Northern Spain 2023

Northern Spain – AGT Road Trip Adventure 2023

After completing the Portuguese Coastal Camino in 2023, a small group of Auckland Global Trekkers continued the adventure northward into Galicia and Asturias — two of Spain’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions. What followed was a week‑long road trip filled with dramatic coastlines, ancient cities, mountain trails, and the relaxed charm of northern Spain’s villages and seaside towns.

It was a journey defined by freedom, curiosity, and the joy of exploring at our own pace.

A Coruña – Our First Base on the Atlantic Coast

We picked up our rental car in Santiago and drove north to A Coruña, a lively coastal city wrapped around a sparkling bay. Our accommodation overlooked the water, and evenings were spent wandering the old town, sampling Galician seafood, and watching the waves crash against the promenade.

A Coruña was the perfect base — relaxed, scenic, and full of character.

Muxía & Cabo Finisterre – The End of the World

Our first road trip took us west along the Costa da Morte to Muxía, a peaceful fishing village known for its sanctuary perched above the ocean. From there, we continued to Cabo Finisterre, once believed to be the literal “end of the world.”

Standing at the lighthouse, looking out over the endless Atlantic, we felt the same sense of completion and reflection shared by countless pilgrims who walk here after Santiago. The rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and dramatic skies made it a powerful moment.

Lugo & Sober – Roman Walls & Ribeira Sacra

The next day we headed inland to Lugo, famous for its perfectly preserved Roman walls — the only complete Roman fortification in the world that you can walk around in its entirety. We strolled along the top of the walls, taking in views of the old town below.

From there, we continued to Sober, a gateway to the Ribeira Sacra region, known for terraced vineyards and deep river canyons. Quiet roads, scenic lookouts, and rural charm defined the day.

Río Eo, Taramundi, Ribadeo & Luarca – A Day of Coastal & Mountain Beauty

Our next road trip took us through a mix of landscapes:

• Río Eo / Taramundi — a green, mountainous area known for traditional crafts and peaceful valleys.

• Ribadeo — home to dramatic coastal cliffs and the gateway to the famous Playa de las Catedrales.

• Valdés & Puerto de Luarca — a stunning whitewashed fishing town wrapped around a natural harbour, one of the prettiest stops of the entire trip.

It was a day of winding roads, ocean views, and discovering the quieter corners of northern Spain.

Gijón – Our Base in Asturias

We then moved east to Gijón, settling into the old town as our next base. With its beaches, cider houses, and lively plazas, Gijón had a warm, welcoming energy that made it easy to relax and explore.

Llanes, San Antolín Beach & Colunga – Asturias at Its Best

From Gijón, we explored the Asturian coast:

• Llanes — a colourful seaside town with medieval streets and dramatic coastal walks.

• San Antolín Beach — a long, wild stretch of sand backed by green hills.

• Colunga — a charming inland town surrounded by countryside and traditional villages.

The combination of beaches, cliffs, and rolling hills made this one of the most scenic days of the trip.

Cabrales – Cheese, Mountains & Tradition

No visit to Asturias is complete without experiencing its famous blue cheese. We joined a Cabrales cheese tour in Arenas de Cabrales, learning how the cheese is aged in mountain caves and tasting varieties that ranged from mild to wonderfully intense. It was a delicious and memorable cultural experience.

Cangas de Onís, Covadonga & Cabranes/Torazu – History & Highlands

The next day took us into the heart of Asturias:

• Cangas de Onís — home to the iconic Roman bridge spanning the Sella River.

• Santuario de Covadonga — a dramatic basilica set against forested mountains, one of Spain’s most spiritual sites.

• Cabranes / Torazu — peaceful rural villages with stone houses, quiet lanes, and timeless charm.

It was a day that blended history, nature, and the deep cultural roots of the region.

Picos de Europa – The Trail Cut Into the Mountains

One of the absolute highlights of the trip was our journey into the Picos de Europa, one of Spain’s most spectacular mountain ranges. We walked the famous narrow trail carved directly into the cliffside, offering jaw‑dropping views of deep gorges and towering limestone peaks.

After the hike, we visited Parque del Cerro de Santa Catalina, a scenic hilltop park overlooking the coast — the perfect place to unwind after a big day in the mountains.

Madrid – A Grand Finale

We finished our adventure with a scenic train ride to Madrid, swapping mountains and coastlines for grand boulevards and royal architecture. With one full day to explore, we visited:

• The Royal Palace — one of Europe’s most impressive royal residences.

• Embajadores — a vibrant neighbourhood full of cafés, murals, and local life.

It was a fitting end to a journey that blended nature, culture, and discovery.

A Road Trip of Freedom, Friendship & Northern Beauty

Our Northern Spain 2023 adventure was a celebration of spontaneity and exploration. From the cliffs of Finisterre to the mountains of Picos de Europa, from Roman walls to fishing villages, every day brought something new and unforgettable.

Most of all, it was the shared experience — the laughter in the car, the coastal sunsets, the long walks, and the joy of discovering hidden corners together — that made this journey truly special.

We left Spain with full hearts, stronger friendships, and memories that will stay with us for years.

For more upcoming amazing adventures check out Auckland Global Trekkers