Have you ever wondered why so many Spaniards choose Galicia to spend their summer vacation? Imagine if you will; long, hot days, comfortably warm evenings, traffic-free highways, and outstanding natural beauty. With autumn just around the corner, it’s time to reflect on another wonderful summer in Galicia. Here are some of my favourite snaps of the summer. Why not leave a comment and tell me which your favourite is.
The carretera nacional 120 is the main arterial road passing through the area. I became so bored waiting for a car to pass, I took the photo anyway.
1. Stree-free driving along traffic-free highways
A summer stream meanders its way through the Galician countryside.
2. Golden reflections
One of the best ways to explore the river Sil is by boat. Our favourite departs from Os Chancis. It’s an intimate experience for up to 10 guests and includes an onboard wine tasting. Floating past vibrant vineyards; sipping the local wine – perfect.
3. River cruising
Ribadavia is a beautifully preserved medieval town. Wandering through the streets feels like you’ve stepped back in time.
4. Strolling through the passageways of time
An ideal location to catch up on the local gossip.
5. The daily news
The changing shades of the river Sil as the sun descends in the western sky.
6. Fade to grey
Nine lives and forty winks: a day in the life of a Galician street cat.
7. Taking a catnap
One of my favourite cycling routes takes me along this shady lane.
8. Lighting the way
Patchy cloud provides the ideal conditions for exploring the picturesque town of Ribadavia in the province of Ourense.
9. Clouding the issue
The vineyards of the Zona de Amandi in the Ribeira Sacra rise hundreds of metres from the banks of the river. This valley is one of the most difficult places on earth to harvest grapes.
10. Sun bathing
For over 12 years we’ve driven through the town of Rodeiro on our way to and from the airport without giving it a second glance. When we finally decided to stop and take a look around, we stumbled across this charming town hall.
11. Rodeiro town hall
From Roman legions to French Legionaries, this idyllic landscape hides a dark history.
12. River diamonds
A typical Galician landscape: grapes ripen under the watchful eye of the Almighty.
13. Essence of summer
Evening vapour trails change from white to orange as the sun sets on another perfect day.
14. The journey home
In the spring of 1809, the bridge at Petin was the scene of a bloody battle between Napoleonic troops and the women of the village. Today the area is a little more peaceful.
15. Time span
A Cremello horse is nothing if not distinctive. This stunning example was the star of the Escairon horse fiesta.
16. Ride a white horse
The castle in the town of Castro Caldelas commands outstanding views over the surrounding area.
17. Keep sake
One of my favourite views of the Ribeira Sacra: the viewing point at Os Chancis. The distant mountains rise over 1000 metres from the river and provide the perfect natural platform from which to generate clean, renewable energy.
18. Calm and composed
If you missed springtime in Galicia, tick here.
Copyright © 2014 Craig Briggs
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Craig and Melanie own and operate a luxury farmhouse rental property called Campo Verde. To find out more about a stay at Campo Verde and Galicia in general, visit their website getaway-galicia
Craig’s book, Journey To A Dream, is available exclusively from Amazon, to purchase your copy click here for your national Amazon store.
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