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Asturias Northern Spain possesses a pristine emerald beauty that rivals Ireland, as rolling green pastureland is dotted with medieval farmhouses, and quaint fishing villages alongside the sometimes-rugged, always-scenic coastline exquisitely preserve an ageless way of life. Yet overlooking all of this gorgeous scenery are snow-capped spires of the Picos de Europa, or “Peaks of Europe” mountain range that soar majestically above the landscape. And during a swell, surfers have been known to boast that the Picos’ height is nothing compared to the thunderous breakers that come crashing in.
An interesting feature of Asturias’ history and culture is that it was always a bit isolated form the rest of Spain, and therefore evolved differently. With a strong local dialect, it could even be considered its own country. You would almost be fooled until, of course, the natural, smiling warmth of the locals gets the better of you and you realize that, after all, you’re in sunny Spain.
Begin your exploration of the Asturias region at Santander, the main hub of transportation for the region from which you can set off for the coast, or venture inland as few tourists actually do. Indeed, this virgin land is not hyped up by the guidebooks, but only because it lacks a strong tourism infrastructure. An adventurous traveler or backpacker should jump at the opportunity to explore an untouched landscape and local way of life that whose purity is of Hemmingway-esque proportions. Renting a car is by far your best mode of getting around, and your vacation to the Asturias would be worthless if you didn’t make a trip to the Picos de Europa. The national park named in their honor is a great gateway to discover this impressive natural landscape, so strap on your hiking boot and hit the trails – all ways lead up!
Back towards water, take in the coastline by driving, hiking, or cycling along any stretch of the Costa Verde, as the Asturias shoreline is known. Cycling tours frequently run this stretch of picturesque beaches, craggy rock outcroppings and priceless vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and France in the distance to the east. One of the principle attractions in the Asturias section of the Costa Verde is the Playa de Ballota. This is a beautiful beach, and a prime destination for surfers. Of course sunbathers and those with a weakness for beach volleyball also enjoy Playa de Ballota, so what are you waiting for? Slather on the tanning oil, and enjoy the warm rays of sun-drenched Spain! |
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