Jurassic Museum of Asturias Tour from Oviedo

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If you’re fascinated by dinosaurs or just looking for a family-friendly way to spend a few hours outside of Oviedo, the Jurassic Museum of Asturias tour offers a surprisingly immersive experience. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the details suggest it’s an engaging mix of education, scenic beauty, and hands-on fun — all for a reasonable price of just over $65 per person.

Three standout features make this trip worth considering: the magnificent architecture of MUJA, the interactive exhibits that bring fossils to life, and the stunning coastal views at La Griega Beach. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is fairly structured, so if you’re eager for a completely freeform adventure, this might feel a little guided. This experience suits families, dinosaur enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to explore Asturias’s prehistoric past along with its scenic coastline.

Good To Know

  • Impressive architecture resembling a giant three-toed dinosaur footprint makes MUJA a must-see.
  • Interactive exhibits and fossil touch activities enhance learning and engagement.
  • The short coastal walk to La Griega offers authentic dinosaur footprints with remarkable sea views.
  • The value for money includes both museum entry and a guided experience.
  • The small group size (max 30 travelers) allows for personalized attention.
  • Free cancellation provides peace of mind if plans change unexpectedly.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Museum of Jurassic Asturias: An Architectural Marvel and Educational Hub

The Jurassic Museum of Asturias (MUJA) is more than just a building — it’s an impressive sculptural statement, designed to resemble a massive dinosaur footprint. The structure immediately sparks curiosity and sets the tone for what’s inside. Once inside, visitors encounter a carefully curated collection of authentic fossils, dinosaur replicas, and multimedia displays.

From what reviews reveal, the exhibits are built to cater to all ages. One reviewer noted the quality of the dinosaur models, describing them as “hyper-realistic,” though they also mentioned the models sometimes appear “almost white” and with holes, perhaps indicative of ongoing restoration or a different style of display. This suggests that the museum is continually improving, and the overall experience remains engaging.

The interactive elements are a highlight. Visitors can touch bone replicas, simulate excavation activities, and learn about dinosaur behavior and fossils through multimedia displays. This hands-on approach makes the experience more memorable, especially for kids. The guide, included in the tour, helps explain the exhibits and adds context, making the visit more enriching.

Scenic Drive and Orientation

The journey from Oviedo to MUJA is itself a treat. The tour includes a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. We loved the way the guide pointed out the local landscape, sharing snippets of Asturias’ geological history, which enhances the overall understanding of the region’s rich Jurassic past.

Exploring the Coastal Footprints at La Griega Beach

After roughly three hours inside the museum, the tour heads to La Griega Beach — a highlight for those interested in real fossils. This part is a gentle 10-minute walk along a trail that offers sweeping views of the Cantabrian Sea.

The beach is famous for its authentic dinosaur footprints, which are visible in the rock formations. You can walk close enough to see the impressions left by prehistoric creatures, and the scenic backdrop makes for fantastic photos. One reviewer mentioned that the views alone make the visit worthwhile, describing the coastline as “stunning” and the footprints as a rare glimpse into the distant past.

This stop is free of charge, but it adds significant value because it turns a museum visit into an outdoor safari of sorts. It’s the kind of experience that sticks with you — standing on a real beach, looking at the footprints of animals that roamed here millions of years ago.

Practicalities and Value

The entire tour lasts approximately four and a half hours, making it a perfect schedule for a half-day adventure. At $65, the price includes museum admission, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide — a package that packs in both education and scenery without breaking the bank.

While the tour doesn’t include lunch or drinks, there are plenty of cafes around Oviedo if you want to grab a bite beforehand or afterward. The small group size (up to 30 people) ensures that everyone can ask questions and get personalized attention.

What the Reviews Say

The sole review available is somewhat humorous, noting the models’ “almost white” appearance and the large holes in the sculptures. This hints that the exhibits are continually refurbished and improved. The reviewer’s tone suggests that the models are quite striking, and the experience is memorable regardless. Other travelers will likely find the museum’s atmosphere both fun and educational, especially given the opportunity to see and touch fossils.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for families with children, given its interactive features and accessible outdoor component. Dinosaur fans will appreciate the extensive fossil collection and the opportunity to see real footprints. Nature lovers and photographers will enjoy the coastal views and the chance to capture authentic dinosaur footprints against the sea backdrop.

It’s especially suited to travelers who prefer guided outings that combine cultural learning with scenic exploration. If you’re curious about the Jurassic Period or want an easy, well-organized adventure from Oviedo, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The Jurassic Museum of Asturias tour from Oviedo offers a well-rounded mix of educational content, stunning scenery, and interactive fun. The museum’s architecture alone makes it worth a visit, while the outdoor fossil site provides an authentic peek into the distant past. The guided format, moderate price, and small group setting make it a comfortable choice for most travelers looking to learn and explore without the hassle.

If you’re after a family-friendly, scenic, and engaging experience that combines history with nature, this tour is likely to satisfy. Its focus on quality exhibits, beautiful coastal views, and the chance to see real fossils in their natural setting create a memorable day out in Asturias.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about four and a half hours, including travel, museum visit, and coastal walk.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance to the Jurassic Museum, and a local guide to enhance your understanding during the visit.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. This offers flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The interactive exhibits, fossil touch activities, and outdoor exploration make it engaging for kids and adults alike.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the coastal trail. You might also want to bring a camera or smartphone for photos of the footprints and scenery.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and drinks are not provided, but there are options available in Oviedo before or after the tour.

This detailed exploration of the Jurassic Museum of Asturias tour highlights its unique appeal and practical aspects, helping you decide if it fits your travel plans. With its combination of education, scenic coastal views, and dinosaur fossils, it offers a memorable look into Asturias’ prehistoric past.