On the eastern coast of Asturias, far from the bustling tourist routes, lies a unique settlement that can enchant any traveler. This is Pimiango—a village with fewer than one hundred inhabitants, perched on a natural observation deck where history, wildlife, and ancient traditions merge into one.
The village, situated on the Sierra Plana plateau, serves as a natural balcony with breathtaking views. From here, you can see the Picos de Europa mountain range and the coastline of the Cantabrian Sea, including the shores of Asturias and neighboring Cantabria. Even Emperor Charles V was so impressed by the beauty of these lands that he stopped here in 1517. Every summer, locals commemorate this historic event with a traditional festival.
The main gem of the region is the Cueva del Pindal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008. It is part of the ‘Cave of Altamira and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain’ complex. Inside, there are preserved drawings of bison, horses, and mysterious abstract symbols, estimated to be 13,000 to 18,000 years old. These images stand as silent witnesses to the lives of people during the Paleolithic era.
Not far from Pimiango, nature puts on one of the most spectacular shows on the coast. This is the bufones de Santiuste — sea geysers. During storms, seawater is forced under pressure into the cracks of limestone cliffs and erupts upwards in columns of water and spray, sometimes reaching up to 40 meters high. The phenomenon is accompanied by a deafening roar and whistling, creating an unforgettable sight.
For hiking enthusiasts, there is the ‘Ruta de los Acantilados de Pimiango’ (Cliffs Trail of Pimiango). The route is about 8 kilometers long and passes through picturesque areas, linking viewpoints, the entrance to the Pindal Cave, and the ruins of the Cistercian monastery Santa María de Tina, founded in the 13th century. Walking the trail offers a chance to enjoy Atlantic vegetation and spot birds of prey soaring above the cliffs.
Pimiango has also preserved unique cultural features. For example, people here still remember ‘mansolea’ — a special jargon once used by local itinerant shoemakers. The hub of social life is ‘La Librería de Pimiango,’ a tavern where visitors can not only find an interesting book but also sample regional dishes: from anchovies and Asturian cheeses to traditional bean stew with seafood and other delicacies.
