Tapia de Casariego is often described as northern Spain’s surfing mecca but several towns on the Cantabrian Sea compete to hold this title. One thing’s certainly true: Tapia de Casariego is a stunning town that has succeeded in keeping its identity and unique essence alive, with a fascinating past that includes a period as a whaling port. Tapia de Casariego has strong links to fishing and the canning industry, and you can easily get a sense of its seafaring spirit first-hand by taking a walk through the port and marina and watching a live fish auction.
We highly recommend sitting at a terrace on the docks to watch the fishermen as they bring in their daily catch: relax and admire the moored boats, the island’s lighthouse and the outer docks, which were constructed by the famous Marques of Casariego, Fernando Fernández de Casariego.
- History of Tapia de Casariego
- Isla del Faro
- Paseo de la Guardia
- Old town
- Beaches at Tapia de Casariego
- Things to see nearby
- Where to stay in Asturias
History of Tapia de Casariego
This Asturian town has just over 4,000 inhabitants and deep roots in the past because Castro settlements have been discovered by the coastal cliffs and also inland. These ancient villages were linked to mining activity that took place here before the Roman invasion. In the Middle Ages, the town was made part of the Bishopric of Oviedo by Alfonso VII. In fact, Tapia wasn’t established as an independent town until the middle of the 19th century, when several parishes belonging to Castropol and El Franco were segregated in 1863; its independence was achieved in part thanks to efforts by Fernando Fernández de Casariego, Marques of Casariego, who gave part of his name to this town in the west of Asturias.
Isla del Faro
Isla del Faro (Lighthouse Island) in Tapia de Casariego is one of the town’s biggest tourist attractions. The island is joined to the mainland by a 100-m breakwater and it has the most western lighthouse in the Principality of Asturias. The lighthouse opened in 1859 and was square shaped until the beginning of the 20th century; in later years, the main façade was elongated and a new tower was built in 1962 with the name “Tapia” on the north façade. The light beamed out by its lamp can be seen from Estaca de Bares to Cabo Peñas and it emits three white flashes every 20 seconds.
Paseo de la Guardia
Paseo de la Guardia in Tapia de Casariego borders the coast and has several viewpoints with wonderful ocean views. For example, you can look down on El Rocín dock, which stretches out into the sea towards the lighthouse; originally built in 1880, it was redesigned in 2014. A Cucia is at the start of the dock and this was where fishermen used to boil their tackle over pine bark; today you can see one of two iron cannons from Os Cañóis fortress. Next you come to Os Cañóis Viewpoint which is set on a small 18th century defensive fort that was built to deter pirate incursions and now offers tourists spectacular views. Continuing along this route, you soon reach the municipal salt water pool which was once a shellfish farm, a nursery where crustaceans were bred for human consumption.
Old town
Together with Luarca and Navia, Tapia de Casariego is one of the most beautiful fishing villages in western Asturias. It’s well worth enjoying a relaxing stroll around its old town, exploring the fishing neighbourhood of San Sebastían, and visiting San Blas, the oldest part of the town. Admire pretty, colourful houses along the way and, when you reach Plaza de la Constitución, you can spot several buildings that were constructed and financed by the Marques de Casariego, who spent part of his great fortune on turning the village into a celebrated town. This explains why there’s a bronze statue of the Marques in the centre of the square. The Town Hall building was constructed in 1864 and next to it is the clock tower and Plaza del Mercado. The church of San Esteban is nearby, which has been consecrated in honour of Nuestra Señora de los Dolores since it was built in 1896.
Beaches at Tapia de Casariego
One of Tapia de Casariego’s biggest attractions is its beaches, and the beauty of this spot is a big draw for surfers and fans of the sun and sea. Anguileiro Beach, known as “La Grande” despite only being 400 m long, is one of the most famous in town; it’s actually formed by four beaches: Ribeiría, Los Campos, Furadas and Murallón. It’s a Blue Flag beach and the World Surf Championship has been held here each Easter since 1971. Another great beach is Peñarronda on the border with Castropol, and this long stretch of sand has great ecological value because its home to protected species of flora and fauna, such as sand stock. Peñarronda is also popular with surfers.
Things to see nearby
Tapia de Casariego is a great starting point for some beautiful day trips and hiking routes.
Fascinating places such as the Eo estuary and Castropol are close to the town. Beautiful towns such as Viávelez and Puerto de Vega, and the famous Oneta waterfalls in Villayón are also a short distance away. And if you’d like to head deep into nature, hike the trail to Los Oscos and Taramundi. It’s a route you won’t forget!
Where to stay in Asturias
If you’re planning to visit Tapia de Casariego and its surroundings, your best bet is to stay in Oviedo where there’s a wonderful hotel that will guarantee you enjoy your holiday in comfort. We recommend the five-star Barceló Oviedo Cervantes in the heart of the Asturian capital. This urban hotel is in a former mansion built at the beginning of the 20th century that blends in perfectly with two modern buildings. It has 82 modern guest rooms with everything you need for a comfortable stay. You can also enjoy excellent food at the hotel.
