The stage, step by step
Leaving urban Gijón
You begin in Gijón/Xixón, where you can have breakfast and shop before setting off. Iglesia de San Pedro de Gijón is a cultural landmark in the city; after that, the Camino gradually becomes residential and peri-urban.
The Tresona climb
Between km 0.6 and 4.4, the route gains very little height, but the main climb comes between km 5.3 and 9.2: 167 m at an average gradient of 4.3%. This is more a stretch of tarmac and urban surroundings than a trail, so settle into a steady rhythm.
Descents and the industrial area
After reaching the top, you descend between km 10.2 and 12, losing 105 m at an average gradient of 5.8%. The route continues to alternate gentle descents, housing and industrial areas as you approach Avilés.
Entering Avilés
Between km 17.3 and 19.1, you lose another 52 m and the city begins to come into view. The final stretch is flat and unattractive, along pavements and verges, until Avilés suddenly provides every service you need: pharmacies, supermarkets and places to sit down for a meal.
What to see on stage 21
Iglesia de San Pedro de Gijón
Iglesia de San Pedro de Gijón is a medieval church in the city you leave from. You can see it before starting, without turning the visit into an extra excursion.
Tresona
Tresona is an intermediate landmark on a stage that quickly changes from Gijón's urban setting to the peri-urban fringe. This is where the day's transitional character is particularly clear.
Avilés
Avilés is the destination and the stage's main service centre. After a day of tarmac and industrial estates, reaching the city makes it easy to recover and sort out food, pharmacy needs and accommodation.
Where to sleep in Avilés
In Gijón/Xixón, you can set off with a bed arranged at Hospedaje Don Pelayo, Albergue Universitario Cimadevilla or Hostal San Félix. Do not plan to sleep between the two cities: there is nothing aimed at pilgrims until the end, so you either complete the stage or do not attempt it. In Avilés, you will find Albergue de Peregrinos Pedro Solìs and Hostal La Fruta; the hostel is not large, and in summer it is worth letting them know you are coming.
Where to eat and refuel
Gijón offers plenty of options for breakfast and preparing your pack; useful references include El Muro, Sidrería Casa Carmen, La Casa de la Ventresca and El Mirador de la playa. In the middle section, I would not count on a continuous food offer, so carry something to eat. In Avilés, options appear again, including La Botella, El Piano de Santa Mónica and Bengala.
Practical tips for this stage
Carry water from Gijón
There is no marked fountain that you can rely on as a reference along the route. Leave Gijón with full bottles and make use of the city's services before entering the peri-urban section.
Tarmac and footwear
You spend almost the entire day on tarmac, between industrial estates and residential neighbourhoods. Wear comfortable footwear and do not break in new shoes here: the hard surface builds up and is noticeable in the final hours.
Accept that this is a transitional stage
The scenery is limited. Walk it at a steady pace, save the cultural stops for Gijón and Avilés, and do not expect a day of trails and woodland.
Pace the central climb
The climb between km 5.3 and 9.2 includes 167 m of ascent. Several descents follow, so there is no need to push hard at the start just to save a few minutes.
Frequently asked questions about stage 21
Is it a scenic stage?
It is mainly peri-urban, with tarmac, residential and industrial areas and limited scenic appeal. Its value lies in connecting Gijón and Avilés and in the services provided by both cities.
How much climbing is there?
There are 312 m of ascent and 291 m of descent over 25.4 km, with a minimum altitude of 0 m and a maximum of 186 m.
Where is the main climb?
Between km 5.3 and 9.2, you climb 167 m at an average gradient of 4.3%. Further on, gentle descents and short climbs predominate.
Are there services halfway?
The services are not continuous between Gijón and Avilés. It is therefore best to leave after breakfast, carry some food and use the destination city to replenish what you need.