Ourense Province

Located in the autonomy of Galicia in the northwestern part of the Iberian Peninsula and in the southeastern part of the autonomous community, Ourense is bordered by Portugal to the south. The province has much in common with its neighbour.

It wasn’t until a road has been built between Vigo and Ourense that it was possible to enter into the province except by railway as it is surrounded on all sides by mountains, feature that has led to its being isolated from the rest of the coast of Galicia for much of its history.

The principal river system is formed by the rivers Miño and Sil. These produce fertile valleys that mainly produce corn and vines. The river Sil, to the north of the province, flows through some of the most spectacularly beautiful scenery.

The isolated nature of the province has been instrumental in the evolution of population as it was from here that many people migrated away during times of economic pressure. One of the favourite destinations for tis migration was South America and many Argentinians and Cubans are of Galician and Ourensian ancestry.

More information: http://www.turismourense.com/

Routes and Places worth a Visit

The valley of the Rivier Sil is spectacular in its beauty. The riveer follows deep ravines towards the sea. These were formed by glacial action many millions of years ago and were filled with water with rising sea-levels once the great thaw commenced. Apart from the many tours that allow tourists to experience the scenery from a boat cruising down that river, there are also many excellent rural cottages and hotels that are located close by thus making it possible to stay close to the area and experience the superb summer sunsets across fields laden with ripe corn and vines.

There are several towns and villages that have been maintained in the same condition in which they were during medieval times.

An excellent example is Allariz, a small hamlet of some 3,000 souls (excluding the migrant populace of around 2,000 from Ourense capital that use Allariz as a dormitory village) exudes charm and the olde worlde values of a warm welcome to the stranger and great food with which to tempt him. Arguably one of the most beautiful villages in Ourense, Allariz is a great place for walking and wineing (this last an expression of the tradition of strolling through the streets of the old town and tasting a few of the most delicious wines from all over Spain).

The countryside around Allariz has been carefully managed and there are several walks for all ability levels. The inspirational views do all the usual stuff for cleansing the spirit and, because of the weather that often crashes in from the Atlantic, the quality of the air is pure and fresh.

Important Fiestas

Caraballino: in June holds its colourful and traditional carnival. In July it holds the Romeria for Santa Magdelena. 13th August is the fiesta del Pulpo – an event not to be missed.

Celanova: 1st March, San Rosendo. 17th May the colourful romeria.

Ribadavia: July, the festival of wine and International Theatre Festival. 29th August is the Medieval festival, which has been designated to be of national tourist interest.