Nestled between lush green hills and the Cantabrian Sea is a must-see little village that has been named among “Spain‘s most secret destinations” by European Best Destinations.

Cudillero, located in the Asturias region, is renowned for its charming narrow streets, colourful houses cascading down the hillsides, and bustling fishing port.

The village’s economy has traditionally revolved around fishing, and you can still see fishermen going about their daily tasks along the waterfront.

Visitors can stroll along the harbour, watch the fishing boats bobbing in the water, and sample fresh seafood and traditional northern dishes in the local restaurants.

Asturian cuisine, hailing from the Asturias region in northern Spain, is renowned for its hearty and flavourful dishes that often highlight fresh seafood, hearty stews, and locally sourced ingredients.

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Perhaps its most famous dish, the Fabada Asturiana, is a rich and comforting bean stew made with large white beans (fabes), chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), and pork.

Another warming delight to try in the colder months is the Caldereta de Pescado, an Asturian seafood stew that showcases the region’s bounty from the sea.

It features a variety of fish and seafood such as hake, monkfish, prawns, and clams, cooked in a flavour-packed broth with tomatoes, onions, and garlic.

The Empanada Asturiana, a savoury pastry filled with tuna, chorizo, or other ingredients is a beloved snack in Asturias and often taken on picnic trips and to family events by locals.

Tourists visiting this region can’t leave without trying the traditional Asturian Cider, Sidra Asturiana in Spanish, which is traditionally poured from a height to aerate it and enhance its flavour.

Cudillero is a village that beckons to be explored, with a historic quarter that’s like a maze of winding streets lined with traditional Asturian houses, many of which are adorned with colourful balconies and flower-filled pots.

At the top of the village, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, is the Church of Santa María, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area, which is covered in foliage.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Cudillero offers plenty of opportunities for exploration, with nearby hiking trails leading through rugged coastal landscapes and verdant forests.

Aside from its natural beauty and maritime charm, Cudillero is also known for hosting vibrant festivals throughout the year, including L’Almuravela, which takes place every June 29th and starts with a person from Cudillero preaching, in verse and “pixueto” lingo, a sermon ironically summarising all that which took place during the year and begging for protection for the following year.