A stunning Spanish region boasting gorgeous beaches is where people from the country sneak off for a holiday as travel hubs heave with tourists.
Galicia, the country’s most north-western region, is known for its lush green landscape, often compared to Ireland‘s, and old towns replete with exquisite architecture.
The region also benefits from more moderate temperatures than the scorching days you get further south. According to Holiday Weather, the hottest month is July, with an average temperature of 18C with temperatures dropping as low as 7C in January.
A visitor who profiled the region for The Spectator two years ago said the region was a “Spanish secret” with a coastline that “bequeaths a regional cuisine strongly based on fish and seafood” and is famed for its “fried pulpo—octopus—and Albariño, a white wine with strong floral and citrous undertones”.
One of Galicia’s chiefest attractions is its array of beaches. Playa de las Catedrales, located in the Ribadeo municipality, in the province of Lugo, is among the top rated things to do in the region.
One TripAdvisor reviewer who visited in November gave it a five-star review, branding it a, “gorgeous beach with stunning sea arches”, adding that it was “pretty quiet” when they visited.
Another standout is the city of Pontevedra, with its famous well-preserved old town and architectural delights like the Gothic Santa María la Mayor Basilica, and there are also beautiful Celtic ruins to be found espcially in Castro de Baroña, a prehistoric settlement on headland overlooking the Atlantic sea.
But while it is perfect for those looking for a relaxed detox away from the packed strips of The Canary and Balearic Islands, there are plenty of nightlife opportunities if you know where to look.
According to The Sun, the region is home to some of the country’s newest party hotspots, and some beaches are “just as wild” as the nightclubs.
The newspaper recommended La Coruña, Vigo, Lugo and Santiago de Compostela for those looking for a night on the tiles.
Galicia has a unique cultural identity, unlike the better-known holiday hubs beloved by Brits.
The region is shaped by its rich Celtic roots, historical influences, and Galician language, which is closely related to Portuguese, though its official language is Spanish.
It’s also famous for its traditional music, dance, and festivals. The pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela is another major draw for the area, offering explorers the chance to visit where the remains of St James are said to be buried.
Galicia boasts three international airports, Lavacolla Airport in Santiago de Compostela, Alvedro Airport in La Coruña, and Peinador Airport in Vigo, and has great travel links to Britain.
Direct flights are available from Gatwick, Stansted and Edinburgh, as well as flights with one layover from other UK travel hubs.