Galicia, with its lush landscapes and mild summer temperatures, is the perfect setting for a getaway. With many options, including an impressive coastline with several estuaries and an inland area full of nature and mountains with villages and unique settings that are ideal to visit in the summer.
The varied scenery means that visitors often opt for the beach. However, Galicia's mountains are less well known and will offer you a unique experience. Read our top five mountain destinations to visit in the summer in Galicia.
Ribeira Sacra
The Ribeira Sacra is a mountainous region located between Lugo and Ourense, famous for its breathtaking landscapes, rivers and terraced vineyards. This destination is ideal for people who love nature and history and also enjoy good wine. The area is noted for its river canyons, especially those of the rivers Sil and Miño, lending spectacular views. The region is also known for its numerous monasteries and Romanesque temples.
Popular activities in the Ribeira Sacra include river cruises on the Sil, allowing you to admire the terraced vineyards and cliffs from a unique perspective. If you prefer hiking, you can follow the Ruta de los Monasterios (Monastery Route), which connects several monasteries. The region is famous for its wines, especially Mencía reds, and many wineries provide guided tours and tastings. Also not to be missed are the villages of Monforte de Lemos, Parada de Sil and Chantada, each with its unique charm and attractions.
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Sierra de O Courel
The Sierra de O Courel, located in the province of Lugo, is a natural paradise full of forests, rivers and small charming villages. It's ideal for hiking and nature lovers. Hiking is one of the activities you can do, with many trails such as the Devesa da Rogueira, which is one of the most popular.
Birdwatching is also highly recommended, given the diversity of fauna and flora that exist in the mountains. Don't miss a visit to traditional villages such as Folgoso do Courel, Seoane do Courel and Vilar de Lor, where you can end the day learning about their rich culture and sampling local food.
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Sierra de Ancares
The Sierra de Ancares, between Lugo and Leon, has breathtaking landscapes with high peaks and deep valleys, perfect for those looking for an authentic and peaceful experience. The Ruta dos Ancares is a trail that runs along the highest points of the mountain range, affording spectacular views.
Moreover, you can visit picturesque villages such as Piornedo, famous for its pallozas (traditional stone and thatched-roof dwellings). If you enjoy mountain biking, the cycling trails are spectacular and challenging, allowing you to explore the area's natural beauty.
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Mount Pindo
Known as the "Celtic Olympus", Mount Pindo - which shares its name with the Greek mountain range - is found on the Costa da Morte. It is located in the heart of the Rias Baixas, one of the best summer resorts in Galicia and one of the coolest in the region. The mountain has breathtaking views of the Atlantic and the cape of Finisterre.
The mountain's rocky walls are ideal for climbing, while the hiking trails to the top are a rewarding challenge with unbeatable views. You can also combine the mountain with a dip in the nearby beaches of Carnota, which are stunning and peaceful in equal measure. In the surrounding area, be sure to visit the charming village of O Pindo, a unique cultural experience.
Baixa Limia – Serra do Xurés Nature Reserve
This reserve, in Ourense province close to the Portuguese border, is a natural jewel with great biodiversity and mountain landscapes. Its many hiking trails cross forests, rivers and mountains, offering an immersive experience in nature.
One of the main tourist attractions is the Lobios hot springs, perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking. Meanwhile, wildlife observation is ideal for nature lovers and photographers, with a wide variety of species to discover. In the surrounding area, the villages of Lobios and Entrimo provide a glimpse of Galician rural life and traditions.
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Family-friendly mountain trips in Galicia
For those travelling with children, Galicia offers several family-friendly options. The Fragas do Eume Nature Reserve, a great summer trip option, is perfect with its easy and safe trails, ideal for children. You can also visit the Caaveiro Monastery and enjoy picnic areas by the river Eume.
The above-mentioned Sierra de O Courel is also an excellent option, with trails for all levels. Moreover, you can learn about the local flora and fauna at the Nature Visitor Centre, a fun, educational experience for the little ones.
How to spend a weekend in the mountains in Galicia
A great way to unwind and discover the incredible landscapes that lie at the heart of this land is to spend a weekend in the mountains of Galicia. We suggest the following itinerary:
- Friday: Start your weekend in the Sierra de O Courel and begin with the Devesa da Rogueira trail. It is 10 kilometres long and lasts four hours, but if you go with children you can adapt the route to simpler trails. Don't miss the bird watching and take advantage of the early evening to explore Folgoso do Courel and its mountain architecture.
- Saturday: Continue your adventure in Galicia with the main attraction: the Ribeira Sacra, just 1 hour's drive from Courel. Take a cruise along the river Sil and then explore the Ruta de los Monasterios (Monastery Route). If you like wine, go wine tasting in one of the area's wineries, where you'll also be able to sample the local food. End the day by visiting a nearby village.
- Sunday: Head to Mount Pindo, with slightly more demanding trails but with incredible views at the top. The best thing about finishing here is that you can also enjoy the Galician beaches, as the area is next to the Costa da Morte. End the day by cooling off on some of the mountain-side beaches, such as Carnota, and visiting O Pindo.
