If you're planning to hike the Anillo de Picos de Europa, get ready for an unforgettable adventure. This circular route through the National Park takes you across dramatic limestone peaks, lush valleys, and remote mountain refuges. But your journey doesn’t have to end when the trail does.
Asturias, the region that hosts much of the Picos de Europa, is a paradise for hikers, food lovers, and anyone who enjoys slow travel and local culture. Whether you’re recovering after days on the trail or planning a little extra time before your hike, here’s how to make the most of your trip.
Must-try Asturian dishes and flavors
Asturias is famous for its hearty, homestyle cooking. One quick tip: start with small portions. Really! The servings are generous, and some dishes (like fabada or cachopo) are large enough to share between two hungry hikers.
Also, if you’re vegetarian or vegan, keep in mind that the local cuisine is very meat and dairy based. That said, you’ll still find good options in bigger towns, just don’t expect tofu on the mountain menus.
Here are some traditional dishes you should definitely try:
- Fabada Asturiana – A rich stew made with white beans (fabes), chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), and pork. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect after a long, cold hike.
- Cachopo – A massive breaded beef fillet stuffed with ham and melted cheese. Think of it as a giant, meaty cordon bleu. It's usually served with fries and peppers.
- Asturian Cheeses – The region is home to dozens of artisanal cheeses, but the star of the show is Cabrales, a powerful blue cheese aged in mountain caves. Try it paired with local apple jam, the mix of strong and sweet is surprisingly addictive.
- Sidra Asturiana (Cider) – The drink of the region. Visit a local sidrería to watch the traditional pour, held from above the head into the glass below. It’s all about aerating the cider and enhancing the flavor.
A coastal escape
After days surrounded by rock and snow, the Asturian coast feels like another world. Wild beaches, dramatic cliffs, and colorful fishing villages line this stretch of the Cantabrian Sea. It’s also a great area for surfing, seafood, and just relaxing by the ocean.
Here are a few coastal spots worth visiting:
- Salinas – A laid-back surf town with a long beach and beginner-friendly waves. You’ll find surf schools, beach bars, and a chilled-out vibe. Close by, the cliffs around Verdicio and Aguilera beaches are great for a scenic walk. Don't miss the Cabo Peñas Lighthouse, the views are wild and beautiful.
- Ribadesella – A charming town at the mouth of the Sella River, known for its prehistoric caves (like Tito Bustillo) and excellent seafood. It’s a perfect mix of culture and coastline.
- Llanes - This historic gem by the sea features a medieval old town, remains of its ancient wall, and some great seafood spots. Don’t miss the Paseo de San Pedro, a scenic clifftop walk with stunning sea views.
- Playa de Gulpiyuri – A tiny inland beach fed by a saltwater tunnel. It’s only about 40 meters wide, but super unique. Just make sure you get there early, as it can get crowded easily.
- Bufones de Pría – Along this rugged stretch of coast, seawater blasts through natural blowholes in the cliffs. The sound is thunderous and the spray can reach several meters high.
Discover the charming towns of Asturias
Beyond the coast and the mountains, Asturias has some beautiful small towns where time seems to slow down. These spots are perfect for a stroll, a good meal, or just soaking up the local atmosphere.
- Cangas de Onís – The traditional gateway to Picos de Europa, known for its Roman Bridge and Sunday market. Great for picking up local cheese or cider.
- Arenas de Cabrales – A cheese lover’s paradise and a good base for hiking the Ruta del Cares. It’s also home to some cheese caves you can visit.
- Covadonga – A spiritual and historical site with a stunning basilica nestled into the mountains, plus the famous Lagos de Covadonga. A classic day trip.
- Oviedo – The elegant capital of Asturias, full of culture, clean streets, and good food. Wander through the old town, visit the Cathedral of San Salvador, or try a local cider in one of the traditional sidrerías. It’s a nice urban contrast to your time in the wild.
Somiedo Natural Park
If hiking the Anillo de Picos hasn’t satisfied your mountain cravings, Somiedo Natural Park is an excellent destination for day hikes and further mountain exploration. This park is far less crowded than Picos de Europa, making it a haven for wildlife, including the elusive brown bear—though sightings on the trails are rare. As you explore, you’ll come across traditional brañas and teitos, rustic shelters and homes that have been used for centuries by shepherds and local farmers.
We wrote an article about the park with some day hikes recommendations. Check it our here.
