Europe-bound travelers yearning for a cultural and natural experience flock to this Stunning Spanish Region.
In the heart of Spain's northern coast, nestled between Galicia and Cantabria, lies one of the most beautiful and least known regions – Asturias. This verdant paradise offers a refreshing dose of something different: the real Spain, with its untamed landscapes and authentic cultural rhythms.
Asturias is home to pre-Romanesque churches like Santa María del Naranco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the medieval town of Oviedo, where you can walk the cobbled streets admiring sculptures by artists like Fernando Botero and Eduardo Úrculo.
But Asturias is not just about history and art. It's also about nature, adventure, and unique experiences. The Picos de Europa National Park, spanning across Asturias, Cantabria, and Castilla y León, is a must-see destination. This park features jagged limestone peaks, deep gorges, high-altitude meadows, and glacial lakes. The Lagos de Covadonga, the park's crown jewels, are two glacial lakes surrounded by mountains, accessible via shuttle buses from Cangas de Onís from early spring through late fall.
For those seeking a taste of Asturian culture, the Fiesta de la Sidra Natural (Festival of Natural Cider) in Gijón is a must-visit. This festival celebrates traditional Asturian bagpipes and folk dancing, accompanied by the unique tradition of pouring Asturian cider from high above the glass and drinking it quickly, one small pour at a time.
Accommodation in Asturias ranges from mid-range hotels costing between $80 and $130 a night, to rural B&Bs offering a cozy, budget-friendly alternative. For those seeking a luxurious experience, the El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo offers a prestigious and luxurious journey along the northern coast of Spain. This train is specifically celebrated for combining luxury with the striking natural beauty of northern Spain.
The Costa Verde Express is another luxurious option, offering a scenic journey through Asturias, winding through the coast and mountains. Cudillero, a colorful beachside fishing village perched on scenic cliffs known for its fresh seafood and photogenic harbor, is a highlight of this journey.
A hearty bowl of fabada asturiana, a slow-cooked bean stew, is a traditional Asturian dish not to be missed. And no visit to Asturias would be complete without trying Queso Cabrales, a strong blue cheese aged in the area's mountain caves.
Whether you're exploring the pre-Romanesque churches of Oviedo, hiking in the Picos de Europa National Park, or sailing along the Costa Verde, Asturias promises an unforgettable adventure. Direct long-distance Alsa buses from Madrid take around five hours to reach Oviedo and run multiple times daily, with additional service from cities like Bilbao, Seville, and Barcelona. The Asturias Airport (OVD) is approximately 30 minutes from the capital city of Oviedo and offers direct flights from Madrid and Barcelona.
So, if you're ready to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in a landscape where medieval towns meet a rugged coastline, Asturias is the perfect destination for you.
| Luxury Train Name | Region Covered | Panoramic Views Description | |---------------------------|---------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------| | El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo | Northern coast of Spain | Coastal and lush northern Spain landscapes, prestigious luxury setting[1] | | Costa Verde Express | Northern Spain | Luxurious travel with panoramic views through northern Spain[3] |
[1] El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo website: https://www.transcantabrico.com/en/ [2] Canfranero train information: https://www.renfe.com/EN/viajeros/trenhotel/canfranc/ [3] Costa Verde Express website: https://www.renfe.com/EN/viajeros/trenhotel/costaverde/
Paragraph 1: Introduction to Asturias as a hidden gem and its unique offerings.
Paragraph 2: Highlights of Oviedo, including Santa María del Naranco and sculptures by Botero and Úrculo.
Paragraph 3: Introduction to Picos de Europa National Park and the Lagos de Covadonga.
Paragraph 4: Description of the Fiesta de la Sidra Natural in Gijón.
Paragraph 5: Information about accommodation options in Asturias.
Paragraph 6: Introduction to El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo and its luxury offerings.
Paragraph 7: Mention of the Costa Verde Express as another luxurious option.
Paragraph 8: Description of Cudillero and its fresh seafood.
Paragraph 9: Introduction to traditional Asturian dishes, including fabada asturiana and Queso Cabrales.
Paragraph 10: Information about transport to Asturias, including buses and the Asturias Airport.
Paragraph 11: Conclusion about Asturias as a dream destination for those seeking an authentic Spanish experience.
Paragraph 12: Table summarizing the two luxury trains in Asturias.
Paragraph 13: Sources for further information about the luxury trains.
Traveling through Asturias offers a unique opportunity to explore its luxury train options, such as the El Transcantábrico Gran Lujo and the Costa Verde Express, both providing panoramic views of the region's lush landscapes and coastline.
These trains enhance the travel experience by combining luxury with the striking natural beauty of northern Spain, offering an unforgettable journey that complements the authentic cultural rhythms and untamed landscapes of Asturias.
