The province is home to some of Galicia’s most distinctive historic towns. Allariz, Ribadavia, Vilanova dos Infantes, Castro Caldelas and Monterrei each offer a different way to discover an age when kings, nobles, merchants, pilgrims and peasants left their mark on the landscape.

Allariz: a town with royal connections

On the banks of the River Arnoia, Allariz is one of the province’s outstanding historic centres. Its medieval importance is linked, among other things, to its role as a seat of the court of the Kingdom of Galicia.

Arriving in the town via the 13th-century Ponte de Vilanova is a fitting way to step into its history. Beyond the bridge, the old town’s streets, ancient Romanesque churches and houses preserve the layout of the medieval settlement.

The walk can continue alongside the Arnoia, where historic buildings stand alongside old mills, tanneries and other structures that recall the importance of river-based crafts over the centuries.

Allariz offers a glimpse of the Middle Ages that can be found not only in castles, but also in streets, churches and the town’s relationship with water.

Ribadavia: castles, wine and Jewish heritage

In the heart of the Ribeiro wine region lies Ribadavia, a town whose medieval history is closely linked to trade and the presence of an important Jewish community.

Its historic centre retains a network of narrow streets, squares and houses that invite visitors to wander at their own pace. The former Jewish quarter, known as A Alxama, is one of the most fascinating places to discover this part of the town’s past.

The Castle of the Sarmiento family, located within the historic centre, also recalls the power of the lords who ruled these lands. Although only parts of the original complex survive, traces of its walls, towers and old gateways can still be identified.

To round off a visit to Ribadavia, there is no better way than to explore the Ribeiro, a region where wine, landscape and history have been intertwined for centuries.

Vilanova dos Infantes: a small town frozen in time

In the municipality of Celanova lies one of those places whose charm comes from its modest scale. Vilanova dos Infantes preserves one of Galicia’s most distinctive medieval ensembles, with narrow cobbled streets and granite houses that follow the contours of the land.

Its most recognisable landmark is the Tower of Vilanova, the only surviving remnant of the former castle that once dominated the town. The fortress was destroyed during the Irmandiño revolts, but the tower remains as a reminder of that past.

Wandering through its squares, discovering old fountains or finding the cellars carved into the rock offers a glimpse of everyday life in a small medieval community.

Perhaps this is one of those places where there is no need to seek out grand monuments to feel part of history.

Castro Caldelas: a town built around a castle

In the Ourense section of the Ribeira Sacra, Castro Caldelas stands on a rise overlooking the valley of the River Edo. Its historic centre retains a distinctly medieval character, with narrow cobbled streets leading towards its main landmark: the castle.

The fortress was built in the 14th century and still features towers, defensive walls, a parade ground and other elements that help visitors understand how these strongholds were designed. The castle’s history is also linked to the 15th-century Irmandiño revolts, during which it suffered significant damage before being rebuilt.

But Castro Caldelas is much more than its fortress. Its heraldic houses, glazed galleries and streets climbing towards the castle form an ensemble in which the layout of a medieval town is still easy to recognise.

From the heights, the landscape of the Ribeira Sacra also helps explain why this place held such strategic importance for centuries.

Monterrei: a fortress overlooking the Támega Valley

The journey ends in southern Ourense, at one of Galicia’s most impressive fortified complexes. Monterrei occupies an elevated position overlooking the Támega Valley and the lands near the Portuguese border.

The fortress dates back to the Middle Ages and expanded over the centuries to become a substantial defensive and residential complex. Towers, walls, a church, a pilgrims’ hospital and other buildings form a remarkable hilltop stronghold that reveals the strategic importance of this territory.

Monterrei was also a centre of culture. A printing press operated within its walls, and in 1494 the Missale Auriense was printed here, regarded as the first book printed in Galicia.

Today, exploring the complex and looking out over the Támega Valley from its walls offers a chance to connect with a key chapter in Galicia’s history.

Five towns for discovering medieval Galicia

Allariz, Ribadavia, Vilanova dos Infantes, Castro Caldelas and Monterrei reveal five different sides of medieval Galicia.

Towns shaped by kings and merchants, former Jewish quarters, small fortified settlements, noble castles and great border fortresses. Each preserves part of that history, while reflecting a different relationship with the surrounding landscape.

Best of all, this heritage is not confined to museums. It can be discovered by walking along a cobbled street, crossing a bridge, stepping inside a church, climbing a tower or simply looking out over a valley that has been watched by its inhabitants for centuries.

Because in Ourense, the Middle Ages are not just something to study: they are something to explore.

Fancy setting off on this journey through medieval Galicia?

From the historic Ponte do Burgo to the striking forms of As Correntes, passing through A Barca and Os Tirantes, each bridge tells part of Pontevedra’s story. And the best thing is that we can discover them on a walk along the river, between the old town, green spaces and some of the city’s most pleasant riverside landscapes.

O Burgo: where the story begins

If we want to start this journey, the best place is Ponte do Burgo.

The history of Pontevedra is closely linked to this spot. An ancient Roman bridge, known as Ponte Veteri, lies behind the city’s name, although no remains of that original bridge survive. Archaeological excavations in the surrounding area have, however, uncovered Roman remains and parts of the medieval bridge, which was built in the 12th century.

The bridge we see today is the result of numerous alterations carried out over the centuries. Its eleven visible arches, stone construction and location beside the old town make it one of Pontevedra’s most recognisable landmarks.

It is also part of the Portuguese Way to Santiago. The scallop shells on the bridge are a reminder of the pilgrims who have crossed the Lérez for centuries on their journey to Compostela.

This is also a good place to explore the archaeological surroundings of O Burgo, where remains of the old city walls, a 15th-century quay and other features help us understand the importance this area once had in the history of the city.

A Barca: a bridge with a maritime past

Following the river towards the estuary, we come to Ponte da Barca, whose name recalls the boats that for centuries allowed people to cross the river at this point.

In the 19th century, a wooden bridge was built here, with a lifting section to allow boats to reach the quays near O Burgo. The structure was later replaced by a new bridge, completed in 1905, whose central metal section remains part of the bridge we see today.

Its history reminds us that bridges were not only built to connect two banks. They were also closely linked to the port, trade and Pontevedra’s relationship with the sea.

From here, we can also enjoy one of the city’s most characteristic riverside views, with the river opening out towards the estuary.

Os Tirantes: when Pontevedra looks to the future

Leaving the historic bridges behind, we continue our walk beside the Lérez until we reach a completely different structure.

Ponte dos Tirantes was inaugurated in 1995 and marked a new chapter in Pontevedra’s urban landscape. Designed by Leonardo Fernández Troyano and Javier Manterola, it features a 63-metre-high concrete tower from which 17 pairs of cables support the bridge deck.

Its striking presence beside the river and the Pazo da Cultura and exhibition centre makes it one of the city’s most recognisable examples of contemporary architecture.

But the visit does not end when we cross it. The surrounding area allows us to continue along paths following the Lérez and reach Illa das Esculturas, a space where nature, art and landscape come together beside the river.

It is a fine example of how Pontevedra has turned its riverside areas into places to walk, explore and enjoy the city.

As Correntes: a bridge for walking, cycling and taking in the view

The final major bridge on this route is also the newest. Ponte das Correntes opened in 2012 and stands out for its two large metal arches and its design, which accommodates different forms of mobility.

It has four lanes for vehicles, a cycle lane and covered pedestrian areas, connecting the two banks of the Lérez. Its arch structure also creates a visual dialogue with the forms of A Barca and O Burgo.

But perhaps the most appealing thing for visitors is that this bridge is not simply a way of getting to the other side. Its pedestrian routes bring you closer to the river and offer a different perspective over the water.

And if you take the walk as evening falls, the bridges become the protagonists of another Pontevedra. The lighting of O Burgo and As Correntes creates reflections on the Lérez and gives the route an entirely different atmosphere.

A walk among bridges, river and city

One of the best ways to discover Pontevedra is to follow the Lérez and let its bridges guide the way.

We can start at O Burgo, head towards the old town, continue to A Barca and then make our way to Os Tirantes and As Correntes. Between the bridges we find squares, cobbled streets, green spaces, historic buildings and places to sit beside the river.

We can also take a detour into the old town and explore some of the places associated with the Portuguese Way. From Praza da Peregrina, the route crosses the heart of the city before reaching the river and O Burgo, combining heritage, pilgrimage and urban landscape.

In this way, the bridges become more than simple crossing points: they become a different way of discovering Pontevedra.

Pontevedra, a city between two banks

More than three hundred bridges cross rivers and streams throughout the municipality of Pontevedra, but those spanning the Lérez as it passes through the city offer a particularly fascinating journey through its history.

O Burgo tells us about the city’s origins and the Way of St James. A Barca recalls its relationship with the port and the sea. Os Tirantes represents the arrival of a new architectural language, while As Correntes reflects a city that continues to transform its riverside spaces.

Four bridges, four moments and one river.

Because crossing Pontevedra is also about discovering how a city has grown around the water, preserved its memory and turned its riverbanks into places to walk, meet and enjoy.

Fancy crossing it?

It is the perfect time to put on your walking boots, follow a trail and discover how each landscape undergoes its own transformation. From the mountains of Lugo to the Sil Canyon, passing through Atlantic woodlands and forests of hazel and birch, Galicia offers many different ways to enjoy autumn.

Ancares and O Courel: autumn in the mountains

In eastern Galicia, Os Ancares and O Courel are home to some of the region’s most distinctive forests. A Fraga da Marronda, Cruzul e Agüeira, Os Ancares and A Devesa da Rogueira are among the routes that lead into these landscapes.

Here, oaks, chestnut trees, birches and other deciduous species offer an extraordinary variety of colours in autumn. A Devesa da Rogueira stands out for its biodiversity, while A Fraga da Marronda is home, among many other species, to beech trees growing at the westernmost edge of Europe.

This is a landscape made for unhurried walks, among mountains, streams and traditional villages.

Manzaneda and Trevinca: mountain forests

In the mountains of Manzaneda and Trevinca, the landscape changes with altitude. The trails through As Reboleiras do Navea, O Souto de Rozavales and O Teixedal de Casaio reveal different types of woodland in a landscape shaped by high peaks and deep valleys.

Autumn is a wonderful time to explore these areas and watch the deciduous trees transform the landscape, as the forests blend into the mountains of Ourense.

Ribeira Sacra: forests among vineyards and monasteries

In the Ribeira Sacra, autumn brings a special palette of colours. Forests line the Sil Canyon and mingle with vineyards planted on terraces, creating a landscape where greens, ochres and golden tones meet the rocky cliffs and the river.

Some of the most rewarding routes pass through Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil, Santa Cristina de Ribas de Sil and the Bidueiral de Montederramo, one of Galicia’s best-preserved birch forests.

At Santo Estevo, the riverside woodland combines Atlantic species with Mediterranean vegetation, while oak and chestnut trees surround the monastery. At Santa Cristina, thousands of chestnut trees cover the slopes of the Sil Canyon, creating a particularly beautiful scene when autumn arrives.

Fragas do Eume: a forest where green changes too

As Fragas do Eume are one of Galicia’s great Atlantic woodlands. The River Eume flows through a deep valley surrounded by oak, chestnut and birch trees, alders and magnificent ferns.

In autumn, deciduous leaves add shades of yellow and ochre to the woodland, while the forest retains much of its characteristic green. The trails reveal the river, old mills and Caaveiro Monastery, all beautifully integrated into the landscape.

One of the routes worth exploring is Os Cerqueiros, an 8-kilometre circular trail that leads into the woodland and also reaches the shores of the reservoir.

O Xurés: a forest on the border

In south-western Ourense, the Baixa Limia-Serra do Xurés Nature Reserve offers a different landscape, where forests meet impressive granite formations, rivers, waterfalls and mountain valleys.

It is a territory shared with neighbouring Portugal through Peneda-Gerês National Park, forming the Gerês-Xurés Transboundary Biosphere Reserve.

Here, autumn can be combined with walking trails, mountain scenery and even a thermal bath in the waters of the River Caldo.

Forests by the sea, too

Galicia’s woodland landscapes do not end in the mountains. On Cortegada Island, in the heart of the Arousa estuary, a forest of centuries-old laurel trees makes the island a truly distinctive place.

And on the coast of Lugo, O Souto da Retorta is known as the forest of giants, while in Lalín, A Fraga de Catasós offers a short walk among monumental oak and chestnut trees, along a path carpeted with fallen leaves. A perfect image for this time of year.

A palette of colours to explore Galicia

Mountains, rivers, canyons, islands and valleys. Autumn transforms every forest in a different way and offers the perfect excuse to head out for a walk and discover Galicia at a slower pace.

Ochres among the chestnut trees, yellows in the birches, greens in the Atlantic woodlands and reddish tones appearing among the trees. Every path has its own palette.

All you need are comfortable walking boots, a little time and a willingness to let the landscape lead the way.

Because there are forests worth visiting in every season, but in autumn Galicia becomes a true palette of colours.

Fancy discovering it?

Froxán, Seceda and Vilamor are some of the finest examples.

When the mountains shape the way people build

In O Courel, building meant adapting to the terrain, the climate and the resources of the surrounding area.

The villages follow the contours of the land, with houses clustered together and narrow streets winding up and down the mountainsides. Slate, which is abundant in the area, became one of the key elements of traditional architecture, used for walls and, above all, roofs.

Froxán: a village that preserves its essence

If there is one village that helps us understand the relationship between architecture and landscape, it is Froxán.

Located in the municipality of Folgoso do Courel, it preserves traditional houses and buildings clustered around narrow cobbled streets that follow the contours of the land. The village has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest for its ethnographic significance.

Surrounding it are centuries-old chestnut groves, cultivated plots and meadows. Here, nature is not separate from the village: it is part of its history.

Seceda and Vilamor: two ways to discover O Courel

Seceda also preserves the essence of O Courel’s traditional architecture, based on stone, wood and slate. Surrounded by vegetation and chestnut groves, walking through its streets reveals how the houses were integrated into the landscape and how every element responded to the needs of the community.

In Vilamor, slate masonry houses, slate roofs and wooden balconies once again show how architecture adapted to the mountains. The surrounding paths also lead to Vilamor Waterfall, the River Lor and the landscapes around the village.

A heritage made up of small details

The traditional architecture of O Courel is not limited to houses. Scattered throughout the landscape are drying houses, alvarizas, ovens, raised granaries and other structures linked to farming and livestock.

They are small traces of a way of life in which the mountains shaped the rhythm of everyday life and much of what people needed came from the surrounding land.

A Galicia you can still experience

Perhaps the most special thing about O Courel is that its architecture remains part of the landscape. Houses are still woven into the villages, chestnut groves surround the paths, and the mountains remain the defining backdrop of this region.

Walking through Froxán, Seceda and Vilamor offers a glimpse into a way of life that adapted over generations to one of Galicia’s most distinctive landscapes.

If you are looking for a quieter Galicia, with narrow paths, forests, stone and slate, O Courel is waiting to be discovered.

Fancy discovering this Galicia that seems to belong to another time?

From the Rías Baixas to the mountains of Lugo and the landscapes of the Ribeira Sacra, we invite you to discover five particularly charming villages in Galicia. Places to explore at your own pace, enjoy the scenery and discover some of the finest examples of Galician identity.

Combarro: a stone village by the sea

On the Ría de Pontevedra, Combarro is home to one of Galicia’s most distinctive examples of traditional maritime architecture. Its cobbled streets, traditional houses, stone crosses and arcades lead down towards the sea, while more than thirty stone granaries stand along the coast.

A walk from San Roque Square to Padrón Beach reveals this landscape of stone and sea, while also offering an insight into how these granaries were connected to the everyday life and work of fishing families. It is a corner of the Rías Baixas that seems frozen in time.

O Cebreiro: a village among mountains and legends

In the mountains of Lugo, O Cebreiro welcomes visitors with its traditional buildings and mountain scenery. Its pallozas, ancient dwellings of pre-Roman origin adapted to the local climate, form one of the most characteristic ensembles along the Way of St James together with the Sanctuary of Santa María a Real.

Beyond its heritage, O Cebreiro offers an experience closely linked to the French Way. Reaching this small village, particularly when mist envelops the mountains, is a chance to discover one of those Galician landscapes where tradition and nature seem to form part of the same story.

Redes: a small fishing village with a Cuban feel

On the shores of the Ría de Ares, Redes retains the charm of a small fishing village, with colourful houses, quiet streets and a strong connection with the sea. Its architecture also reflects the legacy of Galician emigration to the Americas, particularly Cuba, which can be seen in some of its buildings.

A stroll through Redes reveals a place where the landscape of the estuary blends with traditional architecture and the old ways of life associated with fishing. A small, peaceful village that is perfect for enjoying Galicia at a leisurely pace.

Allariz: history on the banks of the Arnoia

On the banks of the Arnoia River, Allariz combines heritage, nature and tradition. Its historic centre, with cobbled streets and carefully restored stone buildings, invites visitors to explore places such as the Convent of Santa Clara and the sites that form part of the Ethnographic Park of the Arnoia River.

The riverside walk completes the visit and highlights another of the defining features of this town in Ourense: its close relationship between heritage and landscape. Allariz is a destination to explore on foot, discover its history and enjoy a particularly well-preserved setting.

Castro Caldelas: a medieval town around a castle

In the heart of the Ribeira Sacra, Castro Caldelas preserves a medieval historic centre with cobbled streets, stone houses, galleries and coats of arms. At the top of the town stands the fortress of the Counts of Lemos, one of its great landmarks and an essential stop on any visit.

The surrounding Ribeira Sacra landscape completes the experience, with the Sil River, terraced vineyards and other heritage attractions nearby. It is a place where history seems to remain present in every street and where the landscape is an inseparable part of the experience.

Five villages, five ways to discover Galicia

Combarro, O Cebreiro, Redes, Allariz and Castro Caldelas showcase five different sides of Galicia: maritime, mountainous, Indian, riverside and medieval. Five places to wander through at your own pace, discover their stories and enjoy the small corners that make Galicia a destination filled with landscapes that look as though they have come straight out of a fairytale.

Here are five ideas for enjoying Galicia in September and discovering that the end of summer is also a wonderful time to travel.

1. Explore the Ribeira Sacra among vineyards and monasteries

September is a particularly appealing time to discover the Ribeira Sacra, as its vineyard landscapes begin to change with the arrival of the grape harvest.

The Sil and Miño canyons, forests, viewpoints and ancient monasteries create a unique landscape that invites you to explore the area at a leisurely pace. You can cruise through the Sil canyons, visit monasteries such as Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil and Santa Cristina de Ribas de Sil, and discover some of the villages and viewpoints overlooking the rivers.

The combination of nature, heritage and vineyard landscapes makes the Ribeira Sacra one of Galicia’s must-visit destinations in September.

2. Hop aboard one of Galicia’s Tourist Trains

Travelling by train can also be a different way to discover Galicia. The 2026 season of Galicia’s Tourist Trains includes a range of experiences that offer the chance to discover some of the region’s most remarkable landscapes, heritage sites and tourist attractions.

In September, you can enjoy, among other options, the Lighthouse Routes and the wine routes through the Ribeira Sacra along the Sil and Miño, as well as other experiences linked to Galicia’s heritage and culture.

A comfortable and original way to travel, allowing the landscape to become an essential part of the experience.

3. Relax in Galicia’s thermal waters

September is also a great time to take a break and enjoy Galicia’s thermal heritage.

Galicia has an extensive thermal offering spread across its four provinces. In A Coruña, you can enjoy places such as the Balneario de Carballo or the Hotel Balneario de Compostela in Brión; in Lugo, visit the Termas Romanas in Lugo, Guitiriz or Augas Santas in Pantón; in Ourense, discover places such as Arnoia, Laias, Lobios and O Carballiño; and in Pontevedra, enjoy the thermal waters of Caldas de Reis, Cuntis, Mondariz and Caldelas de Tui.

A thermal bath, a wellness treatment or simply a few hours of relaxation can be the perfect way to unwind after the summer and enjoy a break focused on wellbeing.

4. Discover Galicia’s cities at your own pace

September is also an invitation to return to the cities and explore them at a more leisurely pace. Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Lugo, Ourense, Pontevedra, Vigo and Ferrol offer a wide range of options for an urban getaway.

You can stroll through the historic centre of Santiago de Compostela, admire the Tower of Hercules in A Coruña, walk along Lugo’s Roman walls, discover Ourense’s thermal heritage or wander through the squares and streets of Pontevedra’s historic centre.

Museums, exhibitions, heritage, culture and gastronomy complete an urban offering that allows you to discover a different side of Galicia, more cultural and contemporary, as summer comes to an end.

5. Discover Galicia through its wines

September marks the beginning of one of the most special times of the Galician wine calendar: the grape harvest.

Galicia’s five wine denominations of origin offer very different landscapes and ways of experiencing wine. From Rías Baixas, O Ribeiro and Ribeira Sacra to Valdeorras and Monterrei, each area has its own native grape varieties, traditions and landscapes.

Visiting a winery, walking among the vineyards, learning about the grape harvest or taking part in a wine tasting are just some of the experiences that offer an insight into Galicia’s wine culture and its close relationship with the land.

September is therefore a particularly interesting time to discover Galicia through its wines and the people who produce them.

After summer, Galicia changes pace, but not its possibilities. Five ways to keep enjoying Galicia in September and discover a new way of travelling through the destination.

Discovering the heroic viticulture of the Ribeira Sacra means getting closer to one of the defining features of this destination and understanding why wine is an inseparable part of its landscape and culture.

What is heroic viticulture?

Heroic viticulture is practised in particularly challenging conditions due to the characteristics of the terrain.

In the Ribeira Sacra, vineyards are laid out on terraces and stepped plots to overcome the steep slopes, which can reach gradients of up to 100%. This configuration makes mechanisation difficult and means that much of the work in the vineyards must be carried out by hand.

Here, people are the main tools of the trade. Every task requires effort, dedication and an in-depth knowledge of the terrain. Even moving between the vines can become an exercise in balance.

It is precisely this difficulty that makes viticulture in the Ribeira Sacra such a unique experience.

A Designation of Origin wine region

The Ribeira Sacra Designation of Origin was established in 1996 to protect the origin, guarantee quality and promote its wines. Since then, viticulture has played a key role in restoring vineyards and landscapes, making wine one of the major economic and tourism drivers of the Ribeira Sacra.

The wine-growing territory is divided into five sub-zones:

• Amandi
• Chantada
• Quiroga-Bibei
• Ribeiras do Miño
• Ribeiras do Sil

Each is part of the same wine-growing territory, where vine cultivation is deeply shaped by the landscape.

Since 2011, the CERVIM has also had a specific seal identifying this type of viticulture, and the Ribeira Sacra is one of the few Spanish Designations of Origin eligible to use it.

Discover heroic viticulture during your visit

If you are thinking of travelling to the Ribeira Sacra, do not limit yourself to admiring its spectacular landscapes.

Behind every vineyard-covered hillside lies a story of hard work and adaptation. Behind every terrace is a way of working the land that has become one of the territory’s defining features.

Explore its wine-growing landscapes, discover its five sub-zones and be amazed by a way of cultivating vines that defies gravity.

Ready to discover the Ribeira Sacra?

The best way to understand heroic viticulture is to experience it up close. Embark on this 3-day route through the lands of the Ribeira Sacra Designation of Origin, explore its vineyards and discover a territory where wine and landscape come together to create a unique experience.

Jewish communities have been documented in Galicia since the 11th century, with a presence in towns and cities such as Ourense, Allariz, Monterrei and Pontevedra. Today, Monforte de Lemos, Ribadavia and Tui are part of the Network of Jewish Quarters of Spain – Caminos de Sefarad, helping to preserve and showcase this rich historical and cultural heritage.

Monforte de Lemos: medieval streets and ancient fortresses

In the heart of the Ribeira Sacra, Monforte de Lemos preserves the memory of a Jewish community that grew particularly from the 12th century onwards.

Start your visit at Monte de San Vicente, home to the Monastery of San Vicente do Pino, the Tower of Homage and the Palace of the Counts of Lemos. Look closely at the Tower of Homage and you may spot Stars of David carved into some of its stone blocks.

From here, the route leads down towards Porta Nova and along Rúa Falagueira, once the main street of the Jewish quarter. Continue through the historic streets of Pescadería, Zapatería and Abelardo Baanante, discovering the places where this community once lived and worshipped.

Ribadavia: the heart of Jewish heritage in O Ribeiro

In Ribadavia, Jewish heritage is an integral part of the town’s identity. Its Jewish community flourished from the 12th and 13th centuries, with trade and the famous wines of O Ribeiro playing an important role in its prosperity.

Start in the Praza Maior and wander through the old Jewish quarter, following its medieval streets towards Praza da Madalena and Porta Nova de Abaixo.

To delve deeper into this history, visit the Galicia Sephardic Museum, housed in the Pazo dos Condes de Ribadavia. And if you visit during the Festa da Istoria, you can step back in time with the recreation of a medieval Jewish wedding.

Tui: Jewish heritage on the banks of the Miño

Close to the Portuguese border, Tui offers another fascinating glimpse into Galicia’s Jewish past.

One of its most remarkable traces can be found inside Tui Cathedral, whose Gothic cloister features a menorah. From here, explore the old Jewish quarter and discover places connected with the everyday and religious life of the community.

Highlights include the Casa de Salomón, dating from the 15th century, the Torre do Xudeu and Porta Pía or Porta da Pila. You can also visit the cathedral’s Diocesan Museum, home to five sambenitos dating from the time of the Inquisition.

Three destinations, one shared history and a unique way to discover Galicia: walking through its historic quarters and travelling back through the centuries.

Ready to explore Galicia’s Jewish heritage and discover the stories hidden among its streets? Discover the full routes here.

On 12 August, Galicia experienced one of those moments. The solar eclipse put the sky centre stage, and thousands of people gathered to watch the Moon pass in front of the Sun in an extraordinary spectacle.

But the eclipse is now over. And perhaps that is precisely a good reason to keep looking up at the sky.

Because Galicia has much more to offer those who are curious about astronomy. Nine Galician destinations hold the Starlight Tourist Destination certification, a recognition that highlights their excellent conditions for stargazing and their commitment to protecting the night sky.

Ready to discover them?

When the sky becomes the destination

Astrotourism invites us to travel in a different way: to slow down, move away from the lights of the cities and allow our eyes to gradually adjust to the darkness.

In Galicia, this experience can be enjoyed by the sea, on Atlantic islands, among mountains, in the landscapes of the Ribeira Sacra or in rural areas where the night still preserves one of its greatest treasures: a dark sky filled with stars.

Starlight Tourist Destinations in Galicia

The Starlight Foundation, linked to the Institute of Astrophysics of the Canary Islands, certifies places that stand out for the quality of their skies and their commitment to protecting them from light pollution. These are places where stargazing forms part of the natural, landscape, cultural or scientific heritage and also becomes a tourist attraction.

Galicia has nine Starlight Tourist Destinations: nine exceptional places from which to discover and enjoy our night sky.

1. Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park

There is something special about looking at the stars from an island. In the Atlantic Islands, the ocean surrounds the landscape, while the distance from major urban centres provides privileged conditions for observing the night sky.

Cíes, Ons, Sálvora and Cortegada offer an experience in which sea, nature and the night sky come together under the same stars.

2. A Costa da Morte

In A Costa da Morte, the sky is part of a landscape that is spectacular in its own right.

Here, the experience can begin by contemplating the Atlantic from a lighthouse or cliff and end beneath a star-filled sky. The contrast between the immensity of the ocean and that of the firmament turns night-time into a new way of exploring this territory.

3. Trevinca

In the mountains of Ourense, Pena Trevinca rises to 2,127 metres and offers exceptional conditions for astronomical observation.

Its altitude, low light pollution and expansive landscapes make this area one of the great references for astrotourism in Galicia. A place where simply looking up allows you to discover constellations, planets and the Milky Way in all their splendour.

4. Muras

In the Serra do Xistral, Muras invites visitors to enjoy a different kind of night.

The low level of light pollution turns its landscapes into a privileged setting for observing the stars and discovering astronomy. A perfect choice for those looking to combine nature, tranquillity and contemplation of the night sky.

5. Lalín

Lalín’s connection with astronomy also has a name: Ramón María Aller, one of the great figures in Galician astronomy.

The area allows visitors to discover this connection with science while enjoying a sky particularly well suited to observation. From its natural spaces, Galicia can be seen from a different perspective: as a territory that is also part of the universe around us.

6. Reserva de Biosfera Mariñas Coruñesas

The Mariñas Coruñesas Biosphere Reserve incorporates the night sky into an experience centred on nature and the landscape.

Here, stargazing can be part of a journey that also includes scenery, gastronomy, heritage and ecotourism. Because protecting the night sky also means preserving an essential part of our natural heritage.

7. Biosphere Reserve of Os Ancares Lucenses y Montes de Navia, Cervantes y Becerreá

Mountains, valleys and small settlements define the landscape of the Ancares Lucenses, an area where the darkness of night allows visitors to enjoy a particularly captivating firmament.

The destination offers an opportunity to discover the mountains of Lugo after sunset and understand that nature also has a nocturnal dimension.

8. Chantada

In the heart of the Ribeira Sacra, Monte Faro provides a magnificent vantage point for observing the sky.

Here, stargazing is combined with a landscape shaped by the Miño and Sil river canyons, vineyards, monasteries and viewpoints. An experience that shows how completely a destination can change when night falls.

9. Fornelos de Montes and Oia – South-west Galicia

South-western Galicia also offers privileged places from which to gaze at the night sky. The territory linking Fornelos de Montes and Oia combines mountain and coastal landscapes with low levels of light pollution, creating a particularly attractive setting for astrotourism.

It is another way to discover southern Galicia, following the path of the stars across a territory that stretches from the inland mountains to the Atlantic.

Much more than an eclipse

The eclipse reminded us of something we perhaps forget far too often: all we need to do is look up to discover an extraordinary spectacle above our heads.

But there is no need to wait for a major astronomical event. Every clear night is a new opportunity to contemplate the stars, identify constellations, follow the Moon’s journey or simply enjoy the darkness.

Galicia’s nine Starlight Tourist Destinations make it possible to experience this in some of the most unique landscapes in our region. Ready to discover them?

From the dramatic Northern Estuaries (Rías Altas) to the peaceful Southern Estuaries (Rías Baixas), we invite you to discover these unique coastal landscapes, learn what makes each estuary special, and enjoy unforgettable maritime tourism experiences along the Galician coast.

The Rías Altas stretch from the mouth of the River Eo to the estuary of A Coruña. Towering cliffs, unspoilt beaches, traditional fishing villages and bustling harbours define a dramatic coastline where the Cantabrian Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean in all its power.

Rías Altas

• Ribadeo Estuary: the gateway to Galicia, renowned for As Catedrais Beach (Cathedrals Beach) and its long fishing tradition.
• Foz Estuary: home to wide sandy beaches and the Basilica of San Martiño de Mondoñedo.
• Viveiro Estuary: featuring a charming medieval old town, Area Beach and the Souto da Retorta forest.
• O Barqueiro Estuary: a picturesque fishing harbour close to Estaca de Bares, the northernmost point of the Iberian Peninsula.
• Ortigueira Estuary: known for its wetlands, the Serra da Capelada mountain range and Cape Ortegal.
• Cedeira Estuary: gateway to the Sanctuary of Santo André de Teixido and the impressive Vixía Herbeira cliffs.
• Ferrol Estuary: famous for its naval heritage, defensive fortresses and one of Europe’s most important historic naval arsenals.
• Ares and Betanzos Estuaries: home to Pontedeume, Redes, Sada and the Fragas do Eume Natural Park.
• A Coruña Estuary: dominated by the Tower of Hercules, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it combines the city’s vibrant atmosphere with long seaside promenades, beaches such as Riazor and Orzán, and a rich maritime tradition centred around its port.

Costa da Morte 

Beyond the Muros and Noia Estuary lies the spectacular Costa da Morte, a coastline of extraordinary beauty where long sandy beaches alternate with rugged cliffs and small fishing ports. Steeped in maritime legends, this region has a deep-rooted connection with the sea.

• Corme and Laxe Estuary: beaches, shellfish beds and the iconic Punta Roncudo Lighthouse.
• Camariñas Estuary: home of goose barnacle harvesters, traditional bobbin lace and Cape Vilán.
• Corcubión Estuary: the gateway to Cape Fisterra, with charming fishing towns and a rich historical heritage.
• Muxía and Fisterra area: featuring the Sanctuary of Virxe da Barca, the Fisterra Lighthouse and some of the Atlantic coast’s most iconic landscapes.

Rías Baixas 

The Rías Baixas are renowned for their calm waters, white sandy beaches, mussel rafts and thriving maritime culture. Here, maritime tourism offers visitors the opportunity to discover traditional fishing, shellfish harvesting and aquaculture.

• Muros and Noia Estuary: the transition to the Rías Baixas, home to two historic fishing towns with a strong shellfishing tradition.
• Arousa Estuary: the largest estuary in Galicia, famous for its mussel rafts and destinations such as Illa de Arousa, Vilanova de Arousa, Cambados, O Grove, Ribeira and Vilagarcía de Arousa.
• Pontevedra Estuary: where Pontevedra, Combarro, Bueu and Marín combine rich heritage with centuries-old maritime traditions.
• Vigo Estuary: sheltered by the Cíes Islands, it is home to Galicia’s largest fishing port as well as charming coastal towns including Cangas, Moaña and Baiona.

Set sail on a journey through Galicia’s estuaries, fishing ports, maritime traditions and outstanding seafood cuisine. Galicia is waiting for you. Are you ready to discover it?