Walking with Dinosaurs along Asturias’ coast

Discover Asturias’ Dinosaur Coast with a Private Guided Walk

The Walking with Dinosaurs along Asturias’ coast tour offers an engaging half-day adventure for those eager to combine natural history, scenic landscapes, and local charm. Priced at $165.36 per person, this experience lasts approximately 5 hours and is suitable for most travelers thanks to its manageable pace and accessible stops. The tour departs from the Jurassic Museum of Asturias at 10:30 am, led by a knowledgeable private guide who brings the region’s prehistoric past to life.

This tour’s highlights include free admission to the Jurassic Museum, a chance to see some of the largest dinosaur footprints in the world, and a stroll through the picturesque fishing village of Llastres. Combining educational exhibits, outdoor explorations, and delightful local cuisine, the tour offers a well-rounded experience. While the small group size—up to eight participants—ensures personalized attention, additional costs for private transportation mean flexibility for those who want more comfort.

Key Points

• Price: $165.36 per person, with options for group discounts and private transport
• Duration: Approximately 5 hours, starting at 10:30 am
• Main stops: Jurassic Museum of Asturias, Playa de la Griega, dinosaur footprints, Llastres village
• Includes: Entrance tickets to the museum, a private guide, insurance
• Not included: Lunch (around 20 euros), private transport (extra cost)
• Best for: Families, history buffs, nature lovers, and those seeking a scenic coastal walk with a prehistoric twist

The Jurassic Museum of Asturias: Insights and Exhibits

The Jurassic Museum of Asturias serves as the central hub of this tour. Built in the shape of a dinosaur footprint, it provides an engaging indoor experience with a permanent exhibition that covers dinosaurs’ presence in Asturias. The museum is located on a hill overlooking the Cantabrian Sea, offering stunning views along with educational displays.

Visitors have about 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the exhibits, which showcase a variety of fossils and reptiles that once roamed the region. The museum’s garden features dinosaurs in a natural setting, making it especially appealing for children. The included entrance ticket simplifies the visit, allowing ample time to ask questions and absorb the displays without the hassle of additional charges.

From the Museum to Playa de la Griega

After the museum visit, the tour directs attention to Playa de la Griega, a beautiful beach where the Liberdon River flows into the Cantabrian Sea. This setting combines coastal beauty with opportunities for a short walk or a refreshing swim—if the weather permits. The 30-minute stop provides a chance to stretch or enjoy the seaside scenery.

The beach’s tranquil environment makes it perfect for relaxing, and the nearby waters invite those who want to cool off. Since this stop is free, it adds a peaceful break to the more active museum experience, emphasizing the tour’s balance between indoor learning and outdoor enjoyment.

Searching for Dinosaur Footprints Along the Coast

One of the tour’s standout features is the walk along the cliffs or beach to find the famous dinosaur footprints at the Yacimiento de Icnitas de la playa de la Griega. These footprints, belonging to sauropods, are among the largest in the world and serve as tangible links to the prehistoric past.

This outdoor exploration lasts about 30 minutes and is entirely free of charge. Walking over the beach or along the cliffs provides scenic views of the coast, with the chance to spot these ancient footprints embedded in the rocks. It’s an engaging activity that combines science, nature, and history, suitable for all ages willing to walk a bit on uneven terrain.

Exploring the Fishing Village of Llastres

The tour concludes with a 2-hour walk through Llastres, a highly picturesque fishermen’s village renowned for its lively harbor and colorful houses. The guide leads visitors through the narrow streets and waterfront, offering insights into the local way of life and architecture.

The highlight of this stop is the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Asturian seafood lunch or sample other regional dishes. The lunch cost is not included but is generally around 20 euros per person, giving flexibility to choose from the local options. After the meal, travelers can freely explore or relax before returning, making this a perfect way to wind down the half-day adventure.

Optional Private Transportation and Additional Costs

While the tour includes a private guide and insurance, it does not include private transportation. For added convenience and comfort, travelers can book this at an extra fee through the provider. This option is especially useful for those arriving from different locations or seeking a more personalized experience.

Lunch during the Llastres stop is also paid separately, with typical prices around 20 euros per person, depending on food choices. These optional extras allow customization but should be factored into planning the overall budget.

Logistics: Meeting Point, Group Size, and Timing

The tour starts promptly at 10:30 am at the Jurassic Museum of Asturias, located in Colunga. The maximum group size is limited to eight participants, ensuring a more intimate experience and personalized attention from the guide. The walks and outdoor activities are generally accessible but may require some walking on uneven surfaces, so travelers should wear suitable footwear.

If desired, travelers can request private transportation for an additional fee, making the journey more comfortable, especially for families or those with mobility concerns. The most booked time for this tour is about 17 days in advance, indicating good demand and the need for early planning.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policies

Booking this tour offers a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. Since the experience depends on good weather, cancellations due to bad weather are possible, but the provider offers a full refund or alternative date if that occurs. This flexibility ensures that visitors can plan confidently, knowing they can reschedule or cancel without penalties.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Asturias

What makes this tour compelling is its combination of educational content, scenic outdoor activities, and local culture. The inclusion of the Jurassic Museum and dinosaur footprints appeals to science enthusiasts, while the visit to Llastres offers a charming glimpse into Asturias’ maritime traditions.

The tour’s small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, and the personal guide ensures tailored explanations suited to different interests. The opportunity to end the day with a beach swim or a leisurely meal makes this experience versatile for a variety of travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour in Asturias?

This experience suits families with children, especially given the child-friendly guides and outdoor activities like searching for footprints. It also appeals to history buffs and nature lovers who appreciate combining educational visits with scenic walks. Travelers who want a half-day, manageable itinerary that covers both prehistoric sights and local culture will find this tour well worth the price.

However, those seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive experience or with mobility limitations should consider private transport options or other tours. The $165.36 cost provides good value for the included museum visit, outdoor activities, and the charming village exploration.

Visiting Asturias’ Coast for Dinosaur Enthusiasts

In summary, the Walking with Dinosaurs along Asturias’ coast tour offers a unique blend of education, nature, and local flavor. Its emphasis on dinosaur footprints, the Jurassic Museum, and the picturesque village of Llastres creates a memorable experience packed into just a few hours.

The knowledgeable guide and scenic stops make this tour stand out among Asturias’ many coastal options. It’s especially suitable for those eager to learn about prehistoric life while enjoying the region’s stunning landscapes and delicious regional cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is child-friendly, especially with guides who are attentive to family needs and the outdoor activities involved.

What is included in the price?
The entrance ticket to the Jurassic Museum, a private guide, and insurance are included in the $165.36 fee.

Can I book private transportation?
Yes, private transportation is available at an extra cost, offering more comfort and flexibility.

How long does the museum visit last?
The museum tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing sufficient time to see all exhibits.

What is the best time to book?
Most bookings are made around 17 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended.

Is there an option to swim at the beach?
Yes, after visiting Playa de la Griega, you can choose to take a dip in the sea during the outdoor stop.

What should I wear for the outdoor activities?
Comfortable footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain is advised, especially for the footprints stop.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included but can be purchased in Llastres for around 20 euros per person.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.