Malpica de Bergantiños: Coast, Islands and Culture

In the 17th century, Malpica de Bergantiños was one of the whaling ports on the Galician coast.

Nature

The Islas Sisargas archipelago consists of three independent islets called la Grande, la Chica and la Malante. The Islas Sisargas are an important refuge for seabirds and also a migration route for migratory birds. Within the LIC Costa da Morte – Natura 2000 Network, the archipelago is designated as a Zona de Especial Protección para las Aves (ZEPA).

Playa de Area Maior is Malpica’s main beach; it is located in the town and next to the seafront promenade. Playa de Area Maior is regarded as an international surfing reference point. Malpica’s seafront promenade has terraces overlooking the sea and the Sisargas. Playa de Canido is located approximately 30 metres from the town of Malpica and is quieter than the main beach.

Routes

The Ruta desde Malpica a San Adrián route begins on the seafront promenade, specifically by the beaches of Area Maior and Canido. The Islas Sisargas can be reached by private boat; there is no public transport to the islands. From the small landing stage on Sisarga Grande, a path approximately 2 kilometres long leads to the lighthouse. The deck of the Faro de Punta Nariga serves as a viewpoint over the Atlantic.

The Mirador de San Adrián offers views of Malpica, the Atlantic cliffs and the Sisargas. The Mirador de San Adrián is also a particularly suitable place for birdwatching, with views of the Sisargas.

Festivals and Tradition

The Saint Adrian Romeria is a festival of tourist interest in Galicia; it takes place on 16 June or on the Sunday closest to that date. During the Saint Adrian Romeria, the statue of the saint is carried on foot from the parish church of Malpica de Bergantiños to the white sanctuary of Saint Adrian. The procession route of the Saint Adrian Romeria runs along the beaches of Area Maior and Seaia.

The Festivities of the Sea include a maritime procession on the festival’s Sunday. During this maritime procession, a boat from Malpica’s fleet carries the statue of the Virgen del Carmen. Malpica’s carnival includes the event “Burial of Faustino”.

Culture and History

The Casa do Pescador contains five murals depicting a maritime imaginary and aspects of Malpica’s traditions. The Casa do Pescador building was inaugurated in 1956; its design was entrusted to Urbano Lugrís. The Eco-museo Forno do Forte in the municipality of Malpica de Bergantiños showcases the technology and traditional way of life of the potters of Buño.

To the higher-level travel overview: Bergantiños.