This Galician province, separated from northern Portugal by the River Miño, and famous for the lush Rìas Baixas or Low Estuaries, is increasingly visited by Spanish holidaymakers who are looking to escape the more frequented parts of the country. The two main cities, Pontevedra and Vigo are both situated on rìas bearing their name. The multitude of fine beaches is also a draw, as are the well-known Albariño wines, the ever-present quality Galician seafood and fine hospitality of the Gallegos
Pontevedra itself exudes the warm and welcoming atmosphere of many a Spanish provincial town. Stroll through the shady streets and small squares, characterised by dozens of granite crosses, soak up the atmosphere and sample the fine fare on offer. There is still plenty of life in Pontevedra, especially in the Zona Monumental though the city has ceded importance to its much larger neighbour to the south, Vigo.
Close by, westwards along the ría, important Celtic remains can be found near the beach at Mogor. If it's just beaches alone you're after, Pontevedra has an enviable bounty, ranging from vast open beaches to small secluded coves. Those on the peninsular across the ría from Vigo deserve special mention.
As for Vigo itself, it commands a spectacular view across its ría, where you can't fail to notice the thousands of mussel platforms dotted about the estuary. With a population of more than a quarter of a million, Vigo is not short of life and entertainment; one of the most interesting of visits here is to the seafood market on the Rùa de Pescaderìa - earlier the better. There are good beaches within easy reach too. A short trip from Vigo southbound and you will reach the River Miño at Tui, where, you can stay at the Parador, or simply visit the old quarter of Tui and its Cathedral. Fifteen more minutes by foot, you are over a bridge and into Portugal.
For those with more vigour, a day trip to the Illas Cíes is strongly recommended, taking the boat from the Estaciòn Marìtima in Vigo every hour. The Illas Cíes consists of three small islands just off the coast, opposite the entrance to the rìa, once used as a refuge by Sir Francis Drake on one his many raids on Spanish shipping. These days, beautiful sandy beaches and an abundance of birdlife make it a haven of tranquiity. Should you wish to stay a few nights here, you can unwind and enjoy the luxuries of a five star spa hotel. If you are attracted by the idea of a spa hotel but don't want to pay five star prices (or take the ferry to the islands!), we can recommend the spa village and hotel at Mondarriz, a short drive inland. Massages, Celtic baths and fine cooking can make an ideal interlude in your travels!
Heading north of Vigo and west of Pontevedra, the Rìa de Pontevedra has, at times, a Scandinavian feel to it with its steep, rising forests marshalling the coastline. There are some great beaches and if you make it as far a s Marin, we recommend that you catch the ferry to the Isla de Ons for some hiking or even more restful beaches! At the end of the northern edge of the rìa the open beach at Praia da Lanzada is a popular spot for windsurfing. The third of the Pontevedran rìas is the Rìa da Arousa, where a trip to Padròn will give you a chance to sample their very special peppers - a kind of Russian roulette, in that every now and then you will find one that will have you gasping for some cold water. Wherever you wander in Spain, you will be sure to come across these peppers, but few other parts of the country offer the coastal scenery, spectacular seafood and warm hospitality that make Pontevedra an excellent choice.
Stunning sandy beaches and river-mouths, around which many towns have developed, interrupt the craggy coastline of this fascinating and singular land.
