Mirador de la Garita

Description

Let’s set the scene: you’re standing on a grassy knoll, a salty Atlantic breeze brushing your face, and down below, the little port of Cudillero is spreading its tangle of red-tiled roofs like a quilt across the hills. That, my friend, is the magic of Mirador de la Garita. Frankly, I never really “got” what all the fuss was about observation decks until I ended up here, thighs burning from the climb, and realized some views simply refuse to be captured in photos.

The Mirador de la Garita isn’t your polished, glass-panel kind of viewing deck you might stumble across in tourist magnets. Instead, it’s pretty raw and authentic— one of those places where the textures of the hillside, the wild tufts of grass, and the rough-hewn staircase paint the scene better than any artist. You kinda feel like you’ve been let in on a secret the moment the panorama hits you: the fishing boats clustered in the port, a petite lighthouse like something out of a storybook, and the blue, blue Bay of Biscay stretching toward forever. I’ve seen a fair few viewpoints around Spain, but there’s something unvarnished and honest about this spot. There’s not even a fancy fence up top— just you, the wind, and that sky.

Of course, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. If you’ve got mobility challenges, this probably isn’t the place for you, and even the most enthusiastic kids will get a workout climbing those stairs (though trust me, once you’re up, they’ll forget the whinging and be awed by the view). But for those who fancy a small adventure and want to see Cudillero from above— in all its ramshackle glory—this is one of those rare places that makes you feel alive and lucky at the same time.

Key Features

• Incredible 180-degree views – You can spot the colorful rooftops of Cudillero, snaking alleyways, bustling port activity, and even get a glimpse of the resplendent green hills behind town.
• Storybook Lighthouse – Down below, the lighthouse seems almost painted on, equal parts picturesque and iconic. Best at golden hour if you ask me.
• Grassy, untamed hillside – Not a manicured park. Bring a picnic blanket and sprawl out, let the grass tickle your elbows, and maybe even spot a local cat prowling around.
• Steep Historic Stairway Entrance – These stairs, honestly, feel like a rite of passage. There’s a sense of “I earned this view” by the top—just don’t rush, and savor the progress.
• Fantastic for Photography – Whether it’s the port at sunrise, moody Atlantic waves, or the jumble of houses, you’ll get those shots that make your friends double-tap.
• Atmospheric Weather – Sun, mist, even a drizzle—every condition adds its own flavor. (A local once told me, “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes!”)
• Family-friendly (with caveats) – Kids can stretch their legs at the top, but mind that staircase with little ones.
• Free, street parking nearby – You might have to circle a bit in summer, but hey, it’s real parking, right along the street, and doesn’t cost a euro.

Best Time to Visit

I’ll level with you: Asturias isn’t exactly sun-drenched Spain. Its moody skies and swooping green valleys give it that dramatic, almost Celtic vibe—think rolling fogs and sudden sunbursts. Honestly, that’s half the charm of Mirador de la Garita.

My favorite time? Late afternoon to early evening, hands down. The sun working its way down behind you, brushing the rooftops with red and gold, and the light… there’s just something about it. Mornings can be lovely too if you’re an early riser, especially after a rain—everything feels washed clean and the sea sparkles ferociously. Summer brings crowds, so if you like a quieter moment, shoulder seasons (May-June and September) are prime. In winter, it’s windswept and pretty wild—bundle up and brace yourself, because you honestly might have the whole viewpoint to yourself, with just the gulls for company.

As for rain, don’t let it scare you off. Bad weather can make the view even more moving—stormy skies, churning waves, and the idea that you’re somewhere properly dramatic. (Just bring a hood!)

How to Get There

Cudillero isn’t massive, but the maze of tiny roads and alleys can flummox even the savviest GPS. I say this having gotten mildly lost on my first visit, which, you know, ended up being a bit of an adventure itself. The key: don’t be afraid to park a little ways away and walk. There’s free street parking if you’re lucky enough to nab a spot (they go quick, especially mid-day in summer). Then you’re hoofing it up through the heart of town, following the signs and probably a few other visitors, toward the old stairway that leads up to Mirador de la Garita.

Those stairs? Not for the faint of lung. Take your time, look back as you climb (seriously—the glimpses you get between rooftops are awesome), and treat it as part wonder walk, part leg day. If you’ve got heavy bags or mobility challenges, the stairs make it tough—there’s no accessible entrance or special parking up top, unfortunately. For most folks though, the journey is part of the fun. And once you’re up there, the views will make you forget any muttered curses you hurled at the staircase.

If you’re in Cudillero for the day trip from Oviedo, Gijón, or even further afield, you could easily add this stop to your itinerary after exploring the harbor or grabbing a cider down below. Just save your legs for the climb!

Tips for Visiting

• Pack light (and maybe bring a snack) – The hill isn’t Everest, but a big backpack just makes the stairs less fun. Personally, I always bring a water bottle and something snacky—best savored at the top.
• Check the weather, but don’t let a drizzle deter you – Some of my favorite moments have been under moody, fast-moving clouds. Just, you know…keep an eye on that wind.
• Wear decent shoes – Those stairs get slick when damp, and trust me, flip-flops are not your friend here.
• Watch your step and the kiddos – The viewpoint area up top isn’t fenced off everywhere, so little ones need a firm hand.
• Respect the peace – Locals use the area too. Keep the noise gentle, pack out your trash, and maybe exchange a “buenos días!” or two—Asturians are famously friendly but appreciate good manners.
• Photography – Sunset and golden hour are unbeatable for photos. If you’ve got a tripod and like long exposures, this place is prime.
• Scout your viewpoint – There are a couple of wiggle-room spots up top for different vantages. Move around and find your favorite frame!
• Extend the adventure – Afterwards, zigzag down into the port for fresh fish or a glass of crisp cider. The route down will have your stomach leading the way.
• Be spontaneous! – If you see mist rolling in or hear the bell of the lighthouse, pause and soak it in. No two visits feel quite the same.

So, that’s the Mirador de la Garita in a nutshell: a little wild, a tad challenging, but ultimately unforgettable. Whether you’re hunting that postcard shot, craving a bit of fresh sea air, or just looking for a place to sit quietly and spy on the world below, this corner of Cudillero has a way of sticking with you—sort of like that splash of sand you find in your shoe afterwards, a little reminder you went somewhere special.

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