Destination: Spain
LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL ITINERARY INFORMATION
Itinerary: Green Spain
ONE MONTH/BASQUE COUNTRY TO GALICIA
The sea sets the agenda for the Iberian Peninsula's emerald fringe. The great sweep of coastline traverses some 600km from the French to the Portuguese borders, with hundreds of beaches en route, but cosmpolitan centres, like Bilbao, and some of Europe's tallest peaks present bracing alternatives. All roads lead to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain's culturally distinct northwest extremity.
Spain's well-drenched northern coast forms a green band from the Basque Country to Galicia, backed up by the Cordillera Cantabrica. Either of the Basque Country's major cities, San Sebastian, with its crescent bay and tapas bars, or Bilbao, with its extraordinary Guggenheim museum, would make a fine introduction to the journey. Heading westward, hug the coasts of Cantabria and Asturias, making forays to inland valleys and mountains. Following Cantabria's eastern coast, bask in the quaintness of Castro Urdiales, surf at Orinon and cruise the bars of festive Santander. Continuing westward, explore Santillana del Mar and it's medieval core, admire Comillas' modernist architecture and catch some waves at sprawling Playa de Meron. The eastern Asturias coast is best travelled by train, stopping off at the fishing ports of Llanes and Ribadesella. Arriondas, the next stop, is one gateway to the majestic Picos de Europa. Straddling Cantabria and Asturias, the peaks offer unlimited hiking. Next, head for Oviedo, Asturias' capital, with its pre-Romanesque architecture, and Gijon, a substantial port where cider flows copiously. West of Gijon, secluded beaches await between the picturesque harbours of Cudillero and Luarca. One approach to Galicia is to follow its rias (estuaries), a route that covers dynamic cities, like A Coruna and Vigo, and low-key resorts, islands and protected areas. Between the Rias Altas (north) and Rias Baixas (west) are the untamed beaches of Costa da Morte. Santiago de Compostela, a pilgrimage destination for centuries, makes a suitable endpoint for a Green Spain trek. Those with more time could make the final approach on foot via the well-trodden Camino de Santiago.
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