Asturias and Cantabria Guide

The northern Spanish provinces of Cantabria and Asturias together form a large part of the area known as Green Spain - a region so far removed from the frenetic activity of Spain's southern resorts, it is easy to imagine that you are in an entirely different country. This is traditional, still largely undiscovered Spain where countryside and coast combine to reward visitors with a truly unforgettable experience.

The Coast

The two regions share a coastline of approximately 200 miles, along which you'll discover any number of colourful fishing villages and gorgeous sandy beaches blissfully free of crowds. The major holiday resorts along this coastal stretch, stylish Santander and historical Gijon, between them provide just about everything a holidaymaker could desire, from sporting facilities, nightlife and entertainment galore, to fine dining and a rich cultural heritage.

The Picos de Europa

Venture just a few miles inland from almost any point along the coast and you'll quickly find yourself amongst some of the most spectacularly beautiful countryside imaginable. Lush green valleys and forests, sleepy villages that have changed little in centuries, and the majestic Picos de Europa Mountains rising to over 8,000 feet, all combine to produce a landscape that will literally take your breath away.

Things to do

Simply relax if you wish, but you'll also find endless opportunities for numerous activities such as fishing, horse riding, climbing, skiing and white water rafting. And set discreetly amongst all this natural beauty there is a wonderful selection of paradores (luxury hotels) and self-catering casas, allowing you to linger for as long as you like in this unique and very special part of Spain.

Map of Asturias and Cantabria