Rías Altas facts for kids
The Rías Altas, also known as the "Upper Rias," is a beautiful coastal area in Galicia, Spain. It's the northernmost part of a region called A Costa do Marisco, which means "the Seafood Coast." This area stretches from the port of Ribadeo all the way to Santa Cruz.
The Rías Altas covers the northern coast of the A Coruña Province and the entire coastline of the Lugo Province. The largest city and most important port in the Upper Rias is Ferrol. It's a very important naval base in northwestern Spain.
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Important Ports and Harbors

The Rías Altas is home to many ports that are important for both trade and fishing. These ports help the local economy and provide fresh seafood.
Major Commercial Ports
These ports handle a lot of goods and ships, making them vital for trade.
- Ferrol - This is a major commercial port and also a very important military naval base.
- San Cibrao - This port is also a major commercial hub, but it's used for fishing too.
Busy Fishing Ports
Many towns along the Rías Altas rely on fishing. These ports are where fishing boats bring in their daily catch.
Surfing and Water Sports
The Rías Altas is famous for its amazing beaches, which are perfect for water sports like surfing!
International Surf Competitions
- The The Ferrolterra Pantin Classic is a big event that happens every year. It brings together some of the best surfers from all over the world to compete.
- Beaches like Doninos, Esmelle and St. George's Beach in the northern part of the A Coruña Province are known for their excellent waves. Many people come here to enjoy surfing and other water sports.
Towns and Villages Along the Coast
The Rías Altas coast is dotted with many interesting towns, villages, and even small hamlets. Here are some of the places you can find along this beautiful coastline, including the important city of Ferrol:
- Ribadeo
- Rinlo
- Reinante
- San Cosme de Barreiros
- Foz
- Fazouro
- Cangas de Foz
- Burela
- Punta de Laxes
- Coido
- San Cibrao
- Praia do Lago
- Porto Celo
- Viveiro
- O Vicedo
- O Barqueiro
- Estaca de Bares
- Punta Maeda
- Espasante
- Ortigueira
- Cariño
- Cabo Ortegal
- Costa da Capelada
- San Andrés de Teixido
- Punta Candieira
- Ria de Cedeira
- Villarrube
- Valdoviño
- Montefaro
- Casal
- Ponzos
- Cabo Prior
- Doniños
- Cabo Prioriño
- Castelo de San Felipe
- Ferrol
- Mugardos
- Ares
- Perbes
- Miño
- Sada
- Gandario
- Cornoedo
- Lorbé
- Illa a Marola
- Mera
- Santa Cruz
See Also
- The Death Coast (also "Costa da Morte") - another famous coast in Galicia.
- The Lower Rias (also "Rías Baixas") - the southern part of the Seafood Coast.
- A Costa do Marisco, Galicia (Spain) - learn more about the entire Seafood Coast.