Beaches to Visit in Winter

Who says it’s not a good idea to go to the beach in winter? In fact, some acquire a special beauty when the weather is not or during high tide. There’s something for everyone.

 

1 – Beach of the Cathedrals in Ribadeo, Lugo

 

This “virgin” beach, which was declared a Natural Monument of Humanity, is arguably one of the most beautiful in the world. It’s one of the hidden treasures of Galicia: huge slate rocks, crystal clear turquoise water, and white sand. The cathedrals have been sculpted over time by the wind – which blows strongly in that area – and water. Of course, you’ll always think you’re in a different place because of the varied weathering of the rocks and different appearances as the tide rises or falls. However, I would only advise walking along the cathedrals during periods of low tide. If you are quiet when the wind blows, especially in winter, you will hear a whistle. But don’t panic, it’s just the strong winds passing through the holes in the cathedrals that can evoke the musical notes of an organ. With passages, galleries, caves and arches, the Beach of the Cathedrals (in Galician: A Praia das Catedráis) is a place you won’t want to miss.

 

2 – Cofete Beach, Fuerteventura

In this exceptional place the golden sand, whose color evokes the sand of the Sahara desert, dominates. When cold arrives to the peninsula, the Canary Islands still have good temperatures. And that’s why I recommend escaping to Cofete, to the south of the island and specifically in the peninsula of Jandía. It seems like the beach is flanked by mountains. And take note: you can see turtles in summer or winter. This magical and pure area attracted director Ridley Scott, who recently shot his blockbuster film Exodus based on the life of Moses there. And, as often happens in these cases, “if you want something, it will cost you dearly.” You have to walk quite a while to access it, since it is quite far from the tourist areas. And one more thing: Make sure to visit at sunset so you can watch the sun reflect on the golden (almost yellow) sand.

 

3 – Beaches of Llanes, Asturias

It is the image of Asturias, appearing in all the advertising campaigns of the principality and one of the most photographed beaches in Spain. The wind has also done its job over time, and the green surroundings there make it special. It has always been a special place in northern Spain, and especially the Toró beach, where artist Agustín Ibarrola has a little space. In the jetty of Llanes, you’ll find the famous Cubes of Memory, and these colorful cubes also appear in any promotional spot for Asturias. But that’s not all. Toró Beach has also inspired stage and film directors such as José Luis Garci, who shot the film El Abuelo (The Grandfather) there.