Free walking tours in Luarca and what to see

Must-sees

Luarca is a seafaring town in western Asturias, capital of the Valdés municipality. Its white houses crowd around a deep harbour, set between hills, crossed by the river Negro and its several bridges. The fishermen’s quarter of El Cambaral, with narrow streets and steps, is the most characteristic part.

Up top, the Atalaya viewpoint brings together the chapel, the old Mesa de Mareantes, which governed fishermen’s lives, the lighthouse and a cemetery overlooking the sea, where Severo Ochoa, born in the town, is buried. From there you can see the town beaches and the cliffs of the western coast.

Free tours and guided visits

There are no regular free walking tours in Luarca. The town is small and easy to explore on foot by yourself, although in summer the tourist office usually organises guided visits. The most popular excursions head along the nearby coast: Cudillero, half an hour away, with its amphitheatre of houses above the harbour, and Playa del Silencio, a pebble cove ringed by cliffs. You can also visit Cabo Busto and Puerto de Vega, or carry on to As Catedrais beach, already in Galicia.

How long to spend

Half a day or a relaxed day is enough for Luarca. Stroll round the harbour and El Cambaral, climb to the Atalaya and go down to the beach. With two or three days you can add Cudillero, Playa del Silencio and Puerto de Vega. If you stay longer, it is a good base for the western Asturian coast and the inland Navia valley.

Where to stay

The best choice is to stay in the centre, near the harbour, where the restaurants are concentrated and everything is on foot. The higher areas have views but involve climbing. In the surroundings there are village houses and rural hotels, good for anyone with a car who prefers the countryside. Luarca is quiet even in summer, although in August it is wise to book ahead.