If you are from outside Spain or Galicia and have decided to visit this community, you should know that it combines nature, history, and culture in a magical environment. Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, or the Rías Baixas are well-known destinations that bring together these characteristics; however, there are also lesser-known corners that capture the authentic Galician spirit. Beyond the most well-known tourist circuits, we bring you some of the best secret places in Galicia that a local might recommend.
Corrubedo Natural Park (Ribeira, A Coruña)
Formed by the dunes and beach of Corrubedo and the Vixán and Carregal lagoons. The great mobile dune is one of its main attractions. Its large dimensions of white sand will make you think of a desert behind which you will discover the blue of the ocean. The beach and the lagoons, one sweet and the other salty, complete the wonders of this park and serve as a refuge for species that make up a very interesting ecosystem.
Local recommendation:
Visit the Castro de Baroña located on a beautiful isthmus surrounded by the sea. Some of the remains found there seem to indicate that it was a Galician sanctuary. The views and the sound of the sea from the remains of the Castro are impressive. It is undoubtedly one of the most secret places in Galicia that a local could recommend.
Cabo Ortegal (Cariño, A Coruña)
It is the symbolic marker that separates the Cantabrian Sea from the Atlantic Ocean and is flanked by two impressive rocky outcrops: O Limo and Os Aguillóns. In this setting, you will find the Herbeira cliffs, which are the highest above sea level in continental Europe. The coast between Cabo Ortegal and the town of Cedeira is impressive and this beautiful municipality will offer you an interesting heritage ensemble.
Local recommendation: stop in San Andrés de Teixido, one of the main pilgrimage sites that Galicians visit. A very special place with impressive nature filled with rituals. The legend says that “one goes to San Andrés de Teixido dead who did not go alive.”
Fuciño do Porco (O Vicedo, Lugo)
This is an impressive moderate-difficulty route. It can be accessed from a forest until reaching the wooden walkways between the cliffs of the Cantabrian Sea. In summer, you must reserve to hike the route, and at any time, it's best to check the condition of the walkways, but any effort is worth it because the views of the coves and islets are very beautiful.
Local recommendation: visit the town of Viveiro with its exceptional urban center and wonderful gastronomy. Also, the Mirador de San Pedro that will offer you the best views of the Ría de Viveiro and the Cueva de San Roque with its legend.
Mariña lucense (Lugo)
This region is another of the secret places of Galicia that a local could recommend because it offers a gentle and less crowded land where the contrast between the crystal-clear beaches and the cliffs and forests will surprise you. We also recommend visiting Rinlo, a beautiful fishing village with stone houses and narrow streets where they prepare a delicious bogavante rice that tastes better with the sound of the sea in the background. Nearby, you can also visit the cathedral of Mondoñedo with its high historical and cultural value due to its antiquity.
Local recommendation: a walk through the forests of this region inhabited by magical beings will connect you with nature and Galician mythology. Try to visit the Illa Pancha, connected to the mainland by a bridge; access is not always possible, but if the magic happens, you will love it.
Ourense Thermal
The city of Ourense has many attractions: historic center, cathedral, bridges... but today we want to recommend its magnificent thermal offerings, whose waters have been used for centuries. Along the Miño river, there are various points to enjoy these waters, and a route will take you through them. You can walk it, ride a bicycle, or take a small tourist train. The Outariz thermal baths stand out in a tranquil setting surrounded by nature, as well as A Chavasqueira, inspired by Japanese tradition.
Local recommendation: the healing properties of its waters and the sensation of well-being will accompany you along the way. Also visit As Burgas in the city center, which is free to visit.
Allariz (Ourense)
This town located in the province of Ourense perfectly combines tradition, culture, and nature. Its historic center, declared an Artistic Historical Complex, is very well preserved and will take you back in time with its medieval architecture. Allariz is crossed by the Arnoia river where you will find a magnificent riverside walk with recreational areas and a small dock. The Roman bridge stands out as one of the symbols of the town. You can also visit museums like those of leather, toys, or fashion. Its magnificent culinary offerings, festivals, and fairs complete the great offerings of this town in Ourense.
Local recommendation: in the Museum of Sacred Art of Santa Clara you will find a very unique piece, the Virxe Abrideira, a small and charming item that hides secrets inside and that belonged to Dona Violante, wife of Alfonso X, the Wise.
Cabo Home (Donón, Pontevedra)
This impressive cape located on the Morrazo peninsula, Cangas, is a must-see for nature lovers, archaeology enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers. From Monte Facho you will see one of the most stunning landscapes of the Atlantic coast. At its summit you will find the remains of an ancient castro settlement. Additionally, a route runs along the coast connecting three beautiful lighthouses. Along this route, you will find the spectacular Melide beach with crystal-clear waters, fine sand, and a magnificent forest in the background.
Local recommendation: the sunset from the Caracola of Cabo Home is impressive. This sculpture perfectly represents the connection between humans and the sea. Photos from this must-see stop are magnificent. Without a doubt, it is one of the most secret places in Galicia that a local could recommend.
Tui (Pontevedra)
Tui is a border town between Spain and Portugal. Its Historical Complex is a Site of Cultural Interest and is the second most important in Galicia after Santiago's. The walls, the Church of San Telmo, and the Plaza de San Fernando are some of the must-visit sights in this town. The Tui Cathedral deserves special attention for its peculiar fortified appearance, the interior, the cloister, and the chapels.
Local recommendation: in less than twenty minutes you will be on the other side of the border, in Valença do Minho, Portugal, where you can visit its interesting fortress that surrounds an attractive shopping and dining area.
Visiting one or several of these places will provide you with a more real knowledge of the history, tradition, and way of life in Galicia through local insight. You will be able to enjoy them fully because they are not mass tourism destinations where the connection between nature and human beings has created magnificent scenes.