iBestTravel’s Guide to Northern Spain: Explore the Culture, Coastline, and Cuisine
With its cliff-crashing waves, moody landscapes, and incredible recipes, Northern Spain is a gorgeously green gem overlooked by many travelers. Its dramatic coasts and rugged mountains have been home to unique cultures and traditions, from the Celtic Galicians to the mysterious Basques, for millennia.
Beyond the outdoor vistas, the culinary riches of Green Spain are also on display – spread across tables and bar tops. Nature has blessed the region with flavorful and fresh seafood drawn straight from cold waters, and fascinatingly salty wines cultivated on seaside slopes.
The stunning coasts of Galicia, colorful fishing ports of Basque Country, infinite views of Cantabria, and beaches galore of Asturias can be explored in a week; however, you’re guaranteed to be left wanting more. Here’s how:
Day 1: San Sebastián
The ocean and the mountains collide to form the boundaries of San Sebastián, a small town on the northern coast. It all comes together at La Concha Bay, one of the most beautiful in Spain, where elegant art nouveau buildings look out over its waters and green Mount Urgull rises from its edge.
Below this historic hill is where you’ll find the city’s modern cultural monuments, the pintxo bars. The city’s Old Part – once rumored to have more bars per person than anywhere else in the world – is the birthplace of the pintxo, a small snack like a Spanish tapa, but more elaborate. Bar tops throughout the district are often covered with these delicious bites, so elbow up with the locals, grab a pintxo, a glass of wine, and repeat down the street.
Many of these bars have been in the same family for generations, serving up delicious skewers of seafood conserves and pickled vegetables. On the city’s oldest route, 31 of August Street, is La Viña, where the original Basque burnt cheesecake is sliced in droves, the perfect way to end a meal. Afterward, take the easy hike up Mount Urgull for some of the best views of the city’s gorgeous Isla de Santa Clara and coastal promenade.
Day 2: The Basque Coast
When heading west out of San Sebastián, get your camera ready. On the coastal road, every turn reveals a new breathtaking discovery; from the gray flysch (sedimentary rock stacks that jut out of the sea), to low-lying storybook fishing villages, where red and green-painted boats bob in ports. The cultural and natural richness is on full display in coastal towns like Lekeitio and Bermeo, the latter of which has multiple hiking routes with stunning ocean views on one side and green hills on the other.
Continue to the west and spend an afternoon in Bilbao, Basque Country’s largest metropolitan area, walking through the twisted titanium halls of Frank Gehry’s iconic Museo Guggenheim Bilbao. Alternatively, you could land in Santurzi, where you can take a boat out to sea to spot large whales and orcas in their natural habitat.
Day 3: Santander
Santander rose to prominence in the early 1900s as a favorite destination for Spanish royalty to holiday. Since then, the capital of Cantabria has been a favored spot for lovers of nature, fine sandy beaches, and sports such as sailing and surfing. Its beautiful seafront promenade, majestic buildings, and rich gastronomic choices, where the delicacies of the sea stand out, are some of the attractions in this elegant city.
Make time for a stroll along the belle-époque elegance of El Sardinero’s sandy beach up to the Magdalena Peninsula, where the royal family’s English-inspired summer palace is open to public visits. The name ‘Sardinero’ refers to the abundant sardine, which is a mainstay in the locals’ summer cuisine. Join them in the Barrio Pesquero, where sardines are served fresh off the grill with nothing but a dash of sea salt and a bit of olive oil.
Day 4: Cantabria to Asturias
The best way to begin a day in Cantabria is with a strong coffee and intense butter cake before heading out to explore the unspoiled rural splendor of its hidden valleys and mountain passes. These valleys are home to some of the best sobaos pasiegos found at local bakeries. This former open cast mine turned outdoor wildlife reserve is beloved for its wildlife watching and rustic beauty.
Cantabria is also known for its scattered caves, which house some of the oldest and most superlative prehistoric art in the world. With hundreds of ancient images painted by early humankind, visiting these relics is an excursion worth taking. Ten of these caves are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Heading west of Santander, seek out the region’s many quiet sea coves – the most beautiful in all of Spain. Drift along the 100-mile coastal road, aiming for highlights such as the cozy, rock-enclosed Playa de Berellín in Cantabria, or the Playa del Silencio across the border in Asturias. The verdant valleys of Asturias grow millions of apples, and when it’s time for a drink, reach for cider – the favorite beverage of the locals.
Day 5: The Picos to Oviedo
Driving along the coastal highway in Asturias offers breathtaking views of green-skirted mountains. The Picos de Europa National Park is one of seven UNESCO biosphere reserves in the region, spread across 11 picturesque villages. Another biosphere reserve is the Parque Natural de Redes, where traditional mountain specialties are best enjoyed at local taverns.
In the village of Arriondas, rent a canoe and participate in a local tradition: the Descenso del Sella, which ends in Ribadasella, embodying Asturian charm. Populated since prehistoric times, Ribadasella’s historical significance is illustrated by its murals along the Paseo de la Grúa.
Next, head to the beautiful Playa de Vega to enjoy seafood from the Cantabrian Sea at one of Spain’s most acclaimed restaurants. The chef is known for his fish conserves and grilling skills that offer a unique smoky flavor.
Day 6: El Camino del Norte – Crossing into Galicia
Galicia is home to the end of the renowned Camino de Santiago. This route, originally a pilgrimage, now draws nature lovers and active travelers alike. Myths and superstitions abound, but travelers can count on incredible views along the way.
One of the quaintest villages on the route is O Cebreiro, filled with Celtic pallozas, or round stone houses. Follow the yellow arrows of the camino past stunning landscapes and valleys.
The unspoiled shores of the Costa da Morte feature rocky headlands, small fishing towns, and beautiful sandy beaches, giving this mysterious region its daunting name.
Day 7: Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela marks the end of the trek across the northern region of Spain. For centuries, millions have slowly journeyed to this city, culminating their adventure at the magnificent cathedral.
For the best view of the cathedral, attend the pilgrim’s mass, where a giant, silver-plated incense holder is swung from the ceiling. This historical site blends Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque influences as the resting place of Saint James the Great.
After visiting the cathedral, reward yourself with the flavors of Galicia’s renowned food culture. Grab a vermouth at the bustling market, try the national dish, or indulge in a sweet Santiago tart from local convents. Reflect on your journey in the beautiful Parque de Alameda, surrounded by the lush spirit of Green Spain.
