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Ribadesella – A seaside gem

October 21, 2024 by Leave a Comment

Ribadesella: A Gem of Asturias

Ribadesella is a small but captivating town nestled along the northern coast of Spain in the region of Asturias. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, cultural heritage, and proximity to some of the country’s most scenic landscapes, Ribadesella is a hidden gem for travelers looking to explore the less commercialized but deeply authentic side of Spain. This charming town sits at the mouth of the Sella River, with its old quarter perched on the eastern bank and its newer sections stretching along the western side. Ribadesella is flanked by dramatic cliffs, sweeping beaches, and the lush greenery of the Picos de Europa mountain range. It offers an enchanting mix of nature, tradition, and history, making it a unique destination in northern Spain.

Ribadesella has a long and storied history that stretches back to prehistoric times. The nearby Tito Bustillo Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides evidence of human habitation in the area from the Upper Paleolithic period, around 18,000 years ago. The cave is famous for its prehistoric art, which includes detailed depictions of animals, human figures, and abstract designs. These paintings are considered some of the finest examples of prehistoric art in Europe and offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early humans who lived in the region. During the Roman era, Ribadesella was an important settlement due to its strategic location on the coast and its proximity to mineral resources. The Romans built infrastructure such as roads and bridges that connected the town with other parts of the Iberian Peninsula. Though much of the Roman presence has faded, their influence can still be felt in the town’s layout and architecture.In the medieval period, Ribadesella became a significant maritime hub. It developed as a fishing port, and later as a shipbuilding center, during the 15th and 16th centuries. The town’s location along the Cantabrian Sea made it an ideal spot for seafaring and trade, as well as a haven for sailors and explorers. This seafaring tradition is still an essential part of Ribadesella’s identity, with its harbor continuing to play a vital role in local life.

 

 

 

 

 

The Old Town

Ribadesella’s old quarter, or “casco antiguo,” is one of the town’s most enchanting features. Walking through its narrow, winding streets feels like stepping back in time. The cobbled streets are lined with traditional Asturian houses, many of which feature ornate wooden balconies and colorful facades. Some of these houses date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, when Ribadesella was a flourishing port town. One of the key landmarks in the old town is the Church of Santa María Magdalena. Originally built in the 13th century, the church has been modified and restored over the centuries but still retains much of its original Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The church’s tower is a prominent feature of Ribadesella’s skyline, and the interior contains a number of notable artworks, including a striking altarpiece and several religious statues.

Another highlight of Ribadesella’s old town is the Plaza Nueva, a lively square that serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants where one can enjoy local delicacies like *fabada asturiana* (a rich bean stew), cider (Asturias’ famous drink), and fresh seafood, all while soaking up the atmosphere of this picturesque town. The Plaza Nueva is also home to a weekly market where local artisans sell handmade goods, fresh produce, and traditional Asturian products.

The Magnificent Beaches of Ribadesella

Ribadesella is blessed with beautiful beaches that offer breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea. The most famous of these is Playa de Santa Marina, a long, crescent-shaped beach that stretches along the town’s western side. This beach is perfect for a variety of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to surfing and kayaking. Its golden sands are backed by elegant early 20th-century mansions, some of which were built by wealthy Asturians who had emigrated to the Americas and returned to build grand homes along the coast.  During the summer months, Playa de Santa Marina is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Its calm waters and scenic setting make it ideal for families, while the more adventurous can take advantage of the area’s favorable conditions for water sports. The beach also offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and mountains, which create a dramatic backdrop to the sparkling sea.
Just a short distance from Ribadesella lies another beautiful beach: Playa de Vega. This wilder, more secluded beach is known for its rugged beauty and powerful waves, making it a favorite spot for surfers. Surrounded by cliffs and dunes, Playa de Vega feels more remote than Playa de Santa Marina, offering a sense of tranquility and escape from the hustle and bustle of town life. The beach is also part of a protected natural area, which helps to preserve its unspoiled charm.

Outdoor Activities and Adventure

For outdoor enthusiasts, Ribadesella is a gateway to some of Spain’s most stunning natural landscapes. The town is located just a short drive from the Picos de Europa National Park, one of the country’s premier destinations for hiking, climbing, and wildlife spotting. The park’s jagged peaks, deep valleys, and lush meadows provide an endless array of trails for hikers of all abilities. Whether you’re looking for a challenging mountain ascent or a gentle stroll through the countryside, the Picos de Europa offers something for everyone. One of the most famous activities associated with Ribadesella is the annual *Descenso Internacional del Sella*, or International Descent of the Sella River. This event, which takes place in August, is one of the most important canoeing competitions in the world and attracts participants and spectators from all over the globe. The race covers a 20-kilometer stretch of the Sella River, from the town of Arriondas to Ribadesella, and is accompanied by a lively festival that includes music, dancing, and traditional Asturian food and drink.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the Sella River offers excellent opportunities for canoeing and kayaking throughout the year. Paddling down the river allows visitors to take in the stunning scenery of the surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills, dense forests, and charming villages. The calm waters of the Sella make it an ideal activity for families and beginners, while more experienced paddlers can enjoy longer and more challenging routes.

The Tito Bustillo Cave: A Window into Prehistory

One of Ribadesella’s most significant attractions is the Tito Bustillo Cave, a treasure trove of prehistoric art. Discovered in 1968 by a group of young speleologists, the cave contains some of the most important examples of Paleolithic cave art in the world. The paintings, which date back more than 18,000 years, include depictions of horses, deer, and bison, as well as abstract symbols and geometric designs. The cave is named after one of the discoverers, Celestino Fernández Bustillo, who tragically died in a climbing accident shortly after the discovery. Today, the Tito Bustillo Cave is a protected archaeological site, and only a limited number of visitors are allowed to enter each day in order to preserve the delicate artwork. For those who are unable to visit the cave itself, the nearby Tito Bustillo Cave Art Centre offers a detailed and interactive overview of the cave’s history and its significance in the study of prehistoric art.
The discovery of the Tito Bustillo Cave has put Ribadesella on the map for archaeologists and historians, and it has helped to shed light on the lives of the people who inhabited this region thousands of years ago. The cave’s art is considered some of the finest and most sophisticated examples of Upper Paleolithic art, and it provides valuable insights into the cultural and spiritual beliefs of early humans.

The Culture of Ribadesella

Asturias is known for its strong cultural identity, and Ribadesella is no exception. The town celebrates its heritage through a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. In addition to the Descenso del Sella, Ribadesella hosts a number of traditional fiestas, including the *Fiesta de San Juan*, which takes place in June and involves bonfires, music, and dancing on the beach to celebrate the summer solstice. Asturian music and dance are also an important part of the local culture. The *gaita* (bagpipe) is the region’s most iconic instrument, and it is often heard at festivals and celebrations. Traditional Asturian dances, such as the *muñeira*, are performed at these events, showcasing the region’s unique folkloric traditions.Another key aspect of Asturian culture is its food. Ribadesella is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of local dishes that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage. Fresh seafood is a staple of the local diet, with dishes such as *caldereta* (a fish stew) and *bogavante* (lobster) being particularly popular. Ribadesella is also known for its *sidrerías*, or cider houses, where visitors can sample Asturias’ famous apple cider, often poured from a height to aerate the drink and enhance its flavor.

Ribadesella may be small, but it is a town of immense beauty, history, and cultural significance. From its prehistoric caves to its golden beaches and vibrant festivals, Ribadesella offers a unique and authentic experience of Asturias. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a history buff, or simply someone looking to relax in a stunning coastal setting, Ribadesella has something to offer everyone. Its blend of natural splendor, rich heritage, and warm hospitality make it one of northern Spain’s most captivating destinations.

Here are some of the houses we have for sale close to Ribadesella:
Stunning, stone built mansion with swimming pool
Large, detached property with great mountains views

And here’s a link to the Asturian Tourism page about things to do close to Ribadesella

Filed Under: Areas of Asturias, Asturias, Asturias towns, Life in Asturias Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Redes Natural Park in Asturias: A Natural Treasure

October 9, 2024 by Leave a Comment

Redes Natural Park in Asturias: A Natural Treasure
Nestled in the heart of Asturias in northern Spain, Redes Natural Park (Parque Natural de Redes) is a sanctuary of ecological diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural significance. Officially declared a natural park in 1996 and later recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2001, this 37,803-hectare park is an essential piece of Asturias; conservation efforts and a haven for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and wildlife lovers alike.
Redes forms part of the Cantabrian mountain range and offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore pristine forests, mountain valleys, and traditional Asturian villages. With its rivers, waterfalls, fauna, and flora, Redes is much more than a picturesque destination—it’s an example of natural preservation and the rich cultural history of rural Spain.

Geographical Overview
Redes Natural Park is located in the central-eastern part of Asturias, sharing its borders with the neighboring province of León. It spans the councils (municipalities) of Caso and Sobrescobio, with the Nalón River, one of Asturias’ most important rivers, flowing through it. The parks geography is defined by its rugged mountainous terrain, which is characteristic of the Cantabrian range. Peaks such as Pico Torres (2,104 meters) and Peña del Viento (2,000 meters) dominate the skyline, while deep valleys and gorges, like the famous Desfiladero de los Arrudos, offer dramatic contrasts. The elevation of the park varies from 400 meters in the valley floors to over 2,000 meters at the highest points, resulting in a range of microclimates and habitats that support an incredibly diverse range of species. Snow is common during winter months in the higher altitudes, and the park’s many rivers and streams swell with meltwater in the spring, feeding into the Nalón River and its tributaries.
The parks landscape is predominantly karstic, with limestone bedrock creating dramatic rock formations, caves, and gorges. The mixture of geological formations, combined with the influence of the Atlantic climate, has allowed for an incredibly rich biodiversity to flourish within the park.

Flora and Fauna
One of Redes Natural Parks defining characteristics is its rich biodiversity. The park boasts extensive forests, mainly composed of deciduous trees such as beech, oak, and chestnut, which provide essential habitats for numerous species of plants and animals. In spring and summer, the valleys of Redes come alive with wildflowers, including orchids, gentians, and the protected Primula farinosa. In autumn, the forests put on a spectacular display of color, with the changing leaves of the deciduous trees providing a vibrant canvas of reds, oranges, and yellows. The park’s fauna is equally impressive, making it one of the most significant wildlife refuges in northern Spain. Redes is home to several emblematic species of the Cantabrian region, including the Cantabrian brown bear (Ursus arctos pyrenaicus), which has been gradually recovering after years of decline. The park also shelters the elusive Iberian wolf, as well as the Cantabrian capercaillie, a large woodland grouse that is critically endangered.
Birdwatchers will find Redes a paradise, with opportunities to spot golden eagles, griffon vultures, and numerous species of smaller birds, including the pyrenean desman, a semi-aquatic mammal native to the Pyrenees and parts of the Cantabrian Mountains. Among mammals, other notable species include wild boar, roe deer, and red deer, which roam freely through the forests and meadows. The rivers and streams that crisscross the park are teeming with trout and otters, while the moist and cool environment also supports populations of amphibians like the fire salamander and the common frog. Invertebrates are plentiful, with a variety of butterflies, moths, and beetles enriching the park’s ecological tapestry.

A Griffon vulture…

 

 

 

 

 

 


Key Natural Attractions
1. Ruta del Alba (The Alba Route)
One of the most famous hiking trails in Redes Natural Park is the Ruta del Alba, a picturesque route that follows the Alba River through a deep, wooded gorge. This easy-to- moderate trail is approximately 7 kilometers (round trip) and is perfect for all levels of hikers. The path winds its way alongside the river, passing waterfalls, pools, and small bridges, and is shaded by lush vegetation, including beech and oak trees. Along the way, visitors may spot deer or wild boars crossing the path, or hear the songs of birds hidden in the trees. The route ends at La Cruz de los Ríos, a stunning spot where several rivers converge in a dramatic cascade.

2. Desfiladero de los Arrudos (The Arrudos Gorge)
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, the Desfiladero de los Arrudos offers an exhilarating trek through one of the parks’ most dramatic landscapes. This gorge cuts deep into the limestone mountains, with sheer rock walls towering above the river below. The trail is steep and rugged, requiring a good level of fitness, but the reward is a stunning journey through narrow canyons, dense forests, and crystal-clear streams. The highlight of the route is reaching the high-altitude lakes, Lagos de Ubales, where the views of the surrounding mountains are spectacular.

3. Waterfalls and Rivers
Redes is blessed with an abundance of rivers, streams, and waterfalls, thanks to its mountainous terrain and ample rainfall. The Tabayón del Mongayo, a 60-meter-high waterfall located near the village of Tarna, is one of the park’s most iconic natural features. The hike to the waterfall takes visitors through verdant forests and alpine meadows, providing stunning views along the way. The Tabayón is particularly impressive after periods of rain, when the flow of water is at its peak. The Nalón River, which is one of Asturias’ major rivers, begins its journey in the Redes Natural Park. It plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, supporting both wildlife and human communities that have depended on its waters for centuries. The river’s clear, cold waters are perfect for trout fishing, and its banks provide a habitat for otters and kingfishers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Peña Mea
For mountaineers, the ascent of Peña Mea (1,557 meters) is a must. This imposing limestone peak dominates the western part of the park and offers challenging climbs and rewarding views from the summit. The hike up Peña Mea is demanding but takes adventurers through some of Redes’ most beautiful landscapes, from forested valleys to rocky ridges. On a clear day, the summit provides panoramic views across the Cantabrian Mountains and the valleys of Asturias.

Cultural and Historical Significance
Redes Natural Park is not only a refuge for wildlife but also a living museum of rural life in Asturias. The park is home to several small villages, such as Soto de Caso and Caleao, where traditional Asturian culture and architecture have been preserved. These villages are characterized by their stone houses with wooden balconies, slate roofs, and hórreos, traditional granaries elevated on stilts to keep out rodents. The local population has long been involved in activities such as livestock farming, forestry, and woodworking, with many families raising cattle and sheep in the mountain pastures. These practices are still evident today, and visitors to the park can witness traditional transhumance, where livestock is moved between summer and winter pastures, a practice that has shaped the landscape for centuries.
The park also contains remnants of ancient human settlements, such as dolmens (prehistoric stone tombs) and Roman roads that hint at the region’s long history of human habitation. The village of Bueres is home to the Iglesia de Santa María la Real de Tanes, a Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century, which is a testament to the regions medieval past. Local festivals, such as the Fiesta del Pastor, celebrate the age-old traditions of the area, with shepherds bringing their flocks down from the mountains for communal blessings and festivities. These cultural elements enrich the experience of visiting Redes, allowing travelers to not only appreciate the natural beauty but also connect with the human history of the park.

Villages dot the landscapes

Conservation and Sustainable Tourism
Redes Natural Park’s designation as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve underscores its global ecological importance. The park is a prime example of sustainable development, where conservation efforts are balanced with the needs of the local communities who live within its boundaries. The management of Redes focuses on protecting its natural resources while promoting sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and locals. Ecotourism plays a significant role in the parks economy, with numerous guesthouses, casas rurales (rural houses), and eco-lodges offering accommodations for those who wish to immerse themselves in nature. The parks visitors’ centers, such as the Casa del Agua in Rioseco, provide educational resources about the local environment, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
Efforts to protect endangered species, such as the Cantabrian brown bear and the capercaillie, are ongoing, with park authorities working closely with conservation organizations to monitor populations and restore habitats. Regulations on hunting and fishing are strictly enforced to ensure the protection of wildlife, and the park’s forests are carefully managed to prevent over-exploitation.

 

We have the following apartments for sale in Redes

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Asturian Towns: Cangas de Onis – Gateway to the Picos

May 11, 2023 by Leave a Comment

In the heart of the eastern part of Asturias, the town of Cangas de Onis is a beautiful destination that is rich in history and natural beauty. From its stunning medieval bridge to its vibrant cultural scene and outdoor recreation opportunities, this charming town has something to offer every traveler.

One of the most iconic landmarks in Cangas de Onis is the Roman Bridge, which dates back to the 1st century AD and is one of the oldest bridges in Spain. The bridge is a testament to the town’s long and storied history, and visitors can take a stroll across it to soak up the views of the surrounding countryside. In addition to the bridge, the town is home to several other historic landmarks, including the 12th-century Church of Santa Maria, which features a stunning Romanesque façade and intricate carvings.

Beyond its historic attractions, Cangas de Onis is also a hub for culture and the arts. The town is home to several museums and cultural centers, including the Museum of the Covadonga Shrine, which explores the history and religious significance of the nearby shrine of Our Lady of Covadonga. Covadonga is known for its stunning natural beauty and incredible architecture, one of the most popular attractions in Covadonga being the Basilica of Santa Maria la Real de Covadonga. This impressive structure was built in the late 19th century and is dedicated to Our Lady of Covadonga, who is regarded as the patron saint of Asturias. The town is also close to the Covadonga Lakes, which are a popular and stunning visitor attraction.

The basilica at Covadonga

For those who love the great outdoors, Cangas de Onis is a paradise. The town is known as the gateway to the Picos de Europa mountain range, which offers a wealth of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities. From the challenging summit of Pico Urriellu to the gentle slopes of the Ruta del Cares, there are trails and routes to suit every level of fitness and experience.

Cangas de Onis town centre is filled with stunning buildings

Cangas de Onis is also famous for its gastronomy. The town is home to a range of traditional Asturian restaurants and cider houses, where visitors can sample the region’s hearty and flavorful cuisine. Some of the local specialties include fabada (a hearty bean stew), cachopo (a breaded and fried meat dish), and of course, sidra (a crisp, refreshing apple cider). The town is also home to several local markets, where visitors can purchase fresh produce, cheeses, and other artisanal products.

Overall, Cangas de Onis is a hidden gem in the heart of Asturias that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s rich heritage, immersing yourself in its vibrant cultural scene, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, Cangas de Onis is a destination that should not be missed. With its stunning Roman bridge, delicious cuisine, and exciting events, this charming town is a true gem of the Asturias region.

Living close to Cangas de Onis can give you the best of both worlds – a peaceful and beautiful home in amazing countryside but with the convenience of a bustling town nearby. Some of the properties we have available in the vicinity are:
A hidden gem tucked away just above the town…

A luxury villa with swimming pool and private access to the river…

A detached stone-built house in 9000m2 of land with its own forest

You can check out our blog about the neighbouring town of Arriondas here…

 

 

Filed Under: Asturias, Asturias towns, Life in Asturias Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Winter in Asturias

January 17, 2023 by Leave a Comment

As we enter the second half of January, winter is finally arriving here in northern Spain. Over the weekend, from our home high in the Cordillera Cantábrica mountains of central Asturias, we watched a steady trip-trap of horses being led down from their grazing on the high plateaus, as farmers prepped for the predicted arrival of Storm Gérard. Our house is at 700m above sea level  and we are surrounded by high mountain passes and even higher peaks so it’s a great spot from which to witness the unfurling of winter. 

Given the forecast we decided to undertake the same pilgrimage as our farming neighbours, up onto one of those high plateaus. Our hike up to the Braña of Vicecenturo (approx 1,300m altitude) from the Puerto de Marabio (1,000m alt.) was, however, for pure pleasure; to simply breathe in the fresh mountain air and drink in the spectacular views before Gérard would keep us indoors for a few days. Here’s a selection of snaps from Saturday:

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Sure enough, today rain and wind have raged and the rivers are running in full spate, mini waterfalls sprout at the sides of the road that cuts through the steep-sided gorge at the bottom of our valley. On the early morning school run we passed the snow plough heading towards Puerto Ventana, on the border with León, where the snow will already be fast accumulating. 

Our usually spectacular views have been obscured and it’s been a great day for head-down office work, cracking on with all those mundane Monday tasks.  And all the while we are happy in the knowledge that when the rain does stop and the sun comes out it will be to dazzle upon gleaming white-capped peaks.

The excitement is palpable within the large winter and mountain sports community who have had to wait longer than usual for their playground to come into condition. The ski stations are scheduled to open on the weekend and the cross-country skiers and snowshoers will be out in force all over the Cordillera!

P.S. We know that weather and climate is a fascination for anyone with an interest in Asturias. Would you like to see more weather-related posts to get a feel for what the lived experience is? Please put your questions and suggestions below in the comments or email us at info@spanishpropertynorth.com

P.P.S. If you fancy visiting the trails and crags of Teverga for yourself then check out our holiday rental apartment in the heart of San Martín de Teverga

Below are some photos from the last big snow we had, in January 2021 when Storm Filomena passed through and when we got out snowshoeing at Marabio.

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Filed Under: Asturias, Life in Asturias, Weather and climate Tagged With: , , ,

More than just an estate agent…

March 14, 2017 by

I’ve never liked the term ‘estate agent’. There are far too many negative stereotypes associated with it. I am not that person. So I was delighted to read this piece written by some Danish clients of mine and find that they had coined a new title for me. Ambassador? I’ll take that…. 🙂

Read their beautifully written story here – and get inspired!

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We are Signe, Tarje and Roar, Danes and recent homeowners in the rocky part of Asturias; Quiros. We met Mary more or less by chance after having spent half a year on the road with our baby Roar. Before that we were working as respectively an academic and a nurse, but we have always had that nagging feeling that fulfilling the ideals of society was properly not the road to meaningful and happy lives for us. The courage to do something about it, however, only came with parenthood. And while it does take a lot of courage to break away from your routine, we have learned along the way that the shackles don’t just fall off simply because you start to rattle.

We had an idea that we wanted to find a place in Catalunya – and start building towards self-sustainability. However, while Spain is littered with old ruins in need of love – finding a suitable one for sale turned out to be an insurmountable task. While we liked the experience, Catalunya seem to be hit hard by drought-spells and increasing heat – and didn’t really feel like home to us. With a few rock climbing images from Asturias, our heads turned west, and the lushness here immediately felt right.

It is only after you have gone through the process yourself you realize how much work Mary has put into finding properties suitable for expats. Mary calls herself an estate agent, but we feel a more descriptive title would be ambassador. Of course she runs a business, but you can immediately tell her main focus isn’t improving her own margins, but bridging the substantial cultural gap it is for northern Europeans to buy property in Spain.

One show of the abandoned village Eros – halfway up a mountain – and we were sold. We are now a few months in, the house seems to have stopped crumbling down – the once omnipresent brambles are starting to reappear less and less and we are making the first moves at making our house liveable and our garden edible.

 

Filed Under: Asturias, Asturias property, Life in Asturias, testimonial Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Sun and ski – a February half-term holiday in Asturias

March 2, 2017 by

If you’re a regular reader of our blog you may already have met Mick Wyldbore-Wood as he previously shared his experience of buying a house through us. Well, it’s not quite a year since he completed his purchase and last week I was thrilled to see via Facebook just how much he and his family are enjoying their new property in Asturias.

A half-term break in February might not sound like the most promising time for a holiday in northern Spain but parents can’t be choosers. The Wyldbore-Woods are an intrepid bunch anyway and wouldn’t let the potential for some wintry weather put them off – in fact, they came fully equipped for skiing and hoping for snow. The mountains didn’t let them down and they managed to check out the three (yes, three!) nearest ski stations on different days and much to the kids’ delight.

Best of all they got to intersperse their days skiing with days at the beach soaking up some glorious winter sun in temperatures akin to a fine British summer’s day. With the mountains and the sea within an hour and a half’s drive of each other in Asturias, it’s a great combination for active holidaymakers. It’s even perfectly possible to ski and surf in the same day if you’re feeling particularly energetic!

It certainly means you can cram an awful lot into a relatively short holiday and that’s before we mention the wonderful regional cuisine. Mick and Claire were lucky enough to sneak in a romantic Valentine’s dinner at the Michelin-starred El Corral del Indianu in Arriondas. Definitely one for the bucket list.

Big thanks to the Wyldbore-Woods for sharing their fab video of their half-term break in Asturias with us! How much does it make you want your own holiday home in Asturias?!

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Escape to the Continent

June 13, 2015 by

We’ve been really looking forward to watching the Asturias episode of BBC’s ‘Escape to the Continent’ since we helped the production team with filming last October. Yesterday our long wait came to an end and we have to say it was worth the wait. If you haven’t seen it already then check it out on BBC iplayer.

Magical morning views from one of the properties featured in the show

Magical morning views from one of the properties featured in the show

If you don’t know Asturias very well then it’s an excellent, highly visual introduction to the region as well as to the Asturian property market. If you’re already a fan of the area then you can just sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery whilst keeping a beady eye out for places and people you recognize!

And if the show gets you itching to buy one of the properties featured I can tell you *SPOILER ALERT* that two of the properties are still available for sale. And one of them has just had a big price drop, making it even more attractive. Look away now if you don’t want to know which one 😉

Now on at €130,000!

Now on at €130,000! Eco water mill in Pilona Our reference MR340

If you want to know more about the water mill for sale near Sevares then click here. And if you’re hankering after those spectacular views of the Picos de Europa mountains that you got from the glass-fronted galeria of the house in Cabranes then*Update* This property has now sold!* Or if you’d like to find out more about any aspect of buying property in Asturias or the realities of life as an ex-pat here then do feel free to get in touch. We’re always happy to help!

Filed Under: Asturias, Asturias property, overseas property, water mill Tagged With: , , , , ,

El Jardinero Inglés – The English Gardener

April 6, 2015 by

There was great excitement today at Spanish Property North headquarters when this large, purple truck pulled up at our door.

IMG_3089.JPGThe cavalry had arrived.

But before I explain, let me first tell you a cautionary tale of an over-optimistic, overly-romantic ex-pat, with eyes bigger than her belly, who took on too much land, with too little knowledge and quickly found herself in a pickle, with weeds and brambles threatening to consume all before them. Armed only with a whimsical scythe our heroine was quickly overwhelmed.

So I she did the obvious thing. Ignored it all. Gaining a permanent crick in her neck from avoiding looking at the disaster that was her hopefully envisioned garden field. The thing is, the climate in Asturias is perfect for growing. It really is. The only problem is that if you don’t plant up and manage your land cleverly then nature will take over. If you don’t decide what grows, then she will. And she does seem to have a perverse liking for brambles and nettles and other unpleasantries. Punishment for neglect, I guess.

The good news is that there is no need to suffer in this way. Help is at hand. If you, like I, don’t have the necessary tools, time or training to get the best out of your garden (or field!) you can do what I did and call in ‘El Jardinero Inglés’ (The English Gardener – an added bonus for newly-arrived expats, the boss is English so no language difficulties to navigate).

I have to say, it’s one of those things you just wish you’d done sooner. I’ve seen that big, branded purple van knocking about for years now and yet it was only last week that I got around to ringing the number and asking for help. I think I thought they just specialized in bigger, posher jobs than mine. Turns out, if it’s a garden or growing related job then they can turn their hand to it. And all for a very reasonable price. Highly recommended.

Watch out for photos of my newly-scalped (and accessible!!) field coming soon to a social media account near you…

 

 

Filed Under: Life in Asturias Tagged With: , , ,

Photos from the School Run

September 26, 2014 by

Autumn is in the air. Finally, there is a fresh crispness to the temperatures and a faint russet tone is creeping into the woodlands. Sweet chestnuts are starting to appear underfoot. Soon amaguestu will be upon us. Families are slowly settling back into the school routine, having started back on September 11th after a lengthy 3 month summer holiday.

Once again we are slaves to the alarm clock. We must be breakfasted, presentable and assembled at the bus stop by eight thirty a.m.  And make no mistake about it, here in Spain eight thirty in the morning is pretty much right next door to the middle of the night. The Spanish are not naturally early risers.

Still, for me anyway, the pain of the early start is completely anaesthetized by the glorious beauty of the school run. As my son happily rides his first bike the 500 or so metres to the bus stop, I stride briskly alongside him, hand at the ready for the occasional quick shove on the steeper sections, my head raised to take in the views on all sides.

The photos below were all snapped on yesterday and today’s school run, on my iphone. Not a bad way to start the day, eh?

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If you fancy swapping your school run for one with a better outlook, check out this lovely family home with views to the Picos and woodland paths on the doorstep.

Gorgeous traditional house in idyllic location

Gorgeous traditional house in idyllic location

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Life in Asturias Tagged With: , , ,

Asturian Still Life

August 31, 2014 by Leave a Comment

IMG_1612.JPG I took this snap on my phone yesterday as I wandered back from my neighbours’ house at twilight. It’s a bench that sits on the side of the road a few metres from our house. The Asturian countryside has a high bench to people ratio. In our tiny hamlet there is a total of 4 benches and a permanent adult population of 18. Benches are, of course, for sitting on. This one, as you can probably make out from the photo, is under a large fig tree and is the perfect spot to rest out of the heat of the midday sun and to while away half an hour or so, watching the world go (slowly) by or chatting to a friend. A few metres away around the corner in the plazuela (not quite so big or grand as a village square) is another, shadeless, bench; better suited to cooler winter days when there is nothing more nourishing to soul and body than to sit for a while with face upturned to the sun. But back to this bench. Alongside the fig leaf you see poking through the back slats is a well-ripened pepper and underneath the seat is a pair of discarded clogs, both indicators of its location next to the entrance of my neighbour’s huerta (veggie plot). This is the spot where she kicks off her ‘madrenas’ as she exits the field. These Asturian clogs, with their stilts for traction and to keep them out of the mud and their ample size to accommodate the wearing of slippers within, may be funky looking but they are eminently practical. (Before you ask, no, I haven’t got a pair. I haven’t *quite* worked up the courage yet. For now I’m sticking to wellies.) I’ll often see Rosi’s impressive harvest haul piled high here before she stores it in the barn or leaves it to dry under the eaves of the horreo. Often she’ll leave some fresh pickings on the bench for me to take for our tea. It sure beats the supermarket. If you fancy some bench-sitting in Asturias yourself why not take a look at some of the lovely country houses we have for sale in Asturias. With some land to work you’ll have a great excuse to buy yourself some clogs!

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Latest Price Reductions

March 17, 2014 by

Finally, the market seems to be picking up. A combination of returning confidence, impatience on the part of buyers who want to move on with their plans and increasingly keen pricing has seen very encouraging levels of sales in the first quarter of 2014. Looking at some of the latest price reductions it’s no wonder that property is starting to move. These beauties are definitely priced to sell.

Country house hotel. Price slashed. Originally in excess of €700,000 now just €350,000

Country house hotel. Price slashed. Originally in excess of €700,000 now just €350,000 Ref C183

 

Traditional Asturian house for sale in Villaviciosa

Detached traditional Asturian house set in walled, mature gardens Ref MR898 €130,000

 

Gorgeous stone built house in stunning mountain location

Gorgeous stone built house in stunning mountain location. Asking price slashed by over €100,000 Ref MR1011

 

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