Asturias Food & Culture Guide: Cider, Cheese & Tours

What to Eat and Do in Asturias: Food, Cider & Local Traditions

There is something special about Asturias. Perhaps it is the dramatic contrast between the mountains and the sea, the welcoming atmosphere of its villages, or the way food and tradition remain such an important part of everyday life.

Tucked into the green landscapes of Northern Spain, Asturias is a region where cider is poured from above the head, artisan cheeses mature in mountain caves, and traditional recipes are prepared with the same care they have received for generations.

But there is much more to discover beyond the dining table. From the medieval monuments of Oviedo to colourful fishing villages, prehistoric caves and the magnificent Picos de Europa, Asturias offers a wonderful combination of gastronomy, history, nature and culture.

Whether you are visiting for the first time or looking to explore beyond the usual tourist routes, here are some of the experiences and traditions that make Asturias one of Northern Spain´s most rewarding destinations.

Traditional Asturian Food: From the Mountains to the Coast

Asturian cuisine reflects the landscape of the region. The Cantabrian Sea supplies fresh fish and seafood, fertile valleys produce vegetables, beans and apples, while the mountains provide the pastures that have supported livestock farming and cheese-making for centuries.

Unlike some of Spain´s more elaborate regional cuisines, traditional Asturian cooking is often wonderfully straightforward. Generous portions, good ingredients and recipes passed down through families are central to the local food culture.

Among the region´s best-known specialities are Fabada Asturiana, Cabrales cheese, chorizo a la sidra and the famously creamy arroz con leche. Each has its own story, closely connected to the places and people who produce it.

Fabada Asturiana: The Region´s Most Famous Dish

Few dishes are as closely associated with Asturias as Fabada Asturiana. This hearty traditional stew is made with large white beans, known as fabes, slowly cooked with chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage) and cured pork.

Its simplicity is deceptive. A good fabada depends on the quality of the beans, careful preparation and slow cooking that allows the ingredients to develop their distinctive character.

The prized Faba Asturiana has Protected Geographical Indication (IGP) status, recognising its origins and the agricultural traditions associated with its production.

Discovering Asturias Through Its Farms

To understand why these beans are so highly valued, it is worth exploring the countryside where they are grown.

Small farms remain an important part of rural Asturias, and a visit offers an opportunity to learn about cultivation, traditional agricultural practices and the challenges facing local producers.

On our private Organic Faba Farm, Cooking and Luarca Fish Auction Tour, guests visit an organic farm, enjoy a cooking demonstration with a local chef and sit down to a traditional lunch featuring regional ingredients.

It is a lovely way to discover the connection between Asturias´ countryside and its cuisine, while meeting the people responsible for bringing these ingredients to the table.

Asturian Cider: A UNESCO-Recognised Tradition

Walk into a traditional Asturian sidrería, or cider house, and you will soon realise that cider is more than simply a local drink.

It is part of the region´s social life, enjoyed with friends and family over meals, celebrations and lively conversations.

In December 2024, Asturian cider culture was recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, acknowledging the importance of the traditions surrounding its production and consumption.

Made from locally grown apples, traditional sidra natural is generally dry, refreshing and slightly tart, quite different from the sweeter commercial ciders commonly found elsewhere.

Why Is Asturian Cider Poured from a Height?

One of the most memorable sights in an Asturian cider house is the traditional pouring technique known as escanciar.

The bottle is held high above the head while the glass is positioned near the waist. As the cider strikes the glass, the impact helps release its aromas and briefly aerates the drink.

Only a small amount is poured at a time. Known as a culín, this serving is traditionally enjoyed immediately, while the cider is at its freshest.

Watching an experienced escanciador pour cider with such precision is a fascinating part of any visit to Asturias.

Espichas: Food, Cider and Good Company

Another wonderful tradition is the espicha, a gathering traditionally associated with opening and tasting cider barrels.

Today, these lively occasions bring people together to share cider, local dishes and often traditional music.

Typical accompaniments include Asturian cheeses, tortillas and chorizo a la sidra, sausage gently cooked in cider.

For visitors, an espicha offers a particularly enjoyable introduction to the sociable side of Asturian life.

Cabrales Cheese and the Picos de Europa

Leaving the coast behind, the dramatic limestone mountains of the Picos de Europa reveal another side of Asturias.

Here, mountain farming and cheese-making have been closely connected for centuries. One of the region´s most celebrated products is Cabrales cheese, a distinctive blue cheese traditionally matured in natural mountain caves.

Protected by the Denomination of Origin (DOP Cabrales), it is produced within a defined geographical area using milk from local dairy herds.

The caves provide naturally cool, humid conditions that encourage the development of the characteristic blue mould. The resulting cheese has a rich, complex taste that can range from creamy and savoury to intensely spicy.

Meeting Local Producers in the Mountains

In villages such as Asiego, traditional farming continues to influence daily life. Apple growing, dairy production and cheese-making are all part of the cultural landscape.

Our Picos de Europa and Covadonga: Cabrales Cheese and Asturian Cider Tour introduces guests to these traditions through visits with local producers, cheese and cider tastings, and a regional lunch.

The experience also includes the magnificent scenery of the Lakes of Covadonga and the historic Sanctuary of Covadonga. Traditional Asturian bagpipe music adds another memorable cultural element to the day.

It is a remarkable combination of mountain landscapes, history and gastronomy.

Asturias´ Fishing Villages and Coastal Traditions

The Cantabrian coast has shaped Asturian life for centuries. Fishing communities developed around natural harbours, creating a maritime heritage that remains visible in the region´s villages, markets and restaurants.

Fresh fish and seafood are important ingredients in local cooking, but visiting a working fishing port reveals another side of the industry.

What Happens at an Asturian Fish Auction?

In traditional fishing ports, the lonja, or fish auction, connects fishermen with buyers, distributors and restaurants.

Depending on the port, freshly landed catches are sorted, weighed and sold through an auction process.

Observing this activity provides an interesting perspective on the work behind the seafood served in local restaurants, as well as the challenges and traditions of the fishing industry.

Cudillero and Luarca: Two Villages Worth Discovering

Among the most picturesque coastal destinations in Asturias are Cudillero and Luarca.

Cudillero is famous for its colourful houses rising above a sheltered fishing harbour. Narrow streets and steep stairways lead to viewpoints overlooking the village and the Cantabrian Sea.

Luarca has a different character, with elegant buildings, a natural harbour and a long maritime history. Its waterfront remains closely associated with the local fishing community.

Both villages offer a wonderful opportunity to slow down, explore the coastline and appreciate a more traditional side of Northern Spain.

Our Organic Faba Farm and Coastal Food Tour includes an exploration of this maritime heritage, with the possibility of observing activity at Luarca´s fishing port when the auction is operating and visitor access is available.

Five Asturian Traditions Worth Knowing

Beyond its famous food and landscapes, Asturias has a rich collection of customs that continue to play an important role in regional life.

1. Amagüestu: The Autumn Chestnut Celebration

During autumn, communities gather to celebrate the chestnut harvest with an amagüestu.

Roasted chestnuts, traditional cider and music are central to this seasonal celebration, reflecting the region´s close relationship with agriculture and the changing seasons.

2. Gaita Asturiana: The Sound of Asturias

The traditional Asturian bagpipe, or gaita asturiana, is one of the region´s most recognisable cultural symbols.

Its distinctive sound can be heard during festivals, village celebrations and other traditional gatherings, often accompanied by drums and regional music.

3. Chorizo a la Sidra: A Cider House Favourite

One of the simplest and most popular Asturian dishes is chorizo a la sidra.

Chorizo is gently cooked in natural cider, creating a rich sauce that balances the sausage´s savoury character with the acidity of the apples. It is a classic dish to share in a traditional sidrería.

4. Arroz con Leche: Asturias´ Creamy Dessert

Asturian arroz con leche is known for its wonderfully creamy consistency.

Prepared slowly with milk, rice and sugar, often with cinnamon or lemon peel, it is frequently finished with a thin layer of caramelised sugar.

A simple dessert, but one that has become a firm favourite in homes and restaurants throughout the region.

5. Camino del Norte: Rural and Coastal Spain

The Camino del Norte, the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago, passes through Asturias, linking historic towns, coastal landscapes and rural communities.

For centuries, pilgrims have travelled these routes on their way to Santiago de Compostela.

Even a short walk along the Camino offers an opportunity to discover the countryside at a slower pace and appreciate the region´s historic connections with pilgrimage.

What to See in Oviedo: Cathedral, Old Town and UNESCO Monuments

Asturias is not only about its countryside and coast. Its capital, Oviedo, is one of Northern Spain´s most interesting historic cities.

Once the capital of the Kingdom of Asturias, Oviedo preserves an extraordinary collection of early medieval buildings, elegant squares and historic streets.

It is an especially rewarding destination for travellers interested in Spanish history, architecture and the cultural origins of the region.

The Pre-Romanesque Monuments of Naranco Hill

Overlooking the city, Naranco Hill is home to two remarkable ninth-century monuments: Santa María del Naranco and San Miguel de Lillo.

These buildings represent some of the finest surviving examples of Asturian pre-Romanesque architecture and are included in the UNESCO World Heritage designation for the Monuments of Oviedo and the Kingdom of Asturias.

Another important monument is San Julián de los Prados, also known as Santullano, which preserves remarkable early medieval wall paintings.

Oviedo Cathedral and the Historic Old Town

At the heart of Oviedo stands the magnificent Cathedral of San Salvador, with its impressive Gothic architecture and important religious heritage.

Its famous Holy Chamber forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage designation and has long been associated with the Camino de Santiago.

Beyond the cathedral, Oviedo´s Old Town is a pleasure to explore on foot. Its pedestrian streets, traditional cafés and historic squares make it easy to appreciate the atmosphere of the Asturian capital.

Our private Oviedo Cathedral, Old Town and UNESCO Monuments Tour brings together these important landmarks in a half-day guided experience, introducing visitors to the fascinating history of the city and the Kingdom of Asturias.

Exploring the Asturian Coast: Lastres and Ribadesella

Further along the coast, Lastres and Ribadesella are two destinations that deserve a place on any cultural itinerary through Asturias.

Lastres is known for its historic houses and narrow streets rising above the fishing harbour. The viewpoint of San Roque offers spectacular views across the coastline.

Ribadesella, situated at the mouth of the River Sella, combines maritime history, elegant architecture and one of Northern Spain´s most remarkable prehistoric attractions.

Tito Bustillo: A Journey into Prehistoric Asturias

Near Ribadesella, the Tito Bustillo Cave contains extraordinary prehistoric paintings dating back thousands of years.

Included in the UNESCO World Heritage listing for the Palaeolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives and artistic expression of early human communities.

Visits to the cave require advance planning, as access is restricted for conservation purposes.

Private Shore Excursions from Gijón

For cruise passengers arriving at the Port of Gijón, the eastern Asturian coast makes an excellent destination for a private day excursion.

Our Gijón Private Shore Excursion to Lastres and Ribadesella combines traditional villages, coastal scenery and important historical landmarks, accompanied by a private driver and official local guide.

The itinerary is planned around the ship´s arrival and departure schedule, allowing visitors to discover this beautiful coastline at a comfortable pace.

Slow Food and Responsible Travel in Asturias

One of the most appealing aspects of Asturias is how closely its traditional food and cultural heritage remain connected to everyday life.

Across the region, small farms, family-run restaurants, cider producers and artisan cheese makers continue practices that have been passed down through generations.

Supporting these local businesses helps maintain rural livelihoods and gives visitors a more personal understanding of the places they explore.

At Eat & Walkabout, this approach is central to how we design our private and small-group experiences. We prefer meaningful encounters, carefully chosen local partners and enough time to appreciate a destination without rushing from one attraction to the next.

Beyond Asturias: Our Founder-Led Green Spain Culinary Journey

For those who would like to discover more of Northern Spain, our Founder-Led Green Spain Culinary Journey continues the adventure through Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country.

Hosted by Eat & Walkabout founders Sean and Angie, this small-group journey combines regional gastronomy, beautiful landscapes and cultural experiences along the Cantabrian coast.

After exploring Asturias, the journey continues into Cantabria, with its coastal vineyards, artisan anchovy producers and historic villages, before reaching the Basque Country.

Here, guests discover Txakoli wines, freshly grilled fish in Getaria, traditional pintxos in San Sebastián, a hands-on cooking class and a special gastronomic society dining experience.

With carefully selected accommodation, local guides and visits to independent producers, the journey offers a relaxed and personal introduction to three of Spain´s most fascinating culinary regions.

Plan Your Visit to Asturias

From sharing cider in a traditional sidrería to exploring medieval Oviedo, meeting artisan cheese makers in the Picos de Europa or wandering through colourful fishing villages, Asturias offers an extraordinary variety of experiences.

What makes the region memorable is not simply the places you visit, but the moments that happen along the way: a conversation with a farmer, a home-style lunch, an unexpected discovery in a small village or an afternoon spent enjoying the coastal scenery.

Whether you are planning a private day tour, a cultural excursion or a longer journey through Northern Spain, Eat & Walkabout can help you discover Asturias in a more personal way.

Contact our team to start planning your Asturias experience.