Playa de Las Llanas

Introduction

From the moment we laid eyes on Playa de Las Llanas, we knew we had found a special corner on the Asturian coast. Located in the charming municipality of Muros de Nalón, this beach is much more than a simple stretch of sand; it's a sanctuary of peace, a natural canvas where the intense green of the cliffs blends with the vibrant blue of the Cantabrian Sea and the soft gold of its sand. It's not the largest beach in Asturias, nor perhaps the most famous for mass tourism, and that's precisely where much of its charm lies: in its ability to offer an authentic and serene experience, away from the hustle and bustle.

Upon arriving at Las Llanas, one immediately feels a connection with nature. It's a sheltered, almost intimate cove that invites us to disconnect and immerse ourselves in the beauty of its surroundings. Its waters, generally calm and crystal-clear, are perfect for a refreshing swim or for children to play safely. The beach is an example of the region's rich landscape, a place where every detail, from the rocks that emerge at low tide to the vegetation crowning the cliffs, contributes to creating an idyllic atmosphere. We are faced with one of those beaches that, once discovered, become a recurring destination for our escapes to the north.

How to Get to Playa de Las Llanas

Getting to Playa de Las Llanas is relatively straightforward, although like many of Asturias's hidden gems, it requires following the correct directions. We always recommend the car as the most comfortable option for exploring the Asturian coast, as it offers the necessary flexibility to also discover its surroundings.

By Car

If we're coming from Oviedo or Gijón, the most direct way is to take the Cantabrian Motorway (A-8) towards Galicia. We should take exit 419 towards Muros de Nalón/San Esteban de Pravia/Playa del Aguilar. Once on the local road, the N-632, we will follow the signs towards Muros de Nalón. From the town itself, we will find signage for Playa de Las Llanas or the nearby Playa del Aguilar, with which it often shares access and parking. The road will take us directly to the parking area, which is usually quite spacious, especially if we share space with visitors to Aguilar. It's important to arrive early in the high season to secure a good spot, as, although the beach is not massive, the influx of visitors in summer is considerable.

Public Transport

Public transport in this area of Asturias is more limited. There are bus lines (ALSA) connecting Muros de Nalón with cities like Oviedo, Gijón, or Avilés. However, once in Muros de Nalón, the beach is not within comfortable walking distance, and there is no direct bus service to the cove. Therefore, if we opt for public transport, we could consider a taxi from the town or, if we are hiking enthusiasts, enjoy a pleasant walk along the coastal path, although this would significantly lengthen the journey. Our recommendation is always a private vehicle for a hassle-free experience.

The Sand and Water

Playa de Las Llanas seduces us from the first moment with the quality of its sand and the transparency of its waters. It's a sensory experience that invites us to take off our shoes and feel nature under our feet.

The Sand

The sand of Las Llanas is fine and of a beautiful golden hue. It's soft to the touch, making it ideal for walking barefoot, building sandcastles with children, or simply lying down to sunbathe without the discomfort of coarse sand or stones. Its texture is very pleasant and, being a sheltered cove, there is usually not an excessive amount of seaweed or pebbles washed ashore, keeping the shoreline clean and welcoming. At low tide, the beach expands, revealing small pools and areas of wet sand perfect for the little ones to explore and play in complete safety.

The Water

The waters of Las Llanas are a delight. Generally, we find them calm and surprisingly clear, with shades ranging from turquoise to deep blue, depending on the sunlight and depth. Being protected by the cliffs, the cove does not usually receive the direct impact of the strongest waves of the Cantabrian Sea, making it a safe place for swimming, even for those who are not strong swimmers. The water temperature, as is usual in the Cantabrian, is cool, but in the summer months it is very refreshing and pleasant, inviting long dips. We love the feeling of immersing ourselves in its waters and feeling the mind clear with every stroke.

Services and Facilities

To make our day at Playa de Las Llanas as comfortable and pleasant as possible, the beach has a series of services and facilities that, although not excessive, cover the basic needs of any visitor.

• Showers: After a refreshing swim in the sea, nothing beats a freshwater shower to wash off the salt and sand. Las Llanas has outdoor showers, a service we always appreciate for returning home without discomfort.
• Parking: As mentioned earlier, the beach has a parking area, often shared with the nearby Playa del Aguilar. It's a spacious parking lot, although on days with high visitor numbers in summer it can fill up quickly. Our recommendation is to arrive early to secure a good spot.
• Chiringuitos: There's nothing like enjoying a cold drink or a snack by the sea. At Las Llanas, especially in the high season, chiringuitos (beach bars) are usually set up offering drinks, ice creams, and some fast food. They are perfect for taking a break and enjoying the views without having to leave the beach. Some of these chiringu