Walking with Dinosaurs along Asturias’ Coast: A Practical and Authentic Adventure
Imagine wandering along a rugged coastline in northern Spain, where prehistoric footprints dot the rocks and a dinosaur-shaped museum crowns a hill overlooking the Cantabrian Sea. For just over five hours, this private tour offers a lively blend of history, nature, and local charm, with a personal guide leading the way for a moderate price of around $165 per person. It’s perfect if you’re curious about dinosaurs, love scenic walks, or simply want a taste of authentic Asturian coastal life.
Two things we especially appreciate about this experience are the guided visit to the Jurassic Museum, with its insightful explanations, and the chance to see original dinosaur footprints in their natural setting—something that enriches the experience far beyond a typical museum visit. The tour also ends in Llastres, a picturesque fishing village packed with character, and offers a chance to enjoy a local seafood lunch.
A small consideration: since the tour involves walking on uneven beaches and cliffs, it’s best suited for those comfortable with some light hiking. Also, while private transportation is available for an extra fee, many may prefer to use their own vehicle or arrange their options in advance.
This tour is ideal for families, history buffs, or anyone who loves scenic coastal strolls with a dash of ancient adventure. If you’re eager for a relaxed yet engaging day exploring Asturias’ prehistoric past and stunning landscapes, this experience hits the mark.
Key Points
- Educational and fun: The Jurassic Museum offers a comprehensive look at dinosaurs that’s suitable for all ages.
- Authentic footprints: Walking on rocks with real dinosaur footprints creates a memorable, tangible connection to the past.
- Charming setting: The tour ends in Llastres, a lovely fishing village with excellent seafood options.
- Flexible options: Includes private guide and optional transportation; lunch is not included but readily available.
- Expect scenic views: Overlooking the Cantabrian Sea, the museum and beaches provide spectacular coastal scenery.
- Small group size: Max of 8 travelers ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
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A Deep Dive into the Dinosaur Coast Experience
Starting at the Jurassic Museum of Asturias
Your adventure begins at the Jurassic Museum, a building shaped like a giant dinosaur footprint, perched on a hilltop that offers sweeping views of the Cantabrian Sea. This isn’t just a standard display; your personal guide (Debora in reviews) will walk you through the exhibits, explaining how dinosaurs once roamed Asturias. The museum’s design and garden, with dinosaurs roaming around, make it especially appealing for children—something both reviews highlighted, describing Debora as “very professional, child-oriented.”
Expect around an hour and a half in this interactive space. Since entrance is included in the price, you can focus on absorbing fascinating facts without worrying about extra costs. The museum’s location on a hill means you get some excellent photo opportunities of the coastline even during your visit.
Walking to Playa de la Griega
From the museum, you’ll head to Playa de la Griega, a shining stretch of sand where the Liberdon River meets the sea. This beach is not just scenic; it’s a crucial part of your dinosaur journey. You’ll have the chance to walk along the shore or take a quick swim if you’re feeling brave—and many do, especially on warm days.
Discovering Dinosaur Footprints at Yacimiento de Icnitas
Next, you can walk along the beach or along the cliffs to see some of the most impressive dinosaur footprints in the world. These sauropod footprints are massive—the kind that make you feel tiny—and give an authentic sense of the scale of prehistoric life. Reviews mention that this part of the tour is particularly memorable: “The footprints are among the largest in the world,” and walking over the rocks makes it all feel real.
Because these footprints are preserved in natural rock formations, you’ll probably see footprints that are hundreds of millions of years old—a remarkable, tangible connection to Earth’s ancient past. This part is free, making it a highlight without extra expense.
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Exploring Llastres, the Charming Fishing Village
Finally, your guide will lead you into Llastres, one of Spain’s most picturesque fishing villages. Its narrow streets and colorful houses create a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll. You’ll get a glimpse of local life, visit the harbor, and enjoy the fresh sea air. Many reviews note this as a favorite part of the tour, with comments about how beautiful and authentic the village feels.
The tour concludes with a lunch break, where you can indulge in fresh seafood or typical Asturian dishes. Expect to spend around two hours here, giving you time to relax, sample local cuisine, and perhaps even enjoy a drink while watching the boats bobbing in the harbor.
Additional Options and Practical Details
While the standard tour starts at the Jurassic Museum at 10:30 AM, you can opt for private transportation for an extra fee—handy if you prefer to skip parking or make the most of your day. Weather can influence the experience, especially the outdoor parts, so check the forecast beforehand.
The tour is designed for small groups (up to 8 people), making it intimate and flexible. For families or curious travelers, the guide’s friendly approach and ability to answer questions make this a highly personalized experience.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
This experience isn’t just about ticking off boxes; it’s about learning something memorable while enjoying Asturias’ stunning coast. The inclusion of museum tickets, private guiding, and the ability to explore natural dinosaur footprints make the cost worthwhile. Plus, the optional seaside dip and the chance to sample local seafood add a layer of enjoyment that elevates the tour beyond a simple walk.
When you look at reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, it’s clear that this tour offers a well-rounded adventure. Visitors also mention that it’s suitable for families with children, thanks to engaging stops and plenty of space for kids to roam.
Who Should Book This Tour?
If you’re fascinated by dinosaurs or history, this tour offers a hands-on way to connect with the past. It’s perfect for families with children, as the museum and footprints are engaging and accessible. Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic coastal walks and the opportunity to relax in a charming fishing village.
Those who enjoy local food and want a taste of authentic Asturian cuisine will find the lunch stops ideal. The tour’s small-group format ensures a personalized experience, making it suitable whether you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or with family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is very family-friendly, especially since the museum is interactive and the footprints are fascinating for kids. One review specifically praised it as a great experience for children of various ages.
How long does the entire tour last?
It lasts approximately five hours, including the museum visit, beach walk, dinosaur footprints, and time in Llastres.
Can I book private transportation?
Yes, private transportation is available at an extra cost, which can be arranged through the tour provider.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included in the price. However, there are plenty of options in Llastres, with typical Asturian dishes costing around €20 per person.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and beaches are recommended. Bring sun protection and swimwear if you plan to take a dip.
Does the tour operate in bad weather?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How many people are in the tour group?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers maximum, ensuring a personalized experience.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a well-rounded day in Asturias that blends science, nature, and local culture, this walking tour ticks all the boxes. It offers a rare chance to see authentic dinosaur footprints, learn about prehistoric creatures in a thoughtfully designed museum, and enjoy the authentic charm of Llastres.
The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning coastal scenery, and the opportunity to sample local seafood makes this experience both educational and relaxing. It’s particularly suitable if you’re traveling with family or prefer a small-group, personalized tour that feels more like visiting friends than a tourist trap.
All in all, this tour offers excellent value—an engaging, authentic slice of Asturias that you’ll remember long after your trip. Whether you’re a dinosaur enthusiast or simply seeking a scenic and cultural escape, you’ll find plenty to love here.
Note: Always check weather conditions and book in advance, as this tour is popular and often booked 17 days ahead.