7-Day Guide to Asturias: Nature, Hiking & Cider Culture | August 2026

Welcome to Asturias, a land of verdant mountains, dramatic coastlines, and a rich cultural heritage, all waiting to be discovered this August 2026. Today, August 05, 2026, brings cloudy skies with a comfortable maximum temperature of 23.2°C and a minimum of 19.5°C, with 0% chance of rain – perfect conditions for outdoor exploration and immersing yourself in nature. Our focus this week is on the unparalleled hiking opportunities, the spiritual allure of Covadonga, the architectural marvels of the pre-Romanesque era, and the authentic taste of Asturian cider.

As you plan your adventure, remember that a rental car from Voyage Rent Car (voyagerent.es) is essential for truly experiencing Asturias' diverse landscapes. Whether you opt for a nimble B2 compact for city navigation, a comfortable C1 for family trips, or a robust SUV for tackling mountain roads in Picos de Europa, we have the perfect vehicle for your journey. Book your rental car today!

Top Attractions for Nature & Culture Enthusiasts

Picos de Europa National Park & Covadonga: The jewel in Asturias' crown for nature lovers. Explore countless hiking trails, from gentle strolls to challenging ascents. Don't miss the breathtaking Lakes of Covadonga (Lagos de Covadonga), nestled high in the mountains, and the sacred Covadonga Sanctuary, a site of immense historical and spiritual significance set against a stunning natural backdrop. Access to the lakes is often restricted for private vehicles during peak season; a bus service from Cangas de Onís is usually available. Plan an early start to beat the crowds, especially in August. Entry to the National Park is free, but bus fares may apply for lake access.

Oviedo's Pre-Romanesque Architecture: The capital city, Oviedo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its remarkable pre-Romanesque monuments. Visit Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo, perched on Mount Naranco, offering splendid views and a glimpse into Asturian history from the 9th century. These sites are typically open for guided tours with varying schedules and entry fees (check local information upon arrival). Ample parking is available at the base of Mount Naranco.

Gijón's Coastal Charms & Cider Culture: In Gijón, combine urban exploration with coastal beauty. Stroll along Playa de San Lorenzo, enjoy the sea breeze, or hike up to the Elogio del Horizonte sculpture for panoramic views. Gijón is also a fantastic place to dive into Asturian cider culture. Head to a traditional sidrería to experience the ritualistic pouring (escanciado) and enjoy local delicacies. While there are no specific events listed for Gijón this week in the official agenda, the city's permanent attractions and vibrant atmosphere are always a draw. Check the official events calendar for current activities.

Cudillero Fishing Village: A picturesque stop on your coastal drive, Cudillero is famous for its colourful hanging houses cascading down to the harbour. It's a charming place for a leisurely walk, enjoying fresh seafood, and soaking in the unique atmosphere. Parking can be challenging in peak season; look for designated car parks outside the immediate village centre.

Best Local Food to Savor

Your Asturian journey wouldn't be complete without indulging in the region's culinary delights. The most iconic is sidra, the natural apple cider, always served by escanciado to aerate it. Pair it with a hearty bowl of fabada asturiana (bean stew), rich queso Cabrales (a pungent blue cheese), or fresh seafood, especially in coastal towns like Gijón and Cudillero. Look for traditional chigres (cider houses) for an authentic experience.

7-Day Driving Plan: Nature, History & Cider

This itinerary is designed for maximum immersion in Asturias' natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural practices, best enjoyed with the flexibility of your Voyage Rent Car vehicle. Remember that an SUV is highly recommended for the comfort and clearance on mountain roads in Picos de Europa.

• Day 1: Arrival & Oviedo's Heritage (August 05)
  Arrive at Asturias Airport (OVD), pick up your rental car (consider a B2 for city driving or C1 for comfort), and drive to Oviedo. Spend the afternoon exploring the pre-Romanesque churches of Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo. Enjoy an evening stroll in Oviedo's historic centre and sample your first sidra.
• Day 2: Majestic Picos de Europa & Covadonga (August 06)
  Drive east towards Picos de Europa National Park. Head to Covadonga, visiting the Sanctuary and then taking the bus up to the stunning Lakes of Covadonga for light hiking and breathtaking views. An SUV is ideal for the journey to the park entrance. Overnight near Cangas de Onís.
• Day 3: Hiking in Picos de Europa (August 07)
  Dedicate a full day to hiking deeper into the Picos de Europa. Options range from the Ruta del Cares (requires careful planning) to gentler trails around Cangas de Onís or Cabrales, renowned for its cheese. Enjoy the serene mountain landscapes.
• Day 4: Cider Route & East Coast Charm (August 08)
  Departing from Picos de Europa, head towards Villaviciosa, the heart of Asturian cider production. Visit a sidrería for a tour and tasting. Continue your drive along the eastern coast, perhaps stopping in Lastres, another beautiful fishing village.
• Day 5: Gijón's Coastal Vistas & Urban Parks (August 09)
  Drive to Gijón. Explore Playa de San Lorenzo, the Cimadevilla old town, and the Botanical Garden. Discover the city's green spaces and enjoy a seafood dinner overlooking the Cantabrian Sea.
• Day 6: Picturesque Cudillero & West Coast Drive (August 10)
  Embark on a scenic drive west along the coast to the charming fishing village of Cudillero. Spend time exploring its unique architecture and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Continue to explore other hidden coves and viewpoints along the western Asturian coast.
• Day 7: Departure (August 11)
  Enjoy a final Asturian breakfast. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for a last souvenir hunt or a short walk before driving to Asturias Airport (OVD) for your departure. Return your Voyage Rent Car vehicle, filled with memories of Asturias' natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is August a good time for hiking in Asturias?

August offers generally good weather for hiking in Asturias, with pleasant temperatures. However, popular trails like those around the Lakes of Covadonga can be busy, so an early start is recommended. Be prepared for variable mountain weather, even in summer.

What type of car is best for exploring Picos de Europa?

For the winding, sometimes narrow roads leading into and through Picos de Europa National Park, an SUV offers the best comfort, visibility, and clearance. A C1 (intermediate car) is also suitable, providing a good balance of space and manoeuvrability, while a B2 might feel less robust on some mountain routes.

Where can I best experience Asturian cider culture?

You can experience authentic cider culture throughout Asturias, especially in cities like Oviedo and Gijón, and towns like Villaviciosa. Look for traditional sidrerías, where you can watch the unique pouring ritual (escanciado) and enjoy local food pairings. Many offer tours and tastings.

Are there any entrance fees for natural parks or hiking trails?

Entry to Picos de Europa National Park itself is generally free. However, access to popular areas like the Lakes of Covadonga may require using a public bus service during peak season (including August), for which there is a fee. Specific attractions like museums or the pre-Romanesque monuments in Oviedo have their own entry fees.

How far is Asturias Airport (OVD) from major cities like Oviedo and Gijón?

Asturias Airport (OVD) is conveniently located approximately 47 km from Oviedo and about 40 km from Gijón. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes, making your rental car an efficient way to start and end your Asturian adventure.