Beautiful beaches are not a rarity in Spain. Neither, in fact, are unique beaches. However, while there may be plenty of options, some stand out as particularly interesting or beloved and for good reasons. A great example of this is the so-called La Playa de las Catedrales (Beach of the Cathedrals), which is officially known as the Praia de Augas Santas (Beach of the Holy Waters).
This beach is located on Spain's Galician coast and is a mile-long stretch of sand that is famous for its extraordinary geological formations that look rather like the flying buttresses that were used for centuries by stone masons in the construction of Europe's cathedrals; ergo, the nickname for the beach. These "buttresses", however, are entirely natural phenomena that give the beach a rugged and romantic appearance.
This beach is located on Spain's Galician coast and is a mile-long stretch of sand that is famous for its extraordinary geological formations that look rather like the flying buttresses that were used for centuries by stone masons in the construction of Europe's cathedrals; ergo, the nickname for the beach. These "buttresses", however, are entirely natural phenomena that give the beach a rugged and romantic appearance.
Now an iconic sight and one of the most famous beaches in Spain, it is best visited during low tide to get the full effect of the true majestic glory that is the geological formations. Once the water pulls back, it reveals a stunning landscape of natural arches, cliffs, and sea caves. The arches reach a staggering 90 feet in height and the caves stretch back deep into the cliffside and in between it all are patches of white sand and pools of clear water.
Visitors don't come to this beach for a typical seaside experience but, rather, to wander about the amazing natural structures and take photographs of the stunning views. Laying out all day or frolicking in the water for hours isn't really an option as the tide can rush back in very quickly and suddenly indeed! There is also a limit to how many visitors are allowed explore the beach per day per day - less than 5000 - and one must reserve a spot to drop by. Just find a vacation rental in Galicia and drop by this incredible natural beauty for yourself. The best times to visit are during August after 8pm or early in the morning or in the Autumn or Winter months as the experience is much better when there aren't crowds around but be sure to do your research and visit during low tide!
Visitors don't come to this beach for a typical seaside experience but, rather, to wander about the amazing natural structures and take photographs of the stunning views. Laying out all day or frolicking in the water for hours isn't really an option as the tide can rush back in very quickly and suddenly indeed! There is also a limit to how many visitors are allowed explore the beach per day per day - less than 5000 - and one must reserve a spot to drop by. Just find a vacation rental in Galicia and drop by this incredible natural beauty for yourself. The best times to visit are during August after 8pm or early in the morning or in the Autumn or Winter months as the experience is much better when there aren't crowds around but be sure to do your research and visit during low tide!
Photo credit: Andy Roberts / CC BY 2.0