Pack your suitcase: the Islas Cíes form a stunning archipelago

Historic lighthouses and fishing villages are speckled all along Galicia’s
coast. The Tower of Hercules near A Coruña is thought to be the world’s
oldest working lighthouse, while maritime communities such as Fisterra and
Cambados are utterly charming.

Inland, forested valleys rise above sparkling rivers and waterfalls. Sheep and
cattle graze peacefully on the rich grass of upland meadows. It’s excellent
territory for walking or cycling.

Many return from Galicia enthusing about the food and wine. With a coast
washed by clean Atlantic currents, it is a haven for seafood. Shellfish is a
major attraction — lobsters, scallops and clams are harvested along with percebes
(goose barnacles) and octopus, the latter served in a variety of ways.

On the sunny slopes near the coast are picturesque vineyards, several of them
surrounding one of the region’s noble old pazos —palatial manor
houses. King of the wines are the albariños, the ideal
accompaniment to seafood.

Galicia is proud of its Celtic links, which are also celebrated in various
festivals. A prime example is the 2,000-year-old remains of a Celtic hilltop
village, Monte de Santa Tecla. Elsewhere, the region is dotted with
architecturally significant monasteries and churches along with stone hórreos,
the distinctive grain storage sheds.

For many, the fine cathedral at Santiago de Compostela is the biggest magnet.
For centuries, pilgrims have been making their way cross country on ancient
paths by foot or horse to the city where the remains of the apostle St James
are said to be buried.

Other cities, including A Coruña and Vigo, are equally worth exploring. The
former is known as the Crystal City because of the glazed buildings that
surround the harbour, while Vigo has an atmospheric old quarter.

There are many reasons why Galicia is the ideal escape. Pay a visit soon and
it may well become your own secret place.

Tour operators who offer holidays to Galicia include:

Ramblers
Holidays

Kirker Holidays

Vintage Travel

Saga

Individual
Holidays

Visit the Telegraph’s Galicia
homepage
to discover more about this secret corner of Green Spain

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