Arousa Island
The RÃas Baixas are always a fail-safe plan for recharging your batteries while enjoying the Galician landscape, gastronomy, and hospitality. They hold authentic earthly paradises, and one, despite gaining popularity over the years and being on the radar of the most discerning tourists, still preserves its essence and even offers the opportunity to get lost far from overcrowding. That's A Illa de Arousa, an island in the middle of the RÃa de Arousa.
Until 1985, it remained practically isolated and kept its 36 kilometers of coastline, including eleven beaches and coves, in a pristine state. Since the construction of the 1,980-meter bridge connecting it to Vilanova de Arousa, its wild side hasn't diminished, and still there are a few corners where one can be alone. However, savvy visitors can still find small, almost unexplored coves, and even the beaches that have become tourist hotspots allow you to enjoy a less crowded atmosphere than mainland destinations.
LOMBEIRA - O CARREIRÓN NATURAL PARK
O Carreirón is well worth a getaway on its own. Declared a Natural Park by the European Union, it is a privileged place for bird watching; it is as easy to see a heron fishing in a marsh as it is to witness the flight of a flock of ducks. It is a must-visit for nature lovers, who can delight in dune systems, marshes, or pine forests, and an impressive underwater landscape.
SUALAXE O ESCORREGADOIRA
One of our choices in the northern area of A Illa: 175 meters of fine sand and crystal-clear water that make it an idyllic place. Surrounded by nature, its appeal grows due to the proximity of Punta Cabalo Lighthouse, which is part of its landscape and is connected to it by a beautiful promenade.
It tends to be very crowded due to its beauty, one of the most idyllic, but also because of its surroundings and location, easily accessible by car. It fills up towards the end of the afternoon because it is one of the spots on the island with the most beautiful sunsets, along with Area da Secada, overlooking the RÃa de Arousa.
PUNTA CABALO LIGHTHOUSE
Built in 1852 on the rocks of the incomparable landscape that shapes it. Transformed into a restaurant, we strongly recommend not leaving the island without visiting this geologically unique place.
In addition, its name is due to something very particular to the Arousa environment that not everyone knows. And it is that, in the lighthouse area, there is a colony of seahorses settled.
The finishing touch, enjoying a drink while watching the sunset over the mussel rafts in the RÃa de Arousa.
The mussel rafts are an inseparable element of the coastal landscape of Illa de Arousa. The world's best mussels are cultivated here, and so far, we haven't tasted any better.
Immerse yourself in the world of fishing by visiting the fish market to attend an auction or by booking a tour to approach the mussel rafts and learn about their production process. These are more than interesting and highly recommended activities.
Moments to cherish, courtesy of Illa de Arousa.
AREOSO ISLET
Located north of Illa de Arousa is Areoso Islet, a protected natural area. This small 9-hectare islet looks like a dune emerging from the sea. It is the classical image of a beach paradise surrounded by turquoise and crystal-clear waters.
You can reach it by renting a kayak or joining an organized excursion. This island is a gem in the Atlantic that is worth exploring. Recently, a new law regulating the capacity of Areoso Islet has come into effect. Now, a permit is required to visit, and there are very few available slots. Permits are processed through a platform of the Xunta de Galicia.
BEACHES
Outside the Carreirón Natural Park, Illa de Arousa also boasts stunning beaches.
- Carreirón Natural Park: The park is surrounded by the sea, so you'll find coves and small beaches ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The most well-known are Praia de Xastelas, Praia de A Lameira, and Praia Lontreira, due to their easy access.
- Area Secada Beach: This is a Blue Flag beach with a length of 420m. The surrounding forest environment promotes the ecosystem, making it a protected area.
- Sualaxe Beach: Located next to Punta Cabalo Lighthouse, it is a beach well-protected from winds by the enormous rocks that surround it.
- Cabodeiro Beach: This is the most visited beach by locals and has direct access from accommodations. Noteworthy are the beachside chiringuitos (beach bars).
- O Bao Beach: Another Blue Flag beach on the island, it has small pebbles and is equipped with lifeguard services, showers, beach bars, and restaurants.
PEDESTRIAN WALKS ON ILLA DE AROUSA
The best way to thoroughly explore Illa de Arousa is by walking or cycling along its pedestrian paths, offering exceptional views of the surroundings.
- Area Secada Walk: This walk covers part of the northern shore of the island, from Niño do Corvo to Area Secada Beach. It provides a panoramic view of Areoso and Pedregoso Islets, as well as the O Barbanza area. Ideal for witnessing a fantastic sunset.
- O Bao Walk: This walk traverses the final section of the bridge to the beginning of the Carreirón Natural Park. It includes a bike lane and borders the entire O Bao Beach.
- O Xufre Walk: With a length of 700m, this walk explores the fishing zone of the island. It's an urban maritime route where you can observe different fishing gear and typical fishing boats.
- O Campo Walk: This walk covers the busiest area of the island, passing through the center where you'll find the Pau Dock and the A Illa Market Square.