Arzúa

The town of Arzúa is a compulsory stop for the many pilgrims who follow the Camino de Santiago, so despite its size it can boast a lively atmosphere at any time of the year. A stroll through town is a must to discover its squares, gardens and a little of the architecture of this very Galician — yet at the same time very international — village.
In Arzúa it can be a good idea to visit the Museo Vivente do Mel “O enredo do Abeleiro”, where the technique of making honey is explained, with a visit to the beehives included.
Portomouros reservoir

From here head east to take Calle Lugo / N-547 towards Calle Calvo Sotelo for 260 m, turn right onto Rúa Rego da Raña, and we are on our way to the Portomouros reservoir. You can also visit the town here, which has some very nice views; from there we set off for Melide along the CP-4603.
Melide

Historically, Melide was already very important, as it is the meeting point of the two most important Jacobean routes in the early years of the Middle Ages: the French Way and the Primitive Way.
It is well worth a good walk around the town to enjoy the pleasant atmosphere of its streets and to include some specific visits, such as the church of Santa María, the Museo Terra de Melide and the cruceiro of Melide, which Castelao considered the oldest in Galicia.
Also, if the hour is right, it is a good idea to enjoy a hearty serving of pulpo á feira, which is famously typical here, especially on festival days.

From Melide we can head towards Toques along the CP-4604, turning off to visit the pre-Romanesque church of Santa María da Capela. From Toques we backtrack a few kilometres to continue our route along the CP-8002 to Sobrado dos Monxes, the main town of the area and a heavily commercial and well-visited spot.
Sobrado dos Monxes

Sobrado dos Monxes owes its fame across the region to its great monastery, one of the largest and best-preserved in all of Galicia. A visit to the inside of the building is essential, as it allows you to learn about the way of life of the monks in the Middle Ages; the tour takes in not only the church, the cloisters or the sacristy, but also the great original kitchen from that period.

Galicia’s natural resources and beautiful landscapes are the most suitable places to hike. If you love nature and outdoor walks, discover the best trails of Galicia for your next trip.

Any season works, but autumn and spring are the best to enjoy flower fields, coastal sunsets and the many trails waiting for you. Here are some of the best trails of Galicia.

Sil Canyon Route, Ribeira Sacra

Strolling the Ribeira Sacra is a favourite plan. Through the Sil Canyon Route you can enter these enchanting lands. An 18 km circular route past centennial chestnuts, oaks and well-tended vines, plus the Romanesque treasure of Santa Cristina Monastery. Divided in two parts for the whole family.

Laxe to Punta Insua Route, Costa da Morte

Starts in town and enters a path with brambles, ferns, pines and cliffs offering the best views of Laxe and the Anllóns river. A 5 km circular route to discover Punta da Ola, Punta do Boi and Furna do Asno — different formations on the Costa da Morte.

Guitiriz Water Route, Lugo

One of the longest — about 20 km along the Praga and Ladroil rivers. Flat with no inclines. Beyond beautiful river views, you’ll find lovely bridges, churches and mills, plus a couple of fountains said to have healing properties.

Vigo Panoramic Route, Rías Baixas

A 40 km natural route around the city of Vigo via all surrounding hills. Multiple phases to break it up. Connects citizens and visitors with nature minutes from the capital. Unique landscape with the Fragoselo petroglyphs — remains of the old wall that protected Mount O Galiñeiro.

Galicia has much to give those who spend a few days here. Tourist towns, monuments, viewpoints, beaches and historic centres — and many gardens that will make for unforgettable moments.

Pazo de Lourizán, Pontevedra

The Lourizán Gardens in Pontevedra — a magical space to include in your Rías Baixas itinerary. Once belonged to politician and jurist Eugenio Montero Ríos; now owned by the Pontevedra Provincial Council.

Since 1949 used for research and recreation — free to visit. By late 19th century, alongside the gardens, an impressive Modernist-style structure was built. The Pazo treasures unique Galician species.

A Saleta, A Sobreira

A Saleta — UNESCO recognised. Designed by a British family with advice from landscape architect Brenda Colvin, in the centre of O Salnés. Now owned by the Rodríguez Coladas family, who have multiplied the species sheltered here. Trees from all over the world.

José Martí Park, Santa Cristina

A privileged location very close to the beach. Extensive green area with fish ponds, rest zones and children’s playgrounds. Great with the whole family — gardens with a privileged view metres from the Galician coast.

French Garden of Castrelos, Vigo

At the Quiñones de León Museum — one of the most appealing gardens. Impressive myrtle mazes resembling Versailles. Many trees and flowers create a film-like setting. Iconic in the city, with a beautiful granite dolphin fountain.

Banks of the Miño River, Ourense

If you visit Ourense and want a place to relax with a privileged view, head to the Miño riverbank. Afternoons here are truly magical — visitors come for shade and to enjoy nightfall and the river breeze. A great way to end a day’s tour.

In summer, high temperatures make us crave a dip — Galicia is the best place. Beyond its extensive coast, estuaries, capes and archipelagos, there are river beaches that will surprise you.

You can’t imagine how many options for nature time surrounded by amazing waters. We invite you to discover the best Galician river beaches for swimming, hiking, walks and more. All different, all wonderful.

1. A Calzada

The only river beach in Spain to receive a Blue Flag. In Ponte Caldelas, Pontevedra. You reach it by a lovely walk along the Verdugo river. Surrounded by riparian forest — chestnuts, oaks and birches. Safe bathing areas for kids and adults, picnic spots, playground and parking very close to the beach.

2. A Carixa

Very popular for its natural charms and proximity to Santiago de Compostela (A Coruña). Nearby are the beautiful Carboeiro monastery and the stunning Fervenza do Toxa in Vila de Cruces.

On the banks of the Deza river, with safe bathing areas. Recreational area, playground and biodegradable park. Special area for motorhomes, adult pool and kids’ pool.

3. La Veronza

In Ribadavia, Ourense. The Avia river’s gorgeous waters make this place perfect for a special day. Extensive green area with all you need. Parking, recreation area, sports zone, swimming pools, hotel and food. A long river walk unique to this beach.

4. Sela

In Pontevedra, in Arbo. Next to the Miño river, with a large fishing area and picnic spots. From here you can start trails to know both riverbanks via the “Ruta de las Pesqueiras” and “Ruta de los Pescadores”. If you like hiking, don’t miss Sela.

5. Vilarello

In Cordeiro parish, Valga (Pontevedra). A beautiful sandbed on the Ulla river, on its last stretch to the sea. Part of Natura 2000 and a Site of Community Importance (SCI). In the middle of a park with nautical facilities, parking and food services. A safe bet with garden zones and calm waters.

More and more people take their loyal companion on holiday rather than leaving the dog with a neighbour, family member or friend. Still, finding pet-friendly spots isn’t always easy. Demand has grown — there are more pet-friendly hotels, flats and campsites — but access for pets is still banned on most Galician beaches. Tough for tourists touring Galicia with dogs and for locals who want to enjoy sun and sand with their four-legged friends.

A few years ago, Galicia had no “pet-friendly” beaches. Now there are growing requests to expand the list, though authorised beaches in Galicia are still few — but the number has grown lately.

Which Galician beaches can we go to with dogs?

Here’s a list of dog-friendly beaches in Galicia, by province:

Dog beaches in A Coruña

By municipal bylaw, dogs are not allowed on Galician beaches between 1 June and 30 September; the rest of the year they may walk there. During summer, only two beaches accept dogs in A Coruña province.

In A Pobra do Caramiñal, dogs are tolerated in a small stretch of Playa del Arenal — also known as Playa de las Mariscadoras. The dog area is about 300 m; watch high tides as sand may be covered.

The Ares dog beach is a closer option to A Coruña — a delimited area within the large Ares beach, by the harbour. Council rules require dogs on leads.

Dog beaches in Lugo

On the Lugo coast only one beach allows dogs in summer: Punta Corveira in Barreiros. The bylaw allowing access was passed only a couple of years ago.

Located between Longara and Pasadas, with large rocks but very fine sand. There’s also Areagrande in O Vicedo, where dogs are allowed in restricted hours from May to September — before 10:00 and after 21:00.

Dog beaches in Pontevedra

The province with the most dog-friendly beaches in Galicia — up to six.

In San Vicente do Mar: O Espiño and O Portiño beaches, in the south of the O Grove peninsula. Separated by rocks, near the Pedras Negras marina. Calm beaches, fine white sand, good views of the Ons Islands.

Since 2016: Cunchiña Beach in the O Morrazo peninsula. 110 m long, swimming only at one end.

In Vilagarcía de Arousa: O Castelete since 2016.

In Redondela: Cesantes and Chapela beaches. Cesantes (2016) has full services and Blue Flag often, plus it’s smoke-free. Chapela is a small cove with basic infrastructure.

In the council of Vigo: A Foz and A Calzoa, recently added in Navia-Coruxo parish. A Foz is 300+ m by the Lagares river. A Calzoa is 120 m, fine sand with some rocks.

Galicia has hidden coves where dog owners often go. Be careful — even unsupervised beaches can result in fines if the local bylaw bans access.

Some unofficial dog beaches: Portocelo, Aldán, Barra and Viñó or Barreiras (Pontevedra); Salinas and Petons (Arousa Island); Las Dunas, Carnota, Lago or Traba (A Coruña).

Surfing in Galicia is a great option — for the waves first, then mild temperatures, and finally a calm, less crowded environment. Here are pointers for safe surfing, highlighting some of the contenders for the best beach in Galicia.

One great appeal of the Galician coast is that you can surf almost every day of the year — beaches face every wind direction. Very sheltered beaches (especially the Rías Baixas) and very open ones (closer to Portugal). An important note: the best waves are in winter and that’s also when crowds are smaller — key, since in summer you may have trouble for that reason.

We’ve considered the target audience — beaches for beginners alongside those that have hosted championships for years and are surf references.

The best beach in Galicia for surfing

Pantín

Pantín’s natural beach is the best beach in Galicia for surfing. Two advantages: perfectly oriented for strong Atlantic swells (you can surf almost year-round), and it has a competition tradition — the Pantín Classic has been held in early autumn for over 25 years on the Ferrolterra beaches. A European reference. The beach needs little sea to work, with waves up to 2 m. Tradition says if there are no waves in Pantín, there are no waves in all Galicia.

Sabón

Close to A Coruña, in Arteixo. Sabón needs some sea due to the outer harbour breakwater that blocks waves, but it’s been gathering sand in recent years, offering some of the best waves in the area. Great for beginners and pros. Parking by the beach, showers and on-beach surf schools.

Razo

For many experts, the best beach in Galicia for surfing. A vast wild stretch (5.5 km long) in Carballo, on the Costa da Morte. Several peaks along the beach. Quality waves suit any level — with a surf school for beginners and high-level options like the legendary “Cordobés” breaking right in front of the bar that bears its name. Surf at high or low tide; mid-tide rising is best.

You can see dolphins from the beach and sometimes surf with them. Best with southerly winds for offshore conditions. Showers, ample parking, surf camps, bars and pubs to enjoy Galician food while the sun sets on the Atlantic.

A Lanzada

In the heart of Rías Baixas, between O Grove and Sanxenxo. Singular beauty (white fine sand) and length (2,400 m long, 60 m wide), surrounded by white dunes and crystal-clear water, with a parallel wooden walkway. Long-rolling waves work with any tide, but low rising is best.

For experts, ideal for beginners — west-facing, so a small swell creates waves. Moderate north-easterly wind is perfect, southerly works up to half the beach, north-westerly handles cross at the airfield. Hosts many tournaments. Has multiple schools (Prado Surf, Mission, Tartaruga). Busy in summer but its length keeps it from feeling crowded. Blue Flag in summer, beach bars, lifeguards, showers, parking, hotels, country houses, restaurants and leisure all year.

Without doubt, alongside the others mentioned, A Lanzada is one of Galicia’s best beaches for surfing and the most popular in the Pontevedra estuary.

Samil

Samil is in a setting of singular beauty with the Cíes Islands as a backdrop — one of the best Galician landscapes for sunsets. Not the best beach in Galicia but one of the most popular for surfing.

About 1,700 m long with public parking and great breaks especially at the start of the beach by the Lagares river mouth at the western end. Needs a strong swell and southerly winds. A favourite spot for local surfers when other beaches are tricky. Park right in front and easy access.

La Toja Island is undoubtedly one of the most recognised tourist spots in the Rías Baixas. If you’re organising a Galicia tour, a mandatory stop must be this small island in the Arousa estuary. Today we want to show you how to fully enjoy it.

What to see in La Toja

Seafront of O Grove and La Toja

O Grove has a seafront that continues onto La Toja Island. Magnificent views and a quiet area, just the right length to enjoy fully. On La Toja the promenade is just over 2 km, completely flat — great for bike rides.

Shell necklaces (“As colareiras”)

Stop to enjoy the craft of our traditional colareiras. These artisans gather shells from beaches and weave them into necklaces, bracelets, earrings — very typical of a La Toja visit.

Thermal spa

Besides being an exceptional tourist area and a long tradition, La Toja is famous for its thermal waters. While in O Grove, spend a few hours immersed — you’ll come back with a smile and recharged.

Forest park

Enjoy hiking through the woods or run away from asphalt. In the middle of the island lies a small forest, well prepared and cared for, ideal for a walk among the trees. At the centre of the park you can see donkeys, honouring the island’s legend, and take photos with them.

Other places to visit

The Chapel of San Caralampio and the Chapel of the Shells. Plus well-marked paths, rest points and small viewpoints with unbeatable views. Depending on the time you visit, you may meet hardly anyone along the route.

History of La Toja Island

La Toja, the treasure island. A worldwide reference for its spa, which modernised the concept of tourism in Pontevedra.

Originally called Louxo, the island had no trees and was uninhabited. In the early 19th century interest in its thermal waters began. The spa’s history dates to 1812 when a Frenchman who stayed after the War of Independence, with health issues, was sent to the island by a local healer to take the waters at Porca Morta. Seeing the Frenchman improve, Mosquera recommended the place to other patients arriving by boat.

Other versions: the donkey left there to die that revived; and another in which “tradition attributes to Arousa estuary fishermen the discovery — walking barefoot on certain parts of the island, they felt heat on their feet” — and so the thermal baths were found.

Later, the owner — the Marquis of Riestra — considered turning the land into a thriving business. In 1841, botanist Antonio Casares had found magnesium, sodium, iron and calcium in the waters, at 30–60°C, said to be perfect for curing illness. A year later he got authorisation to build the spa, opened in 1899.

The Gran Hotel de La Toja opened 8 years later. Initially only accessible by boat or on foot. A bridge — at the time the longest in Europe — soon connected the island. The Galician Vázquez-Gulías won the design contest, drawing inspiration from European spas like Vichy and Marienbad.

After many difficulties, the Gran Hotel of La Toja Island remains Galicia’s only five-star spa. Beyond bathing in its waters and muds for physical and mental therapy, if time allows you can visit its boutiques or have a drink at the famous English Bar. You never know who you might meet.

Galicia is known as “the land of 1000 rivers”. We get a lot of rain in winter and spring, so it’s hard to walk or drive anywhere in Galicia without crossing some rivers and small streams. Hidden in deep forests you can find magical places: waterfalls. Some are easy to find, even just by typing the name on Google Maps. Discover our favourite hidden waterfalls in Galicia where you can relax, breathe and bathe. Careful — the water can be very cold even in summer!

Hidden waterfalls in Galicia

Fervenza do Toxa (Silleda, Pontevedra)

One of the tallest in Galicia with 50 m of free fall. Surrounded by a spectacular natural setting, very popular on weekends. Bathe in the cold water at the foot of the waterfall, walk through an impressive forest full of botanical diversity or just sit and listen to the relaxing water. If lucky, you’ll see an otter swimming. Nearby, the restored Romanesque church of Carboeiro Monastery is worth a visit.

Refuxio de Verdes (Coristanco, A Coruña)

Not exactly a waterfall, or maybe a small one, but definitely worth visiting. Among cornfields, the Anllóns river creates islands and small waterfalls. Humans used the water’s force to build stone grain mills — now restored and used as a fishermen’s refuge. An incredible mix of stones, water, trees and wood where you can even barbecue. Reachable by car; avoid summer weekends as it can be packed.

Fervenza do Pozo Negro (Brión, A Coruña)

A hidden waterfall close to Santiago de Compostela. In the forests of Brión, just 15 km from Santiago, a 20-minute walk takes you to this small, hidden, marvellous spot. Bathe or just relax. We’re again in the otter kingdom — patient, quiet observers may spot one. Not far from the Santiago-Fisterra pilgrim path.

Fervenza de Ézaro (Dumbría, A Coruña)

One of Galicia’s largest waterfalls. The Xallas river ends in a small estuary. A wooden trail by a power plant takes you to this spectacular spot. Special illumination at night. You can also rent a kayak to see it from the water. Don’t miss it if visiting Cape Finisterre nearby. Then take the steep road to the mountain-top viewpoint — incredible views of mountains and the Atlantic.

Seimeira de Vilagocende (A Fonsagrada, Lugo)

“Seimeira” is a local name for “waterfall”. In the interior mountains of Galicia near Asturias. A 1 km trail leads to Galicia’s tallest waterfall — 53 m free fall. Surrounded by Atlantic forest, a must when visiting the mountains. Another trail leads to a viewpoint at the top.

Fervenza de Cadarnoxo (Boiro, A Coruña)

Hidden because it remains mostly unknown. Drive to within a few metres and take a narrow path. Be careful — rocks can be slippery. Bathe in a natural pool. In the Serra do Barbanza, with views of ocean and the Arousa estuary. A 2-hour archaeological tour reveals prehistoric funerary monuments and the “Arca do Barbanza” dolmen.

Fervenza de San Xusto de Toxosoutos (Lousame, A Coruña)

Perfect for a relaxed bath in the natural pool at the foot of the waterfall. In a small forest by the remains of San Xusto de Toxosoutos Monastery. Continue to Noia, a charming old medieval town by the Muros-Noia estuary, with craft shops, tapas bars and restaurants.

Río Barosa Natural Space (Barro, Pontevedra)

Used in ancient times to mill grain. Up to 10 stone mills visible. Now a small natural park where you can drink, relax or bathe in the river. Popular and busy on summer weekends.

There are thousands of waterfalls in Galicia — just a small sample. All in natural areas, so be respectful of the environment and leave it as clean as you found it. Enjoy!

The Galician coast is one of those magical places. The most famous hidden treasures of the Galician coast are Atlantis and Duio — sunken city legends everyone knows about.

Many legends surround these hidden treasures of the Galician coast — worth knowing and enjoying.

Hidden treasures of the Galician coast: Duios

There’s a whole legend around Duios. Many residents say the city was flooded as a divine punishment in the 9th century. The wrath came because the inhabitants worshipped the sun and were indifferent to the apostle’s preaching.

Scientifically, it may have been a cataclysm where only the oxen were saved — remembered with two stones called Os Bois de Gures.

Archaeological remains of Dugium have been found here — a large city of Celtic Nerii. Saint William Christianised the place and built a place of prayer.

Hidden treasures of the Galician coast: Atlantis

Atlantis is one of the most famous city legends — described by Plato. Many say this advanced island civilisation was in Galicia.

It has become one of the hidden treasures of the Galician coast. Many tourists, adventurers and archaeologists run excursions looking for ruins. Although a legend, it features in history books. One spot considered is the Doñana marshes, with remains of an advanced civilisation.

Visible?

Veteran sailors from Malpica de Bergantiños say Atlantis is real and one of the hidden treasures of the Galician coast — sometimes visible, depending on the tide.

In a Costa da Morte village near A Coruña, you can see stone heads rising above sea level, sometimes stone walls and even stairs — what some sailors describe as remains of a great village or civilisation submerged in the sea.

The Atlantis legend

According to legend and Greek mythology, Atlantis was an advanced civilisation on an island of rich, wise and just people, ruled by Poseidon. Zeus punished its inhabitants for their greed — tsunamis and volcanic eruptions destroyed it in a single night.

Many say it sank under the Atlantic, but its location has never been confirmed. Said to be in different parts of the world; sometimes located on the Galician coast or even the Canary Islands.

If you’re thinking about touring the north of Spain, you’ll have a trip full of history, culture, beautiful landscapes and lots to learn. Helpful info to plan your itinerary:

Routes to tour the north of Spain

Touring the north is ideal in both winter and summer. Some routes:

Get to know the castles of Galicia

Galicia is one of the best activities in the north. Castles worth knowing:

• San Antón Castle, on A Coruña’s seafront, with the Archaeology Museum — great for history fans.
• Doiras Castle, in Cervantes municipality, with some of the most beautiful landscapes in Galicia.

You can also visit Santa Cruz, one of the oldest castles of Galicia — much history about war and strategic fortification.

Visit the San Juan Hermitage in the Basque Country

One of the most dazzling hermitages in the country, with two arches. You access via 241 historic stone steps with beautiful viewpoints.

Take the kids to Cabárceno Nature Park

In Cantabria — a must when touring the north of Spain. Thousands of animal species in semi-freedom — you can interact and get close with the youngest. Near Santander, capital of Cantabria.

Contemplate the Picos de Europa

Ideal for trekking lovers. You can reach them via Cangas de Onís, south of the Sella river valley.

Following this route you reach the Hermida gorge — crystal-clear water and bird species near the lake or stone walls.

Recommendations for touring the north of Spain

You can prepare with these recommendations:

• Plan your itinerary in advance.
• If you travel with young children, include fun activities for them.
• Choose the right season and plan accordingly.
• Budget what you’re willing to spend.
• Always wear comfortable clothing suited to the temperature.
• Anticipate lodging and food costs.

We recommend touring the north of Spain with a professional travel agency that can guide you throughout, organising your itinerary and making your trip more fun.