If you’re a solo female traveler planning a holiday in Galicia, Spain, I’m guessing you’re looking for NATURE. And you’re in luck—this northwestern region of Spain is a true paradise for nature lovers.
It’s the greenest region in Spain, with a mild climate. Below, you’ll find tips on what to do in this beautiful area.
1. Surfing in Galicia
The Atlantic coast of Galicia has some amazing surf spots. And you don’t have to be a pro to ride those waves. As a beginner or intermediate surfer, you can take lessons or get some coaching at one of the many surf schools.
Have a look at Playa de Pantín or Razo, for example: perfect for beginners as well as advanced surfers. Of course, it always depends on how big the swell is, how strong the wind is, etc., which spot is right for you.
But the coast of Galicia has so many nooks and crannies that you can often find a bay with offshore wind and suitable waves.
Feel like working on your surf skills for an entire week?
Check out our Surf + Yoga Retreats in Galicia. We’ll be hosting different retreats in 2026, in a small group setting (max 6 spots) and for women only.
Oh, and don’t worry about your age. Anyone can learn how to surf, even if you’re over 40 or 50. Read this article if you think you’re too old to learn to surf.
2. Hiking for days
You enjoy hiking? Then you’re in for a treat! Galicia offers some of the best hiking trails in the world, if you ask me. Lots of people come here to walk the Camino de Santiago, but there are many different routes to be found.
You can walk along the coast for days, just appreciating the jaw-dropping views as well as the DOLPHINS. Yes, there are many dolphins here. If you’re lucky, and you surf, you can even see them in the water. I have a few times, and it’s always an amazing experience.
3. Enjoying the freshest fish
Galician cuisine is renowned for its fresh fish and shellfish. And the best fish is served in the smallest villages.
I’m not a fan of eating octopus (never liked it and I’ve seen My Octopus Teacher), but pulpo (octopus) is a local delicacy here.
Then there are percebes. These are small shellfish that look like a mix between a dinosaur claw and a shell. They grow on the rocks along the Galician coast, especially in places where the waves crash hard.
Because they are difficult to harvest (divers and fishermen literally risk their lives to pick them from the rocks), percebes are quite pricey.
4. Shopping in A Coruña or Santiago de Compostela
A Coruña and Santiago de Compostela are two of my favourite cities in Galicia. I don’t actually like shopping, but maybe you do! Even if you don’t, there’s lots to appreciate in both cities.
In A Coruña you can walk around the harbour and the peninsula, check out the Hercules Tower, or have a caña (a beer) in one of the many cafes.
In Santiago de Compostela, you definitely have to see the cathedral and the huge square (Praza do Obradoiro) where all the pilgrims gather after their adventure.
There are also countless good restaurants and cute boutiques. Wander around the old town and just soak up the history.
5. Relaxing in one of the natural thermal baths
After your hiking or surfing adventure, the best thing to do is relax your muscles in a natural thermal bath. This mineral-rich water is great for your skin as well.
There are several thermal baths in Galicia.
- Ourense – This is the hotspot for thermal baths in Galicia. Here you will find:
- Termas de Outariz (free and paid areas)
- Burgas de Canedo (small and peaceful)
- Pozas de Muiño da Veiga (free baths along the river)
- As Burgas (historic hot spring in the city centre)
- Lobios (Serra do Xurés) – Natural hot springs in the middle of the Xurés mountains.
- Ribeira Sacra (A Pobra de Trives) – Small-scale, hidden thermal baths along the river, surrounded by vineyards and gorges.
- Caldas de Reis – Known for its healing thermal waters and beautiful spas.
- Tui – A lesser-known but beautiful thermal location near the Portuguese border.
Want to enjoy a surf and yoga holiday in Galicia?
Galicia is a safe and excellent place for solo female travellers. However, if you’d love to experience Galicia with some company, our Surf + Yoga Retreats in May are a great way to dive in.