Northern Spain has the most beautiful coastline so far, lush green hills and cliffs right down to the sea.
We motor-sailed onto Navia, through rough weather and were relieved to reach the safety of the visitors pontoon where we received a warm welcome from the local yacht club. Navia didn't get a great write up in the pilot guide, but we found it a great place for coastal walks, bike rides and we were right in the centre of town.
A few days later we sailed onto Ria del Barquero, arriving in early evening and anchoring in the dark. Then an unforecast hoolie blew all night, causing us to swing and sway at anchor.
Our journey onwards to Cedeira took us past numerous rocky headlands and dramatic coastline scenery. We stayed in Cedeira for a few days sheltering from strong winds and large waves, allowing us time for several walks along the rocky coastline and nearby forests.
At the next weather window, we headed west along the lush coastline to A Coruna mostly under motor due to a lack of wind. About 10 miles from A Coruna our engine stopped working and wouldn't restart!
Which we later found out was due to a build up of muck in the fuel tank. We were unable to make any progress, due to the lack of wind and large Atlantic swell.
We were eventually rescued and towed into the harbour. Our lack of fortune was balanced by our lack in meeting two Dave's.
First Dave has lived in A Coruna for many years and couldn't have been more helpful, showing us the town, translating and dashing all over town to help us find what we needed for repairs.
Second Dave, a marine engineer, sauntered over to offer his help and advice, without which, we may still be in A Coruna today - or in receipt of a hefty repair bill from the marina. His wife, Karen, passed on her wisdom and recipes for our onward journey.
Thanks to all, we are so very grateful.
Onwards towards Portugal.....
