This week, snow has once again covered several areas of Galicia in white. If you want to enjoy it, here is a list of 10 snowy destinations ideal for a family or friends getaway and to discover the most wintry side of our land.
These areas are mainly in the provinces of Lugo and Ourense.
LUGO
- O Cebreiro
In the municipality of Pedrafita do Cebreiro, this place dazzles in any season of the year.
Its main treasure is the “pallozas,” circular stone houses with thatched roofs stacked in layers, a true symbol of traditional Galician architecture and declared a Cultural Heritage Site. Snow covers its streets and roofs, creating a magical landscape that seems taken from a fairy tale, ideal for photography and light snow walks.
- O Courel
In the southeast of Lugo province lies the Serra do Courel, an impressive mountain range mainly covering the municipality of Folgoso do Courel.
Snow dresses its hills and valleys in white, creating unique postcards. Besides its beauty, it stands out for its ecological richness and biodiversity, declared a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2019.
- Os Ancares
From Pico Miravalles on the border of León with Asturias to Pedrafita do Cebreiro, this impressive mountain range offers valleys, peaks, and forests covered in snow, enhancing their beauty.
Among its most emblematic spots is Piornedo, a mountain village where traditional Galician pallozas are preserved. Os Ancares also houses some of the highest peaks in Galicia, making it a must-visit for hiking, nature, and mountain landscapes lovers.
- A Fonsagrada
Located in the central-eastern part of Lugo province, it is the largest municipality in Galicia. Its town center rises over 950 meters above sea level, offering unique views of the impressive mountain complex that serves as a natural border between Galicia and Asturias.
One of its most curious spots is the parish of O Vilar de Cuíña, from where you can only reach Riodeporcos (Asturias) by crossing a hanging footbridge over the Navia River reservoir, combining adventure and spectacular snowy landscapes.
- Serra do Xistral
In northern Lugo, Mount O Xistral stands as a natural refuge of great scenic value. Its peaks and slopes, over 1,000 meters high, are covered in white, offering a winter spectacle of forests, valleys, and snow-covered meadows.
One of its most remarkable spots is the Fonfría area, from where trails cross dense forests and pasturelands, creating a unique nature and adventure experience.
- Viveiro and Serra de Meira
Located in northern Lugo, the town of Viveiro and nearby Serra de Meira combine coast and mountains, offering very special winter panoramas. The Meira mountains transform their forests and valleys into a fairytale-like winter scene.
Among the most striking spots is the A Rocha viewpoint, from where you can see extensive snowy landscapes descending to the surrounding valleys.
OURENSE
- Cabeza de Manzaneda
The only ski resort in Galicia, located in the Ourense Central Massif within the municipality of A Pobra de Trives. Its terrain is divided into two peaks: Cabeza Grande (1,781 m) and Cabeza Pequena (1,775 m). For winter sports enthusiasts, the resort offers various slopes suitable for all levels. Check online for opening information.
- Baixa Limia – Serra do Xurés
One of Galicia’s most impressive natural parks. Protected since 1993 and recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it covers over 20,900 hectares. It spans the municipalities of Entrimo, Lobios, and Muíños, reaching the border with Portugal and connecting to Peneda-Gerês National Park.
The peaks of Xurés reach between 1,000 and 1,500 meters, offering snowy landscapes of great beauty and biodiversity. Every visit becomes a unique experience for ecotourism lovers.
- Pena Trevinca
Located on the border between Ourense and Zamora, Pena Trevinca rises as the highest peak of the Segundera range, part of the Galaico-Leonese massif. At 2,127 meters, it is the highest peak in Galicia and Zamora, offering spectacular views covered by a white blanket over mountains, valleys, and glacial lakes.
The ascent to Pena Trevinca is recommended for experienced hikers due to its difficulty. However, it can also be enjoyed from nearby towns such as A Veiga, where the snowy mountains create breathtaking winter landscapes.
- Serra da Queixa
Located in the Ourense Central Massif, Serra da Queixa rises as a natural enclave of great beauty, with snow-covered slopes and valleys transforming the landscape into a spectacular winter scene.
One of its most attractive spots is the Manzaneda area, where trails cross forests and snowy pastures, offering a complete mountain and nature experience.
- Mountains of Allariz and A Limia
In southwestern Ourense, the mountains of Allariz and the Limia region offer snow blankets, covering meadows, forests, and villages with a very special charm. Although their altitudes are lower than other areas of Galicia, the winter landscape they offer is equally impressive.
Remember that weather conditions can change rapidly. Check road and trail conditions before planning your visit, wear appropriate warm clothing, and bring snow equipment if you plan to climb higher areas. We look forward to seeing you!
