Playa de Mariayu, Sandy beach in Oviñana, Spain
Playa de Mariayu is a sandy beach stretching along the coast for about one kilometer, with golden sand, pebbles, and natural rock outcrops along the shoreline. Cliffs rise behind the beach, creating a dramatic boundary between the sand and the land above.
Two water mills from the 1700s stand near the beach, showing how local communities once relied on water power for their work. These structures mark an important period when water resources were central to the region's livelihood.
The beach lies in Asturias, where fishing and sea-related work have long shaped how local people live and spend their days. These traditions remain visible in the rhythms and habits of the surrounding communities today.
Parking is available at Mirador de Cueva, followed by a walk along cliff-side trails to reach the beach since no road leads directly down. Comfortable walking shoes help, as the path is uneven in places and takes time to traverse.
The Vivigo River meets the ocean at this spot, where fresh water mixes with salt water in a transitional zone. This meeting point creates a special environment that attracts both river and sea life.
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