Map of Gijon to Portosin

The next stage of the voyage, from Gijón to Portosín, takes us along Spain’s stunning northern coast, also known as the Costa Verde and Galicia’s Costa da Morte, a rugged stretch where lush green landscapes meet the wild Atlantic. This leg offers a perfect mix of challenging headlands and sheltered rías (coastal inlets), with opportunities to explore historic towns, anchor in peaceful bays, and experience Galicia’s rich maritime culture. The journey begins with a short sail westward from Gijón to Luarca, a quaint fishing village set in a deep natural cove. Known as the "White Town of the Green Coast," Luarca is famed for its picturesque waterfront, fresh seafood, and hillside houses cascading toward the sea.

From Luarca, the voyage continues to Ribadeo, a key entry point to Galicia. Ribadeo’s sheltered harbor is a welcome stop, offering access to one of Spain’s most spectacular natural wonders—Playa de las Catedrales (Beach of the Cathedrals), where towering rock arches are revealed at low tide. This charming port town is also known for its lively streets and blend of Galician and Asturian culture, making it an ideal place to rest and explore before heading back out to sea.

Sailing on, we reach Viveiro, located at the mouth of the Landro River, surrounded by green hills and forested slopes. Viveiro’s medieval quarter is a highlight, with ancient stone walls, cobbled streets, and the Porta de Carlos V, a surviving gate from its fortified past. Its peaceful anchorage, vibrant markets, and excellent local cuisine make it a favorite stop for many sailors.

The route then takes us around Cape Estaca de Bares, the northernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula. This headland is a major milestone, where the coastline turns sharply south. The waters around Cape Bares are often challenging, with strong currents and shifting winds, but once past the cape, the sailing becomes easier as we approach La Coruña, a significant and historic port city.

La Coruña, known as the "City of Glass" for its beautiful glass-enclosed balconies overlooking the harbor, is a key stop along the Galician coast. The city is steeped in history, with its ancient Tower of Hercules, a Roman lighthouse that still guides sailors today, and a charming old town filled with tapas bars and lively plazas. The well-equipped marina provides a safe haven, and the city’s blend of culture, history, and modern amenities makes it an ideal place to rest and prepare for the next leg of the voyage.

Continuing south, we sail around Cape Finisterre, one of the most iconic landmarks in Galicia. Once believed to be the "end of the world," the cape’s jagged cliffs and sweeping views are truly awe-inspiring. The waters around Finisterre can be rough, but the experience of rounding this legendary headland is unforgettable. From here, the coast begins to soften, with the wild Atlantic giving way to the calm, protected waters of the Galician rías.

The final stretch takes us past the fishing village of Laxe, with its quiet beaches and traditional boats bobbing in the harbor, before entering the tranquil Ría de Muros e Noia. We arrive at Portosín, a peaceful town with a well-sheltered marina, surrounded by rolling green hills and picturesque fishing villages. Portosín is an excellent base for exploring nearby Muros, a charming town with stone houses, narrow streets, and a lively seafront promenade.

This section of the voyage offers an unforgettable experience, blending the rugged beauty of Galicia’s coastline with the warmth and hospitality of its seaside towns. From the dramatic cliffs of Cape Finisterre to the calm, sheltered waters of the rías, every stop along the way is filled with rich history, natural beauty, and the unique maritime spirit of northern Spain.