Galicia, Spain. Travel down the stunning coastline from Santiago de Compostela.
This day trip from Santiago de Compostela took us through the stunning Rías Baixas region on Spain’s north-west coast, in the heart of Galicia. It’s a part of Spain known for its green hills, Atlantic coastline, and crisp Albariño wines. The tour included winery visits, coastal views, island stops, and even a boat trip with fresh mussels and local wine. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to see more of Galicia’s natural beauty and seaside charm, all in one relaxed day.
Lagar de Besada
The day started with a visit to Lagar de Besada, a small family-run winery in the heart of the Rías Baixas wine region. It’s known for its crisp Albariño, and you can learn how they’ve been making it since the 1980s. The tasting is relaxed and friendly, and the setting among the vines makes it a great introduction to the region. We were lucky to have the owner, Maria, give us the tour. It was such a pretty vineyard and one of the most unusual way to grow grapes that we have ever seen.
Capela de A Lanzada and Surrounds
Next up was the Capela de A Lanzada, a tiny stone chapel sitting high above one of Galicia’s most famous beaches. It’s a beautiful spot with sweeping ocean views, sea breezes, and a mix of history and legend. The nearby coastline is rugged and open, and it’s easy to see why locals love coming here. I really loved the colours of this part of the coast. The white sparkly sand, the blues of the ocean and the orange of the lichen was so pretty. We had plenty of time to wander around and explore the old ruins, the beach and the chapel.
Isla da Toxa
A short drive across a bridge takes you to Isla da Toxa, a pretty little island known for its thermal spas and shell-covered chapel. It’s a mix of calm pine forests, sea views, and a touch of old-world glamour. Perfect for a walk or a quiet coffee stop before heading back to the coast. The day we visited there was a wedding on. There were so many glamorous people walking up and down the red carpet from the big hotel to the chapel. Was great for people watching. We had a group of guys who were a La Tuna band from Seville on our tour. They brought their guitar and we enjoyed an impromptu performance under the shady trees outside the chapel. There is a lovely promenade to walk along where you can see all the boats and mud flats.
Mussel and Wine Boat Trip
The highlight of the day is the boat trip through the Rías Baixas estuary. You’ll see how mussels are grown on traditional floating platforms, and then get to try them fresh on board, along with plenty of local white wine. It’s easy-going, fun, and full of the simple pleasures Galicia is known for. We had the guys from a La Tuna band on board, playing music and everyone was joining in the singing and conga line.
Combarro
The final stop is Combarro, one of Galicia’s most charming fishing villages. Its narrow streets are lined with stone houses and oreos (traditional grain stores) that stand right beside the water. It’s a great place for a wander, a few photos, and maybe one last glass of Albariño before heading back to Santiago. The town is dotted with witches all around the stone crosses and outside shops and houses. It was a gorgeous, fascinating little village. We had plenty of time to wander around the pretty cobblestone streets and check out the oreos, the pretty gardens and spot the witches.
We absolutely loved this day out it was so much fun, full of variety, and gave us a real taste of Galicia. The scenery was beautiful, the wine and seafood were excellent, and every stop offered something different. A real highlight was meeting the lively La Tuna band, who brought music and laughter to the day, and chatting with Lorenzo from Seville, who made the trip even more memorable. It was one of those days that remind you why travel is such a joy with good company, great food and wine, and so many beautiful places to see. We would highly recommend this day trip.