Great Things to Do Near La Casa de Oia
Take in the history and majesty of the Royal Monastery of Oia...
This stunning monastery was founded in the 12th century by King Alfonso VII. Throughout its history it has played an important role in the social and economic development of the surrounding area and it was declared a National Monument in 1931. Facing out towards the Atlantic Ocean, it occupies a unique location just above the waves. The monastery is currently part of a huge renovation project so public access is restricted but a walk around the exterior is well worthwhile.
Blow away the cobwebs with a walk up to the old lighthouse...
A short drive from the house you'll find the Cabo do Silleiro. In this interesting area you'll find the ruins of an old military base, the 'Faro do Silleiro' lighthouse and the 'Mirador do Silleiro' viewpoint from which you can enjoy spectacular views of this rugged coastline.
Discover the beaches of Baiona...
There are 6 beaches in Baiona, all sheltered from the wind and strong currents. In 1585, Sir Francis Drake landed at Santa Marta beach in an attempt to attack Baiona. The beach is now one of many in the area awarded with Blue Flag status.
Take a Minho River Trip...
Take a boat trip along the Minho river, the winding stretch of water which separates Spain and Portugal. The trip starts in A Guarda and takes you up the river and into mainland Spain/Portugal. The trips are either one hour or a full day. There are some beautiful views to be seen of the local landscape and nearby nature and wildlife along the way so take a camera as it will be a great photo opportunity!
Enjoy some of the best seafood available anywhere in the world!
Galicia is world renowned for its seafood, famed for its excellent quality and intensity of flavour. With so many great restaurants nearby offering freshly caught local produce, you'd be mad not to try it.
Indulge yourself in one of the many spas in the region, the perfect way to relax...
Spas offer benefits not only for your skin but also for your general well-being. Most of all though it is the perfect way to relax. There is one just outside Baiona (Talaso Atlantico) with a sea-water swimming pool and a gym included. It also offers child minding facilities and an excellent restaurant too.
Admire the stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean whilst sampling some of the local cuisine...
Taperia A Camboa in Oia boasts an incredible location where you can enjoy quality food and panoramic views across the sea.
Ride the waves! Patos beach, close to Nigrán, is the place to go...
It's known as the 'beach of the waves' and there are a couple of surf schools based there too. An added bonus is the view over the Cies Islands and the lovely white sand.
Explore the 'Watermill Route'...
Lovers of walking through beautiful countryside offering spectacular views should take the opportunity to explore the 'Watermill Route'. The path starts from the Plaza del Calvario in O Rosal and continues for 8 kms passing 36 mills. The stonemasons who built them left interesting carvings of crosses in a bid to keep away the evil spirits and witches.
Scale the heights of Santa Tecla mountain...
Rising above A Guarda is Santa Tecla, a Celtic settlement with over 100 houses. Now fully restored with a museum and a shrine, it is one of the best of its type in Galicia. The entry price is very low and the views from the top of the hill over the River Miño towards Portugal and the Atlantic are absolutely breathtaking.
Watch the sunset from your balcony...
What could be a more relaxing end to the day than to watch the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean...
Make time to visit the beautiful city of Santiago de Compostela...
A trip to Santiago is a must! The jewel of Galicia where, for more than 1000 years, pilgrims have gathered from all over Europe. Visit the impressive cathedral, the Plaza del Obradoiro and the old pilgrims' hospital, now a luxurious Parador. It'll take a liitle over an hour and a half via the motorway.
Follow the wine route...
Starting in A Guarda follow the road along the bank of the Miño towards Tui, and you'll pass through O Rosal, situated in a valley with a perfect climate for all types of fruit and vegetables as well as grapes. Signs on the road will indicate the bodegas you can visit to taste or buy the wine.
Get into the Great Outdoors for some fresh air and exercise...
Nearby Monte Aloia was declared a National Park in 1935 and was the first to be declared as such in Galicia with archeological remains dating back to prehistoric times. It lies just to the north of Tui. It has some fast flowing streams lined by ancient mills and walks through beautiful wooded landscape too.
Relax on one of the world's best beaches on the Cies Islands..
A short ferry crossing from Baiona will take you to the stunning Cies Islands and the world famous Playa de Rodas, named the best beach in the world by the Guardian Newspaper in 2007.
Soak up the atmosphere in the cobbled streets around the Rúa Pescaderia in Vigo...
Walk through the adjacent park to capture some amazing views of the Ria which plays such an important part in the life of this fascinating city, the second largest fishing port in the world.
Visit the Castillo de Monterreal, built in the 1500s to protect Baiona from enemy pirate ships...
Nowadays, there is a 4-star luxury hotel inside the walls, but a walk along the beach in front of the old historic exterior still offers some impressive views. It is located on the Monte Boi peninsula and is just a short drive from the house. There is a small charge for entrance but it is well worth the visit for the beautiful views and the amazing sunsets over the Ria.
Stroll the streets of A Guarda, the Lobster capital of southern Galicia!
This is a typical Galician fishing town with a rich history. Be sure to visit one of the many restaurants around the port and try the lobster for which the town is famous.
Kayak along the route of the fishermen...
Kayaking is a popular activity in and around the River Minho and you can paddle the historic route of the fishermen which travels along the Tamuxe River towards the Minho. A range of activities, tours and equipment hire can be found. Visit www.tamuxekayak.com for more details.
Spend a day exploring northern Portugal...
With so many amazing Galician wonders to explore nearby, you'd be forgiven for not wanting to venture too far. However, Valença is a fascinating walled town located on the banks of the Minho River and is approximately 45 minutes' drive from the house.
