Today was our first full day in Spain, and what a full day it was! After the rather long trip here, the group landed safely in the Asturias-Oviedo airport on Monday and then drove over to Llanes, where we’re staying. By the time we had arrived and got settled in there was just enough time for dinner and a short group meeting.
Rested and refreshed by morning time, we were able to cover some important logistical information early on in the day and then enjoyed our first authentic Asturian meal as a group during lunch. We tried a variety of local dishes, some more traditional and others more adventurous, including: lamb chops; fried calamari; baby squid; sauteed wild mushrooms; garlic shrimp; local cheese and meat samplers; meatballs; and salads galore. Needless to say, everyone left comfortably full and happy!
The group gathered in the dunes near the Playa del Sable
Immediately following lunch, we changed into our swimsuits and headed over to Playa del Sable, a gorgeous beach on a river mouth that gives way to the Atlantic Ocean. Once there, we met up with a local contact who runs a surf school and who took us on a tour of the river while we maneuvered three giant stand up paddle (SUP) boards. These impressive inflatable boards accommodate up to eight people, so we were able to work together in small groups to paddle to a nearby beach. After clambering past some rocks, we were treated to a stunning view of the Atlantic waters as they met the tall cliffs of the famous Asturian mountainside.
A herd of wild goats clambered up the cliffs, the sound of their cowbells echoing across the inlet. Crabs crawled in the shallows. A small natural rock cave was promptly discovered and explored. And, despite some overcast weather, the water was relatively warm so we were able to enjoy a nice swim in the waters, relaxing on this hidden, deserted beach as the tide rolled slowly in. Later, we would watch a lone horse gallop across the landscape, as the rider expertly handled it across the sand. All in all, this was the highlight of the day for most everyone (although some claimed to have enjoyed dinner even more).
Everyone is tucked in bed now, resting peacefully and awaiting the adventure that tomorrow will surely bring! We will be visiting Covadonga, a national park in the tall mountain range nearby (los picos, or the peaks), and enjoying a picnic by one of its many lakes.
From Spain with love,
Camila and Daniel