Cliffs of paper, the surrealistic landscape of Lugo
The Mariña lucense is full of places to discover and enjoy. This land is rich in natural monuments, such as the well-known beach of the Cathedrals, which has had to limit access to travelers due to the large concentration of them. It is also rich in the most stimulating population centers, such as Ribadeo, located on the estuary of the same name, which serves as a natural border between Galicia and Asturias. Little by little, the Mariña has become the tourist destination that it is, but some spots are still unspoiled. This is the case of the cliffs of paper, which can be considered, moreover, the most curious forms of the entire Galician coast.
Cliffs of paper. | Shutterstock
These cliffs are located in the Concello de Xove, a name that comes from the Latin, lovius. Finding the origin to their evolutions leads to Jupiter, the main god of Roman mythology. It is believed that the Romans passed through this land and built a temple in honor of the god, majestic enough to give this name to the whole territory. There are also numerous prehistoric sites in the municipality. All of them have made it possible to determine that Xove has been inhabited for more than 4,000 years, although it was not until the middle of the last century that it became the municipality it is known as today.
Time can be well seen, precisely in these cliffs of paper. Their striking shapes are the result of the action of the wind and the force of the sea, which have sculpted this natural whim over the centuries. Its image is reminiscent of a crumpled cardboard, squeezed and reconverted into different figures, which is why this place was so named.
The passage of time has also allowed the Cantabrian route to be modeled around these places, which allows you to discover the Mariña lucense and its natural beauty.
Cliffs of paper. | Shutterstock
The key lies in its scenic value, although its geological or historical value should not be forgotten. It is the postcard they offer, in any case, their main attraction. These cliffs extend from Cape Morás to Roncadoira point, taking up a lot of space within the coast. As already mentioned, and aware of the many kilometers in which the Galician land faces the sea, these can become the most surprising.
Because at all times they give what they promise. With a height of about thirty meters, these granite rock formations twist and overlap each other, with the waves crashing against the hollows with the force of the Bay of Biscay. The subtle color of the granite also contrasts with the deep blue that seeps through the cracks formed. Some of these rocks seem to be in an impossible balance over the abyss. It is a spectacle of nature that should be visited once in a lifetime.
Roncadoira lighthouse. | Shutterstock
Discovering the coast could be considered a nearby spot, as it has places that are also worth a visit. The island of Ansarón, without going any further, which one can approach through the waters but on which one cannot set foot. About 10 hectares in size, it is one of the largest islets of Lugo. It reaches about 80 meters high, its cliffs are of great value and is a protected area for its importance in the breeding of seabirds.
The port of Morás, on the same coast, accumulates boats that practice artisanal fishing. It is also interesting to mention that the old whaling factory in the area, which was in operation from 1965 to 1977, closed almost half a century ago. Nothing remains of it, except for the stories that the locals can tell. You can visit the Roncadoira lighthouse, which is also not in operation but is, as shown in the photograph that precedes these paragraphs, the ideal place to watch the sunset. And if you want to get a panoramic view of this beautiful land, you can approach the viewpoint of Mount Castelo. Located 132 meters above sea level, it allows you to see the wonderful spot in which you find yourself when you visit the Concello de Xove.
Waves breaking over cliffs of paper. | Shutterstock
The cliffs of paper are our Weekend Getaway for three very simple reasons. First, because it is a perfect excuse to visit this town rich in landscapes and stories. On the other hand, because these forms, the result of the passage of time, are so unique that you have to enjoy them at least once in your life. Finally, because these cliffs are a clear example that sometimes pictures are not enough to understand the beauty and immensity of a place. It is not enough to see them through a screen: it is the personal experience what matters.
