Discover the charm of Cudillero, a stunning fishing village in Asturias and one of Spain’s prettiest destinations. Explore the top things to do in Cudillero!
Cudillero: the most beautiful village in Spain
After days of exploring Asturias’ lush, rugged landscapes, I thought I’d seen it all. But arriving in Cudillero felt like walking into a postcard. Picture this: vibrant houses stacked against steep hillsides, a charming harbor filled with fishing boats, and an atmosphere so inviting it’s almost unreal. What an absolute gem of a place!
Cudillero likely dates back to the Middle Ages and boasts a rich maritime history. For centuries, the village thrived on fishing, a connection you’ll notice everywhere—from the charming seafood restaurants lining the waterfront to the fish hanging out to dry in its narrow, winding streets.
Cudillero is no longer a hidden gem, as it’s often praised as one of Spain’s most beautiful villages, drawing plenty of visitors, especially in summer. Yet it remains far from a typical tourist trap. The village has preserved its authentic charm, with fishing boats still bobbing in the harbor, locals sipping coffee on sunlit terraces, and traditional dishes like fresh seafood and fabada served with warmth and pride.
Curious about what to do in Cudillero? In this blog post, I’ll share my top tips to help you make the most of your visit to Spain’s most picturesque village.
The best things to do in Cudillero
What are the must-visit spots in Cudillero? Here’s a list of the best sights and attractions to explore in this charming village.
Explore the miradors: the most beautiful views of Cudillero
Cudillero is known for its breathtaking viewpoints, or miradors, scattered throughout the hills. One of the most famous is Mirador de la Garita, from which you have a wonderful view of the colorful houses and the harbor.
Mirador del Pico and Mirador Cimadevilla also offer fantastic views and are perfect for taking photos, especially at sunset. The climb up can be tough, but the views make up for everything.
Stroll through the picturesque harbor
The harbor, centered around Plaza de la Marina, is the lively heart of Cudillero. Every day, fishing boats dock here with their fresh catch, creating a bustling yet charming atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, soaking up the sea breeze while watching the activity unfold.
Along the quay, you’ll find inviting terraces where you can sip on a coffee or enjoy a glass of sidra, the famous local cider. The harbor also serves as the stage for many of the village’s festivals and events, making it a vibrant hub year-round.
Taste the local cuisine: fresh fish and cider
If you’re a foodie, Cudillero is pure paradise. The village is known for its delicious local specialties, including grilled fish, octopus, and fabada asturiana, a hearty bean stew you simply must try. What sets Cudillero apart is the sight of fish hanging to dry in many corners of the village—a centuries-old tradition lovingly preserved by the local fishing community.
Drying fish used to be one of the main methods of preserving food, especially in fishing villages like Cudillero where a lot of fish were caught. By drying the fish, residents were able to stock up on food that could be eaten outside the fishing season or during the colder months.
For an authentic experience, visit restaurants like Casa Julio or Sidrería El Remo, where you are guaranteed fresh fish. Don’t forget to try the local cider, which is poured in a special way!
Follow the hiking trails through the village
Cudillero is a maze of narrow streets and stairs, and fortunately, walking routes have been set up to help you explore the village. These routes are marked with symbols, such as a sailboat or an anchor, and lead you past the main attractions and to the best viewpoints.
As you wander through Cudillero, you’ll uncover hidden corners, vibrant facades, narrow streets with laundry fluttering in the breeze, and quaint little squares where time seems to slow down. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, though, as the village’s steep, sometimes slippery streets and stairs are part of its charm.
Good to know: On the wall of the Oficina de Turismo de Cudillero, you’ll find a map outlining all the walking routes in the village. It’s a great resource to help you explore the area and discover its hidden gems!
Relax on the beach
While Cudillero doesn’t have its own beach, there are several stunning beaches nearby. One of the best beaches to visit is Playa de Aguilar, just a short drive away. This expansive beach, with its golden sands, is the perfect spot to unwind and relax after a day of exploring the village.
If you’re up for a bit more of a challenge, the short hike to Playa de Oleiros, which involves a steep descent down stairs, is definitely worth it. The beach is quieter and just as beautiful, making it a great spot for a peaceful picnic. Both Playa de Aguilar and Playa de Oleiros offer the perfect setting for a relaxing break by the sea.
Admire the lighthouse (Faro de Cudillero)
A visit to the Cudillero Lighthouse is highly recommended. Perched on a rocky cliff, this iconic lighthouse provides breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Personally, I found it to be a peaceful retreat, ideal for escaping the bustle of the village and simply enjoying the soothing sound of the waves crashing below.
Las Caracolas de Teixeiras
Las Caracolas de Teixeiras is a spot I stumbled upon while exploring Cudillero, and I’m so glad I did. It’s truly a hidden gem, with its walls adorned in intricate shell designs and the little house itself being a fascinating work of art. I spent quite some time here, taking in all the unique details and appreciating the creativity behind it.
If the owner is around, you can also take a peek inside, where there’s even more beauty to discover. Plus, you’ll get an insightful explanation about the artwork and its creation. It’s a great opportunity to learn more and appreciate the artistry up close!
Experience the Fiesta del L’Amuravela
If you visit Cudillero in June or July, you can experience the annual Fiesta del L’Amuravela. This colorful festival celebrates the connection between the village and the sea. During the fiesta, traditional songs are sung and special rituals are performed. It is a great chance to experience the local culture.
Take a day trip to Luarca or Avilés
Do you have some more time? Combine your visit to Cudillero with a trip to one of the nearby towns. Luarca, also called the “White City of the Coast,” has a beautiful harbor and charming streets.
Avilés offers a mix of history and modern architecture, with the striking Niemeyer Center as the highlight. Both places are a short distance away and well worth a visit.
Read more: 15 Things to do in Avilés: explore this surprising Spanish city
Some extra tips for visiting Cudillero
A few final practical tips for your visit to Cudillero.
Best travel time
The best time to visit Cudillero is between May and September, when the weather is typically warm, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 25°C. This is when the village comes alive, with bustling streets and plenty of things to see and do.
The summer months are the busiest, but also the most vibrant, especially with events like the Fiesta del L’Amuravela. If you’d prefer to avoid the crowds, spring or fall are great alternatives. Winter can be chillier and rainier, but the tranquil atmosphere more than makes up for the weather. I visited Cudillero in September, and it was absolutely perfect!
How to get there?
How to get to Cudillero? The village is easily accessible by car and public transportation.
- By car: Cudillero is easily accessible by car and is about a 40-minute drive from both Oviedo and Gijón. From these cities, follow the A-8 (Autovía del Cantábrico) toward the coast. Keep in mind that you cannot drive anywhere in the village itself.
- Parking: There’s a spacious parking lot just outside the village, and it’s usually easy to find a spot there since most visitors only stay for a short time, ensuring a good turnover. The parking fee is €2.50 for the day (rate for 2024).
- By public transport: You can easily reach Cudillero from Oviedo, Gijón, and other nearby places by train or bus. From the train station, it’s about a 20-minute walk to the village, while the bus stops a bit closer to the center. Be sure to check Google Maps for detailed routes and itineraries to plan your trip smoothly.
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes: The streets and stairs of Cudillero are steep and sometimes slippery, so good shoes are essential.
- A camera: The village is particularly photogenic, from the colorful houses to the harbor to the views from the miradors.
- Raincoat or umbrella: Even in summer, showers are common in Asturias, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for some rain, especially in the lush, green surroundings of Cudillero.
Best places to stay in Cudillero
Although Cudillero is easy to visit as a day trip from places like Oviedo or Avilés, I highly recommend spending a night there, especially during the busy summer months. Staying overnight allows you to explore the village at a more relaxed pace, enjoying the evening and morning calm before the crowds arrive. Here are some great places to stay in Cudillero for a truly memorable experience.
- La Casona de Pío (2⭐) – Simple, but in an incredibly beautiful building in the picturesque town, just 100 meters from the port.
- Casona de La Paca (3⭐) – Just outside Cudillero, you’ll find several historic country houses (casas indianas), which are charming places to stay. Casona de La Paca is one of these, with its stunning red walls, cozy atmosphere, and comfortably furnished rooms, offering a peaceful retreat just a short distance from the village.
- Hotel El Rosal de Cudillero (3⭐) – One of the highest-rated accommodations in the region, this beautiful old mansion boasts a large garden, providing a peaceful and scenic setting for a memorable stay.
Check out Booking.com for more options, availability, and prices.
Book your trip to Asturias
These were all my Cudillero tips! Want to visit Cudillero and other beautiful places in Asturias? Then book your trip now!
✈️ Visit Asturias by plane – The fastest way to get to Asturias is by plane and it has a small international airport which is located between Cudillero and Avíles. Check WayAway to find the best deals and get cashback on plane tickets.
🚆 Visit Asturias by train – Are you interested in a more sustainable way of traveling? The bigger cities are reachable by train. Check Rail Europe for train tickets.
🚘 Rental Car – For this road trip, it’s highly recommended to rent a car, as this makes it a lot easier to get to the more rural places and hidden beaches. Check Rental Cars to find the best deals.
🤒 Travel insurance – Make sure to invest in travel insurance, it will give you peace of mind during your trip. Check out Insubuy to find the travel insurance that fits your needs.
🎡 Tours & activities – There are a lot of fun tours and activities to do in the north of Spain. Check Get Your Guide to find the best guided tours and activities in Asturias.
Read more about Spain
Want to know more about the most beautiful places in Spain? Then order one of the travel guides below.
I visit Spain several times a year and have explored many of its beautiful regions, especially in the north. That’s why you’ll find plenty of travel tips here for your next Spanish adventure. You might also enjoy these articles:
- The perfect 2 week Asturias itinerary
- 16 Great things to do in Oviedo
- Interrailing in Spain: my experience, itinerary & tips
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My trip to Asturias was made possible by Turismo Asturias and the Spanish Tourism Board. As always, I share my honest opinion about the destination. If you’re interested in collaborating with Traveling with Co, you can learn more on this page.
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