Ribeira Sacra

The Ribeira Sacra is an area that includes the banks of the Cabe, Sil and Miño rivers, in the southern part of the province of Lugo and the north of the province of Orense. The Sil Canyon acts as a natural border between the provinces of Orense and Lugo. It is especially known for its natural and biological treasures, constituting a vast ecosystem of great variety and richness. This is an area in which the Sil River runs through landscapes and mountains that have been described as extremely beautiful; The canyons have viewpoints enabled to admire their impressive monumentality, as well as a catamaran open to the public that transits the canyons from one side to the other.  

The toponym "Ribeira Sacra" could come from the Middle Ages and, at first, it was thought that the origin of its name would be in the Latin "Rivoira Sacrata" and that it could respond to the large number of monasteries and temples located in the monumental canyons and steep slopes that mark the area. Currently you can visit 18 monasteries, including the recently created Parador de San Esteban in Ribas de Sil.

The Ribeira Sacra, as a designation of origin, is also known for the quality of its wines, widely used in Galician gastronomy, which is popularly known in the area by the generic name of Mencía, because they are made mainly with the Mencía grape variety, although the Godello variety is also used. The vineyards, which can be seen following the course of the river, are arranged in a system of stone steps, called socalcos, and date back to Roman times. If you want to know curious things, google Eroíca Viticulture.  

To get to know the Ribeira Sacra you will need several days. Throughout its entire length you can find, for example, Several Monasteries and Romanesque Hermitages, Many Wineries where you can do wine tastings, Several viewpoints with spectacular views of the Sil canyons, Hiking Routes. Catamaran Rides, Excellent Gastronomy, etc.

Ribeira Sacra Viewpoint

Mao River Walkway