 |
|
|
| Spain - Barcelona - Bilbao - Cordoba - Granada - Madrid - Mallorca - Seville - Valencia - Sightseeing - Car Hire - Ski Guide - News - Portugal - France - Italy - Andorra - Morocco - Tunisia - more | ||
Regions of Spain : Galicia - Hotels GaliciaThe climate of Galicia is tempered, and specially in winter, with minimal temperatures of about 5 degC, quite rainy. During the summer season, maximum temperatures are around 20 degC. Galicia's richdom in water and its Rias are characteristic for its nature. At the area of Rias Altas you will find magnific beaches, impressive towns and beautiful fishing villages. Rías Baixas are worth a visit for their natural preserves and balnearies, as A Toxa. The inland shows green landscapes and romantic villages. The first cultures which left their tracks in Galicia were Celtic, while Romans left as a legacy the walls of Lugo, the bridge of Ourense, and the Tower of Hercules. Middle Ages were marked by the discovery of the tomb of the Apostle Santiago (Saint James). Thousands of pilgrims made their way to the cathedral of the newly founded town Santiago de Compostela, and the world-famous Way of Santiago (also known as Way of Saint James or Camino Jacobeo), which is flanked with numerous churches, monasteries and chapels of high historical-artistical value, was formed. Galicia's folklore clearly shows its Celtic and Gaelic origins, and the most characteristic musical instrument is the Gaita (bagpipe). Regional gastronomy is of great reputation for its excellent fish, Empanada Gallega (a typical pie of fish or meat), traditional sweets prepared in some monasteries (where the recipes are kept in secret jealously), and the Ribeiro wine. Puerta del Camino Hotel Santiago de Compostela Quality, comfort, gastronomy. Since our opening in 1999 we have been the benchmark of hospitality with our latest technology and facility, defining ourselves as the most ideal place to stay for both business and pleasure. Situated only a few meters ... Madrid Tapas Night Walking Tour Sample Spanish nightlife and Madrid's tasty tapas on an evening walking tour that will tantalize your taste buds! Led by an entertaining foodie guide, this walking tour is the best introduction to the laid back Madrileno lifestyle. You'll visit ... More Spain News   Santiago de Compostela - Santiago de Compostela, known as the 'Town of the apostle' is the capital of the region of Galicia. The city has over 89,000 inhabitants and is located at an altitude of 260m above sea level. The city is just 76km from LaCoruña, 111km from Ourense and 117km from Pontevedra. Lugo is just 107km away. Santiago de Compostela is probably best known as the final destination of the legendary medieval way of pilgrimship Camino de Santiago (Way of Saint James), now considered by Unesco, a World Heritage Site. Today the city attracts visitors from all over the world thanks to its fantastic monuments. The city is named after the Apostle Saint James ("Santiago"), who is buried here. Santiago is certainly one of Spain's most monumental cities, with a particular architectural style all of its own. The city also has one of the most famous universities in Europe and a large number of students give the city a unique ambience.
Hotels Santiago de Compostela - Last Minute Hotels Santiago de Compostela  Vigo - The city of Vigo is to be found within Galicia. Vigo has a magnificent port which looks out to the Atlantic. Vigo also has a good communication network of motorways and railways. The Autovia Noroeste connects directly with Madrid at a distance of 667km. The Autopista del Atlantico heads into northern Galicia, passing through Santiago, Pontevedra and Acoruña. The rail station is located within the heart of the city and has daily links to most major cities. Vigo has much to offer the visitor, including many parks and gardens, beautiful squares and historical buildings. The Porta del Sol is officially the centre of the city and here you can see the tall sculpture named Sireno. The gilded figure is the work of Paco Leiro and represents a figure that is half man and half sea creature. Hotels Vigo - Last Minute Hotels Vigo  A Coruña - One of the provinces of Galicia is La Coruña which takes its name from its capital city, A Coruña. The province occupies the far north-western corner of Spain. Within the capital city stands one of the oldest light-houses in Spain. A Coruña is one of Europe's most important ports and the second largest in Spain. The claim to fame here is that this is the port from which the Armada sailed in 1588, only half of them returning. Despite the fact that this is an ancient city, it lacks a wealth of monuments. Within the museums there are some fine artefacts representing the history of the city. Some museums are dedicated to practical themes such as the science museum or the famous Domus Museum or even the only museum in Spain dedicated to the history of electricity. One of the major museums is located within a 16th century fort.
This city, of high economical importance, is located at a peninsula. Major attractions include the Romanesque churches, the synagogue and the old quarter which offers an interesting contrast between almost fragile buildings and massive stone palaces. Hotels A Coruña  Pontevedra - The old town of Pontevedra is quite small with picturesque winding streets, little squares, fountains and old houses with balconies. The church of Santa Maria at the far end of the Calle Izabel II, was built in the 16th century. Because of the narrow alleyways and one-way street system it is much easier to walk around Pontevedra rather than try to drive. In the Plaza de Lena is the provincial museum, located in two 18th century houses, joined together by an arch. The museum contains something of interest to everyone including collectables, pottery and items of days gone by.
Although there are plenty of hotels along the coastline, you could do no better than to stay at the Parador in Pontevedra. There are also plenty of campsites in the area. Pontevedra means 'old bridge' and the town is situated at the top of the Ria of the same name. The whole region of Galicia would be an ideal place to holiday if it wasn't for the unpredictable weather. Here it is wetter than anywhere else in Spain and the wind blows directly from America. Hotels Pontevedra Eating & Drinking - recommended Restaurants & Bars |