La Espasa to Arenal de Morís - Perfect Family Coastal Walk in Caravia
The Perfect Introduction to Coastal Walking
When friends ask me to recommend the ideal first coastal walk in Asturias for families, I always suggest the path between La Espasa and Arenal de Morís. It's everything you want from coastal walking - spectacular sea views, interesting beaches, and that sense of discovery - without any of the challenges that might put off families with young children.
Alba mastered this walk when she was much younger, and it remains one of our favorites for those lazy afternoons when we want the reward of beautiful coastal scenery without committing to a challenging hike. The 3.2km path is completely flat, well-maintained, and offers parking at both ends, making logistics wonderfully simple.
What makes this section of the Caravia coast special is how it showcases the diversity of Asturian beaches within such a short distance. You'll pass the wild cove of Playa La Beciella and reach the spectacular Peña Forada viewpoint where, on clear days, you can see the entire coastline from La Isla to Lastres spread out below you.
This is also an official section of the Camino del Norte, so you're walking in the footsteps of pilgrims while enjoying some of the most accessible coastal scenery in northern Spain.
Starting at La Espasa Beach
La Espasa provides the perfect starting point with its large parking area and excellent facilities. The beach itself is worth exploring before you begin walking - it's one of those perfect Asturian beaches that combines golden sand with dramatic rock formations, all backed by green meadows that seem to roll directly into the sea.
From the parking area, the coastal path is clearly marked and begins immediately. There's no confusion about directions or challenging terrain to navigate - it's simply a matter of following the obvious path east along the coastline.
The Coastal Path Character
What strikes you first about this path is how effortlessly it maintains spectacular sea views. Unlike some coastal walks that dip inland or lose sight of the water, this route hugs the coastline consistently, offering continuous vistas of the Cantabrian Sea with the Sierra del Sueve providing a dramatic backdrop to the south.
The path surface is excellent - well-maintained dirt and grass that's firm underfoot and suitable for any type of walking footwear. Alba and I have walked this in everything from hiking boots to summer sandals, and the terrain accommodates both approaches.
Discovering Playa La Beciella
About halfway along the route, you'll encounter Playa La Beciella - a wild cove that feels completely different from the organised beaches at either end of your walk. This is where the path offers its most dramatic coastal scenery, with waves crashing against weathered rock formations and seabirds wheeling overhead.
Alba loves spotting the different types of seabirds that nest in the cliffs around La Beciella. We've learned to identify cormorants, gulls, and the occasional osprey fishing offshore. The cove also provides excellent tide pool exploration during low tide, though always with careful supervision around the waves.
The Peña Forada Viewpoint
The highlight of the walk comes at Peña Forada, a designated viewpoint that offers one of the most spectacular coastal panoramas in eastern Asturias. From this elevated position, you can see La Espasa behind you, El Barrigón beach below, La Isla in the distance, and on exceptionally clear days, even Lastres on the horizon.
This viewpoint includes benches positioned to maximize the vista, making it the perfect spot for a picnic or simply to absorb the scale of the Asturian coastline. Alba has spent countless happy minutes here with binoculars, scanning the water for dolphins or simply watching the fishing boats work their way between the various beaches.
Approaching Arenal de Morís
As you descend toward Arenal de Morís, the character of the landscape shifts subtly. The wild coastal drama of the middle section gives way to a more gentle, accessible beach environment. Arenal de Morís itself is larger and more developed than La Espasa, with good facilities and a summer-season parking area right by the sand.
The contrast between the two beaches - La Espasa's dramatic rock formations and Arenal de Morís's more classic sandy expanse - perfectly illustrates the diversity of Asturian coastal environments within walking distance.
What to Pack
Essential Gear
Comfortable walking shoes - Any sturdy footwear works on this flat terrain
Sun protection - Limited shade along the coastal section
Light jacket - Sea breezes can be cool even on warm days
Water and snacks - Though the walk is short, the viewpoints invite lingering
Family Specifics
Binoculars - Perfect for children to spot marine life and distant landmarks
Camera - The viewpoints offer exceptional photography opportunities
Beach gear - Both beaches are perfect for post-walk swimming or playing
Picnic supplies - The Peña Forada viewpoint is ideal for outdoor eating
Baby and Toddler Considerations
Stroller-friendly - The flat, well-maintained path accommodates pushchairs
Extra clothing - Coastal weather can change quickly
Familiar snacks - Keep energy levels up during the walk
Entertainment backup - Though the scenery usually captivates children
Essential Information
Route Specifications
Distance: 6.4km round-trip (3.2km each way)
Difficulty: Very Easy (completely flat terrain)
Time: 1.5-2 hours total including viewpoint stops
Surface: Well-maintained dirt paths and grass
Elevation: Minimal undulation, suitable for all fitness levels
Accessibility: Stroller-friendly throughout
Access and Parking
La Espasa: Large parking area directly at the beach
Arenal de Morís: Summer parking lot by the beach, winter roadside parking
GPS Coordinates La Espasa: 43.4712°N, 5.1892°W
GPS Coordinates Arenal de Morís: 43.4658°N, 5.1567°W
Cost: Free parking at both locations
Getting There
From Oviedo: 50 minutes via N-632 coastal road
From Gijón: 40 minutes via A-8 then N-632
From Ribadesella: 15 minutes west on N-632
Public Transport: Limited ALSA service to Caravia villages
Route: N-632 passes directly by La Espasa - well signposted
Best Conditions
Weather: Any clear day offers excellent visibility for the viewpoints
Wind: Light to moderate winds enhance the coastal experience
Season: Year-round walking, though summer offers warmest beach conditions
Time of Day: Late afternoon provides excellent light for photography
Safety Considerations
Path stays well back from cliff edges - safe for children
No technical terrain or challenging sections
Well-marked throughout with minimal navigation required
Mobile coverage good along entire route
What Makes It Special
Perfect Family Introduction
This walk demonstrates everything wonderful about Asturian coastal walking without any intimidating elements. Children gain confidence in coastal terrain while parents can relax about safety and logistics. It's the ideal way to introduce families to the possibilities of coastal exploration in Asturias.
Camino del Norte Heritage
Walking this section connects you to the centuries-old tradition of the Camino de Santiago. The yellow arrows and shell markers remind you that this beautiful coastal path has been guiding travelers for generations, adding cultural depth to the natural beauty.
Geological Diversity
Despite its short distance, the walk showcases remarkable geological variety. From the sandy expanses of both beaches to the dramatic rock formations at La Beciella, you experience the full range of Asturian coastal environments in a single, manageable walk.
Panoramic Rewards
The Peña Forada viewpoint delivers a visual payoff that rivals much longer and more challenging coastal walks. Being able to see from La Isla to Lastres creates a real sense of geographical orientation and helps visitors understand the broader coastal landscape of eastern Asturias.
Beach Combination Opportunities
Having excellent beaches at both ends means the walk can be as much about beach time as coastal walking. Families can combine gentle hiking with swimming, beach games, or simply relaxing by the sea.
Beach Time at Arenal de Morís
The walk's endpoint offers the perfect opportunity for beach relaxation. Arenal de Morís provides excellent swimming conditions, clean sand for children to play, and good facilities for changing and refreshing after your coastal walk.
The contrast between the active walking you've just completed and the peaceful beach environment creates a perfect balance for family days out.
Dining at Restaurante Fito Mar
Located right at La Espasa beach, Restaurante Fito Mar offers the perfect post-walk dining experience. Their terrace overlooks the beach where your walk began, creating a satisfying sense of completion while you enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties.
Alba's favorite is their simple grilled fish cooked with local cider, while I appreciate how the restaurant's position lets you review your walking route while enjoying excellent Asturian cuisine. The combination of physical activity, beautiful scenery, and great food represents the perfect Asturian day out.
Explore Caravia Villages
The surrounding Caravia municipality offers additional cultural exploration opportunities. The small villages inland from the coast preserve traditional Asturian architecture and rural life, providing interesting contrast to the coastal walking experience.
Connect to Other Coastal Routes
This walk provides an excellent introduction to the broader network of coastal paths in eastern Asturias. Success here often leads families to attempt longer routes like the PR-AS 196 to La Griega or explore other sections of the Camino del Norte.
Tide Pool Exploration
If you time your visit for low tide, both beaches offer excellent tide pool exploration opportunities. Alba has become expert at spotting crabs, anemones, and small fish in the rocky pools, adding a natural history element to the beach experience.
Ideal Combinations
Beach Day: Coastal walk + swimming at both beaches + beachside lunch
Family Introduction: This walk + village exploration + traditional Asturian meal
Photography Focus: Early morning walk + extended time at viewpoints + sunset return
Camino Sampling: Walk as pilgrims + cultural exploration + local history focus
Seasonal Considerations
Spring: Wildflowers along the path, fewer crowds, excellent visibility
Summer: Peak beach conditions, restaurant fully operational, busiest period
Autumn: Often the clearest weather for distant views, comfortable walking temperatures
Winter: Dramatic storm watching opportunities, essential to check weather conditions
Weather Adaptations
Sunny Days: Perfect for beach combination, bring sun protection
Cloudy Weather: Often provides better contrast for photography
Light Rain: Path remains walkable, but beaches less appealing
Windy Conditions: Can enhance the dramatic coastal feeling
Extended Options
While this walk is perfect as a standalone experience, it connects to longer sections of the Camino del Norte for those wanting more challenge. The path continues east toward Ribadesella and west toward La Isla, allowing for extended coastal walking adventures.
The La Espasa to Arenal de Morís coastal walk represents everything that makes Asturian coastal walking special: spectacular scenery, cultural significance, perfect accessibility, and that indefinable sense of connection to the sea that characterizes this remarkable coastline. Whether it's your introduction to coastal walking or a gentle option for a relaxed day out, this path delivers coastal beauty with complete confidence and ease.
Related Family Adventures
Previous in Series:
La Griega Dinosaur Footprints - Walking with Giants - Perfect follow-up for families inspired by coastal exploration
PR-AS 196 Ruta de los Misterios del Mar - Next level coastal challenge
Next in Series:
Camino del Norte Coastal Section - Walking with Pilgrims - Extend your Camino experience
Family-Friendly Connections:
Family Beach Guide: Eastern Asturias' Best Sandy Shores - Complete beach planning
Caravia Village Life: Traditional Asturias Away from Crowds - Cultural exploration
Dining and Recovery:
Restaurante Fito Mar: Beachside Dining at La Espasa - Perfect post-walk meal
