The Rías Altas routes
This route takes you through the high estuaries in the province of A Coruña, between the slopes and cliffs of this region. We begin our journey in Santa Marta de Ortigueira, situated in the Ortigueira estuary. Here there is a deep rooted local architectural style which can be seen in the houses which have galleries inside, as well as the well preserved old part of town. In the surrounding area we can enjoy the countryside of Cabo de Estaca de Bares, declared a site of natural interest.
Taking a regional road we pass through San Andrés de Teixido, situated in the Sierra de Capelada between the crags and near vertical slopes. This is a locality where the pilgrims congregate to cure illnesses, talking the Enamoradeira herbs or giving offerings of figurines made from bread dough, which is then painted. Its said that the pilgrims must always look at the floor, never tread on any animals or creatures as humans can be converted into animals, and must attend a Teixido to complete their task, which they can not complete through the day. There are various viewing points, where you can go to enjoy the superb panorama.

Continuing on the same regional road, we take a stop in Cedeira, situated in La Punta Candelaria, where the surroundings consist of a beautiful natural landscape, extensive white sand beaches and the scenic old part of town.

Taking the C-646 we carry on to Ferrol, with its medieval origins, with Neoclassic monuments such as the extension of the areas belonging to Esterio and La Magdalena, the town squares of Las Armas and Amboage, the 18th century San Xian church, the churches of San Francisco and Del Socorro which houses the Cristo de los Navegantes. The most important beach here is the lovely De Covas.

On the N-651 road we pass through Pontedeume, ancient province of Galicia. The origins of its name stem from the construction of a bridge (ponte) over the outlet of the river Eume. Here there is a picturesque historic area marked by popular architecture, the 16th century Santiago church and the Torre de los Andradé. In the surrounding areas we visit the 12the century church of San Juan de Caaveiro, the Roman san Miguel de Breamo church, the 17th century monastery of Santa María de Monfero and the Noguelirosa castle.

At the end we continue on the same road, finishing our trip in Betanzos, a locality set between the Mandeo and Mendo rivers. The town has an interesting combination of typical style houses with glass galleries and fisherman's houses. The most impressive monuments here are the ancient wall, the 14th century San Francisco church which has a sepulchre from Fernán Pérez de Andrade, the 14th century Santa Maria del Azogue church, the 15th century Santiago church, which has an important image of the Apóstol, as well as the selection of Neoclassic buildings including the town hall, the Huéfanas college and the regional archives building. In the surrounding area we can visit El Pazo de Meirás, ancient residence of the Condesa de Bazán and more recently the Franco family.