Northeast of Gijón, Cabo Peñas is the northernmost point of Asturias and one of the most exposed capes on this entire route. The lighthouse here is large, white, and serious — built for visibility in the kind of weather the Cantabrian Sea produces when it is not in a good mood.

The surrounding headland is part of a marine reserve and the cliffs drop directly into deep water. On a clear day the view extends far enough to feel like you are seeing the curvature of the planet. On a grey day the clouds sit low over the water and the lighthouse foghorn is a sound you feel as much as hear.

There is a small interpretation center at the lighthouse about the marine reserve and the local ecosystem. Worth a brief visit. The walk along the cliff edge from the parking area to the lighthouse takes about twenty minutes and the path back along the other side of the headland adds another thirty — do the loop if you have the energy.

Practical note: Cabo Peñas is exposed to north wind in a way that makes a jacket necessary in almost every season. The road to the cape is good but the last stretch is single lane.