Rugged Asturias, a Spain less visited

Far away from the European crowds there is a different Spain. The rugged mountains and beaches of northern Spain left from Santander and right from Santiago de Compastela you will find Asturia. Mainly known in Spain for the dairy products it is also an area with beautiful beaches, a long coast line and villages that are wrapped in time. If you like hiking there are many waterfalls like the one at Rio Arlos. If you prefer towns visit Gijon which has a rich history and great sandy beaches. The sea, colder than the med, inviting for a swim, good honest food and reasonable priced restaurants and hotels. There are few big chain hotels but many family run places with friendly and helpful people. I recommend driving there or flying to the regional airport and hiring a car, there are trains but public transport would limit what you can do and explore. To be honest the drive from Madrid through the hills with vines and mountains is worth the day it will take you to get there. Time to visit mid June to end of September.