Atlantic Coast — Spain's Green North

The Spanish North — from Galicia through Asturias and Cantabria to the Basque Country — is the opposite of the sunny south: green, wild, rainy, cool, and breathtakingly beautiful. The Spaniards call it España Verde (Green Spain).

Galicia

Landscapes reminiscent of Celtic regions with deeply indented fjords (Rías), granite cities, and constant drizzle. The Rías Baixas in the south are mild and rich in wine (Albariño), the Costa da Morte (Coast of Death) in the west is wild and spectacular — more ships have been stranded here than anywhere else in Europe. The Islas Cíes off Vigo — three islands with Caribbean white beaches — were voted the "most beautiful beach in the world" by the Guardian. Only accessible by boat, visitor numbers are strictly limited.

Asturias & Cantabria

The Picos de Europa — Spain's oldest national park — rise just 20 km from the coast to over 2,600 meters. The gorges (Desfiladero del Cares, the "divine gorge") are as dramatic as the Alps but far less crowded. The coast offers surf beaches (Rodiles, Langre), hidden fishing villages, and the caves of Altamira (the original cave is closed to the public, the replica in the museum next door is excellent).

Basque Country

The Basque coast is rugged and elegant at the same time. San Sebastián boasts one of the most beautiful city beaches in Europe with Playa de la Concha. Between the cliffs are surf spots (Mundaka, Zarautz) and fishing villages like Getaria and Lekeitio, where time stands still.