Cycling route. From Gijón to Avilés

The route sets off from Gijón/Xixón along the old Avilés road, passing through the port and industrial area heading west. On Avenida del Lauredal, we take the Rubín path and follow the track along narrow lanes until we reach the Campa Torres Archaeological and Natural Park, 7 km from the centre of Gijón/Xixón – a detour that, whilst it lengthens the route, is well worth the visit. We head back about 3 km along the way we came and rejoin the route.

We follow the track down a steep slope and cross the Aboño coal yard. We continue towards Xivares Beach and take the CE-4 road, keeping an eye on the track, to follow a series of local roads and tracks that will take us to the Perlora railway halt, and from there we join the AS-388 road to reach Candás, a charming fishing village where you can visit the harbour, the seafront promenade and the fishing quay. The original route was intended to pass via the Tanqueru Greenway, but this is currently closed due to rockfalls.

We continue along the AS-388 road to Antromero Cove, before taking secondary roads – with views of the Cantabrian Sea along the way – to the fishing village of Lluanco/Luanco. The historic centre is well worth a stop, featuring highlights such as the Church of Santa María (a Historic-Artistic Monument) and the Casa de los Menéndez de la Pola (a Site of Cultural Interest), amongst others.

We continue along the route, following the tracks and paths indicated by the GPS track, to Cabo Peñas. From here, you can admire the beauty of this Protected Landscape: cliffs, islets and beaches of great scenic and ecological value. There are more than 15 species of seabirds in this area. It is estimated that during the autumn migration, the number of birds passing through exceeds one million.

We leave Cabo Peñas behind and continue along local roads, passing through such beautiful spots as Verdicio Beach and the Xagó Cove. From here, we head towards the far end of the Avilés estuary, passing through an industrial area until we catch sight of the Niemeyer Centre, a cultural landmark and an unmistakable building thanks to its unique architecture.

We cross the estuary and follow its banks until we reach the historic centre of Avilés, the end of the route, which we reach by turning left after passing the Parque del Muelle. The historic quarter of Avilés is very well preserved and comes as a very pleasant surprise to visitors who are unfamiliar with it.