Laxe on the Ría: Coast, Port and Culture

Coast and Nature

Due to its strong tidal exposure, Soesto Beach is suitable for surfing all year round; people of different ages and skill levels surf there. When surfing, it is advisable to check the tides and current conditions before starting. For planning a day of surfing, tide information helps determine the start time; current conditions should be checked immediately before the activity. Laxe Beach is sheltered within the Ría and is characterised by particularly fine, white sand.

The Traba natural area consists of an almost two-kilometre-long beach between Punta de Arnado and Punta de Traba, a dune ridge and a natural lagoon. It is designated as the protected natural area of the Traba Lagoon and Dunes, is part of the Natura 2000 network and is recognised as a Special Protection Area for birds (ZEPA) and a Site of Community Importance (SCI).

Playa de Mórdomo is located in the vicinity of Laxe. Mount Borneiro is located in the vicinity of Laxe. Monte de Camelle is also located in the vicinity of Laxe. In the wider regional area are Praia de Riás beach, the Parroquia de San Xoan Bautista church, Rego da Balsa Park and Parque do San Martiño Park.

Port and Fishing

From Laxe Port, there are views of the beach and the town. It is also possible to observe the daily work of the fishermen, boats arriving and the auction of the day’s catch. At Laxe Port, the daily catch of the fishing fleet is unloaded for marketing through the fish auction hall. The timing of a fish auction may play a role in planning the day.

The “Con X de Laxe, con X de Peixe” campaign promotes fish with an X as a gastronomic speciality of the municipality.

Culture and History

The Church of Santa María da Atalaia is designed largely in the Maritime Gothic style. It was extended at the end of the 15th century; its atrium served as a watchtower and for the defence of the port. It has a single-nave hall plan, and the main chapel is covered by a ribbed vault. When visiting churches, current opening hours should be checked before travelling.

Casa do Arco was built in the 15th century by Doña Urraca de Moscoso, Countess of Altamira, and her second husband, Don Pedro de Osorio. The maritime memorial ceremony El Naufragio takes place annually on 17 August and has been held since it was introduced in 1962. For events scheduled annually, the date and start time should be checked before travelling.

More local pages: Rois, Santiago De Compostela, Marcelle, Brión, Coirón, Pasarela, Noia, Puebla Del Caramiñal

For the higher-level travel overview: Coruña.