Sailing the Spanish Atlantic coast: Complete guide
Spain's North Atlantic coast, with its breathtaking cliffs, wild beaches and picturesque fishing ports, is a real Eldorado for sailors.
From the Basque Country to Galicia, Cantabria and Asturias, this coast offers a diversity of landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Plan your maritime itinerary in Spain with Orca Retail and let yourself be tempted by a trip along the mythical North Atlantic coast.
Discover secret coves, visit historic towns, sample local specialities and soak up the authentic atmosphere of the Spanish coast.
Off we go!
San Sebastián (Donostia in Basque)
What to do in San Sebastián
This elegant seaside town, nicknamed the "Pearl of the Cantabrian Sea", offers an exceptional living environment. The shell-shaped La Concha beach is the city's emblem.
The historic center, with its pedestrian streets and colorful houses, is a delight to explore. Food lovers will be delighted by the pintxos, the typical tapas of the Basque country.
Mount Urgull, overlooking the town and home to a historic fort, offers a breathtaking panoramic view.
Sailing in San Sebastián
The San Sebastián marina is located at the foot of Mount Urgull. It offers a full range of services and facilities for yachtsmen.
The bay of La Concha is protected, but navigation can be disrupted by the north wind, the tramontana.
The seabed is rocky, requiring careful navigation, especially near cliffs.
- Port authority : Puerto de San Sebastián
Bilbao
What to do in Bilbao
Bilbao, famous for its Guggenheim Museum and avant-garde architecture, offers much more than just a museum.
Its historic center, with its narrow streets and old houses, is an invitation to stroll. The Ribera market, a must for gourmets, is brimming with fresh produce.
The town also boasts numerous green spaces, such as the Doña Casilda Iturrizar park, and offers a multitude of cultural and sporting activities.
Nature lovers can explore the Urdaibai biosphere reserve, while the more sporty can enjoy the beaches of the Basque coast.
Bilbao is also a dynamic city, with a lively nightlife and numerous events throughout the year.
Sailing in Bilbao
The port of Bilbao, once marked by heavy industry, has metamorphosed into a dynamic space where maritime culture rubs shoulders with contemporary art. The ria de Bilbao, with its calm waters and varied landscapes, offers an ideal setting for yachtsmen.
Navigation in this region has a few particularities to take into account. Tides, which are often high, influence water depths, requiring particular attention when planning routes. In addition, maritime traffic, although regulated, requires vigilance, particularly in port areas.
- Port Authority : Autoridad Portuaria de Bilbao
Santander
What to do in Santander
Santander, capital of Cantabria, is a dynamic city with a rich historical heritage. The cathedral, the Magdalena palace and the Cabo Mayor lighthouse are just some of the sights not to be missed.
Santander's beaches are renowned for their fine sand and clean waters.
Sailing in Santander
The Port of Santander is a major commercial and leisure port. It offers a wide range of services and facilities for yachtsmen.
The Bay of Santander is protected, but sailing can be disrupted by the northerly wind. Discover the bay's islands, such asMouro, and enjoy their beaches and unspoilt nature.
The seabed is rocky, requiring careful navigation, especially near cliffs.
- Port Authority : Autoridad Portuaria de Santander
Gijón
What to do in Gijón
Gijón, a dynamic coastal city, offers a perfect blend of industrial heritage, nature and urban life.
Its beaches, such as the famous San Lorenzo, are ideal for relaxation and water sports. The historic center of Cimadevilla, with its narrow streets and colorful houses, is an inviting place to stroll.
Culture buffs won't be left out with the Ferrocarril d'Asturias Museum or the Asturian People's Museum.
For a deeper immersion in the region's history, a trip to Oviedo is a must.
This university town, capital of Asturias, is home to the magnificent Oviedo Cathedral, a jewel of Romanesque architecture. The Alvar Alto Foundation, meanwhile, presents the Finnish architect's finest works in a permanent exhibition.
Sailing in Gijón
The port of Gijón is well equipped to welcome yachtsmen, with modern facilities and a wide range of services.
The waters are generally calm, but the north-westerly wind can make navigation tricky at certain times of the year. The seabed is mixed, with rocky and sandy areas.
- Port Authority : Autoridad Portuaria de Gijón
Avilés
What to do in Avilés
Avilés is a charming little port town, a haven of peace away from the crowds.
The historic center is a delight, with well-preserved medieval buildings such as the plaza Mayor, the old church of Sabugo and the Valdecarzana palace.
The city is also an important cultural center, with institutions such as the Casa de la Cultura and the Asturias Art Museum.
For a touch of modernity, don't miss the Niemeyer Center, an architectural masterpiece designed by Oscar Niemeyer.
Sailing in Avilés
The port of Avilés is a mixed port, with commercial and pleasure facilities.
The waters are generally calm, but it is important to take into account the maritime traffic in the ria. The seabed is mainly sandy.
- Port Authority : Autoridad Portuaria de Avilés
La Coruña
What to do in La Coruña
La Coruña is a bustling port city, full of life and culture.
Don't miss the Hercules lighthouse, the oldest working lighthouse in the world, or the old town with its picturesque squares and narrow streets.
Sailing in La Coruña
The port of A Coruña is a major port on the Galician coast, with numerous facilities for yachtsmen.
The waters around La Coruña are choppy with waves and currents, requiring careful navigation, especially in bad weather. The seabed is mainly rocky.
- Port Authority : Autoridad Portuaria de La Coruña
Vigo
What to do in Vigo
Vigo, Galicia's largest city, is renowned for its fishing port, one of the most important in Europe. Its fish market is a sight not to be missed.
The city also boasts numerous museums , theaters and parks. The Castro de Baroña, an ancient fortified village, is a must-see for history buffs.
Sailing in Vigo
Sailing near Vigo, yachtsmen can admire the steep cliffs, observe the marine life and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Galician coast.
The ria de Vigo, one of the largest and deepest in Spain, offers an exceptional setting for yachtsmen.
Cruising along the ria, you can also discover secret coves, traditional fishing villages and panoramic views of Mount Castro.
From the port of Vigo, you can alsoexplore the Cíes Islands, a natural paradise of fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
However, it is important to sail with caution due to the sometimes strong currents and shipping traffic.
- Port Authority : Autoridad Portuaria de Vigo
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