Ortigueira

Only twenty metres above sea level, this small fishing village on the west coast, in the municipality of Coaña, was born with the sailors' houses nestled on the slopes of a small valley that merges into the Bay of Biscay.

Its tradition comes from whaling and lobster fishing, a trade that for centuries occupied several generations. After years of mooring on a flat rock that was battered by the sea, the picturesque port of El Ribeiro was built. So Ortigueira is a very old enclave, which began its development in the Middle Ages, and which has a past of work and struggle as a whaling port.

You can enjoy the charms of its traditional houses full of seafaring spirit, and in the upper part, the constructions of Indian architecture - since many of its inhabitants tried their luck in America -, all with views of the sea. In this sense, the Quinta Jardón is an obligatory stop, a symbol of the progress promoted by this family, benefactors of the town from the 19th century onwards, and which has one of the best-preserved gardens of French influence in the Principality.

Therefore, the first impression on arriving in Ortigueira is that of being in a secluded, different, peaceful place, with unbeatable ocean panoramic views and where the essence of the sea can be breathed. So much so that, as you will see, it is a town and a port open to the immensity of the Cantabrian Sea like few others. Steep and hanging from hillsides that lead to the sea, Ortigueira offers you a unique walk and an unforgettable bath of marine life.

You can enjoy a beautiful walk to its two lighthouses, which are marvellous. On the one hand, the old one, with the singularity that it worked with a solar valve, and the modern one. The old lighthouse still has its bell, which was rung when ships passed along the coast.

The chapel will also attract your attention, and the monument to the deceased sailors will touch your heart. It is sober but striking, and somehow represents the indomitable and courageous spirit of the inhabitants of this place that will not leave you indifferent.

And after all this, if you're up for it, you can take a trip to the Castro de Coaña!