From A Coruña: Rías Baixas Day Trip

Exploring the stunning coastal region of Galicia’s Rías Baixas from A Coruña is an excellent way to take in the area’s rich history and natural beauty. This day trip offers a well-curated itinerary that showcases the charming town of Pontevedra, the picturesque fishing village of Combarro, and the scenic Illa Da Toxa, culminating in a relaxing boat cruise with mussel and wine tasting. With guided tours in both Spanish and English, travelers can explore the local culture and cuisine, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• This 10-hour excursion from A Coruña takes visitors on a guided tour of the Rías Baixas region, including the historic town of Pontevedra, the fishing village of Combarro, and the island of Illa da Toxa.

• The tour includes a boat cruise with a mussel and wine tasting, as well as visits to cultural landmarks, traditional granaries, and opportunities to explore the region’s natural landscapes and local way of life.

• Participants can experience the rich history, architecture, and culinary heritage of the Rías Baixas area, with stops in the towns of Pontevedra, Combarro, and Cambados for a wine tasting.

• The tour is offered in both Spanish and English, and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it accessible and flexible for travelers.

• With a starting price of $65.36 per person, the Rías Baixas day trip from A Coruña provides a comprehensive and immersive experience of this culturally significant region of Galicia.

Trip Overview

This Rías Baixas day trip offers an opportunity to explore the stunning coastal region just an hour from A Coruña.

Priced from $65.36 per person, this 10-hour excursion includes guided tours, a boat cruise with mussel and wine tasting, and visits to charming towns like Pontevedra and Cambados.

Participants can enjoy the trip in Spanish or English, and the tour is suitable for adults, children, and infants.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this day trip provides a flexible and immersive experience along the Rías Baixas.

Itinerary Details

The day trip begins at Rúa Payo Gómez, 18 in Pontevedra.

Travelers will start with a 1-hour bus ride to the historic center of Pontevedra, where they’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour guided tour.

Next, they’ll ride 15 minutes to Combarro, a picturesque fishing village, for a 1.5-hour guided walking tour.

After, it’s a 20-minute bus ride to Illa da Toxa for a guided tour.

The group will then take a 1-hour boat cruise from Combarro, including a mussel and wine tasting.

They’ll travel 45 minutes to O Grove for free time for lunch, then 105 minutes to Cambados to visit an Albariño wine cellar for a 30-minute tasting.

Exploring Pontevedra

Pontevedra’s historic center captivates visitors with its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming plazas.

During the guided tour, travelers explore landmarks like the Basilica of Santa María, a stunning Baroque cathedral, and the Plaza de la Herrería, a lively public square surrounded by historic buildings.

The tour also takes guests through the Casco Viejo, the old town, where cobblestone streets and traditional shops create a quaint atmosphere.

Visitors learn about Pontevedra’s rich history and cultural significance as an important Galician city.

The guided experience provides insights into the region’s architecture, traditions, and local way of life, offering a comprehensive introduction to this captivating destination.

Discovering Combarro

After exploring the historic heart of Pontevedra, the tour continues to the charming fishing village of Combarro.

The bus ride takes just 15 minutes, and then guests embark on a guided walking tour of this picturesque locale.

Combarro is known for its well-preserved "hórreos," which are traditional granaries on stilts that line the waterfront.

The tour explores these unique structures and provides insight into the local fishing culture.

Visitors can admire the quaint stone houses, narrow streets, and Atlantic ocean views that make Combarro a captivating destination.

This stop offers a glimpse into the traditional Galician way of life along the Rias Baixas.

Visiting Illa Da Toxa

Next, the tour proceeds to Illa da Toxa, an island connected to the mainland by a small bridge.

During the guided tour, visitors will explore this picturesque island, known for its therapeutic thermal springs and unique architecture.

The highlight is the iconic Gran Hotel, a stunning Modernist building dating back to the late 19th century. Guests can wander its elegant interiors and admire the intricate details of the façade.

The tour also includes stops at the Chapel of San Roque and the island’s natural landscapes, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural and natural heritage of this tranquil destination.

Boat Cruise and Tasting

Following the tour of Illa da Toxa, the group boards a boat for a scenic cruise along the picturesque Rias Baixas.

During the 1-hour journey, they’ll savor locally-harvested mussels and sip on crisp Albariño wine.

The boat ride offers stunning views of Combarro’s historic fishing village, where traditional "hórreos" (granaries) line the shore.

Participants can breathe in the salty sea air and learn about the region’s rich maritime heritage.

The mussel and wine tasting allows travelers to indulge in regional delicacies while admiring the natural beauty surrounding them.

This immersive experience complements the day’s exploration of the Rias Baixas’ charming towns and vineyards.

Lunch in O Grove

The tour then transports the group to the picturesque town of O Grove, allowing them 45 minutes of free time to explore and enjoy a local lunch.

Situated on the Galician coast, O Grove is renowned for its seafood cuisine and Albariño wines. Travelers can wander the charming streets, popping into traditional restaurants and cafes to sample the regional delicacies.

Whether it’s a hearty stew, fresh-caught fish, or a glass of crisp Albariño, the local fare provides an authentic taste of Galicia.

The flexible schedule gives participants the freedom to discover O Grove at their own pace before continuing on to the next destination on the itinerary.

Wine Tasting in Cambados

After the lunch break in O Grove, the tour continues its journey to the historic town of Cambados, the capital of the Albariño wine region.

Here, passengers enjoy a 30-minute wine tasting at a local Albariño cellar. They learn about the winemaking process and have the opportunity to sample the region’s signature white wine.

The tasting provides an insightful look into the local wine culture and production. This stop allows visitors to appreciate the rich viticultural heritage of the Rías Baixas area, complementing the earlier experiences throughout the day’s itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the tour, but the important information suggests wearing comfortable shoes and clothing. The tour involves walking, so dressing for ease of movement is recommended.

How Punctual Do I Need to Be at the Meeting Point?

Punctuality is important at the meeting point. The guide waits for 15 minutes before departure, so it’s best to arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure you don’t miss the start of the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour does not explicitly state whether bringing your own food and drinks is allowed. It’s best to check with the tour operator prior to the trip to confirm their policy on outside provisions.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Tastings?

There are no specific dietary restrictions mentioned for the tastings. However, participants should notify the tour operator of any dietary needs or allergies in advance so accommodations can be made where possible.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Documents or Id?

No specific documents or ID are required for this tour. Participants should just bring their ticket or confirmation email. The guide will meet the group and handle all necessary arrangements.

Recap

This day trip from A Coruña to the Rías Baixas offers a comprehensive exploration of Galicia’s coastal gems. Visitors can enjoy the historic charm of Pontevedra, discover the picturesque fishing village of Combarro, and enjoy a scenic boat cruise with mussel and wine tasting. With guided tours, local cuisine, and wine tastings, this excursion provides an unforgettable opportunity to experience the beauty and cultural richness of the Rías Baixas region.