Information about Soto de Luiña
This charming village with only 477 inhabitants It belongs to the municipality of Cudillero, in the Principality of Asturias, and it is an authentic place of worship for anyone who is on the Camino de Santiago, as the traditional route is of great importance in the architecture of this small parish.
Soto de Luiña is located in the central part of the council and limits to the northwest with the Cantabrian Sea, to the northeast with the parish of Ovillana and to the south with Arcallana. Here you can enjoy the tranquillity of a northern village, the typical gastronomy of Asturias and the meeting of pilgrims on their way to the Cathedral of Santiago.
A little history
This Asturian village has a history closely linked to the Camino de Santiago and has been a common place of transit for pilgrims since ancient times. Proof of this is that it presents the Rectory House of Soto de Luiña as one of the most interesting places in the area, is linked to the old Church of Santa Maria as a former hospital for pilgrims. It is a work of the eighteenth century so it speaks for itself of the tradition of the place.
On the other hand, in the Church of Santa María you can find goods dating back to 1609, which links the history of Soto de Luiña to Juan de Nápoles Mudarra and traces of the seventeenth century can be found in the place.
What to see and do in Soto de Luiña
In Soto de Luiña you can see these valuable legacies related to the history of the pilgrims, it is also an ideal place to enjoy the Asturian gastronomy and a strategic point to visit natural places that arise around it. You will find a multitude of options for a surprising, relaxing and pleasant stay in this beautiful village.
The Church of Santa Maria
The aforementioned Church of Santa Maria is of great interest to anyone visiting this area, you will be steeped in history and dazzled by its architecture. It was built over an old chapel and a previous spring, something that offers a certain divine inspiration to the place.
The temple has a grey and white tone, it has three floors and beautiful semicircular arches. The first work is attributed to Master Domingo Fernández and was restored in 1984. From that moment it received the category of historical monument, one more reason to approach to contemplate this fantastic building.
Visit to La Concha de Artedo Beach
To enjoy a natural spot you can visit the Concha de Artedo Beach, very close to Soto de Luiña and also belonging to the municipality of Cudillero. It is ideal for a stroll at any time of the year and to relax after a long journey.
The beach is located in the protected landscape of the western coast of Asturias, is characterized by a sand of very thick pebbles and provides 700 meters long with great scenic beauty.
The Rectory House
This old pilgrims’ hospital is located a few meters from the church, the buildings are separated by a narrow road, in the past it was a royal road. It reproduces the model of the Asturian rural noble house so it is very interesting to know architecturally and historically.
The impressive frescoes decorate every room of this house, so any art lover will greatly enjoy a visit to this place of great tradition. The visitor will find a predominant baroque style in the whole construction and in the works of art that compose it.
Gastronomy
Another strong point of Soto de Luiña is its indisputable gastronomic quality. Far from finding fancy avant-garde restaurants, here you will find traditional dishes and emblematic places that offer an unparalleled taste of home. It is a town to let yourself be carried away by the most authentic aroma of the “grandmother’s” cuisine and to leave more than satisfied with any feast.
In the Casa Vieja del Sastre you can enjoy a buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner in the framework of a cozy, welcoming and colorful traditional dining room, is a very appropriate place for the day to day pilgrims. On the other hand, in any eating house or restaurant in the area you will be able to taste dishes typical of the Asturian cuisine with great taste, which will please all diners.