Spring blossom

It is a few weeks since Spring arrived in Asturias this year. We first enjoyed masses of yellow with the wild primulas and the acacia tree blossom (the honey scent is always a plus). At present, we are enjoying the pure white of the last of the hawthorn and the wild cherry blossom that collects on the ground forming a carpet that reminds you of the snow and confetti. We are just a few weeks ahead of the colour explosion that we will enjoy with all the abundant wild meadow flowers coming into bloom. The wild orchids in such numbers and varieties is always something that I look forward to. The apple orchards are just about to come into blossom - giving a delicate scent along the lanes as you pass by. I hope that you also get a chance to enjoy the beauty of wild flowers.

Footsteps from the past

The village is a loose collection of houses connected by narrow lanes (caminos) and footpaths. Many of the footpaths are getting overgrown and neglected as most people now drive in and out of the village and fewer and fewer residents farm or drive livestock from field to field. The connecting paths often cut off corners or provide a shortcut to other parts of the village or neighbouring villages.


Some are narrow and unevenly cobbled with lumps of limestone whilst others remain grass and vegetation. They are filled with wild flowers at this time of the year and are a joy to wander through.

Sadly... Overgrown and no longer used

Easter Bunnies ... ?

Once again the Easter break in Spain has brought increasing numbers of visitors into the area. When the crowds come, you remember that there are others who appreciate and enjoy the beautiful countryside, stunning coastline and impressive mountain ranges that the Asturias has to offer.

Although the weather has been variable, we have experienced, between showers, enough warm sunny periods to be able to enjoy the outdoors with several walks that we have done starting from home and further afield.

This morning, we have visited the beach of Gulpiyuri, declared a natural monument. Gulpiyuri is often described as the "beach without a sea" and was formed when the ceiling of a large cave carved by the sea, collapsed leaving behind a big depression in the ground. In essence this is a sandy cove, surrounded entirely by rocks with no outlook to the sea. There is a short tunnel for the sea water to come in and out with the rise and fall of the tides.

This morning, we coincided with low tide and it was such a treat to see the sea water rushing through the rock tunnel to eventually fill most of the area and cover most of the sand. On the way back. we also visited the stunning beach of Torimbia, and in my opinion the most beautiful one in Asturias. I enjoyed sharing these two favourite places of mine with Tanya, Carla and Astrid who at present are working as volunteers at the donkey sanctuary. I hope that you all are having a nice Easter.