Things To Do
in Pola de Lena
Pola de Lena is a small mountain town in Asturias, nestled in the Nalón valley and surrounded by lush forests and rugged hills. It serves as a gateway to both rural charm and easy access to the region’s natural attractions. The town blends traditional stone houses, a friendly local atmosphere, and a compact center that’s easy to explore on foot.
Visitors come to enjoy nature, sample robust Asturian cuisine, and experience rural northern Spain at a relaxed pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Spanish pastries and coffee. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the town, admiring the beautiful architecture and historical landmarks. Don't forget to visit the Plaza de Evaristo San Miguel, a charming square that showcases the heart of Pola de Lena.
In the afternoon, dive into the history of the region by visiting the Museo de la Historia de la Industria. This museum will give you insights into the local industries that shaped Lena's development over the years. After the museum, explore nearby natural trails for a serene hike amidst stunning landscapes.
As the sun sets, dine at a traditional Asturian restaurant, where you can savor local dishes such as fabada asturiana. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful walk through the town, experiencing the warm ambiance of the streets lit by soft lights. Wind down your evening with a glass of local cider at a cozy bar.
Begin your day at the market, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture while picking up some fresh produce and regional delicacies. Engage with friendly vendors who are happy to share their stories and recommendations. Spend some time tasting local cheeses and bread as you explore.
After the market, head to the local church, Iglesia de San Martín, to admire its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Spend the afternoon learning about the church's rich history and enjoying the serene surroundings. Consider bringing a book to read in the nearby park afterward.
For dinner, try a beloved local eatery known for its rich seafood options, which reflect the coastal influence of Asturias. Enjoy lively music and perhaps a traditional Asturias dance performance after your meal. End the night with a nightcap at a local tavern, soaking in the local nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket | $5-10 |
| 🧀Groceries for a day | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to nature and scenic trails
- Warm, welcoming local culture with strong culinary traditions
- Limited nightlife and larger-city amenities
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable year-round
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Una cerveza, por favor." - A beer, please.
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Pola de Lena
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic stone bridge with reflected light on the river, especially photogenic at dawn or sunset.
A panoramic overlook offering sweeping views of the valley and surrounding hills, ideal for wide-angle shots.
A picturesque street lined with traditional Asturian stone houses and balconies, great for street photography and texture shots.
Calm waters, trees, and occasional wildlife provide peaceful composition opportunities throughout the day.
Food in Pola de Lena
Pola de Lena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich white bean stew with chorizo and morcilla. Best enjoyed in a sidrería with warm bread and a glass of cider.
Must-Try!
A hearty breaded beef fillet stuffed with cheese and ham. Commonly served with potatoes or vegetables and a drizzle of pepper sauce.
A traditional Asturian stew of beans, greens, potatoes, and pork or chorizo—comforting and perfect for cooler days.
A pungent blue cheese often tasted with bread or apples, typically enjoyed with a crisp cider in the background.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market where seasonal produce, cheeses, cured meats, and bread are sold; a great place to mingle with residents and sample fresh items.
Casual spots where you can try the region’s natural cider poured from height and paired with light bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings are customary; modest dress for dining is typical in traditional spots. Use formal address with locals unless invited to be casual.
When in cider bars, cider is poured from a height to aerate; follow locals’ lead and avoid wasting the drink.
Safety
Tipping in Pola de Lena
Ensure a smooth experience
In Spain, service charge is often included in the bill. If not, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated in nicer places, smaller amounts in casual taverns. Cash is widely accepted, but cards are common everywhere.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooler evenings; occasional rainfall is possible. It’s a good time for outdoor hiking and terrace drinks, but expect more visitors on weekends.
Mild days with vibrant foliage; a great time for scenic walks and photography. Rain is common, so pack a light waterproof layer.
Cool to cold temperatures with higher chance of rain. The town is quieter, and nearby hills can offer snowy vistas on clear days.
Plenty of fresh greens and blooming flowers; comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities and markets reopening after a slower winter.
Pola de Lena at Night
Hiking in Pola de Lena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging mountain route with panoramic Cantabrian views; suitable for experienced hikers prepared for elevation changes.
A relaxed loop along the Nalón riverbank, offering tranquil scenery and birdwatching opportunities.
Shaded forest paths ideal for half-day excursions, with opportunities to spot wildlife and wildflowers.
Airports
How to reach Pola de Lena by plane.
Located near Avilés, this is the main international-ish gateway for the region with connections across Spain and some long-haul options; reachable by bus or car from Lena.
A larger regional airport about a two-hour drive away, with more flight options and good road connections to the Asturian coast and inland areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily long-standing families and mixed-age communities centered around traditional activities and agriculture/mining heritage.
Visitors seeking nature, hiking, and Asturian cuisine who typically stay in the area for short trips.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular team sport in the area, with local clubs and community games throughout the year.
A natural favorite in the region due to the abundance of hills and scenic routes.
Road cycling and mountain biking are common in the surrounding valley and mountain roads.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pola de Lena.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in many menus; look for vegetable stews, grilled mushrooms, pisto (vegetable ratatouille-style), and salads. When in doubt, ask for dishes without chorizo or morcilla, and request pepper or cheese to add flavor.