In the north of Galicia, there is a place that is increasingly chosen for getaways in late September. We are talking about the small town of Ortigueira, where the land literally meets the waters of the Atlantic and the scenery is truly breathtaking. Here you will find not only long beaches and dramatic cliffs, but also an atmosphere where past and present exist side by side.
The town is renowned for its historic center: narrow streets, the ancient church of Santa Marta, and a cozy main square set a special tone. But Ortigueira’s true fame comes from its annual Celtic Music Festival, which turns the town into a major destination for musicians and tourists from around the world each summer. A stroll through the medieval Ponto district or along Calle Real offers a chance to experience the authentic spirit of Galicia, where every house and alley holds its secrets.
Morouzos beach is the main landmark here. Four kilometers of dark sand, surrounded by dunes and pine groves, open up to views of the ocean. The beach is easily accessible on foot via a trail along the bay, which is especially appreciated by walking and sea view enthusiasts. Just a few kilometers away is the port of Espasante — a picturesque spot with colorful houses, Concha and Santo Antón beaches, and an unusual local tradition: here they honor a pig named Antón, who has become a symbol of the village.
Outside the city, breathtaking natural landscapes await. The A Capelada mountains offer hiking trails that end at the highest cliffs on continental Europe. From the Loiba viewpoints, you’ll find what many call some of the best views in the world—this is where the famous ‘most beautiful bench on the planet’ stands. Sitting there, it’s easy to believe you’re at the edge of the world.
Gastronomy and Traditions: The Flavors of Galicia
It’s impossible to remain indifferent to the local cuisine in Ortigueira. Restaurant and tavern menus feature the freshest seafood: just-harvested goose barnacles, clams, scallops, and mussels, prepared simply yet with exceptional flavor. No meal is complete without classic Galician-style octopus, as well as pies stuffed with tuna, meat, or seafood. For those with a sweet tooth, traditional filloas and Santiago almond cake taste especially good when enjoyed with a view of the bay.
Here, traditions are inseparable from everyday life. Beyond the Celtic festival, fairs and celebrations are held throughout the year with the sounds of bagpipes and tambourines, and tables filled with the region’s finest products. Local artisans offer textiles, ceramics, and jewelry—authentic pieces of Galician culture you can find at markets and take home with you.
Ortigueira is just a 40-minute drive from the eco-village O Viso, making it an easy and accessible destination. Stunning views, genuine hospitality, and authentic Galician flavors await those who choose to say farewell to summer here. At the end of September, this town becomes the perfect place for anyone seeking to capture a piece of the real Spain.
