When you start to research the northern coast of Spain, it can become a little overwhelming trying to narrow down destination options, particularly when limited by time.
In the end, our choices came down to where we could book for 3 to 4 nights in July. Fear not though, if you're planning a trip in the summer months, know that although many sites want you to book a minimum of 7 nights at a time, there are always plenty of free or very cheap aires for the more spontaneous campers. Just download the Search For Sites and Park 4 Night apps.
But time was of the essence for us, and with a little bit of added control-freakiness going on, we preferred to book ahead. Whilst we were aware that there were many more gems to visit in both Asturias and Cantabria, we were over the moon with our two stops, before heading back to Blighty.
Tapia de Casariego (Asturias)
The return leg of our trip began with a three night stop at Camping Playa de Tapia. Located a short walk from a couple of stunning beaches, in theory great for surfing and bodyboarding (except the sea was rather the calm on those particular days). It has to be said that some of the facilities could do with an upgrade though, and a little more attention to hot water, soap, toilet roll and hand towels wouldn’t go a miss.
The nearby fishing village itself was both beautiful and buzzy, particularly around the harbour at sun down. We had some fabulous and memorable walks along the coast in both directions, lazy afternoons on the beaches and plenty of juicy local fare. If you go, don't miss the fabulous Fabada Asturiana (Northern Spain’s answer to cassoulet) and who knew a red vermouth could be a nice drink when served on ice with a slice of orange and a couple of olives?! Definitely worth a try!
Comillas (Cantabria)
The last leg of the trip and the best till last? It was certainly close.
Comillas has a lot to offer. Let's start with the campsite, Camping Comillas. Perched on a low cliff with it's own little beach, perfect vistas and excellent facilities. Just a short (uphill) walk into the beautiful, old town with its many cafes, restaurants, museums and magnificent buildings. The wondrous Capricho de Gaudi (see featured image) and neighbouring Palacio de Sobrellano are also walking distance and well worth a visit. And if the Playa de Comillas and the surf aren’t quite big enough for you, then the stunning Playa de Oyambre is a short drive or cycle away.
We spent our final evening eating at El Carel in Comillas old town. Easily the best restaurant with the best service of our whole trip around Northern Spain. If you get the chance, definitely give it a try! I can highly recommend the oxtail.
The following morning we made our way back to the ferry port in Santander and bid farewell to Cantabria, Asturias, Galicia and a little bit of Portugal. Fond memories and ideas for future trips if we ever get the chance to return,
pitch up and chill! Let's hope so!
