports and in Llanes.

Things to do
The historic centre of Llanes still shows traces of its past as a whaling port. Some of the buildings date back to the 13th century. Explore the town centre or walk along the Paseo de San Pedro, along the cliffs, with a beautiful view over mountains and sea.

Beaches
Despite or maybe because of its rugged coastline, Llanes and its surroundings have some of the most beautiful beaches! Some are rocky, and others have fine white sand. There are beaches with funky rock formations, islands, and even caves. None are the same; all are worth visiting. Just be aware of the tide. Download an app or look online so you won’t be surprised by high tide. 

Some of the beaches not to be missed are:

• Andrín (Playa de Andrín)
• Barru (Barru)
• Buelna (Cobijeru, Gulpiyuri)
• Celorio (Borizu, Troenzo, Palombina)
• Cué (Antilles, Playa de Cué, La Ballota)
• Llanes (El Sablón, Puertu Chicu, Playa de Toró)
• Niembro (Torimbia, Toranda)
• Poo (Playa de Poo, San Martín)
• Villa Nueva (Cuevas del Mar)

Hiking
Asturias is a hiker's paradise. Whether you fancy an adventurous hike or a relaxing stroll, there are plenty of routes of different lengths and levels. You can walk the pilgrim trails along the coast or in the countryside. Some places to consider are:

Porrua (Ruta de la Mañanga)
Camin Encantau
Picos de Europa

For more information, click here.

Towns
Charming towns to visit within an hour's driving distance:

• Comillas (El Capricho de Gaudí)
• Lastres (Jurassic Museum)
• Ribadesella (Cuevas de Tito Bustillo, beach)
• Santillana del Mar (Cuevas de Altamira)

Festivities:
Folklore is still alive and well in Asturias. Each town has its patron saint, sometimes more than one, and its special days are celebrated with traditional music, dance, and processions. Click here for an actual calendar.