A guide to Green Spain: The best of the northern region

18.07.2024 - 21:41 / lonelyplanet.com

Sponsored by

Jul 18, 2024 • 8 min read

Green Spain’s wild coastline, gastronomic delights, charming historic towns and unique cultural identity are incomparable. Nature and tradition have blessed these four provinces (Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and Basque Country) with something for everyone, from hardcore adventurers to laid-back beachgoers.

In fact, there’s so much this northern region of Spain offers – for so many different types of travelers – that the best way to start planning is to talk to a local, passionate and expert guide.

We spoke with Estefanía Gonzalez, an Official Tourist Guide of Galicia and a cultural mediator at Parque Arqueolóxico da Cultura Castrexa – an archaeological park and interpretive center. We also talked to David Iglesias Pérez of Mil Positivos, an adventure travel planning service that runs mountain tours throughout northern Spain. With suggestions from the two of them, here are our favorite highlights of gorgeous Green Spain, and some insight on how a guide can help you create a unique, personalized experience – no matter what kind of adventure you’re looking for:

Galicia is known for the incomparable atmosphere of Santiago de Compostela – the end point of the Camino de Santiago pilgrim trails – as well as its stunning coastal landscape, and perhaps the most delicious seafood in Europe. Its unique brand of Celtic and Spanish culture, rich history and charming traditions make it an authentic destination for culture aficionados, nature lovers and gastronomy enthusiasts alike.

Santiago de Compostela: This unique city is imbued with the aura of a millennium’s worth of journeys.

Costa da Morte: This is the eerily beautiful ‘Coast of Death,’ the westernmost outpost of mainland Spain, where mysteries and legends abound.

O Courel: Its mountains, forests, waterfalls, rivers, fortified villages and medieval remains make it a place of unparalleled beauty that leaves no one indifferent.

Islas Cíes: These three spectacular islands are home to some of Galicia's most splendid beaches. Camping there is a unique experience in a dreamlike and highly protected environment.

Riás Altas: The wild, rugged coastline and southern Europe’s highest ocean cliffs are awe-inspiring from the Garita de Herbeira viewpoint.

Fragas do Eume: This natural park is one of the best-preserved Atlantic forests in Europe and a peaceful retreat with waterfalls, swinging bridges and endless views.

Seafood: The fruits of the ocean and coastline, from tender seabass, turbot or hake to octopus, squid, crabs, cockles, scallops, mussels and countless other crustaceans, are sublime. Try the pulpo á feira (octopus Galician style).

What the guides say: “A tour of the Ribeira Sacra is a perfect, complete experience that captures all