Santiago is, undoubtedly, the most visited city of Galicia, and the place where many tourist stay during their holidays
Moreover, because of its geographical location in the region, it is the perfect departure point for a day tour, to discover other places of Galicia.
Finisterre is, by far, the most popular day tour. Its lighthouse attracts, every year, thousands of travelers that want to see what is known as “The End of the World”, since the Romans.
However, there are many other places besides the conventional tourist attractions, that are really worth a visit. And that’s exactly what we want to talk about today, here you have a brief list of alternative day tours around Galicia:
Cabo Home
The Lighthouse of Cabo Home (Cangas do Morrazo), is not as popular as the one in Finisterre, but has nothing to envy in terms of spectacular views. From there, you will be able to contemplate Melide Beach (which has a Blue Flag), one of the wildest beaches on the Ríaas Baixas.
Isla de Ons
This lovely island is also part of the Galician Atlantic Islands Maritime-Terrestial National Park, but is not as crowded as the Cíes Islands (so far!). It is a perfect spot for walking & hiking, just to relax on its beautiful beaches, and to try some delicious octopus! There are regular boats in summer season departing from different ports in Galicia, do not hesitate to contact us for more information.
A Pedra da Rá
The Mirador da Pedra da Rá (the Frog Stone viewpoint, in English) is located in Ribeira (Barbanza region), and from there you will be able to contemplate the stunning views of the whole Galician coast. The Castro da Cidá (celtic remains that have been discovered very recently) is very close by, as well as the Corrubedo sand dunes and the Vixán & Carregal lakes. It is quite an unknown region that has so much to offer, and less than 1 hour far from Santiago!
Allariz
This small town in Ourense looks like a fairy tale village. The river, the bridges, the small stone streets, the nutty macaroons… and there is also time for art: we strongly recommend the visit to the Ecoespacio o Rexo,where you will be able to discover the stones painted by the artist Agustín Ibarrola. A real outdoor museum!
San Andrés de Teixido
There is a popular Galician proverb that says “San Andrés de Teixido, vai de morto quen non foi de vivo” (San Andrés de Teixido, you will go there when you are death, if you did not go when you were alive), which really shows how mandatory is to go there!
Its high cliffs will make you think about the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland, Galicia’s cousin land from the North. This walk is really worthy because of its natural value and the lovely landscapes, but also because of the archeological heritage that you will be able to discover. It starts in Adro Vello ( Carreiro Beach, in O Grove) and will border the coast leaving behind old salting warehouses and white sand beaches with crystalline water.
This list is too short compared to large amount of places we can visit, but we will be back soon wit
h other suggestions. What about you, have you discovered any secret wonder that you would like to recommend? We would love to read your story!