The Atlantic coast, a fairly mild climate
From Galicia to Asturias, via Cantabria, the Atlantic coast of northern Spain is influenced by the Gulf Stream, which provides a fairly mild climate all year round. In winter, temperatures on the coast fluctuate around 10°C, with some variation between the Atlantic coast and the cooler interior of the rías. Westerly winds, which blow regularly along the coast, bring with them rain, which is quite abundant, amounting to over 1,000 mm per year in coastal towns. This gives us the green Spain we know, with its verdant landscapes. Summer, although cooler than in the rest of the country, offers many sunny days, especially in the microclimate of southern Galicia. Daytime temperatures fluctuate between 20 and 25°C, often cooled by the sea breeze. Nights are also cool, and a little wool is advisable for evening outings.
Inland, a harsh climate
In contrast to the Atlantic coast, the interior enjoys a continental climate, with differences depending on whether or not you're in a mountainous area. To the north, the Cantabrian mountains separate this oceanic zone from the arid plateau of the Spanish Meseta, while to the west, the Sierra de los Ancares acts as a natural barrier. As a result, winters in the mountains are harsher than on the coast, and snow is a frequent visitor during this season. On the Meseta, the arid high plateau that occupies much of Castilla y León, winters remain cold and wet, with an average January temperature of 4°C. During the night, temperatures often drop below zero, making early-morning frosts a frequent occurrence. Precipitation, however, is rather scarce on the plateau, fluctuating between 400 and 550 millimeters per year, while in the mountainous areas, no less than 1,500 millimeters fall each year, peaking in spring and autumn. Summers, on the other hand, are hot and dry inland, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C! In mountainous areas, thunderstorms can occur in the afternoon and evening. Nights remain cool, and temperatures can vary greatly between morning and evening. You'll need to bring warm clothing.
