1. Surfing 🏄
Galicia is known for its excellent surfing spots along its rugged coastline. We happen to have 3 of the best spots only 10 minutes drive away:
- Louro
Playa de Louro ia a serene and uncrowded surf spot offering consistent swells, surrounded by natural beauty. The sheltered beach break has consistent surf and can work at any time of the year, providing left and right hand rides. Offshore winds are from the northeast. Most of the surf here comes from groundswells and the ideal swell angle is from the SW. - Lariño
Playa de Lariño is a fairly exposed beach break that usually has waves from autumn to spring. It tends to receive a mix of groundswells and windswells and the ideal swell direction is from the southwest, while offshore winds blow from the northeast. The break is unlikely to be too crowded, even when the surf is up, and is best on low tide. - Carnota
Playa de Carnota is a fairly exposed beach break that has pretty constant surf, although summer tends to be mostly flat. Offshore winds blow from the northeast. Waves just as likely from local wind swells as from distant groundswells and the ideal swell angle is from the northwest. Rarely crowded here as its huge – but waves tend to be small.
More amazing Spots like Razo (1h) or Pantin (2h) just to name the 2 most known are all along the north shore – ready to be discovered.
2. Diving 🤿
Galicia’s coastline is rich in marine life and offers some fantastic diving opportunities:
- Islas Cíes (Cíes Islands):
As part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, they provide excellent diving experiences with crystal-clear waters, diverse marine ecosystems, and the chance to explore shipwrecks. - Costa da Morte (Coast of Death):
Offers a unique diving experience along its rugged coastline, known for its dramatic underwater rock formations, caves, and the historical allure of exploring the remains of shipwrecks, adding an element of adventure to each dive. - Furnas de San Cibrao (Underwater Caves):
A fascinating dive site that features underwater caves, tunnels, and a mesmerizing landscape created by ancient volcanic activity, allowing divers to venture into a submerged world of geological wonders in the heart of Galicia.
3. Kite Surfing
Galicia is gaining popularity among kite surfers for its excellent wind conditions and picturesque coastal settings. Here are three of the best kite surfing beaches:
- Carnota Beach (view from the house)
Hidden gem for kite surfers seeking a remote and picturesque spot to ride the waves. With its unspoiled natural beauty and reliable winds, it provides excellent conditions for kite surfers looking for both tranquility and excitement. - Praia de Area Maior:
A kite surfer’s paradise, known for its consistent winds and ample space, providing ideal conditions for both beginners and experienced riders while offering stunning views of the Galician coastline. - Praia de Razo:
Beloved destination for kite surfers, with strong Atlantic winds and long sandy shores, making it perfect for high-adrenaline sessions and riding the waves while enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
4. Mountain Biking
Here are our top three MTB trails:
- Ruta do Miño (Miño River Trail):
A thrilling trail that follows the Miño River, taking riders through lush forests, charming villages, and past ancient bridges, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration. - Serra do Suído Trail:
Challenging adventure for experienced mountain bikers, offering steep ascents, technical descents, and panoramic views of the Galician countryside within a remote and rugged terrain. - Ruta dos Faros (Lighthouse Route):
Coastal mountain bike trail that navigates the dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches of the Costa da Morte, leading riders to iconic lighthouses while delivering an exhilarating seaside feel.
5. Beach Life
These three beaches in Galicia showcase the region’s diverse coastal beauty, from the paradisiacal tranquility of Playa de Rodas to the awe-inspiring geological formations of Praia das Catedrais and the vast natural expanse of Praia de Carnota, making each one a unique and captivating destination for travelers.
- Praia de Carnota (in view from house):
Praia de Carnota is one of the longest beaches in Galicia, stretching for over 7 kilometers. This unspoiled expanse of golden sand is surrounded by sand dunes and marshes, providing a pristine and peaceful setting for beach lovers and a serene escape from the bustling world. - Playa de Rodas (Rodas Beach, Cíes Islands):
Often considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Playa de Rodas is part of the Cíes Islands, a protected natural park. With its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush surroundings, it offers a paradisiacal escape for nature lovers and beachgoers seeking a pristine and tranquil environment. - Praia das Catedrais (Cathedrals Beach):
Praia das Catedrais is famous for its dramatic rock formations and natural stone arches, which are reminiscent of cathedral architecture. During low tide, visitors can explore its intricate sea caves and walk beneath soaring stone structures, making it a beach of both natural beauty and geological wonder.
6. Hiking
Here are our 3 favourite hikes in the region:
- Camino de Santiago:
An iconic pilgrimage route, offers a transformative journey through Galicia’s diverse landscapes, combining cultural heritage and scenic beauty. - Ruta da Pedra e da Auga (Stone & Water):
Takes you through the enchanting Fragas do Eume Natural Park, where ancient forests, rivers, and monasteries create a serene and mystical atmosphere. - Costa da Morte (Coast of Death):
Hiking along the Costa da Morte reveals the untamed beauty of Galicia’s rugged Atlantic coastline, with towering cliffs, wild beaches, and picturesque fishing villages to explore.
7. Fishing
Galicia is renowned for its abundant seafood and offers excellent fishing opportunities along its coast:
- Lira – Miñarzo (view from the house)
The coastline near Lira is an ideal place for coastal and shore fishing. Anglers can cast their lines from the rocky shores and sandy beaches to catch a variety of species, including sea bass, mackerel, and even the prized local delicacy, percebes (goose barnacles). - Ría de Arousa (Arousa Estuary):
A prime fishing location, famous for its rich marine biodiversity, providing ample opportunities for angling, shellfishing, and experiencing traditional Galician fishing culture. - Cape Finisterre:
Situated on the Costa da Morte, is known for its deep-sea fishing opportunities, attracting anglers looking to catch larger species such as tuna and sharks in the Atlantic’s abundant waters.
8. Dining
Galicia is a gastronomic treasure trove known for its rich culinary traditions. Here are the top three must-try dishes in Galicia:
- Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician-Style Octopus):
Delicacy that consists of tender, thinly sliced octopus drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkled with Spanish paprika and coarse sea salt. This dish perfectly captures the essence of Galician cuisine, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that melt in your mouth. - Lacón con Grelos (Pork Shoulder with Turnip):
Lacón con Grelos is a hearty Galician dish that combines slow-cooked, savory pork shoulder with slightly bitter and flavorful turnip greens. - Mariscada (Seafood Feast):
A sumptuous seafood platter featuring an array of fresh Galician seafood, such as prawns, mussels, clams, and lobster, often prepared in a flavorful broth with a hint of garlic and white wine. This impressive seafood spread highlights the region’s abundant coastal resources.
9. Wellness
There is one place you need to visit: Spasinho (40 minutes drive):
The Galician rural world, the ancestral traditions of the region, and the products of our sea and land are the protagonists of this sensory space.
Our experience creating luxury stays in the Galician forest made us go further. We wanted to create a space that was architecturally innovative and at the same time old-fashioned, seeking to generate sensory experiences. So Spasinho was born with the aim of relaxing, disconnecting and feeling extraordinary. A space that offers a luxury of sensations to melt into your purest essence. We are not an ordinary spa, our facilities are unique in the world and merge traditions, rural atmosphere and products that will make you travel in time and space.
They offer different massages such as Full Body, Ayurvedic and Foot Reflexology massages for 60 Euro an hour. Additionally there many other treatments …
10. Drinking
These iconic beverages of Galicia, including the well-loved Estrella Galicia beer, offer a delightful complement to the region’s cuisine and culture:
- Albariño Wine:
Albariño, a white wine, is Galicia’s pride and joy, particularly in the Rías Baixas region. This wine is celebrated for its crisp acidity, citrusy notes, and subtle minerality, making it a perfect accompaniment to Galician seafood dishes and a refreshing choice for a leisurely meal. - Estrella Galicia Beer:
Estrella Galicia is a popular and well-loved Galician beer, known for its crisp and refreshing taste. This beer is a favorite among locals and visitors alike and pairs wonderfully with traditional Galician tapas and seafood. - Queimada:
Queimada is a traditional Galician alcoholic beverage with a mystical and social aspect. It’s made from aguardiente (a type of brandy), sugar, coffee beans, and spices, often prepared and served with a special incantation that is part of the Queimada ritual.
11. City life
These 3 cities in Galicia offer a blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions:
- Santiago de Compostela:
The capital of Galicia is famous for its historic Old Town and the stunning Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore its charming streets, savor Galician cuisine in local taverns, and experience the deep sense of pilgrimage that has drawn travelers to the Camino de Santiago for centuries. - A Coruña:
Known for its beautiful beaches, is a dynamic coastal city with a lively atmosphere. The Tower of Hercules, a Roman lighthouse and UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history, while the city’s promenades, modern art museums, and culinary scene make it an exciting destination for tourists. - Vigo:
Galicia’s largest city, boasts a picturesque harbor, thriving seafood markets, and vibrant nightlife. The city’s historic Casco Vello district, along with its modern amenities, provides a diverse urban experience, while the nearby Cíes Islands offer pristine natural beauty, making Vigo a must go.
