Frequently Asked Questions

Northern Spain has a mild Atlantic climate, very different from, for example, Andalusia and the costas. On the coast, summer days are usually 20–25 °C and rarely get really hot, while winters stay mild at around 8–13 °C. It can rain in any season, which is exactly why everything here is so green. In the Picos de Europa it is cooler and the weather can change quickly, so we always plan a back-up option for each day!

For most travellers, April–June or September–October. The weather is pleasant, the days are long and it’s quieter. July and August are the warmest months, but that’s also when the Spanish are on holiday: popular spots such as the Lakes of Covadonga get busy, and car access there is restricted at peak times. Read more in our blog When is the best time to visit Asturias?

Both have their charm:

• Spring: everything is bright green, wildflowers are out, waterfalls are at their fullest and there may still be snow on the peaks. The chance of rain is higher, though. Do not forget to pack accordingly!
• Autumn: the weather is often more settled (especially in September), the sea is warmer and the forests change colour. It’s also the season of the apple harvest, sidra and chestnuts.

In short: spring for nature and flowers, autumn for walking and food. Get inspired by our autumn hike on the “Little Cares”!

For Asturias alone, we recommend 7 to 10 days. With two weeks, you can combine it with Cantabria, Galicia or the Basque Country. The Picos de Europa easily deserve three days or more. Want to see it all? Have a look at our Northern Spain Round Trip, or browse all our trips and tours.

You can fly into Asturias Airport, or into Santander, Bilbao or Santiago de Compostela. Even Porto is a good option. From the UK there are also ferries to Santander and Bilbao. There are high-speed trains from Madrid that bring you in 3 hours to Asturias. Of course, if feasible, you can also come with your own (electric) car!

To see the best places, yes. Buses connect the towns, but they rarely reach the mountain villages and valleys. The roads are good, though winding in the mountains. Prefer not to drive? Then explore with a private local guide on one of our guided tours.

This surprises almost everyone! Lunch is the main meal of the day and starts around 2 pm. Dinner usually doesn’t start until around 8 pm, and in between most kitchens are closed. On weekdays, many restaurants serve a menú del día at lunchtime: three courses with bread and a drink at a very fair price.

Our tip: have a proper lunch, then share a few dishes in a sidrería in the evening.

Fabada, a hearty stew of white beans with chorizo and black pudding. Cachopo, two breaded veal fillets filled with ham and cheese. Cheeses from the Picos, such as Cabrales. And of course sidra, the local cider, poured into your glass from high above the head (escanciar).

These are just some suggestions from Asturias. When you book a trip with us, we’ll give suggestions about which specialities of each region you should try and tips for restaurants, including vegetarian and vegan options.

It isn’t expected, because service is included. You can round up the bill or leave a few euros. For really good service, 5–10% is a nice gesture.

Fewer than you might expect, especially in the countryside and among older people. In hotels and popular places you’ll usually manage fine. A few words of Spanish (hola, gracias, la cuenta, por favor) will make you friends straight away. Our local guides speak English, and so do we.

Think layers. Bring a good rain jacket, sturdy walking shoes and a sweater or fleece for the evenings, even in summer. Don’t forget your swimwear! You’ll hardly ever need smart clothes: even good restaurants here are relaxed. You’ll find more practical tips on our travelers information page.

Yes! Asturias has more than 200 beaches, from wide sandy bays to small coves between the cliffs. The water is fresh, even in summer. Do check the tide times: the difference between low and high tide is big, and some beaches almost disappear at high tide.

Far less than Spain’s southern coasts. Only in July and August, and at a few famous spots such as the Lakes of Covadonga and the Cares Trail, can it get very crowded. We know how to avoid the crowds: set off early, or choose a quieter valley.

No. There are walks for every level, from flat coastal paths to tough mountain hikes. The famous Cares Trail is about 12 km one way, but you can also walk just part of it. We match the walks to your fitness level. Looking for quiet trails? Download our free e-book 8 hikes in Asturias off the beaten track.

Very much so. There are beaches, easy walks, caves, farms, kayaking on the Sella river and dinosaur footprints along the coast. It’s safe, and children are welcome everywhere, even late in the evening in restaurants. Read our tips in Asturias with Kids: 8 Things to Do on a Family Holiday.