Few towns are more renowned on the northern coast of Spain than Ribadesella. A treasure of seafaring charm, rich history, and tradition of adventure sports situated in a unique natural setting.
There are many reasons why a visit to this Asturian town is an absolute must for those who decide to explore the region. Between its streets, promenades, and surroundings, visitors will find endless plans, experiences, and activities to make the most of their stay.
Moreover, it’s a perfect destination for trips with friends, couples, or families. We warn you that those who travel to Ribadesella often come back! The first thing anyone wonders when organizing a trip to this Asturian town is what to visit in Ribadesella. And this is the first question we want to answer, so you don’t miss anything. Keep reading!
What to See in Ribadesella?
Walking through Ribadesella is an experience in itself. Every corner of the town exudes fragments of its interesting maritime and Indian history. Whether it’s for its architecture, its wonderful views of the Cantabrian Sea, its gastronomy, or its welcoming atmosphere, Ribadesella captivates visitors.
And what about its location, gateway to the imposing Picos de Europa and the point where one of the most famous rivers in the region flows into the sea: the Sella River. In Ribadesella, the sea and the mountains unite in a special way, capturing camera flashes and people’s hearts.
And what should no one miss? Here we name the main attractions of the municipality, while insisting on how recommendable it is to ‘pound the pavement’ of every street, corner, or seafront promenade. How lovely it is to let yourself be surprised!
- Historic center of Ribadesella: take a short route from Queen María Cristina Square, with the 16th-century Prieto-Cutre Family Palace, passing through López Muñiz Street, to the Church Square, presided over by the Church of Santa María Magdalena, a charming mid-20th century church.
You also can’t miss the architecture on Manuel Fernández Juncos Street or Atalaya Square. And, without a doubt, in your tour of the historic center, you can’t leave without seeing Plaza Nueva, which stands out for its colorful buildings and its wide range of bars, terraces, and shops.
Additionally, if you want to see with your own eyes the most impressive Baroque palace in the town, you shouldn’t forget to visit the Prieto-Mellado Palace, current headquarters of the Post Office. Next to this palace is also the Casa del Escudo, birthplace of the Uría-Aza painter brothers.
- Paseo de los Vencedores del Sella: impressive views of the Ribadesella estuary and the other shore of the town. Moreover, on this promenade, you’ll find the sculpture that pays homage to the International Descent of the Sella.
- Paseo de la Grúa: a pleasant path under Mount Corberu that runs parallel to the Sella until it reaches the sea on the eastern side of the estuary. Marvel at the murals by Antonio Mingote, representing the most important moments in Ribadesella’s history, or delight in one of the best panoramic views of the town. This is one of the things to see in Ribadesella in a day that can’t be missed on your trip!
- Chapel of the Virgin of Guía: once you’ve completed the Paseo de la Guía, you can access this charming chapel of the Virgin protector of sailors, located at the top of Mount Corberu. It’s probably the best viewpoint in the entire town. A complete lesson in Asturian history and mythology and, moreover… The views will take your breath away!
- Indian Houses: A true classic in Asturias. The Indian tradition in the region is deep-rooted. Large, palatial constructions that were built upon their return by locals who emigrated to America in search of fortune between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. You’ll find that the entire Principality is full of these spectacular buildings, with detailed and distinctive colonial architecture. In Ribadesella, on the beachfront, you’ll find exquisite examples, with Hotel Villa Rosario standing out as one of the most unique pieces of this rich architectural heritage.
- Santa Marina Beach: Starting at the very mouth of the Sella River, this shell-shaped urban beach spans a large part of the town. It features a beautiful seafront promenade where you can enjoy sea views and the magnificent Indian houses that are still perfectly preserved on the beachfront. Additionally, if you decide to visit Ribadesella during Easter, specifically on Good Friday and Holy Saturday morning, you can enjoy the only beach horse race in the entire north of the country, a unique and unforgettable event.
- Atalaya Beach: A surprising and unique cove that hides a secret: the Atalaya Tower. A beautiful 19th-century medieval tower covered in vines and surrounded by nature that you must seek out once you’re on the beach.
- Portiellu Neighborhood: An old fishing district where you can stroll through narrow and picturesque alleys filled with colorful houses. Also, in this neighborhood, you’ll find a peculiar staircase: you’ve surely seen it in many photographs! It’s the now-famous colored staircase of Ribadesella.
- La Cuesta Viewpoint, from where you can admire the historic town center; and the Malecón Promenade: a marshland full of wooden walkways and towers from which to observe the numerous migratory birds that rest in the area.
What to See Near Ribadesella?
Now that you know what to see in Ribadesella, how about we explore the main attractions near the town? This way, the trip will be complete! The surroundings of Ribadesella have a lot to offer. Here’s a list of some of the things to see in and around Ribadesella. Take note!
- Tito Bustillo Cave: A cavity that forms part of the network of rock art caves in Spain classified as World Heritage. One of the most important and prominent caves in Europe in terms of its richness in rock art. You can visit the cave inside and immerse yourself in history during your visit to the Tito Bustillo Rock Art Center.
- Cuevona de Cueves: An impressive 250-meter natural cave turned into a tunnel is the only existing entrance to the village of Cueves. The cave can be crossed on foot or by car, and during the journey, you can admire the incredible mineral formations of the place. Moreover, the fact that the cave allows vehicle traffic is a unique characteristic.
After crossing, you’ll reach a small and charming rural village surrounded by mountains, Cueves, in a privileged environment where you can relax after the walk. Undoubtedly, one of the most unique and singular places in Asturias that you can’t miss.
- La Vega, La Espasa, and La Griega Beaches: Impressive natural beaches where you can enjoy the Asturian landscape in its maximum splendor and take a good swim as long as the weather permits. How do you handle the water temperature of the Cantabrian Sea?
- Acantilados del Infierno (Hell’s Cliffs): One of the major tourist attractions of the Principality if you’re looking for a spectacular route. With an approximate duration of 1h 45min, it starts from the recreational area of Cuerres and has a low difficulty level.
Impressive rock formations sculpted by the sea over centuries conquer the view during a marvelous journey that ends in the recreational area of Guadamía, with an imposing panoramic view of the famous Bufones de Pría. One of the things to see around Ribadesella that can’t be missed during your visit.
- Guadamía Beach: an interesting elongated beach of golden sand carved into the rock that acts as a natural boundary between the municipalities of Llanes and Ribadesella. At low tide, you can walk on the sand or swim at the foot of the cliffs, while at high tide it becomes an enormous natural pool.
- Bufones de Pría: natural chimneys that connect the sea and the surface formed by the erosion of waves and rain on limestone. When the sea is calm, it’s a natural environment that amazes the eye. However, if there’s rough sea and the water hits the cliffs forcefully, jets of water under high pressure come out of these holes, creating a unique and unparalleled visual (and auditory) spectacle.
- Entrepeñas Gorge: a wonderful gorge declared a Natural Monument, with quartzite needle formations and great beauty that doesn’t leave anyone indifferent.
- Lastres: Exemplary Village of Asturias and one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. It’s a peculiar fishing village surrounded by the Sierra del Sueve and the Picos de Europa. An idyllic setting to walk around and enjoy its charm.
- Gulpiyuri Beach: one of the most popular beaches in the area. It’s an inland beach that has no direct access to the sea. It’s cataloged as a Natural Monument and is an ideal place to enjoy the views or take a quiet swim.
- Fitu Viewpoint: one of the best viewpoints in Asturias. It offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Sueve Nature Reserve, the Ponga Natural Park, and the Picos de Europa Natural Park.
- Picos de Europa. Words are not enough! Take a look at this post to learn more about this impressive Natural Park.
- Cangas de Onís: one of the most charming villages in Asturias, with a wide range of gastronomic and commercial offerings to visit at any time of the year. Find out more!
- Colombres: a beautiful Asturian village that stands out for its numerous constructions of Indiana architecture.
What to Do in Ribadesella?
Now that we know what can be seen in Ribadesella, we want to emphasize that enjoying its attractions is not the only plan the town offers. Trying Asturian cuisine, tasting good cider, and experiencing a great adventure are just some of the activities anyone can enjoy during their visit to Ribadesella. Because yes, the municipality also lends itself to adventure.
- Jet ski tours along the coast of Ribadesella! How does that plan sound? Once in the town, you’ll just need to go to the Cangas Aventura office to live an impressive experience. You’ll feel the adrenaline of riding a jet ski in the Cantabrian Sea and be amazed by the views of the Dinosaur Coast or the Hell’s Cliff.
- The Sella River Descent is one of the most popular activities in the area. Moreover, if you’re lucky enough to visit the area during the first Saturday of August (after the 2nd), you can enjoy The International Sella Descent firsthand. But, in addition, at any time of the year you can enjoy the experience yourself in a canoe, participating in one of the most famous active tourism and adventure activities in Asturias.
- Additionally, in the area you can enjoy all kinds of activities: hiking, horseback riding, canyoning, caving, etc.
And What to Do in Ribadesella When It Rains?
You’re in Asturias! Rain is part of the region’s charm, so knowing how to enjoy it is a winning mindset. However, for those who don’t like getting wet, they can visit a traditional cider house and try their hand at pouring cider, or visit the Jurassic Museum of Asturias, located very close to the town. In Ribadesella, there are options for all tastes!
Ribadesella offers a wide range of activities and places to discover, whether you’re passionate about nature and sports or looking to immerse yourself in the region’s history and culture. After this post, we hope you’ve been able to outline the plan for your next visit. We can assure you of one thing: the experience will be unforgettable!