Top 5 Gijon Outdoor Adventures: Explore Asturias

Gijon, which sits pretty on the coast of Asturias in northern Spain, it’s almost like a playground for folks who love getting outside. With dramatic coastlines, plus it has rolling green hills too, and that means there are tons of ways to enjoy the fresh air. So, you are seeking an adventure that gets the pulse going or perhaps a tranquil day connecting with nature, Gijon is ready to deliver something special. Let’s take a look, shall we, at the five top outdoor activities Gijon has to offer, with practical insights plus recommendations to make your experience absolutely unforgettable. Read our full review: Gijon Outdoor Activities Full Review and Details

1. Surfing the Cantabrian Sea

Gijon is really known for some excellent surfing, thanks to the waves that roll in off the Cantabrian Sea. San Lorenzo Beach, which is easily the most famous beach in town, is very much the go-to spot for surfers of all skill levels. Beginners? There are tons of surf schools ready and willing to teach you the ropes, so to speak. More experienced? Well, then, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to challenge yourself. The best time to catch good waves is typically during the fall and winter, although even in the summer, you can find decent swells, is that not something? Beyond just the waves themselves, the surf culture is quite vibrant in Gijon. You’ll find surf shops dotting the coastline, places where you can rent equipment but also grab some advice from locals. After a day of battling the waves, there is not much better than chilling at a beachside café, watching the sunset with fellow surfers.

What to consider? Think about booking a surf lesson ahead of time, particularly during peak season, very important indeed. Also, it’s a great idea to check the surf report before you head out so that you know what to expect. Safety first, folks! Oh, and remember, the water is known to be colder than other spots in Spain, too, so a wetsuit is virtually always a good call. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Surf Lessons in Gijon)

2. Hiking in La Providencia Park

For hikers looking for some pretty great views without having to hike far from the city, then, La Providencia Park is rather a fantastic choice. The park has trails that wind along the cliffs, and it provides stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the city itself. It’s not only a fantastic spot for a morning stroll, so it can be a nice place to get a bit of exercise. The paths, too, they’re typically pretty well-maintained. Therefore it makes it a reasonably accessible hike for all ages and fitness levels. Keep an eye out, though, because there’s some historic landmarks dotted throughout the park, also. One of the main highlights has to be the lighthouse, which is still operational, and that offers yet another breathtaking perspective, this time over the sea. Honestly, the best time to hit these trails is probably during the spring or fall, to sidestep the potential heat of summer or the storms of winter. Anyway, with blooming flowers, the spring offers a beautiful touch, which can be very exciting, or alternatively, fall provides a mix of golden colors. What do you want to keep in mind for La Providencia Park? Bring water and perhaps some snacks, arguably very necessary for even a moderately challenging hike. Wearing comfortable shoes is important as you wouldn’t believe. Taking your camera along so that you can snap some great pictures of the landscapes can be something you like. Also, it can be helpful, as a matter of fact, to check weather conditions before planning your hike. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Hiking Trails Gijon)

3. Kayaking or Canoeing Along the Coastline

Another great way to experience Gijon’s stunning coastline has to be from the water, maybe kayaking or canoeing. Plenty of places in town offer rentals and even guided tours. The views? Almost, literally, out of this world, that you get while paddling along the coast. Imagine seeing cliffs and hidden coves, as well as enjoying a different perspective of Gijon’s beaches. For an adventure that combines relaxation and a little exploration, kayaking toward the east towards Playa España, that can be something really beautiful, indeed. For anyone more inclined to learn about Gijon’s maritime history, then, there are tours that focus on areas of interest along the water. Typically, the summer months provide the best conditions for kayaking or canoeing, since the sea is calmer, and the weather is a bit more stable, apparently. Something to be aware of? If you’re new to kayaking, perhaps consider a guided tour to learn basic skills. Always make sure to wear a life jacket, also! Knowing the sea conditions and being mindful of currents goes a long way, as I was saying. Plus, keeping hydrated can really make a difference on the water too, naturally. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Kayak Tours Gijon)

4. Cycling the Gijon Greenway

Want to check out Gijon and its local environment from the ground without getting too sweaty? How about pedaling along the Gijon Greenway, which follows the route of a former railway line. Very safe and very flat. This means it’s absolutely ideal for families, also, for casual cyclists too. So, what happens if you don’t have your own bike? Gijon has a great selection of bike rental shops, where you’ll get everything you need, too. What’s nice is that the Greenway passes through different landscapes. We’re talking, also, rural areas around Gijon. Many different landscapes. From green meadows, pretty forests, all the way to small hamlets. The railway provides a very nice way to get to know Asturias at a slower speed, and that’s really important to some folk. You might find yourself wanting to take some detours too, and they’re worth it to explore nearby attractions, could be farms or even old country houses. It’s not only about exercise here, I mean, it’s an experience. Some practical aspects to consider? If you plan to go during peak season, especially in the summer months, then book your bicycle ahead, could be very busy. Make sure your bicycle is in good condition, with tires pumped up etcetera, also. Carrying essentials, your phone etcetera is important, definitely, if something occurs on route. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Bike Rentals Gijon)

5. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) at San Lorenzo Beach

So, maybe you’re after something a bit more relaxed on the water than all-out surfing? Well then, stand-up paddleboarding, sometimes abbreviated as SUP, at San Lorenzo Beach can be a great choice. And that’s especially so on calmer days. The calm waters are totally great for beginners, but that provides a challenging workout for more experienced paddleboarders, too, isn’t that quite something? You can rent boards directly from a bunch of places along the beach. Several places provide classes for beginners so that anybody can learn, regardless of experience, you see. From a paddleboard you’ll see a really beautiful view of Gijon itself, because you can look back over the city, almost like it has come straight from a movie scene, literally! Sometimes you might see people doing SUP yoga or fitness classes out on the water too, you see, and this only enhances what it has to offer. When is the best time for paddleboarding in San Lorenzo Beach? Really, it’s the summer, when the weather is the best and that it’s usually more tranquil on the water. Just some things to remember if you’re doing this? Dress properly, arguably important, or even wear sunscreen, especially during sunnier times of the year, too. If you do not have lots of experience it’s not wrong to remain near to the coast and just check the conditions around the coast because they change a bit. Just be aware. Stay safe on the water and use proper practices at all times. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (SUP Rentals Gijon)