Between Baiona and Fisterra we can discover paradise on earth, an extension of coastline cut out by the unique way in which the Atlantic Ocean enters Galicia: the Rías Baixas. Beaches of fine sand and clear waters, green islands in the middle of the great blue, forests that look out to the sea, towns that combine the tradition of fishing villages with the spell of bustling summer resorts. And, of course, the fish, shellfish and wines with which this conjunction of fertile land, calm waters and a privileged climate have blessed this area.
The Ría de Arousa is the largest of the estuaries that make up the Rías Baixas area. Through this estuary came the body of the Apostle Saint James to Compostela, making it an area of transcendental historical importance.
The Region of “O Salnés”.
The impressive landscapes of the Salnés region await us looking at the Ría de Arousa. In an area of a few kilometers, we will be able to see the enormous wealth of this land. With a much milder climate than the inland and northern areas of Galicia, we will find ourselves in a microcosm of Atlantic nature and diverse spirit, the place where the Albariño grapes are born.
Treasures under the sand.
During this journey we will meet the “mariscadoras”, women that, for more than five hundred years, have been cultivating and extracting mollusks from the fertile sands of the Ría, such as those appreciated Carril clams. A job that requires great physical effort and enormous knowledge of the environment and the traditional arts that allow both the exploitation and conservation of the seabed.
The Harbor of Compostela.
With good communications by land, the Ría de Arousa is a very close area to Santiago de Compostela. The main towns along the Ría are also dynamic places, with great commercial and social activity. Practically interconnected along the coastline, the different “villas” combine their maritime spirit with their interesting history.
The heart of the Ría de Arousa.
In the heart of the Ría de Arousa, beats A Illa de Arousa, an island of seven square kilometers linked to the mainland by one of the longest bridges in Spain. With 11 kilometers of fine white sand beaches, it has been declared a Natural Reserve, a paradise in the middle of the sea and a privileged place for birds. The about five thousand inhabitants live mainly from fishing. Its mussel and fishing port has a very important activity for the area. The very first canning factory in Galicia was established on this island.
Departures from Santiago/Silleda/Lalín/Rías Baixas