European beach two hours from London named ‘world’s smallest’ hidden by locals

A stunning hidden gem with azure waters and golden sand shores is considered the world’s smallest beach, tucked away inland against towering cliffs and rolling meadows

A beautiful European beach is famed as the world’s smallest, yet it was hidden by locals for years.

Tucked around 100 meters inland from the sea and completely encircled by rolling green meadows, the secluded Gulpiyuri Beach is undoubtedly one of the most unusual European shores. The Spanish beach in Llanes, Asturias, boasts golden sand and crystal-clear blue waters around a metre deep, which flow through underground caves.

Stretching a mere 40 metres in length, Gulpiyuri, known locally as Playa de Gulpiyuri, is widely regarded as the smallest beach in the world. It was shaped by erosion from the Cantabrian Sea, which carved out underground caves in the cliffs, creating this remarkable natural oasis.

Due to its inland position, visitors can expect a backdrop of towering cliffs and lush hills, rather than the ocean horizon, with its secluded location only adding to its otherworldly scenes. Today, the little slice of paradise is a haven for holidaymakers visiting the stunning region of Asturias.

Offering an authentic Spanish getaway, Asturias, situated along the northwest coast, is famed for its unique beaches, dramatic mountain backdrop, and thriving culinary scene. Dubbed a ‘natural paradise’, direct one-way flights from London Luton Airport to Asturias are available from as little as £17 and take just under two hours.

Yet, Gulpiyuri Beach wasn’t always in the spotlight. For years, the semi-circular beach was kept under wraps by locals and was naturally hidden by meadows, thanks to its position around 100 metres inland.

During high tide, the waters engulf the sandy shore, and any remnants of what appeared to be a beach are temporarily diminished, making it easy to miss. However, when the low tide comes around, with its azure waters seeping under the caves, the beach reappears, revealing a tropical oasis.

Its unspoilt scenes have been widely preserved due to its remote location. However, those eager to explore Gulpiyuri Beach can reach it via a path from the parking area near San Antolín Beach, with steps leading down from the rugged cliffs to the shore.

And it seems it’s worth the journey. One holidaymaker shared on TripAdvisor: “Very beautiful landscape, seen from above or below. We parked in the paid parking lot (€4), which is very large. It was quite cool outside, but mild and pleasant on the beach because it was sheltered.”

A second commented: “Unique beach because of the water emanating from the rock. You can take a towel and fridge…. There is room there, but when the water rises, the beach is over. It is important to check the tides before visiting. There is parking.”

“The beach is spectacular, as the setting is very peculiar, where mountains and beach meet,” a third shared. However, they warned: “They issue fines in an area where there is a tiny sign prohibiting entry, poorly marked and clearly a revenue collection tactic by the locals…”

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