Mountain peaks, scenic walking trails, medieval architecture and attractive beaches draw visitors to this fascinating coastal province in northwest Spain.
Pontevedra is part of Spain's wild west, a Galician province of immense natural beauty facing the Atlantic Ocean. The long coastline borders a rugged interior of green hills, mountains, lakes and rivers. Dotted among the diverse terrain are towns and cities rich with cultural attractions. Investigate views from a 17th-century castle, scuba dive off an island and ski mountain peaks.
The province’s largest metropolis is Vigo, a port city with an ancient core. Vigo is mainland Spain’s westernmost city. Tour the narrow, winding streets of its historic quarter and visit some of its old buildings, including the Church of Santa Maria, which dates back to the Middle Ages. One of Vigo’s biggest attractions is the Castro Fortress, built in 1665 and located above the city. Look for blue flag beaches and the shopping streets of the Porta do Sol commercial center.
Drive 17 miles (28 kilometers) north to Pontevedra's capital, which is also called Pontevedra. Visit the well-preserved old town and study the granite statues of the Island of Sculptures on the banks of the Lérez River. Relax on the sandy beaches of the Ria de Pontevedra, a beautiful sea inlet with forested sides.
Discover more natural splendor elsewhere in the province. Take a ferry to the Cies Islands, a small archipelago that's part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. Hike along scenic routes passing through forests and leading to bird-watching observation points. Other activities include scuba diving and sailing.
During winter, ski in the Serra da Estrela and on Peña Ubiña. This is one of the tallest mountains in the Cantabrian range.
To experience Pontevedra's great outdoors and to explore its historical attractions, fly into Vigo or arrive in its port by cruise ship. Alternatively, land at Santiago de Compestela Airport, about 47 miles (76 kilometers) from the provincial capital. This airport is also close to the Camino de Santiago, the ancient pilgrimage route across northern Spain.
