Gijón: Ribadesella, Llanes & San Vicente de la Barquera

Traveling through northern Spain’s Asturias region, we often look for experiences that combine natural beauty, history, and a taste of local life. This tour from Gijón, taking you to Ribadesella, Llanes, and San Vicente de la Barquera, promises just that—a full day exploring coastal towns with rich stories, stunning vistas, and plenty of opportunities to soak in the regional charm.

What immediately caught our attention was the focus on beautiful panoramic views and the insightful guided tours in each town. We love tours that emphasize storytelling and local insights, and this one seems to deliver with knowledgeable guides and well-selected stops. However, some travelers have mentioned that the schedule can feel a bit tight, especially if you like to linger longer at each site.

For anyone who enjoys a mix of history, scenic landscapes, and a relaxed pace that still covers a lot, this trip could be quite rewarding. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want a comprehensive yet manageable day trip from Gijón, with an appreciation for culture and coastal scenery.

Key Points

• Diverse towns: The tour covers Ribadesella, Llanes, and San Vicente de la Barquera, each offering unique sights and vibes.
• Stunning views: Expect panoramic vistas of the coast, Picos de Europa, and Biscay Bay.
• Expert guides: Many reviews praise guides for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience richer.
• Flexible timing: Free time is provided for exploration, but some may find the schedule a little rushed.
• Transport included: The air-conditioned vehicle makes the long drives comfortable.
• No food included: You’ll need to plan for your own meals and drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Route and What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour begins at the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Begoña in Gijón, where you’ll meet your guide. From there, it’s about a nine-hour trip, which includes transportation and guided visits. The schedule is designed to maximize time in each town while providing enough space for sightseeing, photos, and a bit of free exploration.

Ribadesella: Charm and Coastal Views

Once underway, your first stop is Ribadesella, a lovely seaside town known for its picturesque streets and historic buildings. We loved the way the guide described the town’s character, highlighting spots like the Palace of Pietro Cutre—a true gem of the Asturian Renaissance—and the Casa Ardines and Palacio de la Atalaya.

Most travelers seem to enjoy their time here, especially the visit to the Hermitage of the Guide. It’s a special place where the patron saint of sailors rests, and from its vantage point, you’ll get some of the best views of both the town and the Bay of Biscay. One reviewer noted, “If you visit the chapel, it involves a bit of a climb, but the views are totally worth it,” which is a nice tip if you’re up for a short walk.

Llanes: A Summer Favorite

Next, about a half-hour drive away, is Llanes. This town is a go-to summer destination for many, thanks to its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. The guide will introduce you to its most important sights, such as the 13th-century tower, the Palace of the Dukes of Estrada, and the gates of Llanes.

One highlight is the Parres Sobrino square, made famous by the film “El Orfanato”—definitely a fun tidbit if you’re into movies. You’ll have some free time here to wander on your own, perhaps enjoy a coffee on the waterfront or browse local shops. As one reviewer put it, “We enjoyed exploring Llanes and appreciated the guide’s insights into its history and culture.”

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San Vicente de la Barquera: Coastal Serenity and Scenic Backdrops

Your final stop is San Vicente de la Barquera, a charming seaside town with a famous castle and ancient walls. Here, the views of the Picos de Europa in the background make for fantastic photos. You’ll look into its seafaring past, visit the main church of Santa María de los Ángeles, and walk through its old town—an area declared an Asset of Cultural Interest.

Strolling through the streets, you’ll find a relaxed pace that many find refreshing after the busy morning. Guides are attentive, offering tips on where to eat authentic dishes or buy local souvenirs. One traveler mentioned, “You get a real sense of the town’s maritime roots, and the views from here are simply lovely.”

The Practicalities

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, making those longer drives more comfortable. The group size varies, but typically it’s small enough to be intimate, with guides providing bilingual explanations in English and Spanish—at least for groups of up to six. Larger groups will have guides in English, which helps ensure everyone stays informed.

Schedule and Timing

Starting times vary, so checking availability is key. The nine-hour duration means you’ll spend a good chunk of the day traveling and exploring, but the pace is generally considered manageable. Some reviews note that the free time at Llanes and San Vicente might feel slightly rushed, especially if you like to explore every corner.

Cost and Value

While the tour doesn’t include meals or drinks, the value lies in the guided experience and transportation. For a full day of sightseeing covering three towns, the price reflects good value, especially considering the insights and scenic views you’ll enjoy.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

From actual reviews, we found that guides are often praised for their knowledge and warmth. Kristine commented, “A second time with Miguel, an excellent and very knowledgeable guide,” which shows the consistency of quality. Martine described the experience as “superbe,” emphasizing how well the guide knew the history and made the trip enjoyable.

Some travelers, like Derk, mentioned that while the trip was overall very good, the free time could feel a bit long at points. This hints that if you’re someone who prefers more free exploration or less structured time, you might want to plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This trip is perfect for those who want a guided overview of Asturias’ coastal towns without the hassle of organizing multiple trips themselves. It suits travelers interested in history, scenic views, and a relaxed pace that still covers a lot. However, it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues, as there’s a moderate amount of walking involved, and the itinerary is quite full.

It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with a group that enjoys learning together, thanks to the bilingual guides and interesting sights along the coast.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking to discover some of Asturias’ most picturesque towns in one day, this tour offers a well-balanced experience. You’ll enjoy the knowledgeable guides, stunning coastal scenery, and historic sites that bring the region to life. While the schedule can be a bit tight for those who want to linger longer, the overall value is solid for travelers eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning.

This experience works best for curious travelers who appreciate a mix of culture, history, and scenery. It’s particularly suitable if you want an overview of Ripadesella, Llanes, and San Vicente de la Barquera with the comfort of organized transport and expert commentary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who like to take their time exploring?
Not entirely. The schedule is structured to include sightseeing and free time, but some travelers find the free periods a bit brief. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, you might want to arrive early or stay longer in certain spots.

How long is the drive between the towns?
The drive between Ribadesella and Llanes is about half an hour, and from Llanes to San Vicente de la Barquera, it’s also roughly a half-hour. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the transit comfortable.

Are food and drinks included in the price?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks. You’ll need to bring snacks or plan to buy something during your stops.

What language are the guides speaking?
Guides provide explanations mainly in Spanish with bilingual support in English. If there are more than six participants, the tour will be led in English.

Is this tour appropriate for families or children?
While it isn’t specifically marketed as a family tour, the moderate amount of walking and scenic stops can appeal to older children or teens interested in history and views. However, keep in mind the schedule is full, and little ones might get tired.

What should I bring for this trip?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as there’s some walking involved. Also, bring sun protection, some water, and maybe a camera to capture those stunning vistas.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans shift.

This guided day trip from Gijón is a solid choice for exploring the coast of Asturias without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself. With a good mix of natural beauty, history, and local stories, it offers a memorable slice of northern Spain—and a chance to see some of its most charming towns in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: