High mountains, hot springs, sandy beaches, and the most beautiful waterfalls—this is Green Spain! The northwest of Spain has so much to offer for those embracing van life, including numerous walking routes, ample parking options, and delicious Spanish dishes. Moreover, there is something for everyone, whether you enjoy cities, nature, or history.
We loved it! During our Spain road trip through the northwest, we visited Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia. Let us tell you all about our van life adventures! We’ve made a list of our favourite spots for parking and exploring in our camper van.
The north of Spain extends further on Green Spain, known as Cornisa Cantábrica, extends from Cantabria and Asturias to Galicia and the Basque Country. In this article, we’ll share our tips about the first three regions! This entire area is also referred to as España Verde or Green Spain. It certainly lives up to its name, showcasing a wealth of nature with diverse vegetation and landscapes—perfect for a Spain road trip in the northwest.
Green Spain: Our Favourites
Our favourite way of travelling is day by day in our camper van. We mainly stay at free spots and prefer visiting natural sites, small towns, and hidden gems. Consequently, we tracked our route via Polar Steps, and now it’s time to share it with you!
Santillana del Mar
Walking through this village feels like stepping back in time. It is a historical place, dating back to the 6th century, with many cobbled streets lined with beautiful mansions. Additionally, the main tourist attraction, the Caves of Altamira, is located nearby, leading to many souvenir shops selling local products like liqueur. If you enjoy liqueur, I recommend trying one; they come in various flavours!
In the low season, it’s wonderful to stroll around quietly, and there are also places in the area to park your camper van.
San Vicente de la Barquera
This fishing village has its charm. Here, you’ll see locals, surfers, and tourists. Furthermore, adjacent to the village is a large bay that belongs to a national park. Oyambre National Park features a nature centre and many hiking trails.
The old pilgrim route to Santiago de Compostela and the northern walking route (Camino Primitivo) also pass through here. If you appreciate history, be sure to walk over the La Maza Bridge, dating back to 1600; the views from both sides are stunning. While parking can be a bit tricky around the village, there are options a little further away, making it convenient for those enjoying van life in Spain.
Ribadesella
This beautiful coastal town is located on Costa Verde, boasting stunning beaches and high cliffs. It’s a hotspot for surfers, and the colourful houses in the village, along with the breathtaking mountain views, make it a delight.
There are plenty of camper spots available, both for day and night, along with services in the area—ideal for anyone on a Spain road trip in the northwest.
Lakes of Covadonga
About an hour’s drive from Ribadesella, you’ll arrive at the entrance to Picos de Europa National Park- Known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, it’s a prime example of the natural beauty in green Spain. The route to the area is impressive but can be quite thrilling, with winding roads that reach significant heights. Nevertheless, it’s worth it!
The park was declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 2003, covering an expansive area of over 60,000 hectares. In fact, it offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, canyoning, rafting, and climbing. There is a rich diversity of plant and animal species here, including the Cantabrian brown bear!
We visited the lakes and took a leisurely walk; however, there are many options available. You’ll find camper spots for day and night, making this one of our highlights during our Spain road trip!
Gijón
Gijón is a large port city located on the Cantabrian Sea. During our visit, it buzzed with locals strolling along the beach or relaxing at terrace cafés. The city has much to offer: you can surf, shop, enjoy Spanish cuisine, and experience vibrant nightlife.
Additionally, the old town is worth exploring, featuring the Revillagigedo Palace and lovely views of the water. There are campsites and motorhome pitches near Gijón where you can stay overnight, making it convenient for van life in the northwest.
For us, finding vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Spain was challenging; however, Gijón has many options. For example, there’s a lunch café called Pasiones, where all dishes are plant-based and rooted in traditional regional recipes. You can enjoy drinks and snacks here for hours—it comes highly recommended!
The evening scene is lively in Gijón, with various bars and clubs. One alternative spot is Dilema Indie club, where you can dance until late at night, enjoying a mix of Spanish indie music. Just be aware that the nightlife starts late, around 1 a.m.
Cathedral Beach
This beach, with its towering rock formations and various caves, is stunning. You can only visit at low tide, as it can be dangerous and submerged at high tide. Swimming is not allowed here; however, there’s a walking path along the cliffs that is well worth it!
When we visited, we parked our camper overnight, enjoying the beautiful views.
Santo Estevo do Ermo
Twenty minutes further on is Santo Estevo do Ermo. This nature reserve features a native forest with a high diversity of plants. Furthermore, beautiful waterfalls and numerous hiking trails await you.
You can park at the starting point on a sandy path. Although space is limited, it’s not an issue in the low season. The trail to the waterfall is relatively short but can be slippery; thus, be sure to wear sturdy footwear!
Praia dos Cristais
This small but unique beach is known for its crystal-like pieces of glass scattered across the sand. Once a dumping ground for glass, the ocean has smoothed the pieces into polished stones. It’s fascinating how something once discarded can be returned so beautifully.
Although parking is tricky, you can find spots in the village and walk from there. Several walking routes along the coast offer breathtaking views, perfect for a day out during your travels in Spain.
Laxe
Laxe is a beautiful coastal municipality with long beaches, large cliffs, and exciting hiking trails. Additionally, old settlements can still be found scattered along the coastline, making for a special sight.
We enjoyed our time here at the beach with our camper, making it easy to find a nice spot to stay and experience van life in this picturesque area.
Santiago de Compostella
You may know Santiago for its long pilgrimage routes. It’s a vibrant city filled with students, pilgrims, and tourists. Located in the Galicia region, it features a stunning historic centre that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Importantly, there are several parking options here, including places for day and night stays.
The Old Center
The most famous tourist attractions are the cathedral and Plaza del Obradoiro. The cathedral, a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, dates back to its first construction in 1077. The square is right next to the cathedral and sees hundreds of pilgrims arriving daily after their long journey.
Thus, it’s a truly special place to visit. Besides these attractions, wandering through the small streets and enjoying Spanish tapas is a must—we liked the city!
Ourense
Ourense captivated us! There was so much to experience. A friend living in the city gave us a tour, sharing tips and history about Ourense. The city is rich in history, with remnants from the early Roman period, including the Ponte Vella, an ancient bridge crossing the Miño River.
Furthermore, the daily market features fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and other local products. A great spot to eat and drink is Charlotte—a lovely gastro bar and café with breakfast options that won’t break the bank. You can even work online here!
Thermal Springs
Additionally, several hot springs are scattered throughout the city for free public use. We found this to be the highlight of our visit! On our first day, we went to the Ourense Thermal Springs, a favourite spot for locals.
You need to change beforehand and bring slippers and a towel. After that, you can soak in the warm water, which is between 38 to 42 degrees Celsius. It’s a special experience, especially on a winter evening. There are also showers available, and convenient parking for campers nearby, which is a bonus for those exploring van life in Spain.
Termas de Prexigueiro
We’ve been to several hot springs, but this one is among our favourites! In the winter of 2022, we paid €5.70 for entry to Termas de Prexigueiro. There are several pools with different temperatures, and a specific route to follow is recommended. Each bath indicates the temperature and recommended duration of use.
The staff are friendly, the forest views are fantastic, and the facilities are clean! Finally, there are multiple parking spots next to the hot springs, and you can also book a massage or grab a drink at the bar.
Will you and your campervan visit Green Spain?
As we wrap up our adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Green Spain, we hope this guide inspires you to embark on your own Spain road trip. From the stunning cliffs of the Costa Verde to the charming towns of Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia, there’s a wealth of experiences waiting for you. Whether you’re navigating winding mountain roads in your camper van or discovering hidden gems along the way, the northwest of Spain offers something for everyone.
We encourage you to explore the diverse nature, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this beautiful region. As you plan your journey, remember that van life in Green Spain allows you the freedom to discover at your own pace, soaking in all the beauty that this incredible area has to offer.
So grab your map, pack your bags, and hit the road—adventure awaits in the lush, vibrant landscapes of Green Spain! Safe travels!
