Walking through sacred forests

On this occasion our walk begins in a spectacular setting, the monastery of Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil, in the heart of the Ribeira Sacra, forming one of the most outstanding and spectacular ensembles of Galicia’s rich monumental heritage.

We soon enter a chestnut grove following the paths used for centuries by monks and locals. We should visit this deciduous forest at different times of the year, so we can enjoy the golden colours of autumn, the nakedness of winter or the explosion of green tones in spring. Small waterfalls and streams are scattered along the way. The trees will leave gaps through which we will be able to glimpse the majesty of the Sil River canyon. This canyon is best observed from the end of our route in the village of Paradela, from where we will have a view of the section of the route with the image of the monastery, an imposing sight in the landscape

Monastery of Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil (42°25'01.40''N / 7°41'11.70''W)