Asturias


(AS SEEN IN EPISODE 110, “Gawking at Gaudí and Asturian Adventures”)


Asturias is known for its rugged coastal cliffs and its mountainous interior—it’s a rough and tumble kind-of place, gruff and husky. Asturians, though, are some of the friendliest, warmest Spaniards around. Mario and Mark spent time with Pilar Sanchez, who could easily be considered the Ultimate Grandma, in her kitchen, cooking chicken and apples. They also traveled through the mountains to make fabada, the iconic Asturian bean stew, with a group of generous, local chefs. Needless to say, Asturias, a bit like the tough guy with the big heart, is distinguished by the improbable combination of an aggressive landscape and a cozy spirit.



RESTAURANTS

Casa Fermín
Located in the heart of Oviedo, this elegant restaurant has old-school style.
Practical Information: Calle San Francisco, 8, Oviedo, +34.985216497

La Sidrería
The place to go for traditional Asturian cider — watch the amazing way they pour it to ensure bubbles!
Practical Information: Plaza Pedro Miñor, 4, Ovideo, +34.985275522

HOTELS

Hotel Occidental de la Reconquista
This five-star hotel is totally central and totally luxurious.
Practical Information: Gil de Jaz, 16, Oviedo, +34.985241100, hoteldelareconquista.com

Canagas de Onís
Originally built as a monastery in 746 (the rooms have been updated!), this setting can’t be beat.
Practical Information: Monasterio de San Pedro de Villanueva, 33550 Cangas de Onís, +34.985849402, www.parador.es

ATTRACTIONS

Camilo de Blas, the generations-old bakery and liquor store that Mario and Mark visited to stock up on pastries (both sweet and savory) for the more rural leg of their road trip.
Practical Information: www.camilodeblas.com/

The site of Pelayo's victory, said the be the start of the Reconquista.
Practical Information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pelagius_of_Asturias, www.realsitiodecovadonga.com

Oviedo’s statue of Woody Allen is a testament to the Asturian affection for the filmmaker.
Practical Information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Estatua_Woody_Allen_en_Oviedo.jpg