Europe-seeking travelers drawn to culture and nature are enticed by this Spectacular Spanish Region

Exploring the Costa Verde Express and Asturias: A Journey through Spain's Green Coast

Nestled between Galicia and Cantabria on Spain's northern coast, Asturias offers a refreshing dose of something different: the real Spain, with its untamed landscapes and authentic cultural rhythms. One of the most captivating ways to experience this region is by boarding the Costa Verde Express, a luxury train journey that showcases the lush Asturias and Cantabria regions.

The Costa Verde Express: A Scenic Journey through Spain's Green Coast

The Costa Verde Express is a multi-day luxury train experience that journeys through the verdant landscapes of northern Spain, offering panoramic views of the rugged coastline and verdant mountains along "Spain's Green Coast" (Costa Verde). The train typically runs a scenic route along the coastline and through Asturias, with some itineraries lasting around six days and five nights, covering various towns, natural parks, and cultural highlights.

Passengers enjoy breathtaking views of Asturias’ green landscapes, medieval towns, and the Cantabrian coast. The journey captures a blend of coastal and mountainous scenery unique to northern Spain. The train features elegant interiors with spacious cabins and lounges designed for comfort. Gourmet dining is offered, emphasizing locally sourced ingredients and fine Spanish wines, creating a refined culinary experience aboard. The trip includes world-class personalized service with expert guides to enrich the travel experience, focusing on seamless and luxurious comfort throughout the journey.

Exploring Asturias: Beyond the Costa Verde Express

Asturias is accessible via Asturias Airport or high-speed train from Madrid, with the Costa Verde Express providing an alternative and more scenic way to travel into the region, especially suited for tourists looking to explore the area in style. Asturias Airport (OVD) is located approximately 30 minutes from the capital city of Oviedo and offers direct flights from Madrid and Barcelona.

Oviedo is home to pre-Romanesque churches like Santa María del Naranco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk the cobbled streets of Old Town in Oviedo and admire museums and sculptures by artists like Fernando Botero and Eduardo Úrculo. Llanes is an underrated coastal town with golden sands, secluded beaches, and medieval towers. Cudillero is a colorful beachside fishing village perched on scenic cliffs known for its fresh seafood and photogenic harbor.

Asturias is known for its beautiful landscapes, combining medieval towns with a rugged coastline. The Lagos de Covadonga are glacial lakes within Picos de Europa National Park, accessible by shuttle bus from Cangas de Onís. Picos de Europa National Park is a popular destination in Asturias, known for its jagged limestone peaks, deep gorges, and high-altitude meadows.

Local Flavors of Asturias

Asturias hosts numerous festivals, including Fiesta de la Sidra Natural (Festival of Natural Cider) in Gijón, featuring traditional Asturian music and dance. A hearty bowl of fabada asturiana, a slow-cooked bean stew, is a must-try local dish. Queso Cabrales, a strong blue cheese aged in the area's mountain caves, is another popular regional food. Asturian cider is poured from high above the glass and locals drink it quickly, one small pour at a time.

Mid-range hotels in Asturias cost between $80 and $130 a night, and rural B&Bs offer a budget-friendly alternative. For a fine dining experience, visit Casa Marcial, a three Michelin-starred restaurant in Arriondas, reimagining traditional Asturian dishes with elegance and creativity.

Asturias enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, with the best weather between May and October. Whether you choose to travel by high-speed train or the Costa Verde Express, Asturias promises an unforgettable journey filled with natural beauty, rich history, and delicious local cuisine.

Europe-seeking travelers drawn to culture and nature are enticed by this Spectacular Spanish Region