An area that is socially very active, and that is also urbanistically, making Gijón grow, every year that passes, more to the west.
In these neighborhoods, the proximity to the sea is best exemplified by the renovated Arbeyal beach , reopened in 1995, which has since boasted a number of green spaces nearby. The beach promenade begins at the end of the breakwater, built by the Port Authority, and extends to a parking area. It includes wooded areas with benches and tables, ideal for leisurely strolls, and features notable structures such as a 6,5-meter-high pergola that marks the modern entrance to this urban beach, and the well-known sculpture dedicated to the children of the war —now elderly—who were sent by their families to the former USSR and other countries to escape the Spanish Civil War. The artwork depicts a child dressed in period clothing sitting on a limestone rock looking towards the port of El Musel , from where 1.100 children of the war departed along with 50 teachers on the night of September 23, 1937, defying the blockade imposed on the city by the battleship Cervera.
Arbeyal Beach in Gijón, with its working-class character, is a regular venue for popular sporting events such as rugby, canoeing, kite flying, and swimming. Its shell-like shape, sheltered from currents and waves, makes it ideal for swimming. The waters are calm along the entire length of the beach, which at low tide covers more than 100.000 square meters. This area is usually more than sufficient for its average occupancy and for practicing sports, playing games, or sunbathing right on the sand.
The beach, the cultural and leisure life, the open character of the residents and its easy access due to being very well connected, are some of the many attractions that make the neighborhoods of the western area a smart choice for a quiet visit, with a multitude of possibilities.
Information:
Both La Calzada and Natahoyo are located in one of the strategically best enclaves in the city. In addition to having easy and fast access to the entrances and exits of the city. The urban transport network of Gijón offers an integral service that covers most of these neighborhoods.
The beach of Arbeyal has parking, rescue, children's play area, showers and toilets.
The easiest way to get there is through the Avenida Principe de Asturias, frequented by numerous bus lines that connect it with the center of Gijón.
Text: © Ramón Molleda for asturias.com
