ZEPA Costa da Mariña Occidental

ZEPA Costa da Mariña Occidental is a Special Protection Area for birds stretching along the Cantabrian coast of Lugo province in Galicia, covering territory within the municipalities of Cervo, Xove, Viveiro and O Vicedo. Spanning more than 2,100 hectares of coastline, it is regarded as one of the internationally significant reference points for seabird watching along the northern Spanish coast.

What makes this coastline distinctive?

The landscape is defined by steep cliffs carved by the Atlantic swell, granite outcrops riddled with caves and natural caverns, and small rocky islets rising just offshore. Vegetation clinging to the exposed slopes has adapted to constant wind and salt spray, and the area supports several plant species found only along this particular stretch of coast — a hallmark of maritime cliff ecosystems.

Why was the area protected?

The designation centers on the seabird colonies nesting along these cliffs and islets. Species recorded here include the yellow-legged gull and the crested cormorant, alongside more recent arrivals such as the sooty shearwater. A particularly notable milestone was the first recorded breeding of the northern gannet on the Iberian Peninsula within this reserve — a species previously associated mainly with the coasts of Britain and Ireland. Other species listed under EU bird directives that justified the site's protection include the peregrine falcon, the curlew sandpiper and the common tern.

The area's protected status developed in stages: it was first listed as a Site of Community Importance in December 2004, later confirmed as a Special Area of Conservation in March 2014, in addition to its earlier designation as a Special Protection Area for Birds.

What can visitors see on-site?

Among the most recognizable landmarks are Cabo de Morás and the surroundings of Punta de A Roncadoira, in the municipality of Xove, both offering sweeping views over the cliff-lined shore and the open Atlantic. These spots are popular with nature photographers and birdwatchers alike, especially during migration seasons, when thousands of waterbirds and seabirds pass along this section of coast.

Coastal footpaths allow visitors to reach viewpoints without entering the more sensitive cliff areas directly, helping keep breeding colonies undisturbed while still offering close access to the scenery.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is ZEPA Costa da Mariña Occidental located? It lies on the Cantabrian coast of Lugo province, Galicia, covering coastal land within the municipalities of Cervo, Xove, Viveiro and O Vicedo.

Which birds can be seen here? Key species include the yellow-legged gull, crested cormorant, sooty shearwater, peregrine falcon, and — as a recent addition — a breeding colony of northern gannets.

Is the area open to visitors? Yes, coastal paths and viewpoints run along the cliffs, though the nesting colonies themselves are protected and should not be disturbed.

What protection status does the area hold? It is designated as a Special Protection Area for Birds (ZEPA) under the Natura 2000 network, and since 2014 also holds Special Area of Conservation (ZEC) status.