Llastres Travel Guide

Explore the beauty and culture of Llastres, a picturesque town in Asturias, Spain, through hiking trails, natural attractions, traditional cuisine, and local traditions.


Introduction to Llastres

Tucked away in the northern Spanish region of Asturias, Llastres is a charming, traditional fishing village brimming with authenticity and coastal charm. The town boasts a rich history dating back to the Roman era, evident in its picturesque streets, architecture, and cultural landmarks. Visitors can look forward to a range of outdoor adventures, natural marvels, cultural sites, and delectable cuisine on their trip to Llastres.

List of Places to Visit in Llastres

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Llastres’ rich cultural heritage can be best experienced by exploring its numerous museums and historical landmarks. Here are a few must-visit places:

  • Museo Jurásico: A fascinating museum highlighting the province’s geological history with dinosaur exhibits and interactive displays.
  • Capilla de la Atalaya: A remarkable 18th-century chapel featuring spectacular views of Llastres and the Asturian coastline.
  • Torre del Reloj: A historic clock tower that once guarded the village and today serves as a lookout post.
  • Museo Evaristo Valle: A unique museum showcasing the works of a prominent Asturian painter and sculptor.
  • Iglesia de Santa Maria: A beautiful, 13th-century Gothic church and one of the town’s most prominent religious sites.

Natural Attractions of Llastres: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Asturias is a scenic region, and Llastres is no exception. Nature lovers will be charmed and amazed by the following natural marvels in the town:

  • Playa de la Griega: A pristine, crescent-shaped beach frequently visited by nature lovers for its striking views and jagged cliffs.
  • Mirador del Fito: A stunning lookout point offering panoramic views of the Picos de Europa mountain range and the Bay of Biscay coastline.
  • Ruta del Cares: A famous hiking route that winds through the Picos de Europa mountain range and gives visitors the chance to experience the region’s rugged wilderness.
  • Bufones de Arenillas: A fascinating geological formation consisting of eroded rock pillars that are the result of years of wave erosion.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Llastres

Llastres’ beautiful natural surroundings are perfect for exploring on foot or bike. Here are some must-do hiking and biking trails in Llastres:

  • Ruta del Cares: As mentioned earlier, this is a famous 12-kilometer hiking trail through the Picos de Europa, known for its rugged wilderness and stunning views.
  • Senda Costera: A well-paved coastal route that passes by various beaches and cliffs on the Asturian coastline.
  • Ruta de las Xanas: A 6.5-kilometer route through shady forests that wind up to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the Llastres valley.
  • Ruta de las Playas: A lovely coastal route that passes by several beaches in the area.

Best Things to Do in Llastres: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are many other activities and tours that visitors can enjoy in Llastres:

  • Boat Tours: Take a chartered or group boat tour from the nearby port of Lastres, and explore the coastline of Asturias while enjoying the fresh sea breeze.
  • Whale Watching: June to August is the best time to spot whales and dolphins in the Bay of Biscay, and visitors can book tours from the nearby town of Ribadesella.
  • Wine Tours: Wine enthusiasts will be pleased to learn that Asturias is emerging as a prominent wine region, producing several noteworthy varietals. Visitors can tour notable wineries and sip some delicious local wines.
  • Cultural Tours: A guided cultural tour of the town will acquaint visitors with its Roman past, seafaring history, and traditional architecture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Llastres

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Llastres that’ll give visitors the best possible experience of the town:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive, check into your hotel/hostel, and explore the town’s historic center
Day 2 Visit the Capilla de la Atalaya, Torre del Reloj, and Museo Jurásico
Day 3 Hike the Ruta del Cares
Day 4 Take a boat tour from Lastres
Day 5 Visit the Bufones de Arenillas, followed by a wine tour
Day 6 Explore the seaside village of Ribadesella
Day 7 Depart for your next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Llastres

Llastres boasts a vibrant food and drink scene, with traditional dishes and fresh seafood being the highlights. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fabada Asturiana: This hearty bean stew is a staple in Asturian cuisine and is made with white beans, pork, chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage).
  • Cabrales Cheese: A strong, blue cheese made with raw cow’s milk, renowned in the region and often served with bread or as an accompaniment to other dishes.
  • Pitu de Caleya: This traditional Asturian dish is made with free-range chicken and is often accompanied by potatoes, onions, and saffron.
  • Arroz con leche: A classic Spanish dessert made with rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon.

Local Beverages

  • Cider (Sidra): Asturias produces some of the finest ciders in Spain, and a bottle of sidra is a must-try for visitors.
  • Orujo: A grape pomace brandy, consumed as a digestif in Asturias.

Where to Stay in Llastres: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Llastres offers several accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to upscale hotels. Since it is a small town, it is best to book in advance to avoid disappointment during peak tourist season. Here are some notable options:

  • Hotel Mirador del Sella: This upscale hotel is located near Llastres and offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay.
  • Posada de Babel: A charming guesthouse located in the town’s historic center, it features quaint rooms and a lovely outdoor patio.
  • Aldea del Trasgo: A traditional Asturian home that has been converted into a cozy hostel.

What to Buy in Llastres: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Llastres offers a variety of local products, including food and drink items such as artisanal cheeses, sidra, and orujo. Souvenir shops offer a range of handcrafted items such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Llastres

Llastres retains its traditional seafaring culture, which is still evident in the town’s daily life and festivities. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, which include:

  • Fiestas: Llastres hosts several annual festivals in which the locals celebrate their maritime heritage and religious traditions. Visitors are welcome to participate.
  • Seafood: Fish and seafood dishes are a staple in Llastres, and locals take pride in their fresh produce. Visitors should try to indulge in these dishes and appreciate the artisanal preparation methods.
  • Architecture: Llastres is a picturesque town that retains its traditional architecture, with numerous houses and buildings dating back centuries.

Best Time to Visit Llastres

The best time to visit Llastres is during the summer season from June to August, when the weather is mild, and the coastal activities and festivals are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Llastres

Do:

  • Patronize the local restaurants and artisans to support the local economy.
  • Participate in the cultural events and learn about the town’s seafaring heritage and history.
  • Respect local customs and be mindful of the environment while exploring the natural attractions.
  • Take some time to explore the neighboring villages and towns in Asturias.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb the natural surroundings.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.
  • Engage in disruptive behavior during festivals or events.

Safety and Health

Safety in Llastres

Llastres is a safe town, but it is always advisable to take precautions while traveling. Visitors should avoid flashing expensive belongings and be aware of petty thefts.

Health in Llastres

The town has a medical center and pharmacy that can cater to any immediate health requirements. It is wise to have travel insurance in case of any medical emergencies.

Getting to Llastres: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can reach Llastres by land, air, and sea. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Llastres

  • Asturias Airport: Located about an hour’s drive from Llastres, and it is well connected to several major cities in Europe.

Bus Stations Near Llastres

  • Gijon bus station: Located about 30 kilometers from Llastres, it is the most significant bus station in the region, and several buses run daily to Llastres.

Other Options

  • Trains: Llanes is the nearest railway station, and it connected to several major Spanish cities such as Madrid and Barcelona.
  • Ferries: Llastres has a port, and visitors can take ferries to nearby towns and learn more about the region’s coastal culture.

How to Get Around in Llastres

Llastres is a small town and best explored on foot. Taxis are also available, and visitors can rent bikes to explore the neighboring areas and beaches.

Where to Go Next from Llastres: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Asturias is a scenic region, and visitors can explore several nearby destinations and excursions from Llastres. Here are some must-visit places:

  • Gijón: A vibrant coastal city located about 40 kilometers from Llastres, known for its historic architecture, refreshing beaches, and cultural festivals.
  • Picos de Europa: A mountain range spanning across Asturias, Cantabria, and Castilla y Leon that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known for its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife.
  • Oviedo: The capital of Asturias is a quaint town with a medieval city center that boasts several historic buildings and cultural landmarks.

Conclusion

Llastres is a hidden gem in the heart of Asturias, offering visitors the perfect blend of culture, nature, and seafaring heritage. From hiking and biking to exploring museums and devouring the delicious traditional dishes, visitors will leave Llastres with a lasting impression of a quintessential Spanish town.

Torre del Reloj Torre del Reloj