Sidra Vda. de Angelón: guided visit to a cider mill with tasting

A Taste of Asturias: A Guided Visit to Sidra Vda. de Angelón with Tasting

If you’re curious about the art of cider-making and want to experience a true piece of Asturias’ tradition, this guided tour at Sidra Vda. de Angelón offers a charming and authentic peek into local cider culture. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, numerous travelers praise its informative nature, friendly guides, and genuine flavors.

What makes this experience stand out? First, you get to see the entire cider-making process, from orchard to bottle. Second, the tasting of different cider varieties straight from the barrels truly highlights the craftsmanship involved. Third, the tour includes a delightful small snack of Asturian products, adding flavor and context to your tasting experience.

One possible consideration? The tour takes place largely outdoors and inside cellar environments that can be quite cool, so warm clothing is recommended. Also, since the activity is conducted in Spanish, it’s best suited for those who understand the language or are comfortable with a guided experience. This tour is perfect for those eager to learn about local traditions and enjoy genuine flavors in a friendly setting.

Key Points

• Authentic insight into cider production from orchard to bottling.
• Tasting of different cider varieties straight from barrels.
• Includes a small snack of Asturian products for a well-rounded experience.
• Guided tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours with flexible start times.
• Suitable for children under 12, making it family-friendly.
• Weather considerations: Partly outdoors, so dress accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Cider Experience in Asturias

Asturias is famous for its cider, or “sidra,” a drink deeply intertwined with local identity. Visiting a cider mill like Sidra Vda. de Angelón offers a rare opportunity to see how this beverage is crafted and to understand its cultural significance. The tour spans roughly 1.5 hours, which is a comfortable length to enjoy without feeling rushed, and it covers everything from an orchard stroll to the cellar tasting.

The journey begins with a walk through the small apple orchard surrounding the mill, where you can witness the variety of apples used to produce authentic Asturian cider. This part is particularly engaging, especially for those who enjoy rural scenery and want to see where the raw ingredients originate. As one reviewer, Tessy, mentioned, the setting is “a beautiful place with interesting surroundings,” which adds a peaceful, picturesque backdrop to the experience.

Next, the tour moves into the cellar and bottling plant, where you’ll learn about the traditional method of cider production. Watching the cider flow directly from the barrels, you get a hands-on sense of the craftsmanship behind each batch. The guide—likely a passionate local—explains the process and cultural context in Spanish, making it a lively and educational segment.

Tasting the Cider

The highlight for many visitors is the cider tasting. You’ll sample two varieties of natural cider straight from the barrels, which means you get a pure, unfiltered taste that captures the essence of each batch. The freshness is evident, and the flavors can range from tart and crisp to slightly sweet, depending on the variety. This direct approach allows you to appreciate the nuances that distinguish Asturian sidra from other apple ciders.

The tasting continues with two additional ciders, which are also included in the tour. These are paired with a small snack of Asturian products, providing a taste of local cheeses, cured meats, or traditional snacks that complement the cider beautifully. One reviewer, Tessy, described the experience as “many tastings with delicious bites and a super friendly guide,” emphasizing how the pairing enhances the flavors and cultural understanding.

Practicalities and Value

The tour price covers adults and children, with the latter receiving a special tasting of “Pomarsin,” a different cider option. The inclusion of a free cider glass adds a nice memento, allowing you to remember this taste of Asturias long after your visit.

Booking is flexible with options to cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later, making it convenient for spontaneous travelers or those with changing plans. The tour is conducted in Spanish, so participants should have some language familiarity or be comfortable with a guided translation.

While the environment is mostly outdoors and in the cellar, the experience is straightforward and intimate. The small group size means you’ll get ample attention from the guide, making this a personable and engaging outing.

What to Expect During Your Visit

The tour begins with a walk through the apple orchard, where the guide explains the varieties used and the harvesting process. Expect a relaxed outdoor stroll, so weather can influence your experience—an umbrella might be handy if rain is forecast.

Moving into the cellar, you’ll see the barrels and learn about the fermentation process, as well as the traditional techniques used to craft Asturian cider. The environment can be cool, so layers are advisable. The guide provides useful commentary on the history and significance of cider in Asturian culture, enriching your understanding while you observe the production.

The tasting section is timed so that you can savor fresh cider directly from the barrels—a rare treat—before moving on to the more standard bottles. The snacks accompanying the tastings are simple but high-quality, showcasing local flavors that pair well with the cider.

In terms of group size, most reviews mention a small, friendly group, enhancing the personalized feel. The guide, whose name isn’t specified in the data, is described as “super friendly,” adding to the warm atmosphere.

More Great Tours Nearby

How Does It Compare in Terms of Value?

At the listed price, the experience delivers a lot: a thorough look at cider production, multiple tastings, and local snacks—all in a scenic setting. This is ideal for travelers who want more than just a tasting; they want to understand the cultural roots and craft behind the drink. The inclusion of a free cider glass is a nice bonus, offering a keepsake of your experience.

Given the 1.5-hour duration, it’s a compact but comprehensive visit that balances educational content with delicious tasting. The tour’s focus on authenticity and local tradition makes it well worth the cost for anyone eager to connect with Asturias’ cider heritage.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits a variety of travelers—from culinary enthusiasts eager to learn about traditional production, to families with children under 12 who can enjoy a kid-friendly cider. It’s perfect for those interested in rural and cultural experiences, or anyone wanting a genuine taste of Asturias outside the usual tourist spots.

If you’re a fan of local foods and drinks, this tour offers a delightful combination of education, flavor, and scenery. However, those who don’t speak Spanish might find the guide’s explanations less accessible unless they are comfortable with the language or have a translation app.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children under 12 are welcome and will be included in the reservation. They will taste a different cider called Pomarsin, making it a family-friendly activity.

How long is the tour? The guided visit lasts about 1.5 hours, providing enough time to explore and enjoy the tastings without feeling rushed.

What should I wear? Since part of the tour takes place outdoors and in the cellar, warm clothing is recommended. An umbrella is advisable if rain is expected.

Are the tastings included in the price? Yes, the tour includes several tastings of different ciders, with some straight from barrels, plus a small snack of Asturian products.

What is the language of the tour? The tour is conducted in Spanish. Non-Spanish speakers should be comfortable with a guide or bring translation help.

Can I cancel my booking? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking also allows you to reserve now and pay later for extra flexibility.

Is the cider tasting authentic? Absolutely. You’ll taste cider straight from the barrels, connecting you directly with traditional production methods.

What’s included in the snack? The snack features local Asturian products, pairing well with the ciders and enhancing your experience.

How many people are in each group? While not explicitly specified, reviews suggest a small group, which makes for a more personalized and engaging experience.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers more than just a tasting—it’s a window into Asturias’ rich cider culture and rural traditions. With its friendly guides, authentic process, and delicious local snacks, it provides a meaningful and flavorful experience for those wanting to understand the roots of Asturias’ most iconic drink.

Ideal for curious travelers, families, and food lovers, this experience balances education with enjoyment. While the Spanish language might pose a slight barrier for some, the overall warmth, authenticity, and quality of the experience make it a worthwhile addition to any Asturias itinerary.

If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of regional traditions, enjoy natural scenery, and savor authentic cider, this guided visit to Sidra Vda. de Angelón is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: