8 fun things to do with children outdoors

Asturias is a region that has something for everyone, because the options for having fun are almost endless and can be tailored to suit the wishes and needs of those taking part. What’s more, there’s something special about it: activities with children also delight the adults, to such an extent that they never tire of doing them over and over again. In fact, this Natural Paradise is one of those unique places where family leisure is truly an experience that enchants each and every one of those taking part…

Sport, gastronomy, nature, the countryside… these are just some of the attractions Asturias has to offer for the most evocative experiences.

That’s why activities with the children will also be rewarding for you.

We’ve put together 8 ideas for days out with children to enjoy the great outdoors – you’re sure to have an unforgettable time!

What better way to become more aware of the environment in which we live than by visiting a lively garden? Indeed, a visit to El Bosque Zoo, very close to the city of Oviedo/Uviéu – specifically in San Esteban/San Isteba – will be one of those enlightening and joyful moments for both adults and children alike.

The forest was born out of its founders’ love of nature and continues to uphold that founding philosophy. It is a world brought to life by a variety of species – one that will feel familiar, small and easy to navigate – and which is also designed to foster a very human connection with the environment, teaching visitors to respect and care for it.

Monkeys, tigers, snakes and a wide variety of birds, amongst other species, inhabit a flower-filled garden rich in botanical diversity.

All in all, a walk through El Bosque will make you feel like a true guardian of Planet Earth.

The Tuernes el Pequeño wildlife centre, situated next to Posada de Llanera and just 15 kilometres from Oviedo/Uviéu, is truly a wholesome place, specially designed for children.

Tuernes offers the chance to enjoy a different kind of leisure experience, surrounded by nature and learning about farm life, guided by friendly hosts such as Luis and Maxi.

Geese, ducks, goats, emus, alpacas, Vietnamese pigs, parakeets… These and a few others make up a close-knit family with whom children and adults alike quickly bond, in a stunningly beautiful rural and natural setting, in the heart of Asturias.

This charming farm, open on Sundays and free to visit, is perfect for any celebration or simply for letting yourself be carried away by the tranquillity of being at one with nature and its inhabitants. Bookings can be made by calling 697 935 530

And if you’re looking to continue exploring the villages of Asturias, another magnificent and thoroughly entertaining option is the Pepín Trail – a genuine rural adventure led by the one and only Pepín himself, a native of the fairytale-like village of Sirviella, in the municipality of Onís. In such a setting, children have a brilliant time, and so do the grown-ups.

This route comprises four activities: a pleasant stroll through the narrow streets of Sirviella, and, whilst you’re at it, a chance to immerse yourself in the rural and pastoral world of the Picos de Europa’s landscape and local way of life. Young and old alike will enjoy discovering traditional Asturian architecture, including hórreos, paneras, bread ovens, houses with covered walkways, etc., as well as produce from the vegetable gardens.

Of course, a visit to the cider mill is a must, with a tasting of cider included and a simple explanation of the art of cider-making.

Once in the vegetable garden, a replica of a shepherd’s hut—like those you’ll find in the Picos de Europa—will give you an insight into the way of life of the people from this area, who devoted their lives to livestock and to producing one of the world’s most famous cheeses: Gamonéu.

You’ll also be able to see some native breeds up close, such as the Pita Pinta, the Asturcón and the Xalda sheep.

To round off the experience, you’ll enjoy the finest flavours of traditional Asturian cuisine, lovingly prepared by skilled and knowledgeable artisans using the very best of unique local produce.

The Aula de la Miel is situated in an idyllic village near the Picos de Europa called Alles, the administrative centre of the municipality of Peñamellera Alta. It is a wonderful place to enjoy with the family, where children will feel a special connection with the world of bees.

In this classroom, you’ll learn all about the honey-making process, from the flower to the jar, and see how bees play a key and decisive role in maintaining our ecosystems.

What’s more, the Centre has the added advantage of glass beehives, allowing you to observe life and daily activities inside the hive.

The entire tradition and history of beekeeping will unfold before your eyes, as well as the present-day practices and technical developments in this field.

As a sweet finale to this unique experience, you’ll be able to sample the beekeeper’s menu, which will include corn tortos with honey, hazelnut cream with honey, picón cheese cream with honey, Asturian fabada, cuajada with honey, puchero coffee, house shots… in short, a real treat with an Asturian flavour to enjoy with the family.

Asturias is the perfect place to inspire a love of nature in children. In fact, it is one of the ideal destinations for a genuine introduction to ecotourism, and one of the top activities on offer is tracking the remaining brown bears in their natural habitat.

One of the best places for bear-spotting is the Fuentes del Narcea, Degaña and Ibias Natural Park, where you can also enjoy splendid landscapes, incredible villages and friendly locals who are dedicated to preserving the environment, all as a family.

A day out with the children, getting up close to the ecosystem where the brown bear lives, is both highly educational and a real pleasure, not only because of the chance to make discoveries as a family, but also because the Natur guides will show you many different aspects and tell you lots of stories about everyday life in the wild – things you wouldn’t otherwise get to know.

Recreational areas are places where you’ll feel a sense of freedom above all else. They’re usually set amidst landscapes of spectacular beauty, offering stunning views and a truly delightful setting, whether on the coast or in the mountains. Splendid examples include the beach parks at Porcía, in El Franco, and Moniello, in Gozón, or the La Pesanca recreational area in Piloña, to name but a few where the beauty of the surroundings is truly palpable.

They’re a very appealing place to visit with children, as they can run about and play in complete freedom, becoming impromptu explorers of a setting that holds endless surprises for them: trees, woods, rivers, streams, beaches, mountains…

What’s more, adults find them particularly convenient for having lunch or an afternoon snack, as they are equipped with tables, benches and, in some cases, even barbecues.

Asturias’ recreational areas are situated in stunning locations and become veritable open-air theme parks, where you can enjoy nature, local cuisine, sport, taking in the scenery, or simply chatting in a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere – always with the family, with everyone having fun like children.

Of course, another similar option is the countless picnic spots or restaurants with outdoor seating that you’ll find in many corners of Asturias.

Hiking is one of the healthiest activities you can do, and Asturias is an absolute paradise for exploring thousands of trails. In fact, the trails in Asturias are endless, as there’s always a dream route left to discover…

It’s certainly one of those ideal experiences to enjoy as a family, because walking amidst dreamlike landscapes is always fascinating. A relaxed chat, the joy of seeing the children discover a new world with every step, the motivation to take the best photos or record unique videos, the shared laughter between one ‘selfie’ and the next, the sense of achievement upon completing the route… In short, a flood of positive emotions will sweep through the family.

There are plenty of options for enjoying a family hike. Here are a few well-known suggestions, such as the Beyu Pen trail in Amieva; the ‘viewpoint route’ between San Esteban and Aguilar beach; and the Camín Encantáu in Llanes.

What’s more, some of them – such as the Beyu Pen trail or the Camín Encantáu – feature figures from Asturian mythology carved in wood, something that children particularly enjoy and which sparks their imagination. The fact is that these walking routes are a highly recommended way for little ones to learn through play, gain self-confidence, practise the values of getting on with others and let their imaginations run wild, as if they were in a huge open-air amusement park…

Parque de la Vida is currently closed to the public and no reopening date has been announced. We recommend checking its status before planning a visit.

Located in the municipality of Valdés, the Parque de la Vida is an educational centre dedicated to introducing the public to some of the great mysteries of planet Earth and the universe.

Its facilities combine exhibits relating to the oceans, astronomy, space exploration and the evolution of life. Among its various areas are galleries dedicated to such unique species as giant squid and other inhabitants of the abyssal depths, as well as a planetarium and areas focusing on space exploration.

The tour also offers visitors the chance to learn about species undergoing recovery, authentic artefacts linked to space missions and reptiles from different continents.

The figures and legacies of scientists such as Charles Darwin and Severo Ochoa are also featured here, particularly in relation to the study and understanding of the origin of life.

For all these reasons, the Parque de la Vida has been designed as an educational and informative initiative, specifically aimed at bringing science and nature closer to families.