Monte Pindo – The Sacred Mountain

Monte Pindo, often called the “Sacred Mountain,” rises 627 meters above the Galician coast. Its granite slopes are dotted with unusual rock formations that resemble animals and figures, giving the area a mysterious character. Archaeological remains suggest the site was used by prehistoric communities, and later traditions kept alive its reputation as a place of rituals and legends.

Ttoday, Monte Pindo offers hiking routes with panoramic views of the Atlantic, stretching across the Costa da Morte. The climb is full with landscapes of beaches, estuaries, and rugged coastline. Its mix of natural beauty and historic significance makes Monte Pindo a highlight of Galicia’s heritage - an ideal site to start our cosmic expedition!

Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Boat, Muxía

The Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Boat (Santuario da Virxe da Barca) is one of Galicia’s most visited coastal landmarks. Overlooking the Atlantic, it has been a pilgrimage destination since the Middle Ages. According to legend, the Virgin Mary arrived here in a stone boat to encourage Saint James in his mission.

Surrounding the chapel are large granite boulders, long associated with healing powers. Among them is the famous Pedra de Abalar, once believed to move when stepped upon. The chapel itself has been rebuilt several times after storm damage, most recently in the 20th century.

Cape Finisterre – The End of the World

Cape Finisterre, from the Latin Finis Terrae meaning “end of the land,” is one of Galicia’s most iconic destinations. For centuries it was considered the westernmost point of Europe and the end of the known world. Pilgrims of the Camino de Santiago often continue their journey here after reaching Santiago, performing symbolic acts of closure such as leaving stones or dipping their feet in the ocean.

The site is marked by its lighthouse, built in 1853, which still guides ships along this rugged stretch of coast. The cliffs of Finisterre offer spectacular views, particularly at sunset, when the horizon seems endless over the Atlantic.  Today, Finisterre is not only a geographical landmark but also a cultural one, combining natural beauty with the enduring sense of reaching the edge of the continent.

Ézaro Waterfall – Where the River Meets the Sea

The Ézaro Waterfall, located in Dumbría, is a natural wonder unique in Europe: it is the only river on the continent that flows directly into the sea as a waterfall. The Xallas River drops more than 40 meters into the Atlantic, creating a spectacular view against the backdrop of the granite cliffs. Historically, the river was harnessed for hydroelectric power, but today the waterfall is preserved as a natural attraction.

A Coruña Old Town

The Old Town of A Coruña is a lively district. At its centre is María Pita Square, framed by elegant buildings with the region’s characteristic glass-fronted balconies. Its narrow streets reveal centuries of history, from Romanesque churches and convents to noble houses and small traditional shops.

The Old Town is also home to museums, local markets, and numerous cafés and taverns where visitors can try Galician dishes or empanadas. Close to the harbour, the area reflects the city’s maritime heritage.

Tower of Hercules

The Tower of Hercules is the oldest functioning lighthouse in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD, it has been in continuous use for nearly two millennia, guiding sailors along Galicia’s Atlantic coast. The tower rises 55 meters and offers panoramic views after a climb of more than 200 steps to its top.

The Tower of Hercules combines Roman engineering with later modifications, including an 18th-century renovation that preserved its original structure. Its enduring presence makes it both a practical monument of maritime navigation and a cultural symbol of A Coruña.

Monte San Pedro

Monte San Pedro, once a coastal defence site, has been transformed into one of A Coruña’s most attractive parks. Remnants of its military past, such as large cannons and bunkers, are preserved alongside landscaped gardens and recreational areas. One of the highlights is the glass viewing dome, known as the “mirador,” which provides a 360-degree panorama and is reached by a panoramic lift from the seafront.

The site is popular for walks, picnics, and sunset watching. For our eclipse expedition, it offers an excellent observation point with an open horizon