Castelo de San Felipe
A 16th-century fortress that guarded the mouth of the estuary alongside Palma castle and the Viñas battery.
San Felipe is the centrepiece of the estuary's defences. Its position on a headland of the north shore let it cross fire with Palma castle on the opposite bank and close the way to any squadron trying to reach the Arsenal.
The bastions, moat, guardhouse and part of the restored wall survive. The visit combines military architecture with one of the best views on the ria, especially at sunset. It is easy with children: paths, grass and parking nearby.
Getting there
3 km from central Ferrol on the Graña road, with parking beside the castle.
Other places
View allArsenal de Ferrol
The great 18th-century Enlightenment shipyard, today a naval base and the anchor of Ferrol's urban landscape.
HeritageBarrio da Madalena
Ferrol's Enlightenment quarter: a grid of streets, glazed galleries and uniform 18th-century architecture.
HeritageMuseo Naval de Ferrol
Maps, ship models and navigational instruments in the Arsenal's old guardhouse.