Cala Salencia

The dogs' cove: Cudillero town council and Turismo Asturias point to it as the first beach in the council area that admits dogs all year round. It is small, about 150 metres, pebbly and without facilities, next to Lairín beach, in Novellana, west of the town. If you are travelling with a dog in summer, it is the alternative to the big beaches, which ban them from 1 June to 30 September.

What it is like

Turismo Asturias describes it as unspoilt territory: a cove almost entirely of rounded stones, with no sand in sight, with usually moderate surf. There are no lifeguards or sea rescue, no bars, showers or toilets. It is a beach for spending a quiet while with the dog, giving it a swim and heading back, not for a whole day with a towel. Bring water for you and for the dog, some shade and footwear that protects against the stones, and take extreme care when you swim. In an emergency, the number is 112.

How to get there and where to park

There is no parking next to the cove. The official listing recommends leaving the car in Novellana, the village above. The path down leaves from the easternmost part of the village, is wide and paved, and takes about 15 minutes on foot. Bear in mind that the way back is uphill, something to weigh up if your dog is old or if you have small children.

Rules for going with a dog

The admission of dogs has conditions, published by Turismo Asturias:

• They must be vaccinated, wormed and microchipped, and the owner must carry their documentation.
• They may be off the lead, always under the owner's supervision, who is responsible for any damage they cause.
• They must be accompanied by an adult and must not bother other users.
• Dogs considered potentially dangerous must always be on a lead and muzzled.
• Bring bags to pick up droppings and put them in the bins.

When to go and what to combine

It is open to dogs all year round, so it works as well in winter as in August. In summer, go first thing or late in the afternoon: it is small and the calm is welcome. From Novellana you are close to Silencio beach, though remember that dogs are not allowed there from June to September. The Cape Vidío and its lighthouse, in Oviñana, is on the way back to Cudillero and makes a good walk with the dog on a lead.