Galicia guide

About Galicia

The land of a thousand rivers that flow into the sea along a huge and spectacular coastline, Galicia has a stunning 750 beaches and a wealth of delicious seafood, whilst inland is a dynamic landscape of dramatic canyons and steep hills that is often described as being like Ireland with better weather! It is also the home of the pilgrimage destination, Santiago de la Compostela, which has been visited by Catholics for over a millennium.

This exquisite corner of Spain is known as the land of a thousand rivers, and its huge coastline boasts 750 different beaches as well as producing a fabulous variety of seafood.

With its own language (Gallego), strong traditions, spectacular coastline and medieval city of Santiago de Compostela, Galicia not only holds a special place in Spanish hearts but is a great place to spend a holiday too. This peaceful, unspoilt region of Spain has been compared to Ireland - not just for its Celtic past but for its rugged, green landscape and air of rural peace.

The weather however is much better, allowing you to enjoy the wonderful beaches like the unspoilt and beautiful Playa de Carnota at Finisterre to the full. You'll also discover some of the best seafood in Europe which is farmed in the rocky, fjord-like water inlets (rias) where the small, colourful fishing boats shelter from the Atlantic.

Cuisine of Galicia

Local specialities

All types of seafood especially mussels and pulpo (octopus). Empanadas, tasty savoury pies (very much like a Cornish pasty!).

What's on the menu?

The parrillada is a very popular type of restaurant in this region. It uses a wood-fired grill for barbecuing fish and meat.

What to drink

A chilled Albariño white or a purply red Ribeira Sacra.