Have you heard talk of a Mariña (Mariña Lucense) and not sure where people are referring to or how it relates to the North Lugo coast? Well, in a nutshell, they are the same thing!
Don’t worry – you are not alone! Many people outside of Galicia have never heard of A Mariña. Read on and learn more about a Mariña.
Where is a Mariña?
The North Lugo Coast, also known as “A Mariña,” is a region located in the province of Lugo, in the northwest of Spain, bounded by the Cantabrian Sea,. This area is characterized by its rugged coastline, lush green forests, and a rich cultural heritage that dates back to prehistoric times.
The name “A Mariña” is derived from the Galician language, which means “the seashore.” This name reflects the area’s location along the coast, where the land meets the sea. A Mariña is divided into three main areas: the Eastern Mariña , central Mariña and the Western Mariña. Each area has its own distinct culture, traditions, and attractions.
Mariña Oriental
A Mariña Oriental, an enchanting region that connects Galicia with Asturias through the Ribadeo estuary. Made up of the municipalities of Ribadeo, Barreiros, Trabada, and A Pontenova, this area is located north of Lugo and is blessed with stunning natural beauty. The capital of this area is the historic town of Ribadeo.
Bathed by the Cantabrian Sea and crossed by the Eo River, A Mariña Oriental is home to some of the most picturesque sandy beaches in the region, including the world-famous As Catedrais.
A Mariña Central
Mariña Central is a stunning region located in the central area of A Mariña, along the North Lugo coast. The charming city of Mondoñedo serves as the capital of the region. To the north and northeast, Mariña Central is bordered by the Cantabrian Sea, while to the northwest it borders La Mariña Occidental, to the west and south it borders Tierra Llana, to the southeast it borders Meira, and to the east it borders La Mariña Oriental.
The landscape of the region is a sight to behold, with three distinct relief units on display. These include the coastal flats and plains, the valleys of the Masma (Lorenzana) and Ouro (Valle de Oro) rivers, and the low-altitude mountain ranges and undulating forms such as the Sierra of the Gistral (Serra do Xistral).
If you’re a fan of stunning coastlines, then you’ll love the steep and rugged coastline of Mariña Central. This area is dotted with small coves and inlets that are interspersed with estuaries and estuaries (Foz), making for a truly breathtaking view.
Mariña Occidental
The Mariña Occidental (Western Mariña) consists of several municipalities, including Cervo, Orol, Vicedo, Vivero, and Jove. This region is a political-administrative division of the La Mariña de Lugo region, with the charming city of Vivero serving as the capital. This area is more rural and agricultural, with rolling hills and fields of crops. The town of Mondoñedo is of particular interest, as it was once the capital of the Galician Kingdom and has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages.
In addition to these main areas, A Mariña also includes several smaller towns and villages, such as Burela de Cabo, Cervo, Foz, O Vicedo, and O Valadouro. Each of these towns has its own unique charm and attractions, from quaint cafes and local markets to historic churches and museums.
Climate of A Mariña
The climate of Mariña Lucense corresponds to the characteristics of a humid oceanic climate. It is influenced by the moderating effect of the sea, which results in pleasant temperatures throughout the year, with temperature variations of about 10°C. The average temperature during the colder months generally does not drop below 10°C, while during the warmer months it typically reaches around 20°C.
Overall, A Mariña is a beautiful and diverse region with something to offer every visitor. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a cultural adventure, this area of northwestern Spain is definitely worth exploring