Here is a guide to some of my favourite photo location spots in the Galician region of Spain.
Faro de Cabo Home
This lighthouse situated on the cliffs of the Cabo Home bay, offers spectacular views of the Vigo Estuary, Cies Islands and wild beaches. A great place to shoot photos at sunset, however, this spot is popular so you may encounter some crowds.
When to visit: All year round is good but I would avoid the winter months as the winds can be strong.
Rebeira Sacra- Canon do Sil
Canon do Sil, the Galician answer to the fjords of Norway. It’s a place to get in touch with nature, spirituality and wine. You will find many monasteries and one of the oldest wineries in Spain. Mencia grapes are mainly grown here up the steep slopes of the spectacular Sil Canyon. Legend states that the god, Jupiter fell in love with Galicia, so he created the Mino river to run through Rebeira Sacra. This area is particular delightful during autumn when the green leaves turn orange.
When to visit: Autumn for the colours but it's beautiful all year round.
Cabo Finisterre (Fisterra)
Cabo Finisterre is a rock-bound peninsula on the west coast of Galicia. In Roman times it was believed to be the end of the known world. The name comes from the Latin “finis terrae” meaning “end of the earth”. This spot is also the end of the extension of the Camino De Santiago and is a fantastic sunset spot.
When to visit: The summer months to enjoy a beer with the sunset.
Monte Aloia
Monte Aloia is a summit in the mountains of Galicia. The area is tranquil and has many ruins of old water mills. This is a lovely hiking area that is great to do with a dog too.
When to visit: The warmer months leading up to summer. It can be get pretty hot.
Mirador Ventana al Atlantico
This sculpture is the work of Francisco Pazos. A huge granite window which looks out to the open sea. This location is great at sunset and even when strong waves are breaking against the islands out at sea.
When to visit: Sunset is particularly lovely at this spot.
Faro de Punta Robaleira
Like the Faro de Cabo Home, this lighthouse offers similar views of the Vigo Estuary, Cies Islands, cliffs and wild beaches. You may even catch a glimpse of some dolphins at the mouth of the estuary.
When to visit: Sunset for sure. The views are incredible.
Faro de Cabo Silleiro
Situated about ten minutes away from the centre of Baiona, The Cabo Silleiro lighthouse has been helping sailors navigate around the peninsula since 1924. Just down the road from here you will also find well preserved military bunkers.
When to visit: Sunset, sunset, sunset.
Los Bosques de Galicia
Literally everywhere, find a forest and usually there’s something to take photos of such as the ever roaming wild horses, wild boars and cows with insanely huge horns! The shot below was taken in the mountains just above Baiona.
When to visit: All year round.
Fervenza do Toxa
The Fervenza do Toxa is an impressive sixty metre waterfall not too far away from Santiago de Compostela. This is the highest waterfall in Galicia. Despite its grandeur, you will often have the waterfall to yourself.
When to visit: All year round but better after heavy rainfall.
Caseta da Groba
High in the mountains just behind Baiona, you will find the Groba mountain. A particular highlight is the Groba mountain hut. The views over the Val Minor from here at sunrise are magical.
When to visit: All year round for sunrise or sunset but sunrise is better.
Playa de las Catedrales
Playa de las Catedrales is definitely a real highlight of Northern Spain. The literal translation is of the name is “Beach of the Cathedrals” but in fact its official name is “Playa de Aguas Santas” meaning “Beach of Holy Water”. The tide doesn't always fully go out so you may have to wade through icy cold Atlantic Ocean water at knee height to reach this part of the beach but I think it was worth it. What do you think?
When to visit: All year round but make sure to be aware of tide times. During Easter and the summer months you have to book a time slot on the website. Have a look here for the tide times and bookings here.
