The biggest population of yew trees in Europe can be found in Galicia. This sacred, mythical tree, the temple of the Celtic druids, makes for a mysterious, magical woodland. All of these adjectives could be used to describe the essence of this tree, letting our imagination run wild. To visit these woods is to take a journey into the past in search of a primeval natural space.
Entering the Teixadal de Casaio (yew forest of Casaio) is like coming into a cathedral to nature. Light filters through the branches as if through stained glass windows. The trunks of the trees are pillars that support the treetop vaults. It was, perhaps, in this open-air temple where the gods are free to roam that the Celtic druids held their celebrations.
Situated at the foot of the tallest mountains in Galicia, el Teixadal de Casaio clings to the mountainside in a place that has been able to remain hidden due to its inaccessible nature. Here it is: still going strong, thousands of years into its history.
Teixadal de Casaio Route Starting point | Route type | Km | Estimated time required | Terrain difficulty | Orientation difficulty |
Verea da Surbia - A Cabrita (Carballeda de Valdeorras) | Linear | 9,5 (there and back) | 5 h. | High | High |
PROFILE: Only recommended for groups accompanied by a guide |
There are various options for getting to know the Teixadal de Casaio, although we should warn you that access to this unique ancestral woodland is not easy, and it is not suitable for all walkers by any means. We recommend that if you are not experts in mountaineering, map reading and orienteering, you should contact a nature guide who knows the area well to accompany you on your trip. A guide will not only ensure your safety on the mountain, but also share many anecdotes and stories on the surrounding landscapes with you.