Tucked between verdant rolling hills and the Cantabrian Sea lies an unmissable small village that has earned recognition amongst “Spain’s most secret destinations” by European Best Destinations. Cudillero, situated in the Asturias region, is celebrated for its enchanting narrow lanes, vibrant houses down the slopes, and thriving fishing harbour. The village’s livelihood has historically centred on fishing, and visitors can still observe fishermen conducting their daily activities along the waterfront.

Tourists can wander beside the harbour, observe the fishing vessels rocking in the water, and taste fresh seafood and traditional northern fare in the area’s restaurants. Asturian cuisine, originating from the Asturias region in northern Spain, is celebrated for its substantial and richly-flavoured dishes that frequently showcase fresh seafood, robust stews, and locally-sourced produce.

Perhaps its most iconic dish, the Fabada Asturiana, is a satisfying and warming bean stew prepared with large white beans (fabes), chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), and pork.

Another comforting delight to sample during the colder months is the Caldereta de Pescado, an Asturian seafood stew that highlights the region’s maritime treasures.

It features an assortment of fish and seafood including hake, monkfish, prawns, and clams, simmered in a richly-flavoured broth with tomatoes, onions, and garlic.

The Empanada Asturiana, a savoury pastry filled with tuna, chorizo, or other ingredients is a beloved snack in Asturias and often taken on picnic trips and to family events by locals.

Visitors to this area simply must sample the traditional Asturian Cider, known locally as Sidra Asturiana, which is customarily poured from an elevated position to oxygenate it and amplify its taste.

Cudillero is a village that invites discovery, boasting a historic quarter resembling a labyrinth of narrow lanes bordered by characteristic Asturian dwellings, numerous examples featuring vibrant balconies with containers brimming with flowers.

Crowning the village, positioned on a clifftop commanding sea views, stands the Church of Santa María, providing sweeping vistas across the vegetation-clad surrounding landscape.

Nature lovers will find Cudillero presents abundant exploration possibilities, with neighbouring walking routes traversing dramatic coastal terrain and lush woodland areas.

Beyond its scenic splendour and seafaring character, Cudillero also hosts lively celebrations year-round, notably L’Almuravela, held annually on 29th June, commencing with a local resident delivering, in rhyming verse and “pixueto” dialect, a sermon satirically recounting the year’s events whilst requesting safeguarding for the coming twelve months.