The best cycling routes in Asturias

Asturias offers a remarkable variety of scenery. You can cycle along the rugged Asturian Green Coast, through the dramatic limestone peaks of the Picos de Europa National Park, or explore lush green valleys, glacial lakes, and extensive natural parks like Ubiñas-La Mesa, Redes, and Somiedo. River valleys and gorges also provide scenic routes.

Asturias offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes. You'll find over 100 easy routes, more than 350 moderate routes, and over 900 difficult routes, ensuring options for all skill levels. For example, the Lagos de Covadonga Trail is a challenging climb, while the La Camocha Greenway and Llantones River Trail offers an easy ride.

Yes, Asturias has several routes suitable for families, particularly those utilizing the 'Vías Verdes' (greenways), which are traffic-free paths on disused railway lines. The Senda del Oso (Bear's Path) is a popular rail-trail ideal for all cycling levels, including families, offering a chance to spot Cantabrian brown bears. The La Camocha Greenway and Piles River Path Loop is another moderate option that follows a greenway.

Asturias is rich in natural and historical landmarks. You can encounter glacial lakes like Covadonga, Ercina, and Enol in the Picos de Europa. The region also features prehistoric sites like the Cueva del Pindal with its cave paintings, and sections of the historic Camino de Santiago. For specific attractions, consider visiting the Covadonga Sanctuary or the Huerta Cave.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Asturias are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Gijón, Cabo Peñas, Luanco, Candás — circular by the coast, which explores coastal towns, and the Oviedo to Fuso de la Reina on the Via Verde — circular route.

The mild climate for much of the year, including the summer months, makes Asturias an ideal destination for cycling. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides comfortable conditions without being stifling. Winter can bring challenging conditions, especially in the mountains.

Absolutely. Many routes connect historic cities like Oviedo and vibrant coastal towns such as Gijón and Llanes, as well as mountain villages like Potes. Cycling along the coast, as in the Gijón, Cabo Peñas, Luanco, Candás — circular by the coast route, allows you to experience local gastronomy and culture, including the region's famous cider.

The touring cycling routes in Asturias are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1700 reviews. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and stunning natural landscapes, from the dramatic Picos de Europa to the picturesque coastline, and the variety of routes catering to all skill levels.

Yes, the Picos de Europa National Park is a major draw for cyclists in Asturias, offering dramatic limestone peaks and challenging climbs. The Lagos de Covadonga Trail is a renowned route within this area, featuring significant elevation gain through its iconic mountain landscape.

Yes, Asturias boasts several Natural Parks and Biosphere Reserves that offer unique landscapes and preserved ecosystems for exploration. For instance, the Lagos de Saliencia — circular in the Parque Natural de Somiedo route takes you through the stunning Somiedo Natural Park.

Asturias has a rich history, and you can find various historical sites along its cycling routes. Sections of the Camino de Santiago pass through the region, featuring Romanesque chapels and ruins. You might also encounter castles and palaces. For example, the Muros de Nalón, Quinta de Selgas y Playa de Aguilar — circular desde Espíritu Santo route passes by the historic Quinta de Selgas.

Absolutely. The Asturian Green Coast provides a contrasting experience with its picturesque coastal ranges. Routes like the Gijón, Cabo Peñas, Luanco, Candás — circular by the coast allow cyclists to ride through diverse coastal scenery, passing tiny coves, charming villages, cliffs, and beaches.