The stage, step by step
Leaving Colombres for La Franca
Start in Colombres and make your way towards La Franca Asturias along rural paths and coastal tracks. It is a comfortable start to get into the rhythm of the day, but carry water because services are not continuous along the route.
Coast, cliffs and beaches
As you approach the coast, views open up towards the cliffs and the Sierra de Cuera. The beaches of Palombina, Torimbia and San Antolín are associated with this part of the Camino; if you head down to them, keep an eye on the time so you do not add too much to the day.
Pendueles and the sustained climb
Around Pendueles you face the profile’s long climb, between km 14.5 and km 19.5. It gains 67 m over five kilometres, a gentle gradient that can feel monotonous if you are tired, but without any particularly fierce ramps.
The final descent and arrival in Llanes
Between km 19.5 and km 21.5 you descend 76 m at an average gradient of 3.9%. Take care on this descent and save some energy for entering Llanes, where accommodation, supermarkets and places to eat are once again concentrated.
What to see on stage 16
Bufones de Arenillas
These coastal geological formations give this section of the Asturian coast its character. The scenery is particularly open and spectacular as the route approaches the cliffs.
Playa de Torimbia
Torimbia is one of the beaches associated with the first part of the stage. Its coastal setting contrasts with the inland climb you encounter later.
Playa de San Antolín
San Antolín is one of the day’s main coastal landmarks. It is a good place for a short break, provided you keep track of the time and your bearings.
Sierra de Cuera
The mountain range accompanies several sections of the route visually from the coast. Its peaks in the distance help explain the transition between the Asturian shoreline and inland landscapes.
Where to sleep in Llanes
In Colombres you can choose between El Cantu and Casa de Peregrinos Colombres. La Franca Asturias has Albergue Triskel; further on you will find Albergue Renacer, Albergue de Santa Marina and Bar Albergue Castiellu. In Pendueles, consider Casa Flor, while in Llanes you will find the pilgrims’ hostel Aves de Paso and Albergue de la Juventudes. Accommodation is spread out, so book in the place where you plan to stop.
Where to eat and refuel
At the start, you can find something for the road at places such as La Barata, Restaurante Casa Junco or Hotel Restaurante La Parra. Between Colombres and Llanes, options are more limited; do not set off without food if you are walking outside normal opening hours. In Llanes, you can restock at Alimerka and find a table when you arrive.
Practical tips for this stage
Carry water from Colombres
The only water point is right at the start, so do not plan the stage on the assumption that you will find water at any time. Leave with your bottle full and use Llanes’s services when you arrive.
Do not underestimate the five-kilometre climb
Between km 14.5 and km 19.5 you gain 67 m. The average gradient is 1.3%, but the length of the section can feel tiring after walking along the coast.
Take care on the final descent
The descent between km 19.5 and km 21.5 loses 76 m at an average gradient of 3.9%. If the ground is wet, slow down and do not take the bends too quickly.
Keep an eye on beach detours
Palombina, Torimbia and San Antolín are tempting, but any trip down to the beach can add time. Decide before setting off what you want to visit and keep the Camino waymarks in view.
Frequently asked questions about stage 16
How many kilometres are there from Colombres to Llanes?
The stage is 22.9 km long, with an average walking time of 5.1 hours. It includes 135 m of ascent and 241 m of descent.
Is it an easy stage because there is more descent than ascent?
It is more downhill overall, but it is not completely flat. There is a sustained climb between km 14.5 and km 19.5, followed by a final 76 m descent that requires care.
Where can I stop to sleep?
You have options in Colombres, La Franca Asturias, Pendueles and Llanes. They include El Cantu, Albergue Triskel, Casa Flor and the pilgrims’ hostel Aves de Paso.
Which beaches appear on the stage?
The route passes close to Palombina, Torimbia and San Antolín. You will also have views of cliffs and the Sierra de Cuera during the day.