Cadavedo is a picturesque coastal village in western Asturias, located directly on the Northern Way of the Camino de Santiago. It lies halfway between Luarca and Cudillero. Despite its small size, it holds a unique charm that earned it the title of Exemplary Town of Asturias in 2022. This distinction is awarded by the Princess of Asturias Foundation in recognition of the community’s efforts to preserve their heritage.

Historically, this village was an important whaling port during the Middle Ages, and later, in the early 20th century, became a residence for returning emigrants from the Americas (Indianos) who left a clear mark on the local architecture.

For pilgrims walking the Northern Way, Cadavedo offers a peaceful haven with stunning views over the Cantabrian Sea and a true immersion in Asturian culture.

 

Why choose the Northern Way to walk the Camino de Santiago?

Before we dive into the wonders of this village, let us first tell you about the Northern Way, the route where it is located.

As you may know, there are several official routes to reach Santiago de Compostela, each with its own charm. The French Way is the most popular and busiest, while the Primitive Way, the English Way and the Portuguese Way offer different experiences. For example, the Portuguese Way from Tui is a popular choice among those looking for a shorter route starting from the border with Portugal.

The Northern Way, meanwhile, stands out in its own right and is an excellent choice for many pilgrims. Here are some of the reasons to consider this route:

  • Diverse landscapes and cultural richness: this route stretches approximately 825 km along Spain’s northern coast, from the Basque Country to Galicia. This provides a unique variety of environments—paths that alternate between beaches, cliffs and coastal forests, offering breathtaking views of the Cantabrian Sea at almost every stage.

Pilgrims pass through regions rich in cultural heritage: from Basque culture to the lush green landscapes of Asturias and rural Galicia.

Those who begin the Camino de Santiago from Bilbao will witness the contrast between large cities and small fishing villages, while those starting the Northern Way from Ribadeo will discover the essence of deepest Galicia.

  • Greater peace and authenticity: this route is generally less crowded, which offers a more peaceful and reflective experience for pilgrims. Walking this way means you can enjoy stretches of relative solitude, appreciate the natural surroundings in silence and engage more closely with the local population.

The villages along the Northern Way (such as Cadavedo) retain a more traditional and authentic character, as mass tourism is less present compared to the more popular routes. This doesn’t mean a lack of services—the route includes places to eat at every stage—but it does offer a slower, more relaxed pace.

  • Challenge and personal fulfilment: this route is known for being physically more demanding than others. Coastal paths involve frequent ascents and descents, as you cross estuaries, cliffs, and hills close to the sea. While this adds difficulty, it also provides a rewarding challenge for those who enjoy walking through varied natural environments.

 

  • Each climb is rewarded with stunning views, and completing this route brings a strong sense of personal achievement.

 

Planning this route and its stages in advance is important due to its physical demands and the more limited availability of services in certain stretches. Having the support of a Camino de Santiago travel agency can be very helpful with logistics, although it’s always possible to walk the Camino independently.

 

Cadavedo: a coastal stop along the Northern Way

Cadavedo is a charming fishing village full of character. It belongs to the municipality of Valdés and is a traditional stopping point on the Northern Way.

With only a few hundred inhabitants, this village has preserved its rural and maritime essence over the centuries. Its streets are quiet and dotted with traditional Asturian houses, many featuring wooden galleries and slate roofs, and century-old “hórreos” (raised granaries) perched on stone pillars.

In fact, it boasts an exceptionally rich ethnographic heritage: around 95 hórreos and paneras are preserved in perfect condition, scattered throughout the village and surrounding areas. These granaries are a testament to the agricultural lifestyle of generations past. Strolling through Cadavedo allows visitors to appreciate these iconic Asturian structures, as well as old washhouses and mills that tell the story of local life.

Despite its small size, Cadavedo boasts several points of interest that will captivate travellers — especially pilgrims. Here, simplicity, nature, and tradition take precedence over grand monuments. Below, we highlight what to see in Cadavedo and its surroundings:

 

La Regalina Hermitage: faith and a viewpoint over the Cantabrian Sea

The undisputed symbol of the village is the La Regalina Hermitage, also known as the chapel of Our Lady of Riégala, patron saint of the village. This small chapel was built in 1931 at the initiative of Father Galo (a beloved local priest, poet and scholar) in honour of the Virgin of La Regalina. 

The hermitage stands on the Punta del Cuernu, a green promontory known as Campo de La Garita, perched on the edge of stunning cliffs that drop into the Cantabrian Sea. Its location couldn’t be more picturesque: surrounded by meadow, with an open horizon of sea and sky, this white chapel with blue details stands out beautifully in the landscape.

For pilgrims, the short detour to the chapel (just a few minutes from the main trail) is well worth it. From here you can enjoy 360-degree views of the coast and inland. In fact, La Regalina’s viewpoint is considered one of the most beautiful spots in western Asturias. Next to the chapel stands a traditional Asturian granary, or hórreo.

 

Beaches and nature in and around Cadavedo

Not far from the village are several beaches and cliffs that enhance the natural beauty of the area. 

The main local beach is Cadavedo Beach, a sandy stretch of about 400 metres in length, located approximately 2 km from the centre. Here, pilgrims will find a peaceful environment of sand and pebbles, lapped by clear waters. In summer, it’s common to see families — and the occasional pilgrim — enjoying a well-earned swim after the day’s walk.

In addition to the main beach, there are other hidden coves worth discovering. For example: 

  • Campiechos Beach is a small cove with pebbles and coarse sand, more remote and wild, accessed by a 500-metre footpath. Few visitors come here, even in summer, so it offers true tranquillity for those who find it.

 

  • Nearby are the spectacular cliffs of Cabo Busto, with nearly vertical walls rising up to 60 metres above the sea. This cape is easily accessible via a short detour. 

 

  • Another well-known cape is Cabo Vidío, equally impressive with its rugged cliffs and ocean views. 

 

In short, the natural setting of Cadavedo allows pilgrims to soak in the stunning coastal scenery, breathe in the salty air, and experience the essence of coastal Asturias up close. 

 

Rural charm: granaries, ‘indiano’ houses, and heritage

A visit to Cadavedo wouldn’t be complete without appreciating its rural charm and heritage. As you walk through the village, you’ll pass old Asturian homes with wooden balconies — some over a century old — as well as ‘indiano’ houses. 

These elegant residences were built in the early 20th century by Asturians who had emigrated to the Americas and returned with wealth, incorporating colonial architectural touches into their homes. They often feature large gardens, bright colours, and decorative details rarely seen in traditional Asturian buildings. 

But perhaps most characteristic of Cadavedo are the many hórreos (raised granaries). With 95 hórreos and paneras scattered around the parish, the village is practically an open-air museum of these rural structures. Seeing so many in such a small village speaks to the area’s agricultural prosperity. Many are adorned with traditional carvings. 

Alongside these, you’ll also find preserved old stone watermills and public washhouses, once key gathering places for villagers.

In terms of religious architecture, besides La Regalina Hermitage, the village also has the Parish Church of Santa María. This is a modest temple rebuilt in the 20th century on older foundations, where pilgrims and locals can attend Mass. Though it lacks the dramatic setting of the cliffside chapel, it reflects the daily devotion of the local community.

 

Cadavedo traditions: the La Regalina festival

Pilgrims passing through Cadavedo at the end of August will have the good fortune to witness one of its most important traditions: the Festival of the Virgin of La Regalina. 

Held each year on the last Sunday of August in the field of La Garita next to the hermitage, the festival has been declared a Regional Tourist Interest Festival for its uniqueness and deep roots. First celebrated in 1931 thanks to Father Galo, it blends religious and folkloric Asturian elements in a unique way.

From early morning, the festive spirit fills Cadavedo. A parade of decorated floats winds through the village carrying floral offerings and ramus de alfiladas — sweet breads made with lard, anise, and walnuts — which are later auctioned off to attendees. 

Hundreds of locals (estimated at around 700 participants) wear traditional Asturian costumes for the occasion, accompanied by bagpipe bands playing regional music. 

Following the opening address and solemn Mass in honour of the Virgin of Riégala, a procession takes place in which her image is carried around the cliffs in an emotionally charged setting. 

 

Asturian cuisine for the pilgrim

The effort of the pilgrimage is always rewarded with the pleasure of enjoying local food at each stage. In Cadavedo, and throughout Asturias, pilgrims will find hearty and delicious meals to recharge. Asturian cuisine is renowned for its generous portions and high quality — and here, by the sea, land and ocean flavours come together beautifully. 

A must-try classic is the Asturian fabada — a rich stew of white beans with cured meats that comforts anyone. There’s even a seafood twist on it: fabada with clams (and sometimes spider crab), combining maritime ingredients with mountain tradition to create a truly local delicacy. 

You should also try something made with Cabrales cheese or other local varieties — Asturias is cheese country, after all. A cachopo stuffed with regional cheese or Cabrales tapas with cider make for the perfect post-hike reward.

Speaking of cider — Asturias’ signature drink — pilgrims can enjoy it here just as elsewhere in the region. Poured in the traditional style, natural Asturian cider is refreshing and pairs perfectly with seafood tapas or the beloved empanada. 

Local bars often serve fresh Cantabrian fish — such as hake or monkfish — and seasonal seafood, reflecting the area’s maritime heritage. Expect dishes like fish stew, Galician-style octopus (a nearby tradition shared with Galicia), or even simple homemade chorizo sandwiches.