Carreño, with its pure Asturian essence, offers a blend of landscapes, history, and culture that’s well worth discovering. Located in northern Spain, this council combines the power of the Cantabrian Sea with the serenity of its rural valleys. From its stunning viewpoints to its peaceful beaches, every corner of Carreño invites you to slow down and truly enjoy the moment.
Nestled along the central coast of Asturias, between Gijón and Avilés, Carreño blends the seafaring soul of Candás with the tranquility of its rural villages, the beauty of its beaches, and a gastronomy that wins over everyone who tastes it.
The combination of nature, art, and traditions makes this council a hidden gem where each village preserves its own character and Asturian identity. Immerse yourself in the diversity of Carreño and let its authenticity captivate you.
1. Where Carreño Is and What Makes It Special
Carreño belongs to the Cabo Peñas region, and its capital is Candás — a coastal fishing village full of history.
Across its 66 square kilometers stretch landscapes that range from green agricultural valleys to dramatic cliffs overlooking the Cantabrian Sea.
Carreño stands out for its balance between the rural and the coastal: quiet villages, hidden beaches, scenic trails, and a strong identity marked by fishing traditions and Asturian cider.
2. The Villages of Carreño
The municipality of Carreño is made up of charming parishes that reflect the peaceful rhythm of life in northern Spain.
Candás, the capital, is a former fishing port that still preserves its maritime spirit. Walking through its lighthouse, harbor, or the Antón Museum connects you with the soul of Asturias.
Perlora, with its well-known Holiday Village and Carranques Beach, offers beautiful viewpoints and the perfect spots to unwind.
Albandi, Ambás, Carrió, El Valle, Guimarán, Llorgozana, Piedeloro, Prevera, Priendes, and Tamón are small rural gems where green landscapes, traditional granaries (hórreos), and the warmth of the locals embody authentic Asturian life.
Each of these villages contributes its own touch of history and tradition, with typical countryside homes that make Carreño a truly diverse and genuine destination.
Candás, the capital, is the beating heart of this coastal region — the perfect starting point for exploring the surrounding countryside, with its stone paths, wooden houses, and nature all around.
3. The Beaches of Carreño: Nature in Its Purest Form
Carreño’s coastline is a real treasure. Its beaches combine cliffs, lush greenery, and clean waters — a dream for those seeking peace or outdoor adventure.
Some of the most beautiful beaches include:
- Carranques Beach (Perlora): one of the most popular, ideal for families.
- Huelgues Beach: wilder and more secluded, perfect for peace seekers.
- Xivares Beach: long and known for its good surf conditions.
- Peña María Beach: hidden between cliffs, a small natural paradise.
- Palmera Beach (Candás): right by the promenade, offering spectacular views of the Cantabrian Sea.
Each of them reflects the essence of the north: ocean, fresh air, and landscapes that make you want to stay forever.
4. What to See in Carreño: Must-Visit Places
Carreño combines heritage, art, and nature in every corner. If you visit this Asturian council, don’t miss:
- San Antonio Lighthouse: the symbol of Candás and one of the most stunning viewpoints on the central Asturian coast.
- Antón Museum: dedicated to the local sculptor Antonio Rodríguez García “Antón”, where art blends seamlessly with the seafaring landscape.
- Church of San Félix de Candás: a historic temple that presides over the town.
- Tranqueru Trail: a coastal path linking Perlora and Candás, offering breathtaking views of the Asturian coastline.
- Rural Chapels: like San Juan de Tamón or San Antonio de Piedeloro, witnesses of the local faith and traditions.
- Natural Viewpoints: such as San Roque or Alto de Albandi, with unique panoramas of both sea and mountains.
- La Peña’l Carro Viewpoint: in Monte Areo, a spot with exceptional views and prehistoric remains.
- Monte Fusia: located behind Palmera Beach, it offers one of the best views over Candás and its coastline.
- Neolithic Classroom and Monte Areo Dolmens: a journey back to humanity’s origins in the heart of Asturian nature.
- Perlora and Carranques Beach: perfect for relaxing, walking, or simply enjoying the calm of the Cantabrian Sea.
- Candás Harbor: the lively heart of Carreño, full of bars, terraces, and the area’s most authentic atmosphere.
- Sculpture Park: an open-air art space next to the Antón Museum, where the sculptures interact with the landscape.
- Plaza de los Conserveros: a social and cultural square that honors Candás’ canning heritage.
- Monument to the Mine and the Sea: a tribute to Carreño’s mining and maritime roots.
- Candás Market: a Saturday must for discovering local life and traditional products.
- El Valle de Carreño: a rural gem where you can enjoy the landscape, history, and traditional Asturian lifestyle.
Each of these places reveals a piece of Carreño’s identity and showcases the deep connection between nature, history, and tradition.
5. Traditions and Popular Festivals in Carreño
Carreño is alive with festivities all year long. Each parish celebrates its own patron festivals filled with traditional music, cider, open-air feasts, and Asturian dances.
Among the most popular:
- The Sardine Festival (Candás): held in summer, it’s one of Asturias’ most iconic celebrations. The harbor fills with the smell of grilled sardines and festive energy as thousands are cooked outdoors.
- San Félix Festival (Candás): honoring the patron saint of the town, with maritime processions, music, and local food.
- Prau Pilgrimage (Perlora): a traditional Asturian countryside celebration with food, cider, and good company.
- Our Lady of Carmen Festival (Candás): one of the most beloved seafaring celebrations of the year, featuring a maritime procession and fireworks.
- The festivals of Carreño are a living expression of its spirit — joy, tradition, and community.
6. The Cuisine of Carreño: Flavors of Sea and Mountain
Carreño is a gastronomic paradise where the sea and the mountains meet on every plate.
Among its most iconic dishes you’ll find:
- Fabada Asturiana: the region’s most famous dish, made with tender beans and traditional smoked meats.
- Cabbage Stew and Asturian Tripe: typical of the rural areas of the council.
- Fish Stew, Squid, and Fresh Seafood: especially in the restaurants of Candás.
- Natural Cider: poured with mastery in local cider houses.
- Bollos Preñaos (chorizo-filled bread rolls), artisanal cheeses, and traditional desserts such as rice pudding or frixuelos (Asturian crêpes).
And for a sweet finale, Marañuelas de Candás — the town’s signature butter cookies made with flour, sugar, lard, and eggs. These golden treats are a symbol of Carreño and the perfect companion for coffee or an afternoon by the sea.
Dining in Carreño means savoring Asturian hospitality and enjoying local, lovingly prepared products.
7. Carreño, a Destination with Soul
Carreño is not just a place to visit — it’s a place to feel.
Its villages, coastline, people, and unhurried pace invite you to reconnect with what truly matters.
From the lively harbor of Candás to the calm of its countryside villages, Carreño offers visitors a complete experience where nature, tradition, and flavor blend in perfect harmony.
If you want to discover Carreño in an authentic way, we recommend staying in a rural accommodation.
For more information, visit the official Carreño Town Council website.