On the southern edge of Rías Baixas in Galicia, the bay of Baiona offers a serene escape from the ocean’s embrace. Visitors can enjoy its historic quarter, scenic mountain views, riverside trails, and lush estuary. Baiona is also notable as the first European port to receive news of the New World in 1493, when the caravel ‘Pinta’ docked here. Each March, the Arrival Festival commemorates this event, and the replica of the ‘Pinta’ serves as a museum year-round.
In eastern Asturias, the coastal towns of Ribadesella and Llanes offer their own unique charms. Ribadesella, nestled between the Picos de Europa mountains and the Bay of Biscay, is famed for the Sella River, known for its international canoeing competitions in August. Visitors can enjoy kayaking throughout the year, combining physical activity with the region’s natural beauty and culinary delights. The Tito Bustillo Cave, the Gia viewpoint, and the port’s rich history provide further insights into the local fishing culture.
Traveling from San Vicente de la Barquera to Laredo, with a stop in Santoña, offers a journey through Cantabria’s fishing heritage. The Oyambre Natural Park near San Vicente showcases the area’s diverse flora and fauna. The town itself, part of the northern route of the Camino de Santiago, features medieval landmarks like a castle, bridge, and city wall. Santoña, known for its anchovy salting tradition, offers attractions such as the Marismas Natural Park and the Pescador and Caballo lighthouses, accessible via 800 stone steps. Laredo’s La Salve Beach, one of northern Spain’s longest, highlights the sea’s significance to locals. In September, the town celebrates the historic landing of Charles V and hosts the Flower Battle, where residents decorate floats with vibrant blooms, a skill passed down through generations.
