Excursion to Playa de las Catedrals, Ribadeo and Tapia de Casariego

Introduction

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Oviedo that combines natural beauty, history, and coastal charm, this excursion to Playa de las Catedrales, Ribadeo, and Tapia de Casariego might catch your interest. It offers a chance to see some of northern Spain’s most impressive coastal scenery, with dramatic cliffs and quaint fishing villages filling your day.

What makes this tour worth considering are its stunning views at Playa de las Catedrales and the chance to explore a lively yet peaceful seaside town like Ribadeo. Plus, the stops at Isla Pancha and Tapia de Casariego give a taste of Galicia’s seafaring atmosphere.

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind. The price of around $59 per person may seem reasonable for a full-day guided trip, but the quality of the experience will largely depend on your expectations—especially regarding language and pace. Also, some travelers might find the 11-hour duration a bit long if they prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with young children.

This tour suits those who love nature, coastal scenery, and want a structured way to see several highlights without planning every detail. If you’re comfortable with a full day and want a guided experience that covers major sights with minimal hassle, it’s a good choice.

Key Points

• Stunning coastal scenery at Playa de las Catedrales is the main highlight.
• The tour includes a guided walk through Ribadeo’s historic streets.
• You get unrestricted access to Playa de las Catedrales, which is rare and very convenient.
• The trip involves multiple stops, including Isla Pancha and Tapia de Casariego.
• The experience can be quite long, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy full-day outings.
• Be prepared for a large group size, with a maximum of 55 travelers, which can impact the intimacy of the experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Playa de las Catedrales – The Main Attraction

This is the star of the tour. Known for its dramatic arches and sea-carved formations, Playa de las Catedrales is a natural spectacle. The tour provides reserved and unrestricted access, so you won’t have to wait in long lines or worry about missing your chance to walk along the cliffs and explore at your own pace.

One reviewer mentioned, “Delight in exploring the playa, its stunning cliffs and the trails that run along the coast at your own pace,” which sums up how freeing the experience can be. It’s the perfect spot for photos, a quick swim if you’re inclined, or simply soaking in the views.

A practical tip from a previous traveler was to bring a swimsuit or shorts and a towel, since walking in the water or lounging on the beach is easily accessible. The roughly 1.5-hour stop is enough to enjoy the scenery, take some photos, and relax without feeling rushed.

Ribadeo – A Town Full of Character

The guided part of the tour takes you through Ribadeo, a town with noteworthy architecture and history. Here, you’ll get a taste of Galician culture and perhaps learn a little about its past.

While the guided tour is brief—about 3 hours total—you’ll get an overview of the town’s most emblematic sites. Plus, there’s free time to explore on your own, offering a chance to wander the streets, browse shops, or try some local seafood. One traveler noted, “The entire trip was very well organized from start to finish,” indicating that the guided portion is efficient and informative.

Isla Pancha – A Postcard-Perfect Viewpoint

Just a quick 20-minute stop, Isla Pancha features a lighthouse and panoramic views that are often described as breathtaking. It’s a good moment to stretch your legs, snap some photos, and enjoy the sweeping vistas of the Atlantic coast.

Tapia de Casariego – Coastal Calm and Charm

This small seaside town is known for its quaint fishing port and tranquil atmosphere. A 45-minute walk through the harbor allows you to absorb the local seafaring vibe. If weather permits, some travelers even take a quick dip here, enjoying the calm waters and scenic surroundings.

One guest remarked on the scenic harbor, which is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a quick break from the bus.

Faro de San Agustín – Panoramic Coast Views

The last stop at the Faro de San Agustín, the main lighthouse of Ortigueira, offers one of the best viewpoints of the Galician coast. It’s a short 20-minute visit but worth it for those panoramic vistas that stretch out over the ocean. Expect plenty of photo opportunities and a moment to reflect on the trip’s highlights.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is private, which is a plus for comfort and convenience. With a maximum of 55 travelers, the group isn’t tiny but also not overly large, helping to facilitate a more organized experience. The bus ride allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the landscape as you move between stops.

Duration and Pacing

The entire trip lasts about 11 hours, so be prepared for a full day. The itinerary is fairly packed, balancing guided tours with free time at each stop. If you’re someone who prefers more leisure or is traveling with children or less energetic companions, this might feel a bit intense.

Cost and Value

At approximately $58.67 per person, the tour offers a lot—especially considering the inclusion of reserved access to Playa de las Catedrales, guided city touring, and scenic viewpoints. However, keep in mind that meals and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for lunch on your own.

Language and Communication

One notable issue from a past review was the unexpected language barrier. The tour was advertised as English-speaking, but the actual commentary was only in Spanish, and the guide’s efforts to explain were limited. If you’re not fluent in Spanish, this could be frustrating, so it’s worth confirming language options with the operator beforehand.

What Travelers Say: Authentic Perspectives

One reviewer, SuzanneH, shared, “We booked a tour in English only to find out on the bus it was a Spanish-only tour. We complained, and the guide did a limited job explaining what was happening,” highlighting that language can be a sticking point. If you’re an English speaker, double-check the language availability.

On the bright side, Martha_C had a very positive experience, saying, “The entire trip was very well organized from start to finish. Even though it’s a full day, time goes by quickly,” and offering practical tips like bringing a towel and swimwear. She appreciated the scenic views and the smooth organization, making it clear that with some prep, you can have a very enjoyable day.

The Sum Up

This tour from Oviedo offers a great way to see some of Galicia’s most striking coastal landscapes without the hassle of planning. The highlight, Playa de las Catedrales, is truly stunning, and the stops at Ribadeo and Tapia de Casariego give you a taste of local culture and scenery. While the long duration and potential language barrier are considerations, the overall experience provides a solid value if you appreciate guided tours and scenic vistas.

Whether you’re a lover of nature, history, or simply looking for a day away from the city, this trip is suitable for travelers who want a structured, scenic experience. Just be sure to bring your camera, some comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure.

FAQs

Is the access to Playa de las Catedrales really unrestricted?
Yes, the tour provides reserved and unrestricted access, which means you can explore the beach and cliffs freely during your allocated time.

How long do we stay at each stop?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours at Playa de las Catedrales, around 3 hours for Ribadeo (including guided tour and free time), 20 minutes at Isla Pancha, 45 minutes in Tapia de Casariego, and 20 minutes at Faro de San Agustín.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so you should plan to buy lunch during your free time in Ribadeo or bring snacks.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is advertised as English, but there have been reports of Spanish-only commentary. Confirm language options with the provider if this is important to you.

Can I swim at Playa de las Catedrales?
Yes, some travelers choose to walk in the water or swim, especially if they wear appropriate clothing like shorts or a swimsuit.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically geared toward children, the stops are generally family-friendly, especially if your kids enjoy scenic walks and beaches. Just consider the long day and walking involved.

If you’re after breathtaking coastal views and a chance to explore charming Galicia towns without the stress of organizing transportation, this tour could be just what you need. Just keep in mind the length and potential language barrier, and you’ll be set for a memorable day.