This Principality of the Kingdom of Spain is a green jewel tucked between the Cantabrian Sea and the snow-peaked mountains of the Picos de Europa. It is a lush natural paradise that few expect to find in the otherwise arid peninsula. Welcome to Asturias, one of Spain's best kept secret. If this summer, you would rather do something else than lie for hours trying to get that crimson-red body like other tourist, then Asturias is the destination to explore.
About a third of Asturias is protected natural space, with no less than six Unesco "biospheres". So the best way to start is on foot. You can either walk gently at low altitude, or follow the steps of the first pilgrims who walked the St. James Way, or hike up the Cantabrian Mountains.
From there, stunning views into the valleys and the sea will be your reward. You might also catch a glimpse of the wild inhabitants of these mountains: brown bears, eagles and ibexes ( a variety of mountain goats).
otherwise, if you are more into adrenaline, there is a range of outdoors sports to practice, from mountain bike to paragliding or if you prefer calmer outdoor activity, why not practice golf in one of the 16 courses well known by aficionados? And if you're into spending an afternoon strolling from your towel to the sea and back, then you have more than 200 pristine beaches hidden along the coast.
And this is the best bit. Because after you have exercised your body and delighted your soul visiting prehistoric caves and pre-Romanesque churches, I recommend you stroll into town. It can be Oviedo, the capital or one of the smaller towns, all with tranquil charm and warm hospitality. Just head to any restaurant or cider pub and ask for a cider.
The waiter will dazzle you by adroitly pouring it from way above his head into your glass, thus allowing the golden beverage to breathe. Cider is almost a religion in Asturias, a centuries-old tradition, and without a doubt among the best in the world. It is the perfect prelude to the region's gastronomic treasures, which include fish stew and the hearty fabada asturiana.