In Asturias, nature is intensely experienced. The green of the forests blends with the blue of the Cantabrian Sea, and every corner hides a story to be discovered. Its balance between sea and mountains, its biodiversity, and its strong commitment to sustainability make it a must-see destination for ecotourists.
Protected areas: treasures of biodiversity
Asturias has a large number of protected natural areas, 8 of which are part of the Green Spain Ecotourism Reserve, making it a true sanctuary of biodiversity. Among its notable areas is the Picos de Europa National Park and Biosphere Reserve, where you can enjoy the imposing mountains reflected in the Lakes of Covadonga and spot the majestic bearded vulture, the characteristic wallcreeper or the agile chamois, among many other species, as it is one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in the country.
Also stands out the Somiedo Natural Park and Biosphere Reserve, a benchmark in the conservation of the Cantabrian brown bear, a species that can also be observed in other Asturian Biosphere Reserves such as Las Ubiñas - La Mesa y Sources of Narcea, Degaña and IbiasThe latter is also home to the Muniellos Forest, the largest primary oak forest in Western Europe, an ecosystem of extremely high ecological value.
The Asturian landscape is completed with the Río Eo, Oscos and Terras de Burón Biosphere Reserve (a space shared with Galicia) where the magnificent conservation of its riparian forests and traditional hydraulic devices that harness the power of the streams and torrents that run through the region stand out. Natural Park of Ponga and the Natural Park of Redes, the focus is on the lush forests and traditional architecture that has endured for centuries. Las Ubiñas - La Mesa, for its part, stands out for its imposing glacial forms sculpted by time. Finally, the Villaviciosa Estuary Partial Nature Reserve It is a key wetland for migratory birds, where the mudflats and intertidal flats support a large production of invertebrates essential to the food chain of numerous species.
Each of these spaces offers an exceptional window for observing nature and practicing responsible ecotourism, consolidating Asturias as a privileged destination within the Green Spain – Ecotourism Reserve.
A landscape of contrasts
Asturias is privileged to offer, in a single territory, the impressive Cantabrian coastline and the most imposing mountains in northern Spain. Along its more than 300 kilometers of coastline, vertiginous cliffs, sheltered coves, and golden sandy beaches follow one another. Many of these sandy beaches are home to dune systems of great ecological value, where threatened and strictly protected flora survives, adapted to the harsh conditions of wind and salinity. This balance between sea and mountains makes Asturias a unique natural setting, where biodiversity unfolds in all its splendor.
On the other hand, the Cantabrian Mountains stand out as a place to connect with nature and disconnect. Its lush beech and oak forests, glacial lakes, and snow-capped mountains in winter create a landscape of extraordinary beauty. This territory is home to a wealth of biodiversity, with emblematic species such as the brown bear, the Iberian wolf, and the Cantabrian capercaillie. Its flora, with endemic species such as the everlasting flower and saxifrage of the Picos de Europa and the Somiedo orchid, completes an ecosystem that makes the mountain range a perfect destination for both those seeking tranquility and nature lovers.
Activities to enjoy Asturias sustainably
Asturias is a territory where each visitor can design their own ecotourism experience:
- Hiking through natural spaces: Hike the trails that crisscross protected natural areas and discover their most iconic spots, as well as their flora and fauna. Routes like the Bear Trail or the Alba Route will allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of these unique landscapes.
- Observation of fauna and floraAsturias is a paradise for wildlife lovers. In its Cantabrian Mountains, you can spot the majestic brown bear in its natural habitat, while griffon vultures and bearded vultures soar overhead. Its forests are home to a wide variety of forest and high-mountain birds, and if you look closely, you'll discover an incredible diversity of insects, from colorful butterflies to beetles and bumblebees that play an essential role in the ecosystem.
- Ethnographic heritage and traditional lifeAsturias preserves a valuable cultural legacy linked to its natural environment. In the Picos de Europa, shepherds' flocks continue to produce artisanal cheeses such as Cabrales and Gamonéu. Ponga and Redes are home to beyuscos (granaries) and wooden cabins, respectively, reflecting mountain livestock life. In Las Ubiñas-La Mesa and Somiedo, thatched cottages and stone corros (corros) demonstrate adaptation to the high mountains, while in Fuentes del Narcea, cortines (wooden huts) and talameiros (wooden fences) still protect brown bear hives, a testament to the coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Where to sleep and eat
To experience Asturias authentically, accommodation should be part of the experience. You can choose from mountain cabins with views of the Picos de Europa, rural houses in hidden villages, or eco-hotels that combine comfort with sustainability. To ensure a stay aligned with the values of ecotourism, choose companies accredited by the Green Spain Ecotourism Reserve, committed to respecting the environment.
Asturian cuisine is a celebration of local flavors. From fabada stew cooked slowly in a cider mill to a platter of artisanal cheeses like Cabrales or Gamonéu, every bite reflects the identity of this land. And the ritual of pouring cider in traditional chigres (beef restaurants) is a must, an experience that connects culture and tradition with the traveler. Find restaurants within the Ecotourism Reserve to enjoy Asturias with the lowest environmental impact
Discover Asturias and its natural magic!
Asturias is much more than a destination; it's a way to experience nature and experience it with respect. Its landscapes, fauna, flora, ethnography, culture, and cuisine make it a benchmark for ecotourism in Spain.
Do you dare to explore this natural paradise? Continue exploring with us. Green Spain Ecotourism Reserve And get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Asturias awaits!
