Tucked along the dramatic coastline of northern Spain, Cudillero in Asturias is a postcard-perfect fishing village. I had the pleasure of exploring this enchanting spot on a day trip from Oviedo in May — a time when the crowds are few, the air is crisp with sea breeze, and the colors of the town seem even more vivid under the gentle spring sun.
If you’re visiting Asturias and wondering whether Cudillero deserves a place on your itinerary — let me assure you, it absolutely does. Here’s how to spend a magical day discovering its hidden charms.
Hi, I’m Elena! Thanks for reading my blog. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality and travel industry, I hold a Swiss Diploma in Hotel Management and a Master’s Degree in Hospitality & Tourism Leadership. As a Greece expert, I’ve spent years exploring the country in depth, uncovering its hidden gems and authentic experiences. I also worked for five years as a Destination Development Consultant for an American boutique travel agency, where I played a key role in developing Greece, Spain, and Portugal as travel destinations. My deep industry knowledge, hands-on experience, and passion for immersive travel ensure that every recommendation I share is trusted, insightful, and curated with expertise. I hope that you find my content useful, in case you have any questions please feel free to reach out. I’ll be happy to help you.
Driving from Oviedo to Cudillero
Cudillero is located approximately 52 km from Oviedo. The drive’s duration is approximately 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. We left Oviedo in the morning, and we didn’t encounter any traffic on our way. We took the A-63 highway west from Oviedo, then merged onto the N-632 towards Cudillero. Once you arrive in Cudillero, the first thing you will encounter is a large port area with ample parking space where you can leave your car and walk directly into town, crossing a small bridge.
Top Things to Do in Cudillero, Asturias
1. Start with the Iconic Viewpoint: Mirador de la Garita-Atalaya
The moment you arrive in Cudillero, make your way uphill — yes, it’s a bit of a climb, but oh, what a reward awaits. From the Mirador de la Garita-Atalaya, the village unfurls before you like a kaleidoscope of terracotta rooftops cascading down to the harbor. There are three places not to be missed. One of them is the La Garita viewpoint, located on the east side of the amphitheatre, from where you can see the lighthouse, the port, and the town at a glance.
Another is the viewpoint of “El Picu”, right in the heart of Cudillero, and another is the Casa del Fuego, in the western part of Cudillero. Between all of them, you’ll complete a sequence of unique visual snapshots, at the same time that you will delve into the curious history of this town.
As you walk to the viewpoint, you will pass through narrow streets lined with houses. Be mindful not to make any noise as you pass by people’s homes.
This is the best place to take in the town’s unique amphitheater-like layout, built into the cliffs with whimsical asymmetry. Cudillero can only be fully experienced by exploring its heart. Early morning or late afternoon light here? Absolutely magical. We arrived in Cudillero in the morning and left early in the afternoon; therefore, we didn’t get to experience it later in the day. However, I do recommend spending as much time as possible in this charming town.
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2. Wander the Narrow Streets and Harbor
Descending into the heart of Cudillero, you’ll find a maze of narrow alleys, colorful fishermen’s houses, and tiny balconies draped with laundry fluttering like flags of everyday life. This isn’t a village made for haste — let your steps slow, your senses awaken.
At the harbor, fishing boats bob gently in the water, while seagulls call overhead and the scent of the sea lingers in the air. This is still a working fishing port, and it’s this authenticity that gives Cudillero its soul.
3. Savor Fresh Seafood in a Charming Plaza
For lunch, head to Plaza de la Marina, the heart of Cudillero, surrounded by cafés and restaurants with terraces that are perfect for people-watching and sampling seafood. Try the pixín (monkfish), or the famed fabada asturiana (rich Asturian beef stew) if you want to taste the land as well as the sea.
In May, the plaza is peaceful — with no long waits and no rushed service. Just the joy of savoring each bite, each moment.
4. Try Local Specialties
Inside the town, follow the road past the Plaza de la Marina, and you will come across La Gijonesa Bar – Tienda which is a cute cafe and a food shop selling different local products, including canned sardines, with various flavors. I bought a gift box to bring back home.
5. Admire the Lighthouse
There is a short coastal trail that leads from the harbor to the Faro de Cudillero, the town’s lighthouse. It was closed off when we visited, but from here you can admire the sweeping views of the Cantabrian Sea, dramatic cliffs, and crashing waves below.
6. Walk Through the Piñera River Tunnel
One of Cudillero’s lesser-known yet wonderfully atmospheric experiences is walking through the Piñera River Tunnel. Dug directly into the rock beside the large car park at the port, this 300-meter-long tunnel was historically used to transport fish from the harbor to the upper town. Its gentle 6% gradient made it much easier to move the catch of the day without navigating the entire city’s winding streets.
Today, the Piñera River flows quietly through the tunnel, adding a cool, whispering soundtrack to your passage.
7. Visit the Church of San Pedro
Quietly sitting above the harbor, Iglesia de San Pedro dates back to the 16th century and is one of the oldest buildings in town. It’s a peaceful stop to reflect on Cudillero’s maritime heritage, offering lovely views over the rooftops if you linger outside.
Spring paints Cudillero in fresh colors and gentle sunlight. May is the perfect month — before the summer surge, but after winter’s hush. The town breathes with quiet beauty, and you’ll share its magic only with the locals and the sea. I hope that this post has inspired you to discover the magic of Cudillero.
Discover More of My Posts on Northern Spain
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