Just above Portugal, in the northwest region of Spain, you will find the stunning, rugged coastlines of Galicia. There are so many places in Spain to visit that it can be hard to know where to begin, but we think that Galicia deserves your tourism as it’s pretty fantastic!
Beaches
If you are looking for hot sunny days spent on beautiful beaches, you need to head for one of the Costas. For a cooler climate, but really fantastic beaches, Galicia is a wonderful choice. Praia das Catedrais, for example, has breathtaking rock formations, and as such is known as Cathedral’s Beach. So, if you’re looking for something a little more of an experience than just sunbathing in your bikini, Galacia is stunning.
Things to see and do
If you are a bit of a history buff, Galicia has plenty to whet your appetite. A city with a Roman past, be sure to check out the Roman bridge of Ourense across the Miño River, and the Roman Walls of Lugo which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Tower of Hercules is also worth a visit, as the only fully-preserved Roman lighthouse that is still used today.
When it comes to food, you are going to want to wear some stretchy pants as there are plenty of delicious dishes to enjoy. You’ll notice that most dishes include a sprinkling of paprika on the top. You’ll start to feel as though a meal isn’t complete without it!
Tarta de Santiago
A Santiago cake is one of the most famous desserts in Galicia, and features the usual ingredients such as eggs and sugar, but also some ground almonds and a splash of brandy. The top is decorated with a silhouette of the cross of St James in powdered sugar.
Leite frita
Another dessert, this translates to ‘fried milk’, which is an accurate description of this delicious dish. The milk custard is battered and fried, and served with cinnamon and sugar on the top. Don’t knock it until you try it!
Pulpo á feira
Seafood is really popular in Galicia, and octopus is one dish that can be prepared in several different, delicious ways. Pulpo á feira is one of the best, topped with olive oil and paprika, eaten with toothpicks and a slab of bread to mop up the leftover oil.
Pimientos de Padrón
A bowl of mystery peppers might seem like a bit of a weird snack, but Padron peppers are really popular as a snack to share with friends. The peppers are sprinkled with rock salt, and you won’t know whether they are spicy or mild or somewhere in between until you eat one.
Queixo de Tetilla
This creamy, mild cheese comes in a really interesting dome-shaped block and is perfect for snacking on with wine and olives. Grab some when you visit the local markets!
Cocido Gallego
This stew is particularly well-loved in the winter as a way to warm up when it’s a bit cold. It features chorizo, pork shoulder, pigs’ ears, cabbage, chickpeas, and turnips – certainly not one for the vegetarians!
Caldo
This clear soup is another winter-warmer. With a base of pork fat, potatoes, and turnip tops, you can add several different ingredients to this, such as beans or chorizo, to suit your personal taste.
So, bin off Barcelona and say goodbye to Granada – head to Galicia instead for a fantastic break.
