​What's to expect in Spain?

Days stretch longer here, especially in September. Folks don’t usually hit the streets until around 10 AM, and the sun doesn’t set until after 9 PM.

That shifts meal times too—lunch rolls around at 2 or 3 PM, and dinner? Not until after 9 PM.

But no stress, you’ll find plenty of spots for a quick bite, like bakeries dishing out iberico sandwiches, empanada gallega, and all kinds of pinches to keep those hunger pangs at bay.​

Discovering Asturias: Spain’s Hidden Gem

Asturias, a compact region in northern Spain, feels like it was designed to keep everyone happy. Here, you don’t have to choose between beaches or mountains, or between a city break or an activity holiday – this region has it all. Personally, I’d visit just for the food & the cider beers!

Easier Access for Tourists

Asturias is now more accessible with a brand-new high-speed railway line linking Madrid to Oviedo in just over three hours. Train tickets cost around €50 for the high-speed option, or about €20 for a scenic route on the regular train. (Check out our FAQs blog for more details)

A Natural Paradise

The Principality of Asturias proudly describes itself as a ‘natural paradise.’ Nestled between Cantabria and Galicia, it stretches around 200 miles from east to west and 50 miles from north to south. The region’s unique geography offers mountains just behind the coast, with emerald-green meadows and apple orchards in between.

Rich Cultural Heritage

In Asturias, you’ll encounter pre-Romanesque churches alongside striking contemporary architecture. You can hike through spectacular hill scenery in the morning and relax on an idyllic beach in the afternoon

Ideal Climate

While it rains more here than in the south of Spain, this rainfall creates lush, green landscapes. The region is also less oppressively hot in summer, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), allowing you to spend more time on the beach. Asturias boasts beautiful beaches with crescents of white sand backed by cliffs.

A Different Kind of Spain

If you have only experienced Spain through package holidays in big resorts, a visit to Asturias will feel like discovering a different country. With its natural beauty, rich culture, and delightful climate, Asturias is a destination that promises to enchant every traveler.

Tri-City Charm

Forming a triangle in the center of Asturias, Oviedo, Gijón, and Avilés each have unique characters and charm.

• Oviedo: The elegant regional capital, known for its pristine streets, medieval core, and lively cider bars. Stay at the historic Eurostars La Reconquista, with rooms starting from around £100 per night.

• Gijón: The largest city with splendid urban beaches, a dynamic gastronomic scene, and cultural highlights like the Atlantic Botanical Gardens and Laboral Cultural Complex. The Santa Rosa hotel offers a comfortable stay with rooms from around £70 per night.

• Avilés: A city with a well-preserved medieval heart, now attracting tourists with the Centro Oscar Niemeyer cultural center. The five-star Palacio de Avilés offers luxury accommodations from around £70 per night.

Must-See Landmarks

• Prehistoric Sites: Discover Palaeolithic art in caves like Tito Bustillo and Pindal.

• Covadonga: Visit the birthplace of Christian Spain and its dramatic mountain shrine.

• Oviedo Cathedral: The starting point of the Camino Primitivo pilgrimage route.

• Pre-Romanesque Churches: Explore architectural gems like Santa María del Naranco
  

Coastal and Inland Delights

Coastline: Travel along the coast to find unspoiled beaches, charming fishing villages, and low-key resorts. Don’t miss Cudillero and the Playa del Silencio.

Interior: Head inland to bucolic landscapes and the Picos de Europa, Spain’s first national park. Experience hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting in places like Somiedo Natural Park.

Beyond Asturias, Oviedo, you can embark on an exciting road trip through Spain, exploring destinations like Tarifa and Seville, or Portugal. Tarifa

Tarifa is a picturesque town located on the southernmost tip of Spain, in the province of Cádiz, Andalusia. It is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant windsurfing and kitesurfing scene, and its historic charm.

Situated where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, Tarifa offers breathtaking views of the Moroccan coast just across the Strait of Gibraltar. The town's rich history is reflected in its ancient walls, the Guzmán Castle, and the well-preserved old town. Tarifa is also a gateway for whale watching tours, exploring the natural parks, and experiencing a laid-back, bohemian lifestyle.

Driving from Asturias, Oviedo: The drive from Asturias to Tarifa is long, so consider stopping overnight in cities like Madrid or Granada to break up the journey and explore more of Spain.

Seville

Seville is the capital of Andalusia and one of Spain's most vibrant cities, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and lively atmosphere.

The city is famed for its architectural marvels such as the Seville Cathedral, which is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and the iconic Giralda tower. Another highlight is the Alcázar of Seville, a stunning palace with intricate Moorish designs.

Seville is also renowned for its lively festivals, including the Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril (April Fair), which showcase the city’s deep-rooted traditions in flamenco, music, and dance. With its charming streets, beautiful plazas, and a thriving tapas scene, Seville offers an authentic Andalusian experience.

Driving from Tarifa: The drive from Tarifa to Seville takes about 2.5 hours. You can explore the scenic Andalusian countryside along the way, making stops at charming towns like Jerez de la Frontera.

Road Trip Tips Which is the best road trip in Spain?

• Castille-Leon for historic cities, vineyards, and empty roads.

• Barcelona and Catalonia for beautiful beaches and lively party vibes.

• The Basque County and Pyrenees road trip is perfect for foodies and hikers.

• Andalucia for gorgeous Moorish cities, flamenco, and fantastic beaches.

• East Coast Costas for vibrant seaside resorts and sunny days year round.

• Central Spain for wild natural landscapes and off-the-beaten-path towns.

• Green Spain for quiet beaches, mountain hiking, and fab food.

• Epic Spain for an amazing journey through the best of Spain.
  

Others

1. Car Rental:

• License Requirements: You need a valid driver's license from your home country that uses the Latin alphabet. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required if your license is not from the EU.

• Booking: Book your rental car in advance. Major rental companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Sixt are available at major airports and cities.

2. Accommodation:

• Booking Tips: Book your hotels in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Look for accommodations with free cancellation options.

• Recommendations: In Seville, consider staying near the historic center to be close to major attractions.
  

3. Travel Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance for your trip. It may be required for the visa application and provides peace of mind during your travels.

4. Currency Exchange: It's best to exchange your money before arriving in Spain, as it can be difficult to change dong to euros locally. Plan to have at least €150 per day for expenses.

5. Exploring Portugal:

• Lisbon: Just a 4-hour drive from Seville, Lisbon offers beautiful views, historic neighborhoods, and delicious cuisine.

• Porto: Famous for its port wine, Porto is about a 5-hour drive from Lisbon and provides a picturesque riverfront and vibrant culture.

Conclusion

A road trip from Asturias to Tarifa, Seville, and potentially into Portugal offers a diverse and enriching travel experience. From the beaches and water sports of Tarifa to the historic charm and cultural vibrancy of Seville, and further into the scenic beauty of Portugal, this journey will be unforgettable.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out! Enjoy your travels!