The coast of Asturias can now be experienced not only from viewpoints or beaches, but on foot from end to end. A new tourism project offers a complete, accessible hiking route full of surprises, connecting coastal trails into a single path.
At first glance, it may seem like just another collection of summer seaside walks. But it’s in autumn that this initiative truly comes alive. Away from the summer crowds, the Asturian coastline transforms into a more secluded and wild place, ideal for those seeking peaceful strolls among cliffs, damp meadows, and quiet villages. The entire route, stretching around 89 kilometers, is designed to be enjoyed in its most serene, autumnal setting.
An open guide to unhurried walks
The GR 204 route, also known as the “Great Coastal Trail of Asturias,” is one of the most comprehensive options for hiking enthusiasts in the north of the peninsula. Stretching between Barayo and Vegadeo, it crosses the entire Asturian coastline and is divided into 28 stages. This trail reveals the region’s wildest and most authentic side: from hidden coves to fishing towns, passing old mills, churches, and lighthouses.
The linear nature of the trail — that is, without a circular return — gives travelers the chance to explore the natural gems found within the Protected Landscape of the Western Coast. The route passes through iconic spots such as Ortiguera, Tapia de Casariego, and Castropol. You can tailor your own experience: whether it’s a short day hike ending in a seaside town, or an extended trek for those with more time and a thirst for adventure along the coast at a different pace.
A way to discover the ‘Natural Paradise’
The trail runs through six coastal municipalities — Navia, Coaña, El Franco, Tapia, Castropol, and Vegadeo — offering travelers a chance to immerse themselves in both the nature and history of the region. Stretching from Barayo Beach to the cliffs of Tapia, the route weaves through ports like Vega and scenic spots such as Peñarronda, combining stretches of wild coastline with more tranquil walks along rivers and country roads.
Noteworthy stops for rest and resupply include Puerto de Vega, La Caridad, Tapia de Casariego, Figueras, Castropol, and Vegadeo. Here, you can recharge, take a break, or even hop on public transport. Most stages are linear and range from 14 to 32 kilometers in length. For example, the Tapia–Vegadeo section spans 32.6 kilometers, crossing several beaches and protected areas.
The stages are designed not only for walking, but also for stops along the way: to visit a chapel, have lunch at a harbor bar, approach a windmill, or admire a lighthouse shrouded in mist. Every step becomes part of a story that weaves together heritage, gastronomy, landscapes, and local life. Essentially, this coastal trail is an invitation to stroll by the sea, letting each wave, lighthouse, and port set the pace of the journey. It’s a route where every stage turns into a living postcard of Asturias’ purest scenery.
