| 2. Sailing the N. Spanish coast to Galicia and Portugal | |
 |
Once having entered Spanish waters we sailed along the coast of the Basque country to Bilbao and Santander. Beyond these large ports lies the Costa Verde, or Green Coast, and the provinces of Cantabria and Asturias. Sailing westwards the scenery gradually becomes more and more dramatic as the permanently snow topped mountains of the Picos de Europa reach up some two and a half thousand metres to form a magnificent backdrop to the many small harbours scattered along the coast. Here, at San Vicente de la Barquera, we moored bows to the bridge with an anchor out astern. Progressing westwards the land becomes more and more indented with rivers and deep bays until one enters the region of the Rias Altas. Here, large stretches of protected water provide plentiful anchorages and give access to uncrowded beaches and villages unspoiled by tourism. Below you can see 'Joy of Mann' at anchor in the Ria de Vivero and Ria de Cedeira.. |
 |
 |
| Approaching the most western tip of this coast you enter the region of Galicia and come to the great port of La Coruna, the last harbour before Cape Finisterre. Here is to be found the famous Tower of Hercules begun by the Romans and reputedly the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world. At the end of each summer season of sailing the boat was lifted out and left to winter on dry land (as below, left). Below right sees us heading along the notorious Costa de la Muerte (Coast of Death) towards 'the end of the earth' - Cape Finisterre. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Having rounded the corner of this great headland one comes immediately upon the Rias Bajas. Being less exposed to Atlantic weather these great inlets have a much more welcoming and softer aspect than the Rias Altas. The fragmented coastline creates many broad estuaries with numerous coves and spectacular beaches as well as interesting towns. Above left is a view of the beautiful and unspoiled Ria de Muros. Next to it, a scene in the adjacent Ria de Arosa and left, a view over the yacht club at Bayona in the Ria de Vigo. Nearby can be found the strikingly attractive Isla Cies with their numerous anchorages and spectacular bathing. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
| Finally, heading further south, we leave Spain and enter Portuguese waters changing our courtesy flag as we sail along. |
 |
Return to' Sailing'. |
Go on to page 3: Along the coast
of Portugal.
|
 |