Gijon to Navia

Before you begin your walk, take the time to explore this regional capital, including the Revillagigedo Palace and Museum at Marqués Square, or the exciting Gijón Aquarium. For a trip back to a more ancient time, see the nearby ruins in the ancient Roman town of Veranes.

Although the walk today is often seen as the least scenic section of the Camino del Norte as you pass through Gijon’s industrial suburbs out of the city, the route still delivers some sights. Outside Gijon you will ascend the stunning Monte Areo (the perfect picnic stop), before descending and following a highway into the lively, fashionable town of Aviles.

Departing from Aviles you will follow minor roads through a series of suburbs. Towards the middle of this long walking day you will pass through a series of notable towns, including El Castillo. Here, be sure to check out the old fortress. As you approach your stop for the night, you pass through El Pito’s Renaissance gardens – a charming way to end your day!

Much of the route today follows the winding highway west through the Asturian countryside. However, given the road is reasonably quiet and lined with many shady trees, this is a surprisingly peaceful section of the Camino del Norte. There are also many secluded beaches you can go for a swim at along the way, before your stop in Cadavedo for the night.

The walk today is one of the shorter routes along the Camino del Norte and you should be able to comfortably complete this walk by the early afternoon. This gives you plenty of time to explore the charming port of Luarca and get some well-earned seafood for lunch!

While the climb out of Luarca can be a tough start to the day, once you are past this point the walk is generally flat with some scenic views over the countryside and on to the sea. The final destination for this leg of the Camino del Norte is the energetic market town of Navia.

After breakfast, we bid you farewell. Navia is centred in an area called ‘The Historical Park of the River of Navia’ which is full of Celtic and Roman-inspired myths and legends. There is plenty to see in the surrounding areas, but do take time to explore this port town and see the architectural highlights, such as the mediaeval town walls and the Arias Palace.