ASTURIAS NEED TO KNOW

Get ready to dust off your passport and use this handy info to plan your trip.

GETTING THERE, GETTING AROUND

Flights to Madrid from Johannesburg are available on Turkish Airlines, Swiss,

Air France, Lufthansa and British Airways.

Flights to Oviedo run frequently from Madrid with Iberia. Another option is hiring a car in Madrid and driving north; time will dictate here.

The train journey from Madrid

to Oviedo (renfe.com) is spectacularly beautiful, but do allow for the time.

WHERE TO EAT

Casa Lobato, Oviedo, casalobato.es; Casa Fermin, Oviedo, casafermin.com; Casa Marcial, Arriondas, casamarcial. es; Casa Moran, Benia de Onis (open seasonally, so call to check: +34985844006); El Cares, Las Arenas, +34985845042.

CHEESE CAVES

Cabrales Caves There are many caves dotted around the mountains that are open to the public. We visited Las Arenas, fundacioncabrales.com.

Gamoneu Caves Cueva Oscura is one of the most famous caves where Gamoneu is ripened. Because these caves are not open to the public, it’s best to arrange a trip through a tour guide. Try Ernesto from Show Me Asturias. Facebook: Turismo Asturias Profesional.