There’s nothing like a family getaway to bring generations closer and enjoy a different place. When you turn a trip into an adventure where you can enjoy the surroundings, activities surrounded by nature, and culture with family, the benefits are even greater: wildlife, landscape, gastronomy, memories… In the current era where we continuously depend on mobile phones and the exhausting pace of daily life, active tourism allows parents, children, and other family members to disconnect from technology and connect more with each other and nature.
Did you know that Nature Deficit Disorder exists? It’s a term that refers to the price our mental and physical health, our ability to learn, our productivity – especially for children – has to pay for being disconnected from Nature. That’s why today we suggest several places you can’t miss visiting, and doing the best Active Tourism activities with us.
What to Visit if You Come to Eastern Asturias?
Lakes, Basilica, and Cave of Covadonga
In the council of Cangas de Onís, this beautiful enclave is located: a neo-Romanesque style Basilica created entirely from a particular pink limestone, as well as the Holy Cave of the Virgin of Covadonga and Don Pelayo’s tomb. All of this is within the famous Picos de Europa National Park, a protected natural space declared a Biosphere Reserve. Its flora and fauna are of exceptional richness for an absolute delight of the senses. Additionally, in the Western Massif of the Picos de Europa, you’ll find the Lakes of Covadonga: Enol and Ercina, both of extraordinary beauty and natural richness to share with children and young people; enjoy the views and the characteristic flora and fauna of the area as a family.
Ribadesella
This beautiful fishing village is surrounded by magical places like the Tito Bustillo cave, dating back to 10,000 BC and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the importance of its cave art. Additionally, this cheerful seaside town becomes the finish line of one of the most famous canoe races in the world: the International Descent of the Sella, declared an event of International Tourist Interest. Enjoying a walk and its gastronomy are must-dos.
Llanes
The council of Llanes stands out for beaches like Gulpiyuri or Cuevas del Mar, and for natural sites like the Bufones de Pría (which we talked about in detail here). A walk through its port and its characteristic “Cubes” is also essential if you visit the seaside town of Llanes. Its charm and proximity to the Picos de Europa, its idyllic beaches, its seafaring tradition, its cultural and social life, and its gastronomy will make Llanes an indispensable family visit.
Sella River
The Sella is the most important river in Eastern Asturias, and it crosses the councils of Amieva, Cangas de Onís, Parres, Ponga, and Ribadesella. The International Descent of the Sella takes place in its waters, between the bridges of Arriondas (Parres) and Ribadesella. Additionally, it’s one of the most important salmon rivers in Spain. We invite you to discover the River in a different way… from its waters.
Descent of the Sella River
At Cangas Aventura, you can do the Descent of the Sella starting from the Arriondas bridge and ending at the San Román bridge, as well as passing through several key points that will make you enjoy the experience to the fullest. If you don’t feel strong enough, don’t have enough time, or are dependent on young children, don’t worry! We have 3 pickup points; we’ll take you back to our facilities where you can shower and change clothes.
We also have double and triple canoes to do the Sella descent as a family. Enjoy nature and its surroundings with us. We’re sure the whole family will enjoy the experience!