We’ve been exploring the Rias (river estuaries) of Galicia. They are an interesting mix of frenetic development, and traditional Galacian architecture. There are marinas everywhere, but we have been able to find pleasant places to lie on our own hook. The food is wonderful, and we have enjoyed our limited dialog with the locals (our spanish is in need of some fine tuning).

The Rias are home to a large commercial fishing fleet and

some of the biggest shellfish farming operations in the world.

The harbors tend to be compact and colorful.

And now that we are well south of La Coruna the weather has improved. The sun is shining, and there is a lovely afternoon breeze.

For what is supposed to be a low density part of Spain we have been surprised at the level of development. There are multi-story apartment buildings and masses of homes all along the shoreline.

But each village we have visited has its traditional areas, which are charming.

The streets are narrow, and the construction varied.

Many of the old stone buildings have been remodeled with larger windows and doors. We find the mix of old and new particularly appealing.

Even more appealing is the delicious fresh produce. The strawberries in particular have a flavor unlike anything we have ever eaten in the States.

Breads are sold by weight, the vendor cutting off what you have requested. We have sampled a variety and they are succulent.

The local cheese isn’t bad either.

There are cafes everywhere you look. Prices are reasonable and while we may not be sure what we are eating, it has been tasty.

You are encouraged to linger over your coffee (or beer).

If you’ve a hankering for fresh clams just wait until low tide, or check out one of the many fish markets.

The Galicians have there own form of bagpipes, and at the risk of offending some of our Scottish relations, we have to say these are much more appealing than what we have heard in the past.

We are suckers for kids, particularly little ones, and the Spanish children must be really spoiled because they have that cute look down pat.

For a high resolution slide show click here.