Ares: A Coastal Gem in Galicia You’ll Love
Ares sits quietly on the edge of the Ría de Ferrol in Galicia, and it’s easy to fall for. Golden beaches wrap around the town for nearly three kilometres. Green hills rise behind the coastline. Fishing boats bob in the harbour, and locals go about their day at an unhurried pace. Best of all, Ares still feels like a genuine Galician town rather than a tourist trap.
Around 6,000 people call Ares home, and the town sits in the comarca of Ferrolterra. It makes a brilliant base for exploring the northern Galician coast. You’ll find quiet coves, historic military lookouts, and some of the freshest seafood in Spain. So, whether you’re after a relaxed beach holiday or an active outdoor break, Ares delivers. Let’s look at what makes this town so special.
What to see and do
Start with the beaches, because they’re the heart of Ares. The town boasts several stretches of sand, including A Rampa, Seselle, and the beautiful Praia de Chanteiro. Chanteiro is a small, shell-shaped cove with fine golden sand. It’s popular for windsurfing and sailing, thanks to the steady coastal breeze. Families tend to prefer the calmer waters near the harbour, while more active visitors head further along the coast.
Next, make your way up to the Mirador A Bailadora. This viewpoint sits at 266 metres above sea level, on the summit of Montefaro. From up here, you get a jaw-dropping panorama of the Ría de Ferrol, plus views over Mugardos and the naval city beyond. Old military bunkers and tunnels dot the hillside, left behind from artillery batteries built in the 18th century and updated in 1898. It’s a fascinating mix of nature and history in one spot, and it’s completely free to visit.
While you’re up on Montefaro, look out for the nearby Monastery of Santa Catalina, a peaceful spot tucked into the hills. Back in town, pop into the parish church of San Xosé de Ares, a lovely example of Galician religious architecture. It’s simple, but it has real character.
For something a bit more active, consider a guided kayaking or sailing trip around the estuary. Local operators run tours that take you past the old batteries, hidden coves, and fishing villages that you simply can’t reach on foot. These trips get booked up fast in summer, so it’s worth sorting your spot in advance. Buy Tickets.
Don’t skip a wander through Redes either, a tiny, mostly pedestrian fishing village just along the coast from Ares. Its colourful houses and narrow lanes make for a lovely afternoon stroll, and it’s one of the most photogenic corners of this stretch of coast.
Local festivals and traditions
Galicians love a good celebration, and Ares is no exception. Every year on the night of 23 to 24 June, the town lights bonfires for the Festa de San Xoán. Neighbours gather around the flames, grill sardines, and jump over the embers for good luck. It’s a proper community event, so visitors are always welcome to join in.
Midsummer also brings the Festas do Carme, honouring the patron saint of fishermen. Expect processions, boat parades, and plenty of live music along the seafront. Since Ares has always relied on the sea, these celebrations feel especially meaningful here.
Throughout the summer, look out for smaller gastronomic fairs too. Seafood takes centre stage, naturally, with local mussels, octopus, and razor clams served up at street stalls. These events are relaxed, family-friendly, and a great way to taste real Galician cooking without booking a fancy restaurant.
Where to stay
Ares is small, so location matters less here than in a big city. That said, staying close to the seafront promenade puts you within walking distance of the beaches, restaurants, and the town’s daily rhythm. This area suits couples and anyone who wants an easy, walkable stay.
If you’re travelling with family, look for accommodation near A Rampa or Seselle beach. These spots offer calmer waters and a more residential feel, away from the busiest part of town. You’ll still be a short stroll from cafés and shops.
For a quieter base with sea views, consider staying just outside the centre, towards Chanteiro or Redes. You’ll trade a bit of convenience for peace and quiet, plus some stunning coastal scenery right outside your window. Whichever area you choose, book ahead during July and August, since Ares is a popular summer escape for Galician families. Book Accommodation.
How to get to Ares
Getting to Ares is fairly straightforward, whichever way you’re travelling. The nearest airport is A Coruña Airport, roughly 40 minutes away by car. Alternatively, Santiago de Compostela Airport sits about an hour and a half away and offers more international connections. Both airports serve as good gateways into Galicia. Book flights.
If you’d rather take the train, the closest station is in Ferrol, about 20 minutes from Ares by road. Regular services connect Ferrol with A Coruña and Santiago de Compostela, making it easy to combine your trip with other Galician destinations. From the station, you can grab a taxi or local bus onward to Ares. Check connections.
Driving gives you the most flexibility, especially since Ares itself has no train station and public transport can be limited outside peak season. The AC-116 and AC-133 roads connect the town with Ferrol, Mugardos, and onward to A Coruña. Hiring a car also makes it much easier to explore nearby beaches and villages at your own pace. Hire a Car. Already in Spain? Get directions.
Bus services also run between Ares and nearby towns, including Ferrol and A Coruña. These are a cheap and reliable option if you’re not driving, though schedules can thin out on Sundays and public holidays. Check timetables before you travel, particularly if you’re planning a day trip. Buy Tickets.
However you arrive, Ares rewards the effort. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t shout for attention, yet quietly wins you over. Between the beaches, the viewpoint, and the warm Galician welcome, you’ll likely find yourself planning a return trip before you’ve even left.