Playa de España

Introduction

From our perspective as experts in coastal destinations, Playa de España in the charming municipality of Villaviciosa, in the heart of Asturias, stands out as a jewel of the Cantabrian Sea that deserves to be explored in detail. It is not just another beach on the extensive Asturian coast; it is a vibrant ecosystem where nature expresses itself in its fullest, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. Its uniqueness lies in being the mouth of the España river, a small watercourse that gives it a special charm, creating a dynamic landscape that changes with the tides and the flow of fresh water.

Upon arriving at Playa de España, we find a setting that combines the comfort of a semi-urban beach with the untamed beauty of a natural environment. Its golden sands, the surrounding vegetation, and the gentle hills that embrace it make it a refuge of peace and beauty. It is a place where the murmur of the waves mixes with birdsong, and where the pure sea air merges with the scent of the earth. We have witnessed how this Asturian corner captivates families seeking safety and fun, couples longing for moments of relaxation, and adventurers wishing to connect with the essence of the Cantabrian coast. It is, without a doubt, one of the Asturias beaches you cannot miss.

How to Get to Playa de España

Getting to Playa de España is relatively straightforward, making it an accessible destination for all types of travelers. We always recommend planning the route in advance, although the signage is usually clear.

By Car

The most comfortable way to get there is undoubtedly by car. From Oviedo, Gijón, or Avilés, the A-8 highway (Autovía del Cantábrico) is the main access route. We must take exit 363 towards Villaviciosa/El Puntal. Once on the AS-256 road, which connects Villaviciosa with Tazones and the coast, we will find signposted turnoffs to the beach. The journey from Villaviciosa is approximately 10-15 minutes. The parking is spacious and located right next to the beach, which is a great advantage, especially in the summer months. Although it can fill up during peak season, turnover is usually good.

By Public Transport

Public transport can be an option, although less direct than by car. There are bus lines connecting Gijón and Oviedo with Villaviciosa. Once in Villaviciosa, the connection to Playa de España is more limited. In summer, specific bus or taxi services for the area's beaches are sometimes available. Our suggestion is to check the schedules of Alsa or the local bus company for the most up-to-date information if this is our preference.

On Foot or by Bicycle

For nature and exercise lovers, there are hiking and cycling routes connecting Villaviciosa and its surroundings with Playa de España. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the landscape and the Asturian coast before reaching the beach. It allows us to appreciate the beauty of the rural and coastal environment, discovering hidden coves and viewpoints with spectacular views. However, we must ensure we have the right equipment and plan the route according to our physical condition.

The Sand and Water

The experience at Playa de España is intrinsically linked to the quality of its sand and the purity of its waters, two elements that have captivated us on every visit.

The Sand

We are faced with a beach of fine, golden sand, incredibly pleasant to the touch. It's perfect for walking barefoot, building sandcastles with the little ones, or simply lying down and feeling the sun's caress. The homogeneous texture and the absence of stones or pebbles on most of the beach make it ideal for the whole family's enjoyment. The beach's length, about 450 meters, offers enough space not to feel crowded, even on the busiest days. It is a place where the sand surface predominates, facilitating access and comfort.

The Water

The waters of Playa de España reflect the purity of the Cantabrian Sea, with a blue-green color that invites swimming. Being the mouth of a river, its temperature can be slightly milder than on other purely oceanic beaches, which is an incentive, especially on the hottest summer days. The water quality is excellent, as evidenced by the fact that this beach usually holds the Blue Flag, a distinction that for us is synonymous with cleanliness, safety, and good services. The waves are generally moderate, although they can vary depending on weather conditions, making it suitable for swimming and activities like bodyboarding or even surfing for beginners on specific days. The estuary area, more protected, offers even calmer waters, ideal for children or those who prefer a dip without waves.

Services and Facilities

Playa de España stands out for offering a good range of services that contribute to a comfortable and safe stay, an aspect we always value positively in a beach destination.

Essential Services

We have verified that the beach has Showers to wash off salt and sand after swimming, as well as clean and well-maintained Bathrooms/Toilets, a crucial point for hygiene and comfort. The Lifeguard service is present during the bathing season, which gives us great peace of mind, especially if we are traveling with children. Safety signage and surveillance posts are well located, ensuring a quick response to any eventuality.

Leisure and Comfort

For those seeking greater comfort, there is the possibility of renting Sun Umbrellas and Sun Loungers, which allows us to relax without having to carry