The lush landscapes of Asturias, where rugged mountains meet the Atlantic’s emerald shores, offer a captivating setting for equestrian tourism. This northern Spanish region, known for its unspoiled countryside and rich cultural heritage, provides riders with a wealth of trails and facilities to explore on horseback, catering to both novices and seasoned equestrians.
One of the region’s most cherished bridle trails is the Asturias Cider Trail, an eight-day journey winding through the Picos de Europa National Park. Organised by operators like Unicorn Trails, this route takes riders past snow-capped peaks, verdant forests, and coastal cliffs, offering a chance to experience the region’s famed cider culture. The trail, suitable for intermediate riders, includes beach rides along the Costa Verde and visits to historic villages, with sure-footed Spanish horses ensuring a steady pace over rocky terrain. Another gem is the Senda del Oso, a converted railway path in the heart of Asturias’ bear country. This gentle trail, accessible from equestrian centres near Oviedo, meanders through tunnels and alongside rivers, providing a relaxed ride with stunning views of the Cantabrian Mountains.
For coastal adventures, the paths around Llanes offer a scenic blend of seaside cliffs and rolling meadows. Centres like Yeguada La Peña in Ribadesella provide guided rides along these routes, where riders can enjoy the salty breeze and dramatic vistas of the Atlantic. The trails often follow ancient paths used by shepherds, adding a touch of history to the journey. In the Somiedo Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, riders can explore high-altitude meadows and glacial valleys, with local operators offering multi-day treks that showcase the park’s diverse wildlife, including the rare Cantabrian brown bear.
Asturias’ equestrian facilities are well-equipped to enhance the riding experience. Escuela Ecuestre El Asturcón in Ribadesella offers lessons and trail rides, with a focus on the region’s native Asturcón horses, a hardy breed with deep cultural roots. The centre’s knowledgeable staff provide tailored instruction, ensuring riders feel confident on the region’s varied terrain. Near Oviedo, Centro Hípico El Bosque combines modern amenities with rustic charm, offering bitless riding options and natural horsemanship workshops alongside daily trail rides. For a more relaxed experience, the Ride and Relax Week at a centre near Cudillero includes morning yoga sessions and leisurely rides through grassy hills and historic villages, with comfortable barn-converted apartments for accommodation.
The region’s bridle paths, many tracing old cattle tracks or Roman roads, are well-maintained and marked, ensuring safe exploration. Riders can traverse the Narcea Valley, where trails wind through vineyards and orchards, or explore the Redes Natural Park, known for its serene forests and clear streams. Accommodation options like Casa Rural Los Cerezos near Jaca, though just over the border in Aragón, provide a convenient base for multi-day rides into Asturias, with traditional Asturian cuisine served in a restored 17th-century farmhouse.Asturias’ mild climate, particularly from April to October, makes it an ideal destination for year-round riding, with cooler summers perfect for mountain treks. The region’s equestrian heritage, tied to the Asturcón horse, adds a cultural dimension, with many centres offering insights into traditional training methods.
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