Spain is a country of great geographical diversity, with thousands of kilometres of coastline stretching between the Mediterranean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean and the Cantabrian Sea. From the warm southern latitudes to the cliffs of the north, its territory offers a wide variety of landscapes. At the northernmost tip of the Iberian Peninsula, where the Atlantic and the Cantabrian Sea meet, lies the northernmost town in Spain. Do you know which one it is?
What is the northernmost town in Spain?
The northernmost town in Spain is O Porto de Bares, a small coastal settlement located in the province of A Coruña, in Galicia. It lies at approximately 43°47′ north latitude, just a few metres further north than the nearby town of Vila de Bares.
Porto de Bares belongs to the municipality of Mañón, within the Ortegal region. It is a small village, with around 70 registered inhabitants (Spanish Statistics Institute, 2025), and only a few dozen during the winter months. Its economy has traditionally been linked to the sea, particularly fishing and shellfish harvesting.
One of the town’s most distinctive features is its natural harbour, considered one of the oldest in Galicia and possibly of pre‑Roman or Roman origin. In total, it is located more than 2,000 kilometres from La Restinga, on El Hierro, the southernmost town in Spain.
What is the northernmost point in Spain?
The northernmost point of mainland Spain is Estaca de Bares, located slightly north of Porto de Bares, at approximately 43°47′38″ north latitude. This cape marks the natural division between the Cantabrian Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.
More precisely, the northernmost point of the country is a rocky outcrop off the coast, situated at the end of the road leading to the Estaca de Bares Lighthouse and the nearby hillfort. The surroundings are open, windswept and wild, with panoramic views of the sea horizon and a strong sense of being at the very edge of the land.
What to see in Estaca de Bares
Estaca de Bares is much more than just a geographical point on the map. It is a place rich in history, nature and striking landscapes. Here are some of the highlights:
- Estaca de Bares Lighthouse: Built in the 19th century, it is one of the most important lighthouses in northern Spain. From its surroundings, there are views over both the Atlantic Ocean and the Cantabrian Sea.
- Former LORAN military base: Located next to the cape, this facility formed part of a long‑range navigation system used by the United States during the Cold War. Today, it remains abandoned.
- O Porto de Bares: The nearby village is known for its ancient natural harbour, considered one of the oldest in Galicia, with possible pre‑Roman or Roman origins.
- Esteiro Beach: A wide stretch of fine sand facing the open ocean. It is an ideal spot for walking, relaxing and enjoying nature in its purest form.
Living in O Porto de Bares
Living in Porto de Bares means being in constant contact with nature. It is a place of open landscapes, cliffs and almost untouched beaches, set in a tranquil environment that is ideal for those seeking to disconnect from the pace of city life.
However, it also means adapting to a more isolated lifestyle, especially in winter, when the weather is harsher and the population declines. Even so, the strong sense of community and the natural beauty of the surroundings make it a unique place.
