Vilaboa: Rías Baixas’ hidden gem

Hotel San Luis: your getaway by the Vigo Estuary

Hotel San Luis awaits you by the sea, in the fishing village of Arcade, right in the heart of San Simón Bay. The perfect setting to soak up the Galician atmosphere, unwind and enjoy views of the Vigo Estuary.

Its bright rooms offer views of the estuary or the mountains, and some also feature a balcony. The hotel also offers a restaurant, free WiFi, free parking and bike storage for pilgrims.

The location is one of its great strengths: it sits on the Portuguese Way of St. James and close to an area famous for its oysters, with plenty of options nearby for water sports, hiking and rafting.

Guests highlight the friendly staff, cleanliness, comfort, breakfast and views. On Booking, it scores 8.0, with especially good ratings for staff, comfort and WiFi.

Book Hotel San Luis and experience Galicia with tranquillity, flavour and the Atlantic on the horizon.

Relax in Galicia: nature, estuaries and authentic flavours

Nestled in the heart of the Rías Baixas, Vilaboa is the perfect destination for those looking to combine nature, tranquillity and great gastronomy, all while staying close to some of Galicia’s most beautiful spots. Ideally located between Pontevedra and Vigo, and just 25 km from Sanxenxo, it offers the perfect balance between relaxation and exploration.

Here, peaceful landscapes take centre stage. Discover the Salinas do Ulló, a former saltworks complex beside the estuary, or enjoy a walk around Lake Castiñeiras, in the beautiful Cotorredondo Nature Park, surrounded by forests and fresh air.

Vilaboa is also an excellent base for exploring the Rías Baixas. Wander through the historic streets of Pontevedra, spend a day in Vigo, enjoy the beaches of Sanxenxo or discover charming fishing villages along the coast. If you enjoy hiking, the Río Maior Mill Trail offers scenic routes through nature, passing waterfalls and traditional Galician watermills.

And of course, no visit to Galicia would be complete without enjoying its cuisine. Fresh seafood, octopus, homemade empanadas, local fish and the famous white wines of the Rías Baixas make every meal part of the experience.

A peaceful, authentic destination surrounded by nature and perfectly located for discovering the best of Galicia. Vilaboa is waiting for you.

Pontevedra is one of Galicia’s most charming city breaks, perfect for travellers who enjoy slow walks, historic streets and great food. Located in the heart of the Rías Baixas, this compact and elegant city is known for its pedestrian-friendly old town, lively squares and easy access to the coast, making it a lovely choice for couples and families looking for culture, sea air and authentic Galician flavour.

Make sure you visit:

• The beautiful old town, with its stone streets, arcades and lively squares.
• The Basilica of Santa María A Maior, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
• The Sanctuary of the Virgen Peregrina, famous for its unusual scallop-shaped floor plan.
• Praza da Leña, one of Pontevedra’s prettiest squares and a great place for photos.
• The Museum of Pontevedra, home to important Galician art, archaeology and history collections.

Beaches we think you’ll like:

• Lourido Beach: around 5 km from the city, ideal for a relaxed coastal escape.
• Chancelas Beach: a peaceful spot in Poio, perfect for a quiet afternoon by the sea.
• Areas Beach: around 15 km from Pontevedra, with soft sand and a holiday atmosphere.
• A Lanzada Beach: one of the best-known beaches in the Rías Baixas, great for long walks.
• Silgar Beach in Sanxenxo: lively, central and perfect if you want restaurants and seaside atmosphere nearby.

Family-friendly activities:

• Walk through the pedestrian old town, where children can explore safely and comfortably.
• Enjoy a relaxed stroll along the Lérez River and the city’s green riverside areas.
• Visit the Museum of Pontevedra for a cultural plan on cooler or rainy days.
• Take a short trip to nearby coastal villages for sea views and traditional Galician charm.
• Stop for ice cream or a snack in one of the old town squares after sightseeing.

Make sure you try these local delicacies:

• Pulpo á feira: tender octopus served with paprika, olive oil and coarse salt.
• Empanada gallega: a savoury pastry filled with tuna, meat, seafood or vegetables.
• Fresh seafood from the Rías Baixas, especially clams, mussels and scallops.
• Pimientos de Padrón: small green peppers, usually fried and served with salt.
• Albariño wine: the perfect local white wine to pair with fish and seafood.

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

• Combarro, around 15 minutes away: a postcard-perfect fishing village with stone houses and traditional hórreos by the sea.
• Poio Monastery, around 10 minutes away: a peaceful historic site with one of Galicia’s most impressive hórreos.
• Sanxenxo, around 25 minutes away: ideal for beaches, seaside restaurants and a livelier coastal atmosphere.
• O Grove and La Toja, around 40 minutes away: great for seafood, boat trips and relaxing by the estuary.
• Vigo, around 30 minutes away: a larger city with shopping, port views and easy access to the Cíes Islands in season.