CASTILLA Y LEÓN

In the northwest corner of Spain there’s a romantic and rugged coastline that is the natural boundary of a magical land: Galicia. The Atlantic Ocean and the Bay of Biscay, together with wind, tides and sun have shaped Galicia into a maritime country down to its very soul.

The sea may lash the sculptured granite cliffs, but thankfully, even more often, it laps gently on the beautiful and unspoiled beaches. Galicia is a mix of steep cliffs, thousands of “rias” (tidal inlets), sumptuous green valleys, smooth faced mountains, a flavorful source of cheeses and wines; and home to people who not only have their own language, but retain centuries-old traditions in their customs, culture, legends and art. Perhaps because of its deep roots, Galicia has the confidence to break new and exciting ground. An example is the bold “City of Culture,” in Santiago de Compostela that is designed by a leading architect from New York. Now under construction, it is on a hill above one of Medieval Europe’s most important pilgrimage sites.

The Galician landscape is studded with fascinating monuments – such as the legendary pre-Stone Age dolmens, or burial places, and caves wonderfully painted by the Ancients. Houses of worship are many and beautiful. The Cathedral of Santiago is a fine example. Monasteries too have been a part of Galician life for centuries; those at Oseira and Samos are exquisite in their restrained yet powerful presence. Galicia is a rich experience.

The coast is studded with charming towns and fishing villages and that means that means you can find dozens of species of just-caught fish for your dinner. And don't forget to wash them down with a delicate local wine. There’s an exuberance about the people that is remarkable. For example, feasts and fairs are to be found in almost 3,400 parishes. And what colorful events thy are! A feast for the arrival Spring; another for the roasting of chestnuts, and, of course, festivals that celebrate the tasting of the much anticipated local wines.

Let yourself wander. You’ll come across an exciting variation of the horse show – known as the Rapa das Bestas, where shearing and branding take place, an event that is full of wild passion and beauty. Or you might attend a Galician celebration of folklore, history and religion, called “romería,” steeped in the ancient world of Galicia, harking back to pagan times, and often attended by locals in colorful traditional costumes. The festivals have themes – The Miracles of Amil, in Morana; The Virgin of the Boat in Muxia; the Battle of the Moors and Christians in A Sainza.And, of course, in this land which loves delicious food, there are gastronomic festivals galore. The Feast of the Stew, Festivals of Cheese, of Salmon, of Pepper and Seafood... the list goes on and on, and is ever more exciting for the senses; taste, aroma, sights and sounds of a wonderful corner of Spain called Galicia.