The spectacle of the seagulls nesting on the cliffs of this coastline is unique. Dozens of these birds startle hikers with their discordant, harsh cries. This is all the chaos we'll find here: the harmony of nature and the murmur of the sea broken by these cries, a sign of anxiety or alarm at the arrival of intruders near their colony. The breathtaking seascapes unfold everywhere. It's best not to be reckless, climb any rocks, or take any false steps to enjoy a good view.
Where are the Cliffs of Hell located?
It's a coastal strip in the eastern part of the municipality of Ribadesella, extending almost to the border with the neighboring municipality of Llanes. It's undoubtedly one of the most beautiful areas in Asturias: a landscape of steep cliffs.
Where does the Cliffs of Hell route begin?
We are in Ribadesella. To begin our route, we will take the AS-263 road and travel 1,8 kilometers, between the Oreyana football field and the turnoff to Collera . We continue along an asphalt track, crossing the railway line where we will see a post with two signs indicating Playa de Arra and Acantilados del Infierno (Hell's Cliffs ).
We must reach the Infierno recreation area (GPS: 43º 27´35” North and 5º1´47” West) by continuing along the paved road without deviating at any point. From the recreation area, there is no option but to walk and enjoy a route parallel to the sea along the cliffs . The path continues winding, with possible shortcuts but always intuitive and easy to follow, crossing a eucalyptus grove and later a pine forest. We thus traverse the cliffs of Infierno and Tomasón until we reach the beautiful islet of Paluverde . It is actually a sea stack or rock pillar, an ancient cliff detached from the mainland by the erosion of the waves.
To reach this point, we've walked about two kilometers from the recreation area . From here, we can turn south to join the Camino de Santiago, which we'll follow west to return to our starting point. Another option is to continue east along the cliffs for another two kilometers to reach Castru Arenes and the cliffs and beach of Guadamía.
Beach of Guadamía
In Guadamía, you'll find one of the most beautiful recreational areas in Asturias . Organize a meal... Read more
How tall are the Cliffs of Hell?
In the nearby rocky outcrop of Arra—a beach now difficult to access after a collapse of its steps—we find ourselves at a geological site of global significance . Its study is key to understanding the origin of Asturias and the Cantabrian Mountains. Arra is the central focus of a research project that aims to uncover the karst formations of the Asturian Jurassic. Geologists assert that this site explains the evolution of the Ribadesella Fault, a fracture almost ten kilometers long that emerged 33 million years ago and runs through the entire municipality . It was here that the story of Asturias's unique mountainous landscape began.
It is very easy to observe this fracture in the cliff where we are, which suddenly transforms from low formations to the West - with grasslands to the very edge of the sea - to the steep and high coast that continues to the East , where the Cliffs of Hell can already be seen in the foreground.
Rent jet skis in Ribadesella
Another way to experience this beautiful landscape is from the sea. Hopping on a jet ski and cruising the waves of the Cantabrian Sea can be a truly unique experience. Everything takes on a different perspective. Take advantage of this opportunity and try it with your friends or family! It's a route that won't disappoint.
Jet skis in Asturias
Riding a jet ski is one of the biggest attractions Asturias has to offer in the summer. Read more
Text: © Ramón Molleda for asturias.com
