A lighthouse on an island, a harbour with a history that reaches back to the arrival of maize from America, and protected coastal areas: Tapia De Casariego can be discovered through its maritime traces, nature and local history. Historic buildings and events add to the picture of the coast and offer different starting points for your trip.
Coastal landscape and protected nature
Playa de Penarronda is shared with the Concejo of Castropol and is the westernmost beach in the Municipio of Tapia de Casariego. It was declared a Natural Monument in 2002; within the Natura 2000 network, it is designated both a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA) and a Special Area of Conservation (ZEC). Endangered plants grow in the dunes. On the islets of Las Pantorgas to the east, you can observe protected birds.
The Ruta Lagos de Silva also runs through a coastal landscape: it follows cliffs and small coves, where protected bird species can be observed. The AS-116 Tapia–Playa de Arnao route offers another kind of planning reference: this 10.3-kilometre trail is listed as taking 3 hours and 15 minutes. One route focuses on coastal cliffs and coves, while the other gives a specific distance and time. Trail conditions can change; check them before setting out.
Lighthouse, island and viewpoints
The Faro de Tapia stands on an island, which you can reach on foot from the harbour via a breakwater about 100 metres long. The lighthouse has been in operation since 1 September 1859; it is the only lighthouse in Asturias located on an island. It is also one of the nine Asturian lighthouses included in Spain’s catalogue of lighthouses of cultural interest.
Another viewpoint with historic significance is the Mirador de Os Cañóis. It stands on a former defensive fort, built in 1780 with the permission of Charles III to repel pirate raids. From there, views stretch along the Asturian and Galician coasts. The lighthouse and the Mirador offer different perspectives: maritime navigation from the island and coastal views from a former defensive site.
Local history in its buildings and harbour
The harbour’s history extends beyond seafaring: it was the first port where maize originating in America was unloaded. The construction of the new harbour in the 19th century helped develop the local canning industry. These two historical details offer a glimpse of both the movement of goods and changes in the local economy.
The buildings, too, give local history specific dates. Casa del Reguero, now Casa de Cultura, is considered the oldest building in Tapia and dates from 1613. Capilla de San Sebastián dates back to the 17th century. The Palacio o Torre de Lindoy in the parish of Serantes, an important example of Asturian manor-house architecture, dates from the same period. Puerta Histórica de Tapia de Casariego is one of the main entrances to Parque Histórico del Navia and houses a themed museum.
Events and activities
The Festival Intercéltico d’Occidente has been held every August in Tapia de Casariego since 1997. In 2013, it was recognised as an event of regional tourist interest. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, check the dates and programme for the relevant year.
Karting is another sporting activity: the KartĂłdromo de Tapia is a venue for recreational and competitive karting. The track is 1,200 metres long and offers up to five configurations. If karting fits into your plans, check the current operating and booking conditions in advance.
On the Camino de Santiago del Norte
One stage of the Camino de Santiago del Norte’s route through Asturias passes through Tapia de Casariego. The municipal pilgrims’ hostel is in Represas, on Calle San MartĂn. As availability and operating conditions can change, check them before your stage.
Discover more destinations: Tapia De Casariego, San MartĂn De Oscos, Soto De Ribera, Comarca De La Sidra, Cangas Del Narcea, San MartĂn Del Rey Aurelio, ValdĂ©s, Ribadesella.
Return to the main travel overview: Asturias.
