The Rias Baixas: holiday to the Galician coast in O Grove

Hotel Mar del Norte, your authentic escape in the Rías Baixas

In the heart of O Grove, Hotel Mar del Norte invites you to experience the true essence of the Rías Baixas with a comfortable, no,fuss stay. Its warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect place to switch off and embrace the relaxed rhythm of the Galician coast.

The rooms are designed with your rest in mind, offering functional and pleasant spaces where simplicity meets comfort. Here, everything is focused on an easy, მშვიდ stay, where tranquillity and thoughtful details enhance every moment.

Its location is ideal for exploring the area: just minutes from beaches, seaside promenades and iconic spots such as the island of A Toxa. And of course, the surrounding area is perfect for indulging in the region’s renowned gastronomy.

Guests consistently highlight the friendly staff and excellent value for money, making it a smart and satisfying choice.

Let the Atlantic charm carry you away… and book your perfect getaway today.

Much more than seafood: The secrets of the peninsula of O Grove

O Grove, known as the "Seafood Paradise" in the Rías Baixas (Galicia), is a fascinating place with stories that go far beyond its spider crab dishes.

Here are some of the most interesting curiosities:

• Peninsula or Island? In the past, O Grove was an island. Over the centuries, sea currents and winds naturally accumulated sand to create the isthmus that today forms the beach of A Lanzada. This arm of land joined the island to the continent, turning it into the peninsula we know today.

• The Island of Sculptures (A Toxa) The famous island of La Toja (A Toxa) hides one of the most unique churches in the world: the Hermitage of San Caralampio. The curious thing is that it is completely covered with scallop shells. This was done to protect the walls of the sea moisture and saltpeter, becoming a unique visual icon.

• The "donkey" origin of the Spa Legend has it that the healing power of the thermal waters of La Toja was discovered thanks to a donkey. A farmer abandoned his sick donkey on the island to die peacefully; some time later, he returned and found the animal healthy, strong and with shiny hair after having wallowed in the mud and thermal waters of the area.

• The Seafood Festival O Grove celebrates every October the Fiesta de Exaltación del Marisco, declared of National Tourist Interest. Such is its magnitude that tons of seafood products are served, and it is the best time to see the tradition of the shellfish workers working on the beaches.

• An open-air "Museum If you stroll through the center of town, you will notice that there are dozens of granite sculptures in the squares and streets. This is due to an international symposium that is held periodically, where artists from all over the world leave their mark on the town.

• The cemetery under the sand Near the beach of A Lanzada is an impressive archaeological site. Remains of a Roman salting factory and a necropolis have been found where the bodies are surprisingly well preserved due to the composition of the sand and the lime of the shells.

Rías Baixas: wild coastline, fresh seafood and Atlantic charm at its finest

The Rías Baixas, located in Galicia’s stunning northwest coast, is a destination where nature, gastronomy and authenticity come together. Think dramatic cliffs, peaceful estuaries, vineyard-covered landscapes and some of the best seafood in Spain — all wrapped in a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere.

Make sure you visit:

• Combarro, a postcard-perfect village with granaries by the sea.
• Cambados, the capital of Albariño wine, full of charm and tradition.
• O Grove and A Toxa Island, known for seafood and spa experiences.
• The historic town of Pontevedra, with its beautiful old quarter.

Beaches we think you’ll like:

• Playa de A Lanzada: long, wild and perfect for walks.
• Playa de Areas Gordas: unspoilt and surrounded by nature.
• Playa de Silgar (Sanxenxo): lively and family-friendly.
• Playa de Rodas (Cíes Islands): often considered one of the best beaches in the world.

Family-friendly activities:

• Take a boat trip through the estuaries and see mussel farms.
• Visit the Atlantic Islands National Park (Cíes Islands).
• Enjoy beach days with calm waters perfect for kids.
• Cycle or walk along coastal paths with stunning views.
• Discover local markets and traditional festivals.

Make sure you try these local delicacies:

• Fresh oysters from O Grove.
• Galician-style octopus (pulpo a feira).
• Albariño white wine, fresh and aromatic.
• Empanada gallega with seafood or meat fillings.

Make the most of your visit and go to...

• Vigo (30 min): the largest city in Galicia with great views and food.
• Santiago de Compostela (1h): iconic pilgrimage city full of history.
• Isla de Ons (boat): quieter alternative to the Cíes Islands.
• Baiona (40 min): coastal charm and maritime history.