4 day itinerary for Cangas De Onis, Llanes, Ribadesella, Ruta Del Caress

Itinerary

A four-day adventure in the stunning region of Asturias, with Cangas de Onís, Llanes, Ribadesella, and the Ruta del Cares, sounds like a dream! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and a bit of adventure.

## Day 1: Cangas de Onís – Gateway to the Picos de Europa

Morning:

• Arrival in Cangas de Onís: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Asturian pastries like carbayones or flaón.
• Visit the Roman Bridge: After breakfast, take a stroll to the iconic Roman Bridge (Puente Romano) and snap some photos. The views of the Sella River are breathtaking!

Afternoon:

• Covadonga Lakes: Head to the nearby Covadonga Lakes (Lagos de Covadonga). It’s about a 30-minute drive, and the scenery is absolutely stunning. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lakes while soaking in the views.
• Covadonga Sanctuary: On your way back, stop by the Sanctuary of Covadonga, a beautiful basilica nestled in the mountains.

Evening:

• Dinner in Cangas de Onís: Return to Cangas for dinner. Try some local dishes like fabada asturiana (Asturian bean stew) at a traditional restaurant.
• Relax: Take a leisurely evening walk along the river before heading back to your accommodation.

## Day 2: Ribadesella – Coastal Charm

Morning:

• Drive to Ribadesella: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Ribadesella (about 30 minutes).
• Visit the Beach: Spend some time at Playa de Santa María, a beautiful beach perfect for a morning stroll or a dip in the sea.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Ribadesella: Enjoy lunch at a seaside restaurant. Don’t miss trying the fresh seafood!
• Cueva de Tito Bustillo: Explore the famous Tito Bustillo Caves, known for their prehistoric rock art. Guided tours are available, and they’re fascinating!

Evening:

• Dinner and Sunset: Head back to the beach for a lovely dinner with a view. Enjoy the sunset over the ocean, and perhaps indulge in some local cider (sidra) to toast the day!

## Day 3: Llanes – Picturesque Villages and Coastal Walks

Morning:

• Drive to Llanes: After breakfast, make your way to Llanes (about 30 minutes).
• Explore the Town: Wander through the charming streets of Llanes, visiting the beautiful Plaza Mayor and the famous Cubos de la Memoria (colorful cubes by the sea).

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Llanes: Grab a bite at a local eatery. Try the pitu de caleya (local chicken) or some delicious tapas.
• Coastal Walk: Spend the afternoon walking along the coastal path to the nearby beach of Toró or the stunning cliffs of the area. The views are simply spectacular!

Evening:

• Dinner in Llanes: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with local specialties. The ambiance in Llanes is lovely in the evening, so take your time and soak it all in.

## Day 4: Ruta del Cares – Nature’s Masterpiece

Morning:

• Early Start: Have an early breakfast and prepare for a day of hiking on the Ruta del Cares. Drive to Poncebos (about 1 hour) to start the hike.
• Hiking the Ruta del Cares: This iconic trail takes you through the stunning Cares Gorge, with dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters. It’s about a 12 km (7.5 miles) one-way hike, so be prepared for a full day of adventure!

Afternoon:

• Lunch on the Trail: Pack a picnic to enjoy along the way. There are plenty of scenic spots to take a break and enjoy the views.
• Return Hike: After reaching the village of Caín, turn around and hike back to Poncebos. The return journey offers a different perspective of the breathtaking landscape.

Evening:

• Dinner and Reflection: After a long day of hiking, treat yourself to a hearty dinner back in Cangas de Onís. Reflect on your adventures over a delicious meal, perhaps with some local cheese and cider to celebrate your trip!

Tips:

• Transportation: Renting a car is the best way to explore these areas at your own pace.
• Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the mountains. Layered clothing is a good idea!
• Local Delicacies: Don’t forget to try local cheeses, especially cabrales, and the famous Asturian cider!

Enjoy your trip! Asturias is a gem, and you’re in for a treat with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food! 🌄🍏🍽️