Casa Areina

Casa Areina benefits from a fabulous hillside location, offering stunning views along the Galician coastline. Surrounded by trees, this leafy holiday home feels like a hidden retreat, yet the views make it evident how close the stunning beaches and islands are to you. Galicia may be off the usual Spanish tourist trail, yet the history and wonders of this vibrant region are just as remarkable as any other. The countryside sings with vineyards and mountains, whilst the coast draws in visitors with its crystal-clear water and white sandy shores.

From the villa itself, outdoor enthusiasts can head out on foot to explore the mountains. The views only get better and better with walking routes that take you directly to the viewpoint at Monte Castelo. There are picnic benches at the top, so you can pack some snacks or a bottle of local wine to enjoy at the same time as the views!

A short ten-minute drive will take you into the beautiful fishing town of Vigo, named for the southernmost estuary of the Rías Baixas. The fishing origin of this charming town has left its historic quarter with a strong maritime flavour, with its gastronomy still revolving around the fish and seafood that can be caught along the Galician coast. Fringed by mountains, the port of Vigo must be one of the best natural ports worldwide, which has led to the urban development and popularity of this bustling town. You will find wide tree-lined avenues guiding you to beautiful historic buildings and more modern enterprises, all designed alongside the winding lanes and arcades of the old maritime quarter, which has been given tourist-historical interest status.

For food lovers, the Pedra market is a captivating place for tasting and buying Galician oysters. You can eat some of the best seafood available in the market, soaking in the colours and smells of all the fresh produce around you.

Of course, it is often the beaches and sea that draw visitors to this tranquil area. There are endless coves and beaches along the Galician coast, or from the port, you can take a boat to the coastal towns of Cangas and Moaña on the other side of the estuary, as well as to the Cíes Isles. Part of the National Park of the Atlantic Islands, the sheer cliffs and dunes of these beautiful isles are the home of thousands of migratory birds, so make sure you pack your binoculars!

Read more about Galicia

About Galicia

Like many parts of Spain, Galicia has its very own identity that has remained intact through its regional dialect and distinguishing culture. Although Galicia is recognised for its holy traditions, we urge budding tourists to also consider its astonishing green countryside & rivers and its UNESCO World Heritage sites. Occasionally you may even hear the gentle tootling of bagpipes, known locally as the Galician Gaita, along this northern corner of the Iberian Peninsula.

You're likely to fly into Santiago de Compostela, which is the capital of Galicia and is probably best known for the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage and its route. Many of the travellers embark on this journey by foot and tend to be mesmerised by this fine city at the end of their trek. Casco Viejo, or the Old Town, is a good place to end or even start your holiday. This area of the city is blessed with markets, restaurants, bars and buildings from a bygone era. After exhausting yourself in the busyness of the city, take a day trip to Praia de Rodas, on the gorgeous Cíes Islands. These small islands, accessible by boat from Vigo, Baiona, or Cangas, have been noted as having some of the best beaches in the world. It has to be seen to be believed!

Galicia is divided into four key regions: A Coruña, Lugo, Ourense and our favourite – Pontevedra. A Galician proverb states that 'Pontevedra gives water to travellers'. We firmly believe this to be true, as this particular part of Galicia has everything a traveller could need for an unforgettable experience and it almost feels like this city is constantly giving back. Whilst you holiday in Pontevedra you will realise that days are structured around mealtime. And why wouldn't they be? With some of the best seafood you will experience in Spain and the noteworthy Albariño wine, you may notice your jeans feeling a little tighter toward the end of your holiday. You will be glad to know that your waistline need not be a cause for concern though! Pontevedra is blessed with some of the best hiking trails, medieval monasteries, estuaries, and valleys within Spain. Don't forget about the coastline either! Rarely you will you find so many empty beaches, so make the most of this privacy and just embrace the nature around you.

Galicia is still an unspoilt part of the world. It has everything a diverse group of friends & family need to have a glorious adventure.

Getting There

Galicia is served by either Santiago de Compostela Airport, A Coruña Airport, or Vigo Airport. Various train lines connect the main cities and towns of Galicia to other destinations in Northern and Central Spain. Hop on and enjoy the view from your comfy seat; there's even a Galician Tourist Train pass! This discounted rail pass gives you access to various rail routes created by the Galician Regional Government and based on key elements of the region. Follow the Lighthouse Route along the northern coastline and stop to admire the lighthouses and gorgeous sea views, or hop on and follow one of the Ribeira Sacra Wine Routes to visit the lovely towns and wineries where acclaimed Galician wines are made and enjoyed. Check out the government website to grab your pass and plan your trip!

From the UK:
Direct flights are available from London with easyJet, Ryanair, Vueling, and many others. Although, travellers should be aware that Vigo Airport only receives domestic flights, so a stopover is needed if you wish to travel to this airport. Chartered flights are also available from several other UK airports.