Monte Aloia

To the south of the province of Pontevedra, the O Galiñeiro mountain range shelters one of Galicia’s most emblematic natural treasures: the Monte Aloia Natural Park. Perched on an impressive vantage point over 600 meters above sea level, near the town of Tui, this area offers privileged views over the Miño valley, becoming a true natural balcony overlooking southern Galicia.

Declared in 1978 as Galicia’s first Natural Park, its unique landscape and ecological features have made it a benchmark for nature and history lovers alike.

Native species coexist on its slopes alongside others brought from distant lands, such as Lebanese cedars, firs, cypresses, cork oaks, and hollies, creating a diverse and surprising forest. The cultural heritage is also prominent: a walled enclosure of Gallaecian-Roman origin and a small chapel dedicated to San Xián blend harmoniously with the surroundings, guarded by a lush oak grove.

Several hiking trails cross the park and lead to five viewpoints perfectly integrated into the landscape, from which impressive panoramas of Galicia’s largest river unfold. It is no coincidence that this mountain, due to its strategic position, was used for centuries as a refuge and defense point against invasions, especially during the turbulent medieval times. Today, however, it offers visitors peace, beauty, and a deep connection with history and the land.

Pedras Miúdas lagoon

Registered as a wetland under the name Outeiro da Vila in the Galicia Wetlands Inventory, this site is one of the most remarkable examples of how nature can reclaim what once seemed lost. What was once an open quarry for industrial use is now a biodiversity refuge—a serene landscape where water has drawn new life among the stone.

The lagoon blends so harmoniously with its surroundings that it’s hard to imagine it hasn’t always been there. Thanks to its high ecological and scenic value, it gained environmental protection, ensuring the preservation of this unique ecosystem. Visiting Pedra Miúda is witnessing the earth’s regenerative power—a perfect spot to pause, listen to the birdsong, observe the calm water, and reconnect with the slow rhythm of Galician nature.

Fraga of Catasós

The Fraga de Catasós, also known as the Carballeira de Quiroga, is one of the most remarkable native forests in the province of Pontevedra. Located in the municipality of Lalín and declared a Natural Monument of Galicia, this forest is home to imposing centuries-old oaks and chestnuts that reach up to 30 meters in height and nearly five meters in diameter, considered among the tallest in Europe.

A one-hour circular trail allows visitors to explore this unique space, where, alongside the lush vegetation, you can discover mills, churches, stone crosses, and ancient groves such as those of Cardiego and Quiroga.

The forest once belonged to the Quiroga family, related to the writer Emilia Pardo Bazán, who drew inspiration from this landscape to write part of Los pazos de Ulloa. It is a place where nature, history, and literature come together under the shade of monumental trees.

Callobre Waterfall

The Curantes River, a tributary of the Liñares River, flows through a landscape of extraordinary beauty where water, shaping the stone and vegetation, creates numerous waterfalls along its course. Among them, the Fervenza de Callobre stands out as one of the most emblematic in the area, located in the parish of the same name. This waterfall, hidden among the steep folds of the valley, is situated in an area with difficult access due to the rugged terrain that characterizes this part of the region.

However, in the second decade of the 21st century, several improvements were made to facilitate access to the waterfall. Thanks to the installation of walkways, wooden bridges, and protective railings along the edge of the drop, visitors can now enjoy this natural spot with greater comfort and safety, without losing its wild and authentic character.

The cascade falls from a considerable height, in an environment dominated by the ancient Castro de Callobre, a vestige of the Celtic presence that deeply marked the identity of these lands. It is no surprise, then, that the place is shrouded in an aura of mystery and legend, as is the case with many magical corners of Galicia.

Raxoi and Parafita Waterfalls

These natural wonders can be accessed via a pleasant and easy river trail that runs through the heart of the municipality of Valga, a privileged environment where native vegetation and riparian forests surround visitors with an atmosphere of serenity and beauty. Along this short but intense route, just over a kilometer long, the murmur of the water guides your steps as you walk along comfortable wooden boardwalks perfectly integrated into the landscape.

One of the most distinctive features of the route is the presence of ancient water mills, authentic witnesses to traditional Galician life and a fundamental part of the area’s ethnographic heritage. Situated along the river’s course, these hydraulic devices offer a valuable glimpse into rural life, where humans and nature coexisted in harmonious balance.

During the walk, visitors can pause to admire several waterfalls that, during the rainy season, gain spectacular power and beauty, forming small cascades that bring dynamism and freshness to the surroundings. The entire route is designed to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace—whether alone, as a couple, or with family. This trail offers the perfect opportunity to connect with nature, discover the living history of the Galician landscape, and be surprised by every corner of the path.

Río Barosa Nature Park

In this stunning setting, the power of water takes center stage: an impressive waterfall cascades down the hillside among a group of old river mills, perfectly integrated into the landscape. Following the trails that wind alongside the river, it is possible to discover a large number of mills, many of them restored, allowing visitors to get up close to their traditional architecture and original functioning.

In addition to its natural and cultural value, the park offers a recreational area ideal for resting, having a picnic, or enjoying local cuisine at one of its two mills converted into restaurants. A perfect place to pause, breathe, and let yourself be enveloped by the sound of water and the lush greenery of Galician vegetation.