Jurassic Museum of Asturias Tour from Oviedo

Exploring the Jurassic Museum of Asturias from Oviedo: A Family-Friendly Dive into Dinosaur History

If you’re looking for a uniquely educational outing that combines stunning scenery with a look back into the age of dinosaurs, the Jurassic Museum of Asturias tour from Oviedo offers just that. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the detailed reviews and descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What really stands out are the impressive fossil displays and interactive exhibits that make the experience engaging. Plus, the scenic walk to Playa La Griega adds a relaxed seaside element that keeps the day interesting. On the flip side, some reviews mention the museum exhibits can be a bit inconsistent in quality — one even noted that the dinosaurs sometimes look almost white and have large holes, which might be a disappointment if you’re expecting highly realistic recreations.

This tour is ideal for those curious about dinosaurs, nature lovers who enjoy scenic vistas, and families who want an educational day out. If you’re after a memorable mix of learning and natural beauty, this trip could be a real highlight of your stay in Oviedo.

Key Points

• Educational and Interactive: The museum features fossils, replicas, and activities like touching bone replicas and simulated excavations.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Combining the visit with a walk to Playa La Griega offers beautiful sea vistas and authentic dinosaur footprints.
• Comfortable & Convenient: Transportation is air-conditioned, and the tour includes an experienced local guide, making it accessible and informative.
• Flexible & Compact: The entire experience lasts roughly four and a half hours, perfect for a half-day outing.
• Cost-Effective: At around $65 per person, the price includes entrance fees and guided commentary, offering solid value for an educational experience.
• Group Size: Limited to 30 travelers, so it’s a manageable, personable experience.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour begins at C. Jovellanos in Oviedo, a central location easy to reach if you’re staying nearby. You’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that transports you directly to the Jurassic Museum of Asturias, meaning you won’t have to worry about parking or navigating unfamiliar roads. The group size is capped at 30, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for more personalized attention from your guide.

The Jurassic Museum of Asturias (MUJA)

Once at MUJA, you’ll realize the building itself is a conversation starter. Designed in the shape of a giant three-toed dinosaur footprint, it immediately sets the tone for a fun, prehistoric-themed adventure. Inside, the exhibits are quite comprehensive, featuring a variety of fossils, authentic specimens, and realistic dinosaur replicas.

Our impression, based partly on reviews, is that the exhibits are engaging, especially for kids and the young at heart. The interactive features, like touching bone replicas and trying out excavation activities, add a hands-on element that makes the learning process more memorable.

That said, one review mentioned that some of the dinosaur models can appear less realistic—sometimes they look almost white or have large imperfections. If you’re expecting lifelike, museum-quality reconstructions, be aware that the presentation might not always meet those high standards. However, the educational value and fun factor still shine through, especially considering the opportunity to physically interact with exhibits.

Fossil and Dinosaur Exhibits

The museum boasts an extensive collection, making it one of the most comprehensive displays in the region. While you explore, your guide will share insights about the region’s Jurassic period and what makes Asturian fossils so fascinating. The fossils are authentic, giving you a real sense of the ancient world that once thrived here.

Free Time & Museum Gardens

After about three hours inside, you’ll have some free time to explore the museum gardens or visit the gift shop. The gardens offer a peaceful spot to relax and reflect on what you’ve learned, and you can pick up a souvenir or educational toy related to dinosaurs.

Walk to Playa La Griega

The second part of the tour is a gentle 10-minute walk along a trail to Playa La Griega, a beach renowned for its authentic dinosaur footprints etched into the rocks. Walking along this trail offers a chance to enjoy the beautiful Asturian landscape—think lush greenery, rugged coastlines, and sweeping views of the Cantabrian Sea.

The Dinosaur Footprints at Playa La Griega

Once at the beach, you’ll marvel at the authentic footprints preserved in the rocks, some of which are over 150 million years old. It’s a genuine reminder of how this area was once a vibrant part of the Jurassic world. The views here are quite stunning, and it’s a peaceful spot to soak in the natural beauty while imagining the creatures that once roamed these lands.

Is It Worth It? Analyzing the Value

For $65 per person, this tour packs in a lot: a well-curated museum visit, scenic coastal walk, and incredible fossil sights. The inclusion of guided commentary ensures you’re not just wandering aimlessly, but gaining meaningful insights into the Jurassic period and local geology.

The tour’s duration—about four and a half hours—is well-suited for a half-day trip, making it ideal if you’re trying to fit in multiple activities in Oviedo or the surrounding region. The fact that it is booked an average of 9 days in advance suggests it’s popular, and the small group size adds to its appeal.

From the reviews, most travelers seem pleased, especially with the scenery and the opportunity to see real dinosaur footprints in their natural setting. One reviewer’s note about the dinosaur models appearing inconsistent in quality is worth considering if you’re a detail-oriented visitor, but it likely won’t detract too much from the overall experience.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Bring comfortable shoes for the walk to Playa La Griega—it’s only about 10 minutes but involves a trail.
• Prepare for the weather, especially if it’s sunny; the coastal breeze can be refreshing, but it’s good to have sun protection.
• Plan your timing: since the tour lasts around 4.5 hours, start early to leave plenty of time for other activities in Oviedo or the region.
• Book in advance, as most travelers do around 9 days ahead, to secure your spot.
• Lunch is not included, so consider grabbing a bite before or after the tour, especially if you want to avoid eating on the go.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re a science buff or someone with a curiosity for dinosaurs, you’ll likely find this trip both fun and educational. It’s also great for families with kids who love exploration and fossils, though parents should be mindful of the rocky trail to the beach. The scenic walk and coastal views make it a lovely outing for anyone who appreciates natural beauty paired with a bit of history.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a highly polished, museum-quality display, it offers an authentic peek into the Jurassic world right on the Asturian coast. Perfect for a half-day adventure that combines learning, scenery, and a touch of prehistoric wonder.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle provided by the tour operator, making the journey comfortable and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes, giving you enough time to explore the museum, walk to the beach, and enjoy the scenery.

What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers the entrance to the Jurassic Museum of Asturias, guided commentary, and transportation. Food and drinks are not included.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, children who enjoy dinosaurs and nature will likely find it engaging. Keep in mind the trail to the beach is a bit rocky.

Do I need to book far in advance?
Most travelers book about 9 days ahead, so it’s wise to secure your spot early, especially in peak seasons.

Are the fossil footprints at Playa La Griega authentic?
Yes, the footprints are real fossils embedded in the rocks, offering a genuine glimpse into Jurassic life.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning coastal views. No need to bring lunch as it’s not included, but you may want to bring snacks or water.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, the guide is local and will share interesting insights about the fossils, the Jurassic period, and the local landscape, enriching your experience.

All in all, this tour balances educational content, scenic beauty, and a relaxed pace. It’s a solid choice if you want to see real fossils, learn about dinosaurs, and enjoy some seaside views without spending a full day on the trip. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, you’ll leave with a greater appreciation for the prehistoric world and Asturias’s natural charm.