Located between the Cantabrian Sea and the Picos de Europa, Llanes is one of the most charming destinations in the north of Spain. This Asturian town stands out not only for its natural beauty and historical heritage, but also for being an important stop on the Camino de Santiago del Norte, one of the most spectacular Jacobean routes due to its proximity to the coastline.

In this article, we will discover everything to see in Llanes, from its historic centre to its wild beaches, with a special focus on the town’s role as a key point for pilgrims.

 

Llanes on the Camino de Santiago: A key stage of the Camino del Norte

Choosing a route on the Camino is not always easy, and that’s why many opt for an organised Camino de Santiago, which makes logistics easier and allows pilgrims to focus on the spiritual and cultural experience. These services are available on all the main routes and offer constant support, luggage transport, selected accommodations, and assistance if needed.

Choosing to start the Camino de Santiago from Bilbao lets you enjoy Basque architecture, fishing ports, and a rugged coastline of immense beauty from the very first day. Further along, the Camino de Santiago from Ribadeo, in Galicia, offers a direct entry into the Mariña Lucense and the final stretch of this Atlantic route.

Each route has its own characteristics. For example, the Camino de Santiago from Tui is one of the most popular options. Especially for those who have little time and want to complete the last 100 kilometres to Santiago. It is a well-marked route with a gentler profile compared to the Northern route. Ideal for those seeking a more social or accessible experience.

 

The historic centre of Llanes: A walk through the Middle Ages

Llanes has preserved a medieval layout that invites you to explore at a leisurely pace. Its historic centre, declared a Historic-Artistic Site, is one of the best preserved in Asturias. Among cobbled streets, coat-of-arms adorned houses, and city walls, both pilgrims and travellers can connect with centuries of history.

 

Must-see places

  • Santa María del Conceyu Basilica: This 13th-century Gothic church is one of the few remaining religious buildings in Asturias built in the Gothic style. It stands out for its austere exterior and rich interior, with Baroque altarpieces and a robust structure reflecting the importance of Llanes during the Middle Age.

 

  • Walls and Tower: Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, these walls protected the town from maritime incursions. Today, sections of the walls and the imposing Tower, which served as a defensive and surveillance post, are still visible. It now houses the tourist office.

 

  • Palaces: Scattered throughout the historic centre are elegant palaces such as the Gastañaga Palace, in Renaissance style; the Dukes of Estrada Palace, with Baroque influences; and the Rivero House. These noble residences reflect the economic splendour of Llanes in past centuries.

 

  • Santa Ana Square: This square is one of the most vibrant corners of the historic centre. Surrounded by traditional buildings, it hosts terraces, shops, and cultural events. In the centre stands the chapel of the same name, and the whole area invites you to rest and observe the daily life of the town.

 

The beaches of Llanes: Nature in its purest form

The Llanes region boasts over 30 beaches, many of which are almost wild, making this stretch of coast one of the most spectacular in the northern part of the Iberian Peninsula. Some are very close to the Camino del Norte, making them accessible to pilgrims who want to rest by the sea.

 

Notable beaches

  • Toró Beach: Known for its characteristic pointed rocks.

 

  • Poo Beach: Quiet and perfect for a swim after a long day’s walk.

 

  • Gulpiyuri Beach: An inland beach declared a natural monument.

 

  • Andrín Beach: A large beach surrounded by cliffs.

 

These are perfect spots to connect with nature, meditate, rest, or simply enjoy the landscape.

 

Monuments and places of interest you can’t miss

Aside from the historic centre and the beaches, this place has cultural and natural spaces of great value.

  • Memory Cubes: This work by Basque artist Agustín Ibarrola transforms the breakwater of Llanes’ harbour into an open-air gallery. The concrete blocks, decorated with shapes, colours, and symbols, reflect the collective memory of the seaside town, its history, culture, and visual identity facing the Cantabrian Sea.

 

  • San Pedro Walk: Built in the 19th century on a cliff, this landscaped walkway offers one of the most impressive views of Llanes. From here, you can see the sea, the harbour, and the rooftops of the historic centre. It’s a perfect place for a sunset stroll and to enjoy the sea breeze.

 

  • Rural chapels and churches: Scattered throughout the Llanes region, small chapels like La Magdalena or San Antón preserve traditional Asturian architecture and bear witness to ancient religious traditions. Many are linked to local festivals and reflect the deep devotion that characterises the Llanes community.

 

  • Ethnographic Museum of Eastern Asturias: Located in the village of Porrúa, just a few minutes from Llanes, this museum showcases the daily life of rural Asturian communities. It displays traditional tools, costumes, household items, and reconstructed dwellings, offering a valuable glimpse into the farming past of Eastern Asturias.

 

Local festivals and traditions you can experience if you’re lucky

This wonderful place maintains a lively festival calendar, with celebrations full of colour, music, and tradition. If your visit coincides with any of them, you’ll be able to experience Asturian hospitality at its best.

Some of the main festivals include: La Magdalena (July 22), San Roque (August 16), La Virgen del Conceyu (August 15), Fiesta del Cristo Rey (September).

 

Llanes cuisine to recharge your energy

Asturian cuisine is famous for its richness and flavour. In Llanes, pilgrims and tourists can enjoy traditional dishes and local products that help replenish energy after a long stage. Some typical dishes include fabada asturiana, chorizo a la sidra, cabrales cheese, Cantabrian fish, cabracho pie, and preñaos buns, perfect for taking along in your backpack.

 

Routes and excursions from Llanes for those staying an extra day

If you decide to take a longer break in Llanes, you can explore its surroundings, full of nature and culture.

  • Bufones de Pría and Arenillas: These geological phenomena are natural chimneys formed in limestone rock, where the sea forces its way through under pressure. When there’s high tide or rough waves, the bufones shoot columns of water and make a thunderous sound. A unique natural spectacle combining power and beauty.

 

  • Ídolo de Peña Tú: A vertical monolith with carvings and prehistoric paintings, located on a hill 12 kilometres away with magnificent views. This megalithic site, dating back to the Bronze Age, is one of the most important in the region and allows you to discover the earliest origins of art in Asturias.

 

  • Ruta del Camín Encantáu: This 9-kilometre circular trail through the Ardisana valley is dotted with sculptures of Asturian mythology: the cuélebre, busgosu, xana… It’s ideal for families and combines nature, local legends, and a magical atmosphere in the heart of the Llanes mountains.

 

  • Nearby caves: In the surrounding area of Llanes, you can visit caves such as the Pindal Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site for its prehistoric paintings, or the Nueva Cave, with stalactites and stalagmites showcasing the underground wealth of the area. Perfect cultural excursions for rainy or relaxing days.

Llanes is much more than just a stop on the Camino. It is a place where history, culture, nature, and spirituality come together. Whether you are a pilgrim or a traveller, here you will find a corner to rest, contemplate, and continue walking with a full heart.