A Guide to Galicia
Whilst the bulk of British travellers and property buyers head to the busy coastlines of south and east Spain, a growing number are discovering the appeal of the country’s northwest corner. Galicia is perhaps most well-known for Santiago de Compostela - both its capital and the finish point for the famous pilgrim’s route - or perhaps the region’s increasingly popular Albariño wines.
But its verdant natural beauty and tranquillity is a big draw for buyers that often prefer forests and rugged coastlines, rather than the more densely populated and heavily touristic regions of Valencia, Andalusia or Catalonia. “Galicia offers a more relaxed, less commercialized lifestyle,” says Caroline Harris, founder of G&G Property and Relocation.
“But there is also its authenticity and culture: Galicia is known for its rich Celtic heritage, unique gastronomy (the seafood that pairs so naturally with Albariño wine), and vibrant festivals. Buyers looking for a more traditional Spanish experience often favour Galicia.” But there are two other major reasons. Climate is one that is increasingly a factor. The greater rainfall in this region gives it its ‘Green Spain’ moniker but Galicia’s cooler summers can be a relief from the Mediterranean's often scorching heat.
“Many buyers are actually proceeding from southern areas such as Andalucía where the heat in summer and lack of water has become unbearable in recent years,” she adds. Then there is the affordability. Property prices in some places in Galicia tend to be lower than in Catalonia or Valencia, offering buyers more value for their money, plus the cost of living is generally lower in Galicia.
The coastal areas are, as ever, more expensive. On the coast, Vigo and Pontevedra are popular and generally more pricy than inland locations. According to Caroline, a detached house near Vigo or Pontevedra might cost €350,000–€600,000, but inland in a smaller town or rural village, a similar-sized detached house might cost €150,000–€250,000. Browse properties for sale here.
Some inland areas are even more affordable. In southern Galicia, particularly areas like Muíños in Ourense near the Portuguese border, properties are more affordable, with a detached house costing €120-300k. Some might require some renovation, and you should beware that in more remote areas, infrastructure like roads, public transport, and amenities can be limited.
Pontevedra province stands out for its microclimate – it’s never too hot or too cold – and being on the coast also has a lot of appeal. “The stunning Rías Baixas (inlets) makes it highly desirable, along with spectacular white-sand beaches and quaint villages scattered along the cove shaped coastline,” says Caroline.
“Many buyers are amazed that they can buy a property with coastal or river views at what they consider cheap compared to a similar property in their own countries, Portugal is just a bridge away from Galicia (several bridges) with no border controls, so living nearby means you can enjoy all the amazing towns, villages and beaches that this neighbouring country has to offer.”
You can also enjoy the urban delights of both Vigo and Pontevedra, both growing in popularity with digital nomads. You can fly to Vigo from the UK via several airlines (two hours), but you can also get a ferry from Portsmouth to Santander or even take the train or coach. Another flight option is to go into Porto – it’s only 60-90 minutes to the southern parts of Galicia. Why not give Galicia a go?
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