Villagarcía de Arosa: Former Galician palace stay

*Hotel Pazo O Rial 4, a 17th-century palace in the heart of the Rías Baixas**

Enjoy a unique holiday at Hotel Pazo O Rial, an impressive 17th-century Galician palace transformed into a charming hotel. Located in Vilagarcía de Arousa, this historic building retains its noble character amid century-old gardens and stone walls.

Relax in elegant rooms, stately lounges and historic corners that transport you to another era. Ideal for unwinding, celebrating or exploring.

Just minutes from the port and some of the area’s most beautiful beaches, such as O Grove and Arousa Island, it’s also the perfect base for discovering the world of Albariño wine and Galician gastronomy.

A place with soul for an unforgettable stay. Discover the spirit of Galicia at Pazo O Rial!

Villagarcía de Arosa is located on the Ría de Arousa, in the Galician Rías Baixas, combining a maritime atmosphere, beaches, gastronomy and nature. It’s an excellent destination for couples, families and anyone who wants to discover Galicia at a relaxed pace, enjoying the sea and with some of Pontevedra’s most beautiful spots within easy reach.

What to visit?

One of its main attractions is the seafront promenade that links Vilagarcía with Carril, ideal for a stroll along the estuary. It’s worth visiting Carril, a fishing village especially known for clam cultivation, and admiring the island of Cortegada from its shoreline, part of the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. Another highlight is Compostela Beach, the town’s main urban beach and a very convenient option for combining sightseeing and sunbathing.

What to eat?

The sea takes centre stage here. You can’t leave without trying the famous Carril clams, one of the area’s most emblematic products. You’ll also find excellent mussels, octopus, fish and other seafood from the Rías Baixas, perfect paired with an Albariño from the Rías Baixas DO.

Our recommendation

For a traditional option with modest prices, head to Xuntanza, a Galician restaurant where you can enjoy local flavours without the need for anything overly sophisticated.

As an alternative recognised by a gastronomic guide, Campos is a classic Vilagarcía tavern awarded the Guía Repsol Solete, especially known for its holidaye and its old‑school bar atmosphere.

Nearby excursions

From Villagarcía it’s well worth visiting Cambados, one of the most emblematic towns of the Rías Baixas, famed for its architecture, manor houses and close ties to Albariño. Another perfect holiday is Illa de Arousa, where you’ll find beaches, small coves and natural areas ideal for enjoying Galicia’s quieter, maritime side.

Rías Baixas: wild coastline, fresh seafood and Atlantic charm at its finest

The Rías Baixas are Galicia's green, salty south: a coastline of deep sea inlets, pine-covered hills and fishing villages where the Atlantic sets the pace of daily life. Famous for its Albariño wine, some of the best seafood in Spain and beaches that look almost tropical on a sunny day, it is a relaxed, unhurried corner of the country that families and couples fall for very quickly.

Make sure you visit:

• Combarro, a village of stone hórreos (raised granaries) built right at the water's edge.
• Cambados and its grand Praza de Fefiñáns, the capital of Albariño wine.
• The Cíes Islands, part of the Atlantic Islands National Park, and the walk up to the lighthouse.
• O Grove and A Toxa Island, known for seafood and spa waters.
• Pontevedra's old town, one of the loveliest and most walkable historic centres in Galicia.

Beaches we think you'll like:

• Praia de Rodas (Cíes Islands): white sand and turquoise water, with daily visitor numbers capped.
• A Lanzada: a long open-sea beach between Sanxenxo and O Grove, with dunes and full services.
• Praia de Silgar (Sanxenxo): sheltered and central, with cafés and shops right on the promenade.
• Praia América (Nigrán): two kilometres of sand backed by pine trees, a local family favourite.

Family-friendly activities:

• Take a boat trip out to the mussel rafts (bateas) from O Grove, tasting included.
• Catch the ferry to the Cíes or Ons Islands for a day of beach and easy coastal walks.
• Walk the Ruta da Pedra e da Auga in Armenteira, a shaded riverside path past old watermills.
• Visit Acquarium Galicia in O Grove to meet the Atlantic species up close.
• Discover local markets and traditional seaside festivals.

Make sure you try these local delicacies:

• Pulpo á feira: octopus with paprika, coarse salt and olive oil, served on a wooden plate.
• Galician mussels and fresh oysters straight from the rafts of O Grove.
• Empanada gallega, a savoury pie usually filled with tuna, cockles or meat.
• Scallops and zamburiñas, grilled and served in their shell.
• A cold glass of Albariño, the crisp white wine that defines the region.

Make the most of your visit and go to...

• Vigo (30 min): the largest city in Galicia, with great views and even better food.
• Santiago de Compostela (1h): the iconic pilgrimage city at the end of the Camino.
• Illa de Ons (by boat): a quieter alternative to the Cíes Islands.
• Baiona (40 min): coastal charm, a seafront fortress and plenty of maritime history.