Candás, capital of the municipality of Carreño, is much more than just a pretty coastal town: it is a place where seafaring tradition is alive and well in its streets, its port, and its people. Located on the central coast of Asturias, this fishing village stands out as one of the most picturesque maritime centers on the Cantabrian Sea. Its identity is closely linked to the sea: fishing, canning, festivities, and popular culture shape its character.

But Candás is also a mirror of the passage of time: from vestiges of prehistory to the rise of the canning industry and its transformation towards tourism. If you are looking for coastal towns with soul, history, and authentic flavor, Candás will not disappoint you.

From its origins to the Middle Ages

Archaeological remains found in the municipality of Carreño show that there has been human presence since the Stone and Bronze Ages. Coins—the famous Coyanca treasure—and other remains from the Roman period have been found, confirming the importance of this area in ancient times.

The first mention of Candás dates back to the 12th or 13th century, when it was already an important fishing center on the Asturian coast. Its port was a hub of commercial and maritime activity that shaped the entrepreneurial character of its people.

15th to 17th centuries: maritime boom and the curious “dolphin lawsuit”

During these centuries, the port of Candás experienced a great boom. Its infrastructure was expanded, the fishermen’s guild was organized, and its role in fishing and maritime trade was strengthened.

One of the most curious episodes in its history is the “Dolphin Lawsuit” (1624). Fishermen from Candás reported the dolphins that prowled the coast because, according to them, they reduced their catches. When the animals failed to appear at the trial, a notary set sail to read them the sentence that “expelled” them from the area… and they say they disappeared!

19th and 20th centuries: the canning era

Candás reached its industrial peak with the boom in the canning industry. Factories such as Conservas Albo, opened in 1895, provided work for hundreds of families and made the name of Candás known throughout the world.

The arrival of the railway in 1910 further boosted trade and production. For much of the 20th century, canneries were the economic engine of the town, until their decline with industrial modernization.

Candás today

Today, Candás retains its seafaring essence, but has reinvented itself as a quality tourist destination, combining heritage, gastronomy, and nature. Artisanal fishing is still alive and well, the festivals maintain tradition, and the town has opened itself up to art and culture with spaces such as the Antón Museum and the Cabo San Antonio Sculpture Trail.

Venturing into Candás means discovering a destination steeped in history, art, and Cantabrian flavor. Here are some of the essential places you can’t miss:

Port of Candás

The heart of the town. This is where the town’s seafaring origins come alive: colorful boats, nets, fish markets, and the authentic atmosphere of the fishermen.

Candás Beach

This is an urban beach with calm waters and an ideal setting for families. Perfect for enjoying a swim or a stroll at sunset.

San Antonio Lighthouse

Built in 1917 on Cape San Antonio, the Candás lighthouse offers spectacular panoramic views of the Cantabrian Sea. Its light still guides sailors and its natural surroundings are ideal for walking or photography.

Antón Museum – Candás Sculpture Center

Housed in a former palace, this museum pays tribute to local sculptor Antonio Rodríguez García, known as Antón. Its permanent collection and temporary exhibitions make it a cultural landmark.

Les Conserveres Park

A green and cultural space that recovers the industrial memory of the town. Old cisterns and factory structures serve as the setting for exhibitions on the history of canning.

Church of San Félix

An iconic temple that has witnessed centuries of history and popular devotion. It stands out for its sober beauty and its role in the social life of the town.

Promenade and coastal path

From the port to Perlora, there is a coastal path that is ideal for enjoying the views of the cliffs and the sea air. It is a perfect route for lovers of hiking and photography.

Candás isn’t just a place to visit, it’s a place to experience. Here are some experiences that will help you feel the spirit of this fishing village:

• Walk along the Tranqueru coastal path, an old railway line that has been converted into a scenic promenade by the sea.
• Take part in its popular festivals, such as the Sardine Festival, when the town dresses up in sailor costumes and the air smells of grilled sardines.
• Experience the Santísimo Cristo festival, a large religious celebration in September.
• Attend the Bagpipe Band Festival, which fills Candás with traditional music every July.
• Discover the Clarín routes, inspired by the work of the writer Leopoldo Alas “Clarín.”
• Visit the canning industry exhibition and understand how Candás’ identity was forged.
• Relax on its terraces, enjoy an Asturian cider, and let yourself be carried away by the peaceful rhythm of the north.

The cuisine of Candás pays homage to the Cantabrian Sea and Asturian cooking.

• Grilled sardines: the stars of summer and the Sardine Festival.
• Marañuelas: traditional bow-shaped sweets, unique to Asturias. You can’t leave without trying them.
• Fresh fish and seafood: tuna, octopus, sea bass, hake, and barnacles, prepared in the traditional seafood style.
• Artisanal preserves: a living legacy of the town’s industrial history.
• Asturian cider, poured on the spot, essential at any meal.

Llegar a Candás es sencillo y forma parte del encanto del viaje:

🚗 En coche: Desde Oviedo o Gijón por la A-66 y la AS-110 o AS-19. Está a unos 15 min de Gijón y 30 min de Oviedo.

🚆 En tren: La línea de cercanías de Renfe (antigua FEVE) conecta Candás con Gijón, Avilés y Oviedo.

🚌 En autobús: Varias líneas unen la villa con los principales núcleos urbanos del Principado.

✈️ En avión: El aeropuerto de Asturias (OVD) se encuentra a 30 km; puedes llegar en coche de alquiler, taxi o transporte público.

Finding accommodation in Candás is easy, but finding somewhere with soul and charm makes all the difference. The town offers a variety of options to suit all tastes: from small family hotels to tourist apartments with sea views.

Here are our recommendations, as you would expect:

La Casa de Amparo

A few minutes from Candás, in Piedeloro, you will find our rural house, La Casa de Amparo. If you are looking to enjoy nature while staying just a few minutes from the town of Candás, this is undoubtedly the perfect accommodation. This space combines the traditional character of a village house with modern comforts, offering a cozy and peaceful stay.

Decorated with care and attention to detail, La Casa de Amparo invites you to disconnect, breathe in the essence of the north, and enjoy an authentic experience. Its privileged location just a few minutes from the town of Candás allows you to visit the main points of interest, sample the local cuisine, and experience the atmosphere of the town like a true Candasín.

👉 Ideal for couples, families, or travelers looking for a genuine, intimate, charming experience surrounded by nature.

Las Terrazas de Candás Tourist Apartments

Right in front of the Church of San Félix and in the heart of the town, Las Terrazas de Candás Tourist Apartments are the perfect option for those who want to enjoy independence without sacrificing comfort.

The spacious, bright, and fully equipped apartments offer unique views of the historic center and are just a few minutes’ walk from the port and beach. Each one is designed to make you feel at home, with a relaxed atmosphere that reflects the coastal spirit of the place.

👉 Perfect for longer stays, families, or groups of friends looking for comfort, location, and authenticity on their getaway to Candás.

Staying in the historic center allows you to enjoy everything the town has to offer without needing a car: stroll to the port, sip cider on the terraces, visit the museum, or lose yourself in the lively streets. What’s more, you’ll be surrounded by history, the sound of the sea, and the hospitality of the locals.

Whether you stay at La Casa de Amparo or Las Terrazas de Candás, you will experience Candás from the inside, with that magic that only authentic places can offer.

• The best time to visit Candás is between June and September, when the weather is most stable and most of its festivals are held. But you can come at any time of year, as the climate is very pleasant all year round.

• If you like walking, bring comfortable shoes to explore the promenade and coastal routes.

• Don’t forget to try the marañuelas (a type of sweet) and take a box home with you as a souvenir.

• Book your accommodation in advance during high season: Candás is a very popular destination among Asturians.

Visiting Candás is like traveling to the seafaring heart of Asturias. Its landscapes, its people, and its authentic flavor make this town an ideal destination for those seeking sea, history, and tradition.

Whether enjoying a cider in front of the port, walking by the lighthouse, or listening to bagpipes at sunset, Candás will give you moments that will stay with you forever.