Galicia
(AS SEEN IN EPISODE 102, “Pilgrimage to Galicia” AND EPISODE 103, “Coasting Along in Galicia”)
Galicia, nestled into the northwest corner of Spain, is the sort-of untouched wild child of the country. Distinguished by an incredibly rocky coastline on two sides and a mountainous, foggy, and lush countryside, Galicia has been known to inspire myths and superstitious tales. It’s one of the most exciting places to visit in Spain right now because it’s relatively unaffected. For example, some of the country’s—some of the world’s—best seafood comes from Galicia’s shores. Rather than fix something that’s not broken, the region’s cooking style is a wonderful example of less-is-more. Berberechos, clams that are pretty much the most perfect mollusk, are gently steamed open, perhaps scented with a splash of local Albariño wine and maybe a bay leaf or two. It should be said, Gwyneth, Mario, Mark and Claudia all mention Galicia when asked about their favorite parts of the road trip.
RESTAURANTS
Casa Pintos
The restaurant serves fresh seafood caught by the local mariscadoras. Gwyneth, Mario, Mark, and Claudia relished the incredible ingredients and perfect simplicity of the cooking style.
Practical Information: Travesia Montiño, 14, +34.986542435
Restaurant 42
Wonderful seafood and tapas—try the percebes, killer berberechos, pickled green peppers, patatas bravas, and jamón—and don’t forget lots of orujo.
Practical Information: Calle de Franco, 42, Santiago, +34.981570665
HOTELS
A Parada das Bestas
Gwyneth, Mario, Mark, and Claudia felt right at home at this country inn made especially delightful by Maria’s great cooking and Suso’s generous hospitality.
Practical Information: Pidre 27, 27207 Palas de Rei, +34.689119521, www.aparadadasbestas.com
Parador Condes de Vilaba
You know, just your ordinary fifteenth century medieval fortress... Stay in one of the tower’s six rooms rather than the new building.
Practical Information: Calle Valeriano Valdesuso, s/n, 27800 Vilalba, +34.982510011 www.parador.es
ATTRACTIONS
Cathedral of Santiago de Compestela, the destination for all who trek the Camino de Santiago.
Practical Information: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cathedral_of_Santiago_de_Compostela
Lighthouses, with coasts on two sides, it’s unsurprising that Galicia has some of the most beautiful lighthouses in Spain.
Practical Information: www.unc.edu/~rowlett/lighthouse/esg.htm
A Coruña, the coastal city Mark and Claudia visited while driving around Galicia to stock up on new clothes for Claudia’s road trip wardrobe.
Practical Information: www.coruna.es/servlet/Satellite?c=Page&pagename=Portal%2FPage%2FPortal-Portada&cid=1126200835360&argIdioma=en
Ribeira Sacra, the wine-growing region responsible for some of Galicia’s incredible varietals.
Practical Information: www.ribeirasacrata.com