30 September, 2011

Top three activities in Galicia

Galicia stands alone from the rest of Spain. Its green and fertile rolling hillsides are more resonant with an Alpine postcard than the dry, dusty and arid landscapes that we often associate with Spain.

It is this isolation and independence from the rest of its country that makes Galicia a fascinating region to visit. Check out our top three activities in Galicia, this starkly autonomous province of a truly vast, varied and absorbing country.

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is the most famous place for pilgrimages in Spain, with its name deriving from when it was the home of one of Christ’s apostles, Santiago.  Built in 1060, this ancient cathedral has been described as “an architectural masterpiece” and has one of the most impressive Baroque facades of any church in Galicia and beyond. Marking the end of the Pilgrim’s Way, the famous pilgrimage put on in Galicia every year, the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral is one of the most important Christian buildings in the world, and definitely worthy of a visit.

Tower of Hercules

Built by the Romans in the 1st century AD the Tower of Hercules is one of the most popular tourist attractions in La Coruna. It is simply awe-inspiring when you gaze up at this 59-metre tower, which is the only lighthouse of Antiquity to remain still in operation today, and take in the fact that it has been preserved for two millennia.

The views from the top of the tower of the whole of La Coruna below and the hypnotic blue ocean are simply stunning, and you can guarantee that you would never forget your trip to the Tower of Hercules.

Ourense Thermal Springs

On the banks of the beautiful River Mino the Ourense Thermal Springs can be found and are the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Ourense and other towns in Galicia. After taking an ‘ailment-healing’ dip in the beautiful spring waters, lie back on the grassy banks that surround the springs and take in the truly spectacular setting.

And maybe to make this a top four things to do in Galicia, how about the wonderful La Solana (pictured)? This 3 bedroom villa in Galicia even comes with mini golf!