Galicia
Galicia, located in the far west of Spain and surrounded by both the Atlantic Ocean and the Cantabrian Sea is an area famous for its landscapes of extensive green forests, green wooded valleys, wild beaches and lighthouses.
This almost mystical land with its mix of Spanish and Celtic traditions and history also offers a treasure trove of natural wonders to explore from the spectacular cliffs of Costa da Morte, the incredible Islas Atlánticas National Park, Las Catedrales beach with is unique shaped rocked or the canyons of the Rivers Sil and Miño.
Galicia is the final destination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route that ends in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Santiago de Compostela and is also home to some lovely cities like Pontevedra, A Coruña and Vigo.
The other strong point of Galicia is without a doubt its exquisite seafood, freshly bought in from its 1,660 kms of coastline, especially its shellfish like king prawns, king scallops, mussels, crabs and lobsters that have been the inspiration for signature dishes like the Pulpo a la Feira (Octopus cooked with potatoes and seasoned with paprika), Arroz con Marisco (Galician paella) and Mariscada (Seafood platter).
don't MISS
Santiago de Compostela
The capital of Galicia, Santiago de Compostela is a UNESCO World Heritage city that draws millions of people around the world to its beautiful Cathedral, that marks the end of the Way of Saint James pilgrimage route. But this cool university town has much more to offer - meander through the arcaded medieval streets and lively squares of its Old Town bursting with tapas bars and artisan shops.
Rias Altas & lighthouses
This network of estuaries following the Atlantic coastline in northern Galicia promises dramatic and wild scenic beauty with spectacular cliffs, fishing villages and lighthouses that look proudly out to see from hilltops. A beautiful coastline to drive along as you learn about the legends of this ancient land.
Enjoy the sweeping coastal views from the must-visit beautiful fishing town of A Coruña and visit its iconic lighthouse, the Tower of Hercules. Nearby, visit Cape Vilán, in Camariñas, one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Spain. Continue to Cape Finisterre, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, meaning ‘end of the Earth’, named fittingly according to local legend to witness an amazing sunset and visit its lighthouse.
To the north of A Coruña is Cape Ortegal, location of one of most photographed lighthouses as it enjoys the spectacular and unique backdrop of waves crashing against huge rocks emerging fiercely from the sea. Also visit Estaca de Bares, the northernmost point on the Iberian Peninsula where you can see the Cantabrian Sea meeting the Atlantic Ocean.
Rias Baixas & seafaring traditions
Located on the southern coast of Galicia, this series of 4 estuarine inlets is a paradise for those looking for winding coastal drives along breath taking scenic beauty passing by lovely fishing villages and towns celebrating Galician seafaring traditions.
Visit Pontevedra, a city with a long maritime tradition and boasts one of the largest and most elegant historic quarters in Galicia. It is also highly recommended to visit the Arousa bay for its sheer beauty and way of life. The city of Vigo nearby is an excellent base from which to visit the towns of and villages along its estuary as well as to explore the sheer cliffs and white sandy beaches of the National Park of the Atlantic Islands, home to the beautiful Rodas beach (Cies Islands). Not to forget the noble village of Cambados that has to be explored by foot to truly enjoy it with its cobblestone streets and colourful fishermen´s homes.
Lugo & Las Catedrales Beach
This historic city with its intact Roman walls including its province is home to contrasting landscapes with mountains and a coastline with wonderful beaches like the Las Catedrales, known for its epic rock formations and beautiful caves.