Luanco’s historic center developed around the harbor and along the coast. The town brings together several highlights for visitors: an urban beach, maritime attractions and seasonal cuisine. You can also include a coastal hike in your plans.

Town beach or coastal hike

Playa de Luanco is an urban beach with golden sand and gentle surf for swimming. Step-free access is available; check whether it is still available before your trip, as this may change. The beach offers its own considerations when planning a stay by the water.

If you’d like to include a longer hike, the Senda Costera de Luanco al Cabo Peñas is a moderately difficult route. It is 13.17 kilometers long and runs from Playa de Luanco to Faro del Cabo Peñas. Trail conditions may change, so check them locally before setting out. A spur leads to Punta de la Vaca, a spot for observing migrating seabirds. This detour adds a specific nature-focused element to the hike, while the beach—with its sand and gentle surf—offers a different kind of experience.

Maritime themes and local history

The bay reflects the town’s different uses: a breakwater protects the fishing facilities and the recreational boats moored there. The Museo Marítimo de Asturias also explores different aspects of life at sea. Founded by the Gozón Town Council in 1948, it is the oldest museum in Asturias. Its galleries focus on marine biology, traditional boatbuilding, traditional fishing and the history of navigation. You’ll find natural history alongside maritime crafts and history.

Luanco’s architectural history includes the Church of Santa María and the Torre del Reloj. The church was built between 1728 and 1735 to a design by Pedro Morloti Samoneti. Its interior preserves a significant collection of seven Baroque altarpieces. The Torre del Reloj successively served as a prison, a watchtower and a warehouse; today, it is a clock tower. These two buildings offer different ways to explore the town’s history: through the furnishings of a church interior and the changing roles of a tower.

Marañuelas and bonito at different times of year

Marañuelas are made in Luanco as part of a confectionery tradition shared with Candás. The Festival de La Marañuela takes place during Holy Week, with marañuelas sold at various stalls on C/ Ramón Pérez de Ayala. As this is a recurring seasonal event, check the program for the year of your visit before traveling.

Another culinary event is the Festival del Bonito, held in late June. Tastings of various bonito dishes, including bonito roll and bonito salad, are part of the festival at the town’s restaurants. Here too, it’s a good idea to check the dates for the year of your visit before traveling. The two festivals take place at different times of year: the Marañuela festival is held during Holy Week, while the bonito festival takes place in late June. You can plan your trip around whichever of these seasonal events interests you.

Discover more destinations: Susacasa, Nembro, Bañugues.

Return to the main travel guide: Gozón.