Ribeira Sacra, Spain

Ribeira Sacra

Steep river canyons lined with terraced vineyards in Galicia.

  • Apr–Oct
  • Best by car
  • 1 night
Explore on the map
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Things to do

2 days in Ribeira Sacra

Day 1

  1. MorningTake a catamaran trip through the steep Sil canyon, with vineyards hanging on the walls.
  2. AfternoonVisit the monastery of Santo Estevo, now a parador, and a family winery on the terraces.
  3. EveningWatch the sunset from the Balcones de Madrid viewpoint over the canyon.

Day 2

Walk the wooden walkways of the Mao river canyon.

What to eat

Mencía red wine and a slice of Galician empanada.

Local tips

Make the most of Ribeira Sacra

Beat the crowds

Calm most of the year. Harvest time in September is lively.

Best photo spot

The Sil canyon and its vineyard terraces from the Balcones de Madrid viewpoint.

Getting there

Easiest by car from Ourense or Lugo.

Don't miss nearby

The monastery of Santo Estevo and the river boat trips on the Sil.

Good to know

Take a catamaran on the Sil to see the terraces from below. The region also has many Romanesque churches.

Secret spots

2 secret spots near Ribeira Sacra

Our most hidden places around Ribeira Sacra: fewer people, same wow. Unlock them with a route in Google Maps and a PDF guide of Ribeira Sacra to take with you.

69 km away
88 km away
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Plan your visit

Getting to Ribeira Sacra

Getting there

A car is the easiest way to get here and to see the area around it. Distances are in a straight line.

At a glance

Best timeApr–Oct
TypeNature spot
Good forNature, Food
Getting thereBest by car
Stay1 night
CountrySpain

Questions

Ribeira Sacra: good to know

Is Ribeira Sacra worth visiting?

Yes, especially if you like nature and food. Steep river canyons lined with terraced vineyards in Galicia.

How many days do you need in Ribeira Sacra?

Plan 1 night. Our free 2-day plan above shows how to spend your time.

When is the best time to visit Ribeira Sacra?

The best time to visit is Apr to Oct. Calm most of the year. Harvest time in September is lively.

How do you get to Ribeira Sacra?

The nearest airport is Vigo Airport (VGO), about 85 km away. Easiest by car from Ourense or Lugo.

What is there to see near Ribeira Sacra?

Nearby hidden places include Santiago de Compostela (94 km), Cíes Islands (109 km) and Braga (117 km).

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