Gijon spain attractions. Atlantic coast of Spain

Gijón is the largest city of Asturias, spread out on green hills by the sea. The old part of the city covers a peninsula, the top of which is crowned with a modern abstract composition "Praise to the Horizon". Cobbled streets lined with colorful houses are lined with restaurants and bars selling the famous local cider, while archways lead to the stylish Plaza Mayor. Underground are the ruins of the Roman baths "Campo Valdes", those interested in history can also visit the archaeological park "Campa de Torres".

On both sides of the peninsula, Poniente Beach runs along the marinas, aquarium and spa resort of Talasoponiente. The small beach of Playa del Arbeyal is located next to the port, and along the promenade of the popular San Lorenzo beach you can walk to the Church of San Pedro.

In Gijon, you can go diving, watch dolphins, and for golfers, there are 2 playing fields in the green area of ​​the city. The Atlantic Botanical Gardens - the first in northern Spain - are located opposite the impressive campus of the Gijón Workers' University. The Isabella Katolichka Landscape Park is close to the El Bibio bullring and across the river is the Gijón Exhibition Center and Museum of Asturias.

The house-museum of Melchor de Jovellanos, the greatest native of the city, is also open to visitors, after whom the elegant theater is named, overlooking the Paseo de Begogna park.

Among the options for accommodation in Gijon offered on the site are luxury beach hotels, guest houses near the station, and old mini-hotels.

It is located 30 km from Alicante, best known for the production of the Spanish nougat - turrone, but also charming in its authenticity - you will forget that you are a stone's throw from a popular international resort.

The information below is provided by the tourist center of Gijon (already translated), the original style is preserved (minimum correction), photo - from Facebook page of the tourist center.

Cradle of turron

Gijón - cute, historical, bright

The history of Gijon dates back to the 13th century, to the timesthe Moorish Almohad dynasty, although there are archaeological finds from the Bronze Age within its boundaries. The name comes from the Latin Saxum ", which means rock or stone. In terms of area, the city ranks 5th in the province of Alicante. About a third of the territory is covered with forest.

Star The second part of the city arose at the end of the 12th century, protected by a castle and a mountain. Penya Migjorn ", also known to the locals as " Forat de la Penya "("Hole in the stone"). From the top of it, there is a stunning view of the mountains and the surrounding plains, stretching down to the Mediterranean Sea. Until the 17th century, Gijon was surrounded by a wall.

Gijon is located at an altitude of 453 meters above sea level and 25 kilometers from Alicante in the direction of " L'Alacanti ”, the geography here is defined by mountains, in most cases by a chain of mountains“ Carasqueta » - a natural connection between the cities of Alicante and Alcoy. The landscape is dominated by Spanish oak and fragrant plants whose fragrance spreads on terraces where almond, olive and carob trees are grown.

Amazing place for new discoveries

Architectural monuments:

Franciscan monastery

Carreró de L'Aula (School Alley)

Hermitage of Saint Seb astiana

Ravala Bakery

Soapmaker's House

Torre Blai (Tower of Blai)

Church of St. Mary

Archpriest Church

City hall

Casino

Factory Primitivo Rovira

Workers Club

Family house Monerris Planelles

Family house Rovira

Family house Aracil

Other points of interest

Cultural Center

Cinema Dalt

Manger of the Christ Child

Wide horizons, natural places.

Walking route Gijón - Vivens - Gijón - 16.5 kilometers

The route starts in the park Barrac de la Font ” and continues towards “ Al e cua ". He rises to Llibreria " (Mining Education "Library") and " El Salt del Moro " (Waterfalls of the Moors - now dry) and from there to " Costera d’ Ibi” (mountain range Ibi ) all the way down to the picnic and rest area" Font de Vivens" (Source Vivens ). Then the path goes to AltdelaMartina" (top of Martina ) and then descends along " BarrancodeCastalla" (Castalla gorge ) to the intersection with the route that leads us back to Gijón.

Walking route Gijón - Peña Migjorn - Gijón - 15 kilometers

Starting in the park BarracdelaFont ”, the path goes around the western side of the castle and rushes to the farm Gacimal and home Pineta . Then it continues to the west, passing through the ravine " Cova dels Corrals ” and returns back to the starting point through “ Segona Carena".

Walking route Gijón - Pou del Surdo - Gijón - 11 kilometers

The route starts in the same place as the previous two. It then crosses the city in the direction of St. Anthony's Hermitage and runs along the old road from Gijon to Alcoy, then along the valley " Bugaia ', going up to ' Pou del Surdo "and the hotel" Pou de la Neu ". Passing by the television antenna, the road returns to its original route.

outdoor activities

The countryside around the city offers a huge range of outdoor activities and sports adventures, such as hiking, climbing, cycling and so on, and is an ideal place for sports activities.

Natural spaces and parks

For those who love walking, there are three marked trails, a network of parks and beautiful natural spaces suitable for pleasant walks.

Els Plantades "is an urban nature reserve, crossed by mountains, with valleys of great ecological significance and natural beauty.

Other green recreation areas in the city itself, which are also worth a visit:

St. Anthony's Park

El Cuarnero Park

Barrac de la Font Park

El Salt (waterfall)

Trail along the river Cosc o

Park Les Piletes

La Font der Moratell (source Moratell)

Mountains over 1000 meters high and valleys covered with Mediterranean flora

Homeland of ice cream

It is said that in Gijón the production of ice cream began to flourish like a craft in the snow. The snow was stored in special pits and in the summer, turned into ice, transported and sold. Traditionally, many families in Gijón produce ice cream, horchatas » and cold drinks ( glanizados).

When summer comes, families move to other cities in Spain in order to produce their product in accordance with tradition, and the Xixona chain of ice cream parlors is spread throughout Spain.

"Snow Springs"

These are structures built to store snow. The best surviving specimen near X ichones - « PoudelSurdo ". It is located on the mountain Carrasqueta at an altitude of 1100 meters. This place offers a huge number of panoramic views of the area full of natural contrasts, from the tops of the mountains down to the sea. Near the source, or cave, there is a small suburban hotel - " Pou de la Neu ”, which was built on the site of the original house of workers who monitored the snow.

Rich culinary

Turron is a dessert of Arabic origin, which is made from sugar, honey and almonds. It quickly spread and won love around the world. Turron is a typical Christmas treat, but it is consumed throughout the year and in a variety of ways.

Gijon is synonymous with turron. However, in the gastronomy of the city there is a wide variety of other dishes, the roots of which also lie in this area. Among these traditional recipes can be distinguished " giraboix", "llegum and rice with a rabbit.

The confectionery factory of Gijon is rich in juicy pieces, which are made by hand, traditionally in ovens. You can't miss les iguales "made from almonds, flour and cinnamon," les doblades ”, made with toasted almonds, sugar, butter and anise. You should also try " les tortades ”, made from sugar, almonds and cinnamon.

Thanks to its main economic activity, Gijon has become home to the Governing Council for the protection of the trade mark of the real Turrón of Gijon and Alicante ( Regulatory Council of the Protected Designation of Origin Jijona and Alicante Turrón ), as well as for the National Association of Producers of Traditional Ice Cream, as well as sellers of ice cream and horchata ( National Association of Traditional Ice - Cream Makers , Ice - Cream and Horchata Sellers ).

turron trail

Throughout the year, guests can learn about variousprocesses used in the production of turron, and the characteristics of the ingredients used. They can also enjoy the opportunity to try and buy turrone and other sweet treats such as marzipan," polvorones" and so on.
Turron Museum.
In the photo below - almonds, the basis for the production of turron.

Festivals, music and fun

Festival of Moors and Christians

With over 200 years of history, Gijon's main festival, the Feast of Saint Bartholomew, is one of the oldest in the Valencian community. The festival is held at the end of August for 3 very busy days, when the whole city takes part in the celebration and fun. Historic battles between Moors and Christians are remembered and presented with music, gunpowder, eye-catching costumes and parades.

The festival begins on July 24, Signal Day ( la Senyal ), an official act in which all groups of the festival take part. Every Saturday closer to the main festival, los sopares (small dinners/communions) are celebrated with informal parades in the streets of Gijón. It features the music of local bands, the sounds of instruments and traditional dances.

winter festival

This festival is celebrated on the third Saturday of February. The festival was created so that families who spent their summers outside of Gijon making and selling ice cream in other cities across Spain would also have the opportunity to spend the holiday together. One of the outstanding and colorful features of the festival is the flower market, during which all participants of the festival dress up in typical costumes of the places where their ice cream shops are located.

Traditions steeped in history

The Christmas market revives the tradition of Gijon, forgotten more than 200 years ago. At the beginning of December, thousands of tourists come to enjoy the open-air market, where they can purchase Christmas shopping and choose from an abundance of turron, marzipan, polovorones ” and a long list of delicacies that no table can do without during these holidays.

Another tradition that has stood the test of timecovers both holidays - Christmas and New Year. These days the streets are filled with magic and light from the fire" aixames , a kind of cane torch that is hung around while children beg for their Christmas gifts.

Tourists who want to explore the "cradle of turron" better cannot miss either the spectacular procession of the "Kings of the East" (Three Wise Men) or " Porrates ” (traditional feast) of St. Sebastian, nor “ Candelaria » (The Triumph of the Purification of the Virgin Mary). The first holiday is celebrated in the second half of January, while " Candelaria takes place on the first weekend of February.

Spain is not only Madrid or Valencia. This is a lot of interesting cities with a rich history. One of the most beautiful places in Spain is Gijón, located in the north of the country. It is famous for its picturesque beaches, coves, rocky mountains and steep coasts.

Gijón will appeal to nature lovers as it has many parks, such as Providence Park with rolling hills overlooking the sea and the city. Historic churches and palaces convey the unique atmosphere of the city, and the historical district of Cimadevilla will introduce you to the history of the pearl of Austria.

The aquarium in Gijon is one of the best aquariums in Spain. Aquarium volume 2 thousand cubic meters of water contains a wide range of flora and fauna from all over the world.

Both children and adults can have a great time here: children are delighted with the diversity and color of fish, and adults can be surprised by unusual representatives of the marine world, for example, three-meter sharks. The oceanarium is equipped with touch panels, thanks to which you can touch small fish and starfish. In the souvenir shop you can buy souvenirs and educational games for children.

Location: Playa de Poniente.

The 15th century church is located at the end of the popular long Via San Lorenzo - about 6 km long. - along which the famous beaches with white sand are located. The church is located on the coast, which makes it a great place for picturesque photographs, and also attracts lovers for wedding ceremonies.

A mixture of different architectural styles (Gothic, neoclassical and pre-Romanesque) gives the church a special charm, and borrowed Florentine motifs endow it with grace.

Location: Transito Campo Valdes - 1.

Palace Valdes

The palace is located near the popular promenade of San Lorenzo and the church of San Pedro, which is necessary for visiting. Built in the 16th century, Valdes Palace is one of the most striking historical buildings, made in the classical style, and is also a cultural heritage of Spain.

The beaches of Gijón

The beaches and promenades of the city are popular places to visit in both summer and winter. In summer, on the beach of San Lorenzo, which is more than three kilometers long, as well as the soft sandy beaches of Poniente and Arbeial, you can soak up the sun with a view of the city's attractions - churches and palaces, which are located at the end of the promenades. In autumn and winter, the beaches attract surfers.

Another famous palace of Gijon, but made in a completely different style and with all its appearance shows that it was built specifically to protect against attacks. It connects the oldest district of Gijón, Cimadeville and the rest of the city.

The castle is conveniently located and can be an intermediate sightseeing point between the historic district and the more modern city. The castle was built in the 17th century. Now there is a museum of modern art.

Location: Plaza del Marques - 2.

It is the tallest building complex in Spain and one of the most beautiful university buildings. The central tower, which you can climb up and look at the city from a height higher than London's Big Ben.

The square in front of the building periodically hosts concerts and other mass events. The monumental complex outwardly resembles the famous El Escorial and partly the complex of buildings of Moscow State University. It is best to visit this unique architectural structure with an excursion guide, which will allow you to get to the church and the theater.

The Mother of the Emigrant is one of the most visited attractions in Gijón. The sculpture is located on the coast with excellent sea views.

The professionalism with which the monument is made makes tourists linger near the sculpture, which conveys the sad story of the Austrian civil war and raises questions of war and peace in the minds. The deep mournful expression of the "Mother of the Emigrant" plunges into a peaceful atmosphere; a must to visit.

The sculpture is located in the historic district of Gijón, Cimadevilla, on the hill of Santa Catalina. Climbing the hill, you can not only get acquainted with the famous sculpture, but also listen to the sound of the surf and breathe in the fresh sea air, take a break from the bustle of the city. The romantic hill is located at the end of the park just a few minutes from the city center. The author of the concrete sculpture is Eduardo Chillida.

Roman ruins and a romantic semi-dark atmosphere will not leave anyone indifferent. The museum is small and does not take much time. On average, you can get around it in 30 minutes.

Free entry on Sundays and affordable entry prices on other days make this place especially attractive for tourists. The museum also has leaflets in English, and many illustrations reduce the language barrier.

Providence Park (Mirador parque de La Providencia)

Park and wildlife lovers should visit Providence Park. The park has rocky hills and many lawns where you can have a picnic.

From the hills of the park, from which you can enjoy all the colors of the Spanish sunset, you have a view of the city and the seascape. Along the park there is a tourist route along the sea with a length of 4 km. There are many pavilions in the park where you can rest during the journey.

This is the main central square of the city. The square is small in size, but it has an obligatory attribute of Spanish squares - the city hall building with a balcony and a clock on the facade. There are several restaurants and coffee houses on the square, where you can taste traditional Austrian cider. Fairs and dance performances are held on the square.

The port city of Gijon, which is located on the shores of the Bay of Biscal in Austria, will introduce you to unusual northern Spain and allow you to relax while admiring the seascapes on white sand beaches.

Gijón is a working town on the Atlantic coast in the Spanish region of Asturias. Sights in Gijon will tell the tourist about the industrial era in Northern Spain and the close relationship of the city with the ocean. However, in recent years the city has changed and is ready to surprise every visitor with well-groomed parks and squares, pedestrian streets and interesting cultural attractions.

Sights of Gijon

What to do in Gijón?

1. Relax on one of the city's beaches. Poniente Beach has a large sandbar, while San Lorenzo is suitable for those who like to swim.
2. Go to football. The local team - Sporting Gijon, does not claim to be a champion, but plays in the first league, which means that the giants of Spanish football often come here. The stadium has a capacity of 30,000 people and is always full.
3. Start the day by meeting the dawn on the beach.
4. Try the thalassotherapy treatments at the eastern end of Poniente Beach.
5. Fill up on sweets at the Punto Caramelo store, which offers a wide range of cakes, pastries, cookies and other confectionery delights.
6. Try your hand at surfing - on the beach of San Lorenzo there is an opportunity to get lessons and show your boarding skills.
7. Paragliding over the cliffs of Gijón.
8. Taste local delicacies - in "La Gijonesa" you can taste various varieties of wines and cheeses.
9. Enjoy the rain in the heated outdoor pool at BNFit Thalasso Spa.
10. Try Asturian cider, which is considered the most significant local drink.

RestaurantsGijon: where to eat and drink

Near the Cantabrian Sea, the climate is cooler than anywhere else on the Spanish mainland, so the local population prefers a protein diet. White bean stew, bacon, chorizo, pork shoulder and seafood are popular here. Cider is the perfect accompaniment to dinner - in Gijón it is tart and not very carbonated and is on the menu of any restaurant. Cider is also used in some recipes, such as a sauce for baked hake.

1. Casa Zabala. The best place for seafood and fish dishes. Average bill: 50 euros.
2. Casa Gerardo. Traditional Asturian restaurant owned by the Moran family. Several generations have passed down their recipes to prepare and perfect the best local dishes. The restaurant has a Michelin star, so it is always crowded here. Average check: 55 euros.
3. Mercante. It offers a beautiful view of the port and offers a menu of an abundance of fish, seafood and salads. Average check: 30 euros.

(Photo © pxhere.com / CC0 Public Domain License)

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They speak only in superlative tones. It is the largest, oldest and greenest municipality in the Principality.

Gijón stretches on the coast of the Bay of Biscay on an area of ​​almost 200 square kilometers at 600 meters above sea level on the site of a former fishing village founded by the Celts back in the 5th century BC.

Today it is a modern port city with a population approaching 300 thousand people. One of the most successful metropolitan areas in Northern Spain with a well-developed infrastructure, it is famous for its vibrant nightlife and crazy fiestas on weekends.

Weather in Gijon

Such activity is favored by the mild Atlantic climate. It is never as hot here as in the rest of the Iberian Peninsula. The air temperature in summer rarely rises above 28 degrees, and in winter it does not fall below plus 5. True, the weather in Gijon is often rainy. The swimming season lasts from June to August.

In the rest of the months, the ocean is cool. The water temperature in Gijon ranges from 12 to 15 degrees, but this does not prevent surfers from doing their workouts.

The beaches of Gijón

Although Gijon is not the most popular beach resort, there is a great opportunity to spend time on the coast. The best beaches in Gijon are Arbeyal, Poniente and, of course, San Lorenzo. Stretching almost 3.5 kilometers along the sea of ​​San Lorenzo is more suitable for extreme sports.

The water area of ​​the beach is characterized by strong currents and sudden changes in depth. Fans of noisy entertainments should go to Poniente beach with sand brought from the Sahara itself. San Juan is traditionally celebrated here, bonfires are lit all night and thousands of vacationers walk around, there is a cider festival. For a relaxing holiday, you won't find anything better than Arbeyal. By the way, all the beaches of Gijon have been awarded the highest distinction. – Blue flag.

Port of Gijon El Musel – one of the largest in Spain. Its first dock was built at the end of the 15th century. After another two centuries, Gijon received the right to trade with the Spanish colonies in America. And at the end of the 19th century, coal was unloaded in the port of Gijón for the first time in Spain. Today, about 3 thousand ships enter the port of Gijón annually. And the turnover of its cargo transportation exceeds 17 million tons. Visit El Musel and cruise ships of any displacement.

Sights of Gijon

It is considered the largest building in Spain. The campus area is 11 hectares. And the height of the central tower is 130 meters. This is a quarter higher than the famous London Big Ben. The university was opened in 1946 to provide higher education to the children of workers who died in coal mines. Today it houses the Center for Arts and Industrial Creativity, one of the faculties of the University of Oviedo, the Higher School of Performing Arts and a conservatory.

And on the university bell tower there is an observation deck, which offers a magnificent view of the city and its environs. It is from here that the most spectacular photos of Gijon are obtained.

One of the most picturesque places is Isabel Park in Gijon, named after Queen Isabella I of Castile, or Isabella the Catholic. It was laid out in 1941 in a swampy area by landscape architect Ramon Ortiz.

Today, 15 hectares of the park area is occupied by attractions, flower beds, sculptures and a large pond in which swans, geese and ducks nest, and peacocks walk importantly along its banks.

For thrills, head to Plaza de toros de El Bibio in Gijón. This is the current bullring . It was built in 1888 and can accommodate almost 10 thousand spectators!The main events take place here in August, when the city celebrates the feast of its patroness Madonna of Begogna. In 1992, the El Bibio arena was declared a monument of history and architecture.

Recently, the city of Gijón has been attracting more and more tourists not only with the sights of Gijón, but also with favorable offers for rental housing.