From Santiago: Excursion to Ribeira Sacra and Ourense

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Galicia’s Ribeira Sacra and Ourense on this comprehensive 10-hour excursion from Santiago. Cruise along the dramatic River Sil Canyons, visit the historic Monastery San Pedro de Rocas, and explore the charming city of Ourense, known for its thermal springs and rich cultural heritage. Indulge in local wines and delectable Galician cuisine as you learn about the region’s natural wonders and iconic landmarks. This tour promises an unforgettable experience that’s sure to leave you captivated by the … [END]

Key Points

Comprehensive 10-hour tour exploring the Ribeira Sacra region and Ourense, including a catamaran cruise through the River Sil Canyons.
Visit historic monasteries like San Pedro de Rocas and experience the region’s rich religious heritage.
Enjoy free time in Ourense, the thermal capital of Galicia, to explore the Old Town and indulge in local cuisine.
Opportunity to taste local wines during the catamaran cruise and appreciate the region’s natural beauty.
Tour receives high customer ratings for expertise of the guide, comfortable transportation, and overall service and organization.

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Tour Overview

This excursion offers a comprehensive exploration of Galicia’s Ribeira Sacra region and the historic city of Ourense.

Departing from Santiago, the 10-hour tour provides an immersive experience, including a catamaran cruise through the scenic River Sil Canyons and a visit to the picturesque Monastery San Pedro de Rocas.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to discover the thermal capital of Galicia, Ourense, with free time to explore its cobbled streets.

With a live guide available in Spanish and English, this excursion is priced at $66.47 per person and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it a convenient and flexible option for travelers.

Pricing and Inclusions

The tour’s pricing and inclusions provide a compelling value proposition for travelers. Priced from $66.47 per person, the 10-hour excursion includes round-trip bus transportation, an experienced guide, a 1.5-hour catamaran cruise through the River Sil Canyons, and complimentary local wine tasting during the boat ride.

Travelers also enjoy free time for lunch in the historic city of Ourense, known for its thermal baths. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers exceptional flexibility and convenience.

Highly rated by past participants, the tour’s inclusions deliver a well-rounded experience at an affordable price point.

Itinerary Highlights

Travelers can look forward to discovering the Ribeira Sacra region, renowned for its dramatic landscapes along the Miño and Sil Rivers.

The excursion includes a catamaran cruise through the majestic River Sil Canyons, offering stunning views. Visitors will also explore the historic Monastery San Pedro de Rocas or Monastery of Santo Estevo, depending on the season.

The tour then proceeds to the thermal capital of Galicia, Ourense, where guests can wander the cobbled streets and capture photos from the scenic lookout points.

Throughout the experience, travelers will have the opportunity to taste local wines during the river cruise.

Catamaran Cruise

One of the highlights of the excursion is the 1.5-hour catamaran cruise through the River Sil Canyons.

The cruise offers a unique perspective of the stunning Ribeira Sacra region. Guests can:

Admire the dramatic, steep-sided canyons carved by the Sil River.
Taste local wines during the cruise, providing a delightful pairing with the scenic views.
Capture breathtaking photos of the region’s natural beauty from the comfort of the catamaran.

The cruise is an integral part of the excursion, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the captivating landscapes of the Ribeira Sacra.

Monastery Visits

During the excursion, visitors venture to the historic monasteries that dot the Ribeira Sacra region.

They’ll explore the Monastery of San Pedro de Rocas, one of the oldest Romanesque monasteries in Spain, dating back to the 6th century.

In October, the tour visits the Monastery of Santo Estevo instead, another architectural gem known for its Baroque and Renaissance influences.

These sacred sites provide a glimpse into the region’s rich religious heritage.

Guests can wander the peaceful cloisters and admire the intricate stone carvings that adorn the monasteries’ facades.

The monastery visits offer a chance to take in the area’s captivating history and tranquil ambiance.

Explore Ourense

What awaits visitors in the historic city of Ourense, the thermal capital of Galicia? After the catamaran cruise through the River Sil Canyons, the tour offers free time to explore Ourense’s cobbled streets and soak in the thermal atmosphere.

Some highlights include:

Wandering the charming Old Town, with its centuries-old architecture and lively plazas.
Visiting the impressive Ourense Cathedral, a Romanesque masterpiece that dominates the city skyline.
Indulging in the famous Galician cuisine and sampling the local Ourense wines during a leisurely lunch.

With its rich history, thermal springs, and vibrant cultural offerings, Ourense provides the perfect finale to this Ribeira Sacra and Ourense excursion from Santiago.

Capture Photos

The excursion offers ample opportunities for visitors to capture breathtaking photos along the way.

Picturesque views of the Ribeira Sacra region’s rugged canyons, winding rivers, and historic monasteries provide a visual feast. Stops at designated lookout points allow travelers to frame stunning panoramas of the dramatic landscapes.

The catamaran cruise through the Sil River Canyons is particularly well-suited for capturing the area’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point.

With the expert guidance of the tour leader, participants can make the most of photo opportunities and come away with incredible keepsakes from the day’s adventures.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have consistently praised the high quality of the tour and its organization.

With an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 108 reviews, this excursion receives exceptional customer feedback:

The tour guide receives a 4.7/5 rating, with reviewers highlighting their expertise and engaging commentary.
Transportation is also highly rated at 4.7/5, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey.
The overall service and organization of the experience earn perfect 5/5 ratings, showcasing the seamless execution of the tour.

While some suggestions mention adding lunch options for convenience, the overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores the tour’s ability to deliver a comprehensive and memorable experience in Ribeira Sacra and Ourense.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Transportation to the Starting Point in Santiago Included?

The transportation to the starting point in Santiago is included. The tour package covers bus transportation, so travelers don’t need to worry about getting themselves to the departure location.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Other Sites?

Yes, the tour allows some customization. While the main itinerary is set, travelers can discuss adding or substituting other sites with the guide, though this may incur additional costs or require modifying the tour duration.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration. The provider offers flexible options to personalize the experience, allowing you to spend more time exploring the region or visit additional sites per your preferences.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there is a group booking discount for this tour. Customers who book in groups of 4 or more can receive a 10% discount on the per-person price, making it a more affordable option for larger parties.

What Should I Bring for the Boat Ride and Hiking?

It’s recommended to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and bring a light jacket or sweater for the boat ride and hiking. Sunscreen, a hat, and water are also advisable to have on hand for the outdoor activities.

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Recap

This excursion from Santiago to the Ribeira Sacra region and Ourense offers a captivating glimpse into Galicia’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The catamaran cruise through the River Sil Canyons and visits to historic monasteries provide a well-rounded experience, while free time in Ourense allows travelers to savor local wines and cuisine. With stunning scenery and an immersive itinerary, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the charm of Galicia.