Welcome to Costa da Morte
Rocky headlands, winding inlets, small fishing towns, plunging cliffs, wide sweeping bays and many a remote, sandy beach – this is the eerily beautiful 'Coast of Death', the most westerly outpost of mainland Spain, where mysteries and legends abound. One of the most enchanting parts of Galicia, this remote, thinly populated and, for the most part, unspoilt shore runs from Muros, at the mouth of the Ría de Muros y Noia, round to Caión, just before A Coruña. Inland, narrow lanes weave through woodlands between tiny stone hamlets clustered around ancient churches in the folds of undulating hills. The treacherous coast has seen a lot of shipwrecks, and the idyllic landscape can undergo a rapid transformation when ocean mists blow in. Then it's time to settle into a local bar for some of the top-class local seafood and good Galician wines.
Top experiences in Costa da Morte
Travel guides
Starting at $36.39
Costa da Morte activities
Finisterre Day Trip from Santiago de Compostela
Take a trip along the Costa da Morte (Coast of Death) on a full-day journey from Santiago de Compostela. This excursion is a combination of breathtaking landscapes, local gastronomy, authentic village life, and historical immersion.The first stop is in Pontemaceira, nice village to see the Roman bridge on the river, then we continue to Muros, an old fishing town and harbor. Its old town has been restored and the historical center has been conserved, making it a beautiful and authentic look into the past.Continue to Ézaro, located in the extreme south. The waterfall there is particularly unique, as it is among only 7 waterfalls in Europe that flow into the ocean or sea.Afterward, make your way to Cape Finisterre, a rock-bound peninsula at the end of the ancient world. Head to the local lighthouse located on the mountain of Monte Facho, and enjoy the views out over the water. You will also learn more about how shipwrecks on the rocks gave this stretch of coastline its name.Stop for lunch in Finisterre, and then make your way to Muxía. This village, known as ground zero of the Prestige oil spill disaster in 2002, is known for its rocks and water.After lunch, the journey reaches its last stop: Muxía. This village, known as ground zero of the Prestige disaster, summarizes and combines the elements that make this area: stone and water. The granite is present, whether the rocks on which sits the venerable sanctuary of the Virgen de la Barca, or by the famous "pedra of abalar" or ”pedra dos cadrís ", remains of the ancient Galician idolatrous worship. Return to Compostela.
Galicia's Death Coast Day Trip from Santiago
Meet your guide in the morning by the Pilar Church and depart Santiago by bus for the approximate hour and twenty-minute drive to Fisterra via Pontemaceira, a small town with lots of history. Its 14th century medieval bridge over the Tambre River and the surrounding vegetation create an atmospheric setting.The tour then continues to Muros for a walking tour of the old town and the fishing port, a reminder of Galician culture and tradition where the sea is the protagonist. Admire the porches, galleries, and quaint style of the homes. Muros, with its beautifully restored old town, has maintained its original image and kept its identity against the excesses of the coastline. After Muros, the next stop is Carnota. Surrounded by landscapes of mountains and marshes, and boasting 7 kilometers of beaches, Carnota is an appealing destination. Visit its famous granary, which at nearly 35 meters in length, is one of the largest in the world.The next stop on the road is the Ézaro Waterfall. Visit the spectacular waterfall of the Xallas River, which crosses Ézaro and cascades into the sea. From a vantage point that’s unique in Europe, you’ll have breathtaking views of the town and coast.The journey then continues to Fisterra. In the ancient world, pilgrims coming from Compostela encountered the vastness of the ocean here. Visit Faro, the most important location in the Costa da Morte area. You’ll have free time for lunch in the village (at own expense).After lunch, the last stop is Muxía. Visit this village to see Nosa Señora da Barca, one of the most traditional marine sanctuaries in Galicia. Tradition has it that the Virgin appeared to the apostle James here. The famous Pedra de Abalar, or 'rocking stones', are the remains of the ancient Galician idolatrous worship.After, head back to Santiago, arriving at approximately 7:00pm.