Nestled on the rugged coast of Spain’s Galicia region, Vigo is a city that captivates the soul with its unique blend of natural beauty, warm-hearted locals, and unforgettable culinary experiences. On a cool, misty morning, our RV, affectionately named “Wanderlust,” rolled into this coastal paradise, and we were instantly enchanted by the charm of Vigo.
As the sun began to break through the clouds, we set up camp in a family-run campground nestled between lush hills and the Atlantic Ocean. Our first encounter with the local people was when we met the owners of the campground, Maria and Carlos. They welcomed us with open arms and shared stories of their life by the sea, passed down through generations. Their warm hospitality set the tone for our entire stay in Vigo.
One evening, we strolled down to the city’s old town, Casco Vello, a maze of narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings. We were drawn to the aroma of grilled seafood wafting through the air. Turning a corner, we discovered a charming little restaurant called “Mariscos del Mar.” Inside, a mix of locals and travelers were savoring the flavors of the sea.
We took a seat by the window and marveled at the view of the bustling port. The highlight of the meal was undoubtedly the Pulpo a la Gallega, tender octopus seasoned with sweet paprika and drizzled with olive oil. This dish, a regional specialty, was unlike anything we had ever tasted before, and its melt-in-the-mouth texture left us craving more.
One of the most enchanting experiences during our stay in Vigo was the day we spent with the charismatic fisherman, Javier. He had heard about our adventurous road trip and, upon learning that we were interested in local culture and food, extended an invitation to join him on his boat, the “Marinero.”
We met Javier at the crack of dawn at the harbor, where the sky was painted in hues of orange and pink, and the ocean glistened with the promise of a new day. His boat was a charming, weathered vessel that had weathered the tumultuous seas for many years. As we set sail, he regaled us with tales of his life as a fisherman and the deep connection his family had with the sea, dating back generations.
The morning sun bathed the coastline in a warm, golden light as we sailed along the Ría de Vigo. The coastline was a tapestry of jagged cliffs, hidden coves, and lush greenery. Javier’s knowledge of the local geography and marine life was impressive, and he shared fascinating insights into the history and ecology of the region.
Our first stop was a secluded cove, where Javier demonstrated the traditional art of lobster trapping. His seasoned hands expertly pulled up a trap from the deep. Inside, a majestic lobster with a brilliant red shell emerged, its antennae swaying in the gentle breeze. Javier handed it to us, and we marveled at the vibrant colors of this oceanic jewel. The lobster was a testament to the rich maritime heritage of Vigo and the dedication of its fishermen.
Javier then took us to a secret underwater garden, where he dove down to harvest sea urchins. He handed us a few of these spiky treasures, explaining how they were a delicacy in the region. With a swift, skilled hand, he cracked them open, revealing the creamy, golden roe inside. We hesitated for a moment, then took a taste, savoring the briny, buttery explosion of flavors. It was a true sea-to-table experience, and the taste was unlike anything we had ever experienced.
Back on land, we followed Javier to “A Mar de Vigo,” a restaurant he frequented, and presented the seafood we had collected earlier. Elena, the head chef, greeted us with a warm smile, and we were seated at a table overlooking the harbor. As the dishes arrived, we were astounded by Elena’s culinary artistry. The lobster and sea urchins were transformed into exquisite dishes, showcasing the exquisite flavors of the sea.
Our conversation with Javier and Elena revolved around the importance of preserving the marine ecosystem and the pride they took in their sustainable practices. We left the restaurant with not just full bellies but also a profound appreciation for the local culture, the dedication of the fishermen, and the divine gastronomy that emerged from the sea.
Our day with Javier was an unforgettable journey into the heart of Vigo’s maritime traditions, a taste of the sea that lingered in our memories long after we had set sail back to our campsite. It was a day filled with adventure, camaraderie, and a deeper understanding of the profound relationship between the people of Vigo and the bountiful Atlantic Ocean that embraced their city.
As our journey through Vigo continued, we discovered more culinary treasures, from the crisp empanadas filled with savory fillings to the creamy Galician-style seafood soup, Caldoso de Marisco, infused with the essence of the sea. Each dish was a testament to the passion and dedication the locals put into their cuisine.
Vigo, with its charming people and divine gastronomy, had left an indelible mark on our hearts. We departed with full stomachs and a treasure trove of memories. In every bite, in every conversation, we tasted the essence of this captivating coastal city, and it was a journey we would forever hold dear.
EN 
DE