St Stephen's

San Esteban, in the municipality of Muros de Nalón, stands splendidly on the left bank of the Nalón estuary, just a few metres from its mouth in the Bay of Biscay.

What was the first and only coal port in Spain, at the height of the sector's boom in the 20th century, used this mineral for the iron and steel industry. You will find it very easy to delve into its history thanks to its restored cranes and the loading bays of its port, which today is focused on fishing and sporting activities.

For its part, the popular Viewpoint Route has spectacular views over the estuary and its surroundings, and combines historical and industrial elements that will give you an idea of the splendour of the town in the last century as you walk along fishermen's paths, "caleyas" (village roads) and railway tracks, allowing you to see the heritage of that splendid era.

Due to its stunning natural location, San Esteban has attracted the attention of artists, and at the beginning of the 20th century it was home to a notable colony, including the outstanding Nicaraguan poet Rubén Darío.

But in addition to its artistic vocation, San Esteban has a cosmopolitan air that can be glimpsed in its Indian past, which is evident in its overseas architecture and the palm trees in its private gardens.

San Esteban is unique, because no other seafaring town in Asturias combines the seafaring side with the industrial and mining side. Loading bays and cranes, still present in its river promenade, stand as imposing witnesses of a feverish and industrial past that made San Esteban a great epicentre of the social, cultural and economic life of Asturias. At dusk or at night, the cranes of San Esteban look like metal giants with a striking illumination ...

In fact, a stroll around San Esteban will be enough to realise that you have everything at your fingertips: a spectacular estuary, a saltwater swimming pool, the chapel of the Holy Spirit - which you reach after climbing 420 steps - and it is the starting point of a route of breathtaking viewpoints that leads you to the beach of Aguilar, a fishing port and marina, very attentive people and a relaxed atmosphere.