To disconnect if you dare. Open this travel letter of magical destinations, from the autumn mysteries of Allariz to a haunted mansion in Lobios once visited by Cuarto Milenio. The travel blogs Galicia Máxica, Una Idea, Un Viaje, and A World to Travel present...
10 nov 2025 . Actualizado a las 17:46 h.Santa Mariña de Augas Santas
Of Saints and Witches in Allariz
Bewitching Allariz is downright spooky these days (check the town’s website), but tasteful fear doesn’t frighten anyone away. The star recommendation here is the Sanctuary of Augas Santas, one of Galicia’s most valuable archaeological sites, where visitors can trace the legend of Armea and Saint Mariña. A low-difficulty but “high-interest” walking route starts here, according to Galicia Máxica.
Os Grobos Forest
The Secret of Os Ancares
Between Becerreá and As Nogais lies a magical forest at the foot of the Agüeira chestnut grove — a labyrinth of moss and karstic rocks that draws you into an enchanted world, writes Eva Abal from the blog Una Idea, Un Viaje. This cinematic forest (where El bosque del lobo, starring José Luis López Vázquez, was set) once echoed with the howls of Romasanta, Galicia’s legendary werewolf. A natural theme park. Nearby lies Piornedo, and for lodging, the charming Casa do Bico.
Porta do Alén
A Gateway to the Beyond
Known as Porta do Alén or Portalén, this mysterious “door” is said to be an entrance to the afterlife — an oracle that answers any question of those who cross it from East to West. This magical passage to another dimension sits atop Monte do Seixo, in the heart of Pontevedra, and inspired one of bestselling author Manel Loureiro’s thrillers, La puerta. Following in the footsteps of his protagonist, Raquel Colina, readers reach this Neolithic site and the nearby Marco do Vento, where all winds meet, and Trentiñán, home to the solitary chapel of Santa Mariña.
Vichocuntín Village
The Ghost Village That Fascinates Everyone
An abandoned village is a sorrow — and a treasure for the curious. In the Pontevedra municipality of Cerdedo-Cotobade, in the parish of Pedre, the ghost village of Vichocuntín lies in peaceful ruin, reclaimed by nature and silence. Wander carefully through the remains of this once-bustling hamlet, crossed long ago by the ancient route that followed the Lérez valley. To recharge, stop in Soutelo de Montes for a plate of pulpo á feira (Galician-style octopus).
Muíños do Xabrega
The Stone Guardians of Sober
No enchanted itinerary would be complete without the Ribeira Sacra, where stone paths, vineyards, and chestnut groves tell another kind of story. One of the best routes, say our guides, is the Trail of the Xabrega Mills, in Sober. Just ten minutes from town, heading out from Rúa do Outeiro, you can start at Pouso do Branco, in the village of A Boca, and walk all the way to the Os Chancís pier. Highly recommended for families with children. If you’re traveling by van, check out Solpor Camperpark in Bolmente.
Baroña Hillfort (Castro de Baroña)
The Celtic Roots of Samhain
“If we’re talking about the deeper meaning of Samaín [Galicia’s ancient Halloween], I can’t think of a better place than a Celtic hillfort. The one in Baroña is usually very quiet this time of year,” says Inma Gregorio, editor of A World to Travel. Be cautious if the weather turns, though — “the power of nature rules here.” In the Barbanza area, several towns, including Outes, are celebrating the season with activities for children, concerts, and hearty feasts. Celtic magic, washed by the Atlantic, lives on.
Casa da Escusalla
A Mini “Machu Picchu” in Lobios
“In the parish of Manín, in the hamlet of Compostela, lie the ruins of an impressive Baroque mansion of uncertain origin,” report the writers of Galicia Máxica. Pay attention to the inscriptions and symbols carved into this house, which overlooks the Limia valley from its grand balcony. Abandoned since 1836, the mysterious “mansion” wrapped in legend was featured in an episode of the TV show Cuarto Milenio. Locals whisper that it’s haunted by the ghost of Friar Marrequiño. Meigas fóra! — Witches, begone!
Pena Trevinca
The Magic of the Starry Sky
One of the most enchanting chills you can experience is standing beneath the night sky at Pena Trevinca, where guided two-hour stargazing sessions are offered these days. Weather permitting, visitors can observe under what is said to be one of the darkest skies on the Iberian Peninsula. Warm clothing and advance booking are essential. For lodging, try one of A Veiga’s astronomical rural homes — each comes equipped with its own telescope.