ON THE ROAD IN Asturias

The northern Spanish region of Asturias feels like a land of its own. Its wild coastline, home to more than 200 beaches, is lined with pastel-coloured fishing villages, while inland there’s a world of limestone peaks and architectural marvels. It makes for a road trip like no other

DAY 1

Start in Oviedo, the region’s capital and one of its cultural hearts. Spend the day exploring the medieval old town, where beautiful buildings like the gothic Oviedo Cathedral and the 17th-century Town Hall are all within walking distance. The Fine Arts Museum of Asturias, housed in two 18th-century palaces, is also worth a visit, featuring works by Goya, Dali and Picasso. After art and architecture, Oviedo is well known for its sidrerías (cider houses) along Calle Gascona, a street lined with waistcoat-wearing waiters pouring cider from impossible heights — a centuries-old tradition that helps oxygenate the drink — as customers feast on meaty stews and fried fish. Stay put for enormous portions of fabada asturiana (a local staple made with white beans, smoked chorizo and blood sausage) at one of the city’s traditional restaurants.

DAY 2