Things To Do
in Pola de Laviana
Pola de Laviana is a small town in Asturias, nestled in the Nalón valley. It blends a proud mining heritage with green, rolling landscapes and a friendly, village atmosphere. The town serves as a gateway to nearby mountains and rivers, offering easy day trips to outdoor spots.
Visitors enjoy traditional Asturian cuisine, cider houses, and a relaxed pace away from the bigger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a stroll through the charming streets of Pola de Laviana, soaking in the historical architecture and vibrant local life. Visit the nearby Plaza de la Villa, where you can enjoy a warm drink at a local café while people-watching. Capture moments of local life by engaging with friendly residents and exploring artisanal shops.
After lunch, delve into the lush landscapes surrounding the town with a guided hike through the breathtaking mountains. Take in the stunning views of the Picos de Europa while enjoying a picnic with local delicacies amid nature’s splendor. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to a local museum to learn more about the region's rich mining history.
As evening arrives, indulge in a delectable dinner at a traditional Asturian restaurant, savoring dishes like fabada or local tapas. After dining, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, basking in the calming sounds of flowing water. Round off your night with a visit to a local bar, enjoying Asturian cider and conversation with locals.
Dedicate your morning to visiting the nearby historic coal mines of El Entrego, which showcase the mining heritage of the region. Take a guided tour to learn about the arduous lives of miners and the significance of coal mining to the local economy. Capture photos of the impressive mining equipment as you wander through the site.
After your exploration, enjoy lunch at a mining-themed café where you can discuss the fascinating stories you've learned. Spend the afternoon visiting the Mining Museum of Asturias, which offers a comprehensive overview of the region's mining history through engaging exhibits. Allow yourself to be immersed in the rich culture and labor history that shaped this community.
In the evening, return to Pola de Laviana to unwind with a casual dinner at a family-run tavern, enjoying traditional Asturian cider and pinchos. Engage in lively conversations with fellow travelers or locals, sharing your experiences of the day. Alternatively, seek out a spot with live music to enjoy the local sound and atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥖Bakery item | $1-3 |
| 🚆Public transit (local ride) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Asturian experience with mining heritage and green landscapes
- Affordable food, cider, and lodging
- Compact and walkable town with easy day trips
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Some attractions may have limited English-speaking staff
- Less direct flight access compared to larger cities
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hola, buenos días" - Hello, good day
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Pola de Laviana
Visit one of these nice places.
A colorful, traditional square with the town hall and characteristic stone buildings, perfect for street photography and people-watching.
Golden hour reflections on the river with old bridges and green banks; great for landscape and reflection shots.
Panoramic viewpoints over the valley from hillside roads, ideal for sweeping landscape photos.
Food in Pola de Laviana
Pola de Laviana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich bean stew with chorizo and morcilla; best enjoyed in a traditional sidrería.
Must-Try!
A warming bean and greens stew with pork, a winter favorite throughout the region.
A strong blue cheese often served with bread and a splash of cider.
Smoked pork and blood sausage, a hearty mountain specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, cheeses, embutidos, and baked goods.
Compact spots offering bocadillos, tapas, and cider on tap along main streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'hola' or 'buenos días.' Lunch is commonly from 2–4 pm and dinner starts later; small talk is appreciated and locals value politeness.
Safety
Tipping in Pola de Laviana
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% at sit-down restaurants is common. Cash and card payments are widely accepted; some small bars prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with occasional heat; carry sun protection and light layers; brief afternoon showers are possible.
Cooler days with vibrant foliage; excellent for hiking and photo opportunities in golden light.
Cool and damp with possible rain; snow is rare in the town but can occur in the surrounding hills; great for cozy sidrerías.
More frequent rain but lush greenery; landscapes bloom and rivers run high after rainfall.
Pola de Laviana at Night
Hiking in Pola de Laviana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic trails along the Nalón river with views of the valley.
Short-to-moderate hikes with panoramic valley views.
Waterfall walks in the surrounding countryside, suitable for families.
Airports
How to reach Pola de Laviana by plane.
Located near Castrillón, about 50-70 minutes by car from Pola de Laviana; provides domestic and some international routes.
A major hub about 2.5–3 hours by car or train; many international and domestic connections.
Approximately 2 hours away by road; serves several European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding families in a small-town setting with strong community ties.
A significant portion of the population retains traditional Asturian customs.
Many residents commute to nearby towns for work or study.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local clubs and community matches.
Popular on country roads and valley routes, especially in warm months.
Widely practiced with accessible trails around the Nalón valley.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pola de Laviana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in many eateries; look for patatas a la importancia, vegetable stews, salads, and quesos. If ordering fabada or pote, ask for a version without pork, and communicate any dietary needs clearly.