Hiking, eating and relaxing in an 18th century Spa near Oviedo

Thinking about a day out near Oviedo that balances outdoor activity, cultural insight, and some well-deserved pampering? This tour offers exactly that—a chance to explore the beautiful countryside, unwind in a historic spa, and enjoy hearty regional food. Based on lots of glowing reviews, I can tell you many travelers find it a memorable way to experience the area beyond just the city sights.

What caught my eye? First, the guided walk through lovely, car-free roads and old train tunnels promises an authentic experience with plenty of opportunities to learn from knowledgeable guides. Second, the combination of nature, history, and spa relaxation really sets this tour apart—it’s not just a walk or a spa visit but a well-rounded day.

That said, there’s one thing to keep in mind: the tour involves about 6 miles of walking, which might be a stretch if you’re not used to moderate activity. Also, bring your swimwear and a towel, as the spa experience requires some prep.

If you enjoy exploring regions at a relaxed pace, appreciate historical settings, and love a good mix of outdoor and indoor experiences, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine physical activity with comfort and authentic regional cuisine.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines hiking, cultural insights, and spa relaxation.
• Guided Walks: Led by knowledgeable guides who share local history and stories.
• Comfort and Convenience: Private transport back to Oviedo and all entrance fees included.
• Authentic Food: Enjoy a traditional Asturian three-course meal.
• Timing and Group Size: About 7 hours total, with small groups (max 8 travelers) for more personal attention.
• Weather Dependence: Good weather is important; poor weather might cause cancellations or rescheduling.

This tour begins with an easy 25-minute walk from Oviedo’s city center, making it accessible without needing a car or public transit. The meeting point at Aparcamiento para motos Parque de Invierno is a practical spot, and from there, your guide will lead you into the day’s adventure.

Exploring Parque de Invierno

The first stop is Parque de Invierno, a popular green space where your guide will introduce you to Oviedo and its surrounds. Expect a quick, 15-minute walk through the park—an inviting way to start the day and get some fresh air. This initial phase sets the tone for the day: relaxed, informative, and scenic.

Walking the Senda Verde

Next, the real highlight—a two-hour walk along Senda Verde, a trail that follows an old train track from Oviedo to Las Caldas. This part of the tour is particularly appealing because it’s a car-free route, passing through the Asturian countryside, old train tunnels, and across the Nalon river. The walk covers around 6 miles (roughly 10 km), perfect for those comfortable with moderate activity.

According to reviews, our guide, Debora, is especially praised for her knowledge and responsiveness. One reviewer mentioned, “Debora was very knowledgeable, and responsive to our needs,” which really underscores how much a good guide can elevate this experience. You’ll learn about the area’s history, natural surroundings, and local culture as you go.

Visiting Castillo de Priorio

At the end of your walk, you’ll pass the fairy-tale Castillo de Priorio, a spot filled with legends and local stories. Spending about 10 minutes here, your guide will fill you in on the fascinating history attached to this castle. It’s a quick stop but great for photos and adding a sense of storybook charm to your day.

Relaxing at Las Caldas Spa

Your hike concludes in the village of Las Caldas, where you’ll enter a historic spa. Here, you can indulge in several hours of relaxation—taking advantage of the spa’s sauna and other facilities (entry included). You’ll want to bring swimwear, a towel, flip-flops, and a swimming cap (which is obligatory). Many reviews highlight the spa experience as truly unique; one reviewer called it “nothing I’ve ever experienced,” emphasizing its distinct appeal.

The spa isn’t just about soaking—it’s a moment to unwind amid beautiful surroundings. The facilities are described as world-class, and after the walk, it’s a perfect way to recover and enjoy some peaceful downtime.

Enjoying a Traditional Asturian Lunch

After relaxing, it’s time for a hearty, three-course meal in a local restaurant. The tour includes a “Menu del Dia,” which typically features regional dishes and drinks. One review fondly noted how well-organized and tasty the meal was, making it a nice reward after the walk and spa session.

Transportation and Flexibility

The entire experience is organized for convenience: a private car returns you to Oviedo after the day’s activities. This seamless transition makes all the difference, so you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or taxis.

Price point at $225.58 per person may seem steep at first glance, but when you break down what’s included—guided walk, entrance to the spa, lunch, snacks, and private transport—it offers good value for what’s essentially a full day of curated experiences.

The tour’s small group size (max 8 people) ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with your guide. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer an intimate, curated outing over large group tours.

Timing is straightforward: starting at 9:30 am and lasting about 7 hours, which means you’ll likely be back in Oviedo by early evening. This makes it feasible even if you’re on a tight schedule or want a full-day activity without feeling rushed.

Weather plays a role— since the day involves outdoor walking, poor weather could impact the experience. The tour providers mention that if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Review Highlights and Authentic Feedback

Multiple reviewers have praised the knowledge and friendliness of Debora, describing her as responsive and kind. Comments like “This activity was a nice surprise” and “the spa is like nothing I’ve ever experienced” suggest that the experience exceeds expectations, especially for those new to the region or seeking a relaxing, diverse day trip.

One reviewer even called Oviedo a “hidden gem,” emphasizing that this tour is a great way to see the city’s natural side while enjoying the luxurious spa experience that might otherwise be difficult to access independently.

This experience is ideal for active travelers who aren’t afraid of a moderate walk and want to incorporate some cultural and culinary highlights into their trip. It suits those who appreciate guided insights and want a personal touch in their excursions. If you’re someone who enjoys a combination of nature, history, and relaxation, and don’t mind bringing your swimwear, this tour hits all those marks.

Conversely, if you’re less comfortable with walking or have mobility issues, this may not be the best fit, given the 6-mile hike involved. It’s also not a quick, superficial activity—be prepared for a full day with some physical effort, but equally rewarding.

This tour offers a well-rounded experience blending physical activity, cultural storytelling, and relaxation in one package. The guided walk along scenic, car-free routes is a real highlight, and the visit to the historic spa adds a luxurious touch that elevates the entire day. The inclusion of traditional Asturian cuisine ensures you’ll leave with a satisfying taste of the region, both literally and figuratively.

Priced reasonably considering everything included, it’s an experience that caters to curious travelers who like to explore beyond the typical sightseeing route and enjoy authentic regional flavor. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful scenery make it a safe choice for those looking to deepen their connection with Asturias.

Overall, if you’re after a balanced, immersive day that combines outdoor adventure, history, and relaxation, this tour in Oviedo is definitely worth considering.

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the initial meeting point in Oviedo, making it a full-day experience.

How far will I be walking?
You’ll cover around 6 miles (roughly 10 km) on the guided walk, which is spread over about two hours along scenic, car-free routes.

What should I bring for the spa part of the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, flip-flops, and a swimming cap (mandatory at the spa). The tour includes entrance to the spa but not these items.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is designed for those with a moderate physical fitness level and involves walking and spa visits. It might suit older children or teenagers who are comfortable with the activities.

What if the weather isn’t good on the day?
Since good weather is required, the tour might be canceled if conditions are poor. In such cases, a different date or a full refund will be offered.

Does the tour include transportation back to Oviedo?
Yes, a private car takes you back to Oviedo after completing the activities, ensuring a smooth end to your day.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional Asturian three-course lunch and a snack with water are included in the price.

How many people typically participate?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, making it more personalized and intimate.

If you’re craving an active yet restful day with a touch of regional charm, this tour might just check all the boxes. It’s authentic, well-organized, and offers a nice mix of scenery, history, and comfort.