Cabo Peñas is the northernmost point of the Principality of Asturias. In Gozón, this provides a natural theme to tie everything together: cliffs, dune landscapes and a viewpoint for migratory seabirds show different sides of the coast. Near Cabo Peñas, the vertical cliffs at Peña la Gaviera rise to a height of around 100 metres. Punta de la Vaca is a viewpoint for watching migratory seabirds—a distinctive highlight alongside the beach landscapes.
The dunes also differ in how they are described. Playa de Xagó is surrounded by an extensive dune ecosystem of high ecological and botanical value. At Playa de Verdicio, also known as Tenrero, there is an extensive dune field whose flora has high ecological value and includes vulnerable species. Playa de Moniello, in turn, lies within the Cabo Peñas Protected Landscape Area. The Comarca Cabo Peñas is the regional framework: it includes Gozón and Carreño and lies between Gijón and Avilés.
Beaches with Different Coastal Landscapes
When choosing a beach, it is worth considering the differences described: Playa de Xagó is popular with surfers and fishers because of its strong waves. Playa de Verdicio also has strong surf and is visited by surfers and fishers throughout the year. Sea conditions can vary. Playa de Bañugues has a rural character and golden sand. At Playa de Luanco, the Gayo breakwater protects the beach, where the waves are calm. Playa de Luanco is easy to reach on foot and by car, has parking and offers adapted access. Services may vary seasonally; check current conditions before your visit.
Luanco: Harbour, Townscape and History
The Historic Ensemble of Luanco developed around the fishing harbour and coastline. Narrow streets, traditional fishermen’s houses and distinctive buildings reflect the town’s historical development and connect its townscape with fishing and maritime activities. The townscape also includes specific buildings: the Iglesia Santa María de Luanco was built between 1728 and 1735 to a design by Pedro Morloti Samoneti. Seven Baroque altarpieces have been preserved inside. The Torre de la Canal dates from 1705 and now houses the Luanco clock.
A simple urban route in Luanco leads from the viewpoint at Playa de Samarincha to the Museo Marítimo de Asturias. An audio guide is available at the museum via QR code; if you would like to use it, check the current arrangements in advance. This route offers another way to experience the town, with a clear starting point and endpoint, while the buildings and historic ensemble provide themes of their own.
Coastal Trails and Local Cuisine
The Senda Costera de Luanco a Candás begins at Playa de la Ribera in Luanco. Check the route conditions before setting off. Another option is the Senda Costera de Cabo Peñas a San Juan, which leads from Cabo Peñas towards Faro de San Juan. A useful landmark is the glazed building Semáforo de Peñas, a few metres from Faro de Peñas. It houses the Centro de Interpretación del Paisaje Protegido del Cabo Peñas.
Local cuisine is also part of what there is to discover in Luanco: at the Festival del Bonito, restaurants serve a variety of dishes featuring bonito for tasting in early July, including bonito roll and bonito salad. If you would like to include the festival in your trip, check the dates in advance.
Discover more destinations: Luanco, Nembro, Susacasa, Bañugues, Llanera, Bajo Nalón, Pravia, Laviana.
For the broader travel overview: Asturias.
