As Catedrais Beach

As Catedrais Beach, also known as Esteiro, is a renowned tourist spot located in Ribadeo, Lugo, in the region of Galicia, Spain. With a length of 100 meters, this open beach is adorned with fine sand and sits along the famous Way of Saint James pilgrimage route. It is considered one of the most scenic beaches in Europe due to its breathtaking natural features.

The beach is particularly celebrated for its impressive rock formations, which include arches, caves, and cliffs that evoke the grandeur of old cathedrals, hence its unique name. It offers a soft sandy surface for visitors to unwind and take in the surroundings. The beach also provides the opportunity for exploration, with visitors being able to venture into the caves and pools filled with seawater remnants. These natural features also make the beach an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts, with the arches offering a distinctive backdrop.

As Catedrais Beach is also a popular spot for watching the sunrise and sunset, and it provides opportunities for swimming. However, visitors are advised to bring river shoes and a swimsuit if they intend to get wet.

Despite its serene ambiance, the beach often becomes crowded due to its popularity among tourists. In fact, it is the second most visited place in Galicia, with over 50,000 visitors during the summer. Most of these visitors arrive by car, which can lead to significant traffic congestion. The Ribadeo City Council is currently seeking ways to manage the high influx of visitors due to the environmental impact caused by the heavy car access.

Interestingly, the Esteiro station is situated just 1,500 meters away from the beach, making it a convenient 15-minute walk for those who prefer to avoid the traffic. It's also worth noting that access to the beach requires a free online reservation, and it's recommended to visit during low tide on a sunny day. This is due to the tide usually coming in during the afternoon, which reduces the amount of beach available and makes it impossible to reach the arches.

In terms of amenities, there is a bar located near the beach, although it is not directly on the beach itself. Visitors planning a trip to As Catedrais Beach are advised to check the weather beforehand to ensure optimal conditions for their visit.