O Rosal can be explored through several distinct themes: riverside paths, archaeological sites, historic buildings, crafts and wine. When planning your trip, you can first decide whether to focus on nature and hiking or on history and local culture. The different places and activities offer a range of options.
Hiking, riverbanks and water
The Sendeiro de Pescadores passes through riverside woodlands, estuaries and reed beds, as well as areas of ornithological interest. Other features along the route include historic bridges, a steam-powered sawmill, watermills and several recreational areas. Nature watching and traces of historical land use come together along the same path.
Two hiking trails follow the riverbank from Praia das Eiras. The 7.5-kilometre PR-G 112 Sendeiro de Pescadores Miño-Tamuxe leads to Muíño das Aceñas. The second, shorter trail follows the River Tollo towards Goián and is connected to the neighbouring municipality of Tomiño. From Praia das Eiras, you can choose between a route with a specified length and destination and a short trail towards Goián.
The PR-G 94 Ruta dos Muíños do Folón e do Picón passes through native and replanted forests, as well as areas with typical riverside vegetation. The route is also botanically notable: three species of carnivorous plants grow there, some of which are protected. Those who look out for unusual plants as well as woodland and riverside vegetation while hiking will find a particular focus on natural history here.
The Fervenzas do Folón e Picón are formed by two tributaries of the Tamuxe. The river flows down from Monte San Martiño, creating several waterfalls over granite formations. Visitors can also hire kayaks on the Miño, reach small islands between the banks and enter the River Tamuxe. Hiking trails and kayaking are both ways to experience the rivers and their surroundings.
Archaeology and architectural history
The Petróglifos de Ghorghalado comprise more than 300 prehistoric engravings. They are estimated to be between 3,000 and 4,500 years old, placing them in the Copper to Bronze Age. The Mina Galaico-Romana de As Bornas offers a different perspective on the past: this archaeological site is associated with the intensive exploitation of mineral resources during the Roman presence in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula.
The Puente de Tamuxe is another striking architectural landmark. The granite bridge, which dates back to Roman times, is about 51 metres long and has three low arches over the River Tamuxe. Its dimensions, building material and arch shape provide specific points of comparison with the prehistoric engravings and the Roman-influenced mining site.
Crafts, cultural heritage and wine
O Rosal is considered the birthplace of the Cabaqueiros craft tradition; a monument in the central Praza do Calvario commemorates it. In Santa Mariña, O Rosal, the Muíños do Folón e do Picón are protected as an Asset of Cultural Interest in the category of an ethnographic site. The Igrexa de Santa Mariña also houses a Baroque high altar retable with a strong Portuguese influence. Crafts, a protected cultural landscape and sacred art each offer a different way to discover the local heritage.
Winegrowing can also be part of your trip: some wineries in O Rosal let visitors learn about grape cultivation, the harvest and winemaking. Together with the hiking trails, archaeological sites and buildings, this offers a range of natural and cultural interests to help you plan your trip.
Discover more destinations: Fecha, A Cachada, Aldán, Portela, Lantañón, Bon de Arriba, Vilanova De Arousa, Ribadulla.
For the main travel overview: Pontevedra.
