Lastres: A Treasure You Can't Miss

If you're planning a trip to northern Spain or looking for ideas for a vacation in Asturias, Lastres is one of those destinations that surprises you even before you set foot there. This fishing village, literally perched on the hillside and facing the Cantabrian Sea, is one of those stops that makes a vacation in Spain even more worthwhile. In addition to enjoying its sloping streets and the sound of the waves crashing against the breakwater, Lastres wins you over through your stomach: cachopo, fabada, scorpionfish pie, pixin, or the famous pitu de caleya… authentic delights of Asturian cuisine.

The Harbor: The Heart of the Town

A great way to start your visit is to leave your car at the harbor and take a leisurely stroll. This area, with its whaling heritage, is sheltered by a breakwater that even today sees small boats coming and going, supplying fresh fish to the entire region. As you walk along the pier, you’ll come across a massive anchor and two cannons that once belonged to the old El Castillo fortress, which centuries ago was tasked with repelling pirate attacks. It’s a great way to begin understanding Lastres’ connection to the sea.

El Escanu Beach

At the end of the fishing port lies El Escanu Beach—small but perfect for a swim or simply enjoying the view of the historic district rising up from the rock. Its clear waters are a welcome relief on hot days.

If you're looking for a larger beach or one with more amenities, Lastres Beach or the popular La Griega Beach—just two kilometers away—are great options. The latter is known for its natural pools at low tide and for the dinosaur footprints that can be seen in the area.

Chapel of Buen Suceso

To reach the upper part of the village, you can climb the Escaleras de la Fragua, an old path that fishermen used as far back as the 14th century. The climb is well worth it for the views of the harbor and the sea.

Up ahead, you'll find the Capilla del Buen Suceso, a small 16th-century chapel surrounded by narrow streets and featuring a Baroque altarpiece that is remarkable for its age and excellent state of preservation.

The Clock Tower

One of Lastres’ landmarks is the Clock Tower, built in the 15th century to serve as a lookout point for the harbor. Standing twelve meters tall, with its 18th-century renovation and English clock, it stands out among the stately homes that surround it. It is undoubtedly one of the town’s most recognizable sights.

A leisurely stroll down Calle Real is a must. This street is lined with colorful fishermen’s houses, wooden balconies, and several Baroque mansions. Particularly noteworthy is the Casa de los Robledo, known as “El Cuartelón,” with its large coat of arms on the façade.

You'll also find other historic mansions, such as Don Pedro's, the Victorero family's, and the Palacio de los Vallados, which has now been converted into a hotel.

Following the route, you’ll come to the Church of Santa María de Sábada, an 18th-century church that blends Baroque and Neoclassical styles. The bell tower stands out from a distance, while inside you’ll find a truly impressive main altarpiece and a Renaissance crucifix.

There is a large parking lot nearby, perfect for those who prefer to walk through the town in the opposite direction.

The San Roque Lookout is probably the spot with the best views of Lastres. From the chapel, located at the highest point of the village, the houses seem to stand out against the sea. On clear days, you can also see much of the Asturian coast, La Griega Beach, and even the Picos de Europa.

To return to the port, you can walk down San José Street. Along the way, you’ll pass the chapel of the same name and the monument to the Sardineras, a tribute to the women who traveled throughout the region selling the fish they carried themselves.

Inside the chapel, you'll find a small Baroque altarpiece that's worth a quick look.

If you have time, I highly recommend a visit to the Mirador del Fitu, about a 30-minute drive away. Located at an altitude of over 1,000 meters in the Sierra del Sueve, it offers one of the best panoramic views of Asturias… weather permitting.