Both cross-border parks between the countries of Spain and Portugal constitute the Biosphere Reserve across the borders of Peneda - Gêrés. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the exuberance of the landscape as well as see wild animals. You will not be left indifferent to the gastronomy, archaeological, and historical remains that you will find along the way as well as the possibilities of free-air thermal spas and ancient Roman hot springs.
- Cross-border experience: Traverse the stunning Sierra del Parque Natural del Xurés in Galicia, Spain, and the National Park Peneda - Gêrés in Portugal
- Biosphere Reserve: Ride through the internationally recognized Biosphere Reserve spanning Spain and Portugal
- Spectacular landscapes: Revel in the breathtaking natural beauty and diverse ecosystems of these protected areas
- Wildlife encounters: Witness a variety of wild animals in their natural habitats
- Archaeological and historical sites: Explore fascinating archaeological and historical remnants scattered throughout the journey
- Thermal spas: Relax in open-air thermal spas and ancient Roman hot springs, perfect for unwinding after a day of riding
Pre-arrival preparation
If you have not been in the saddle for an extended period, Dharma Consulting recommends getting back on the horse three or four times before your trip. This will help train your muscles for an extended duration on horseback. Take the opportunity to review your equestrian skills, including posting trot, maintaining balance on stirrups, and using gentle hands. This pre-trip preparation ensures a more enjoyable and comfortable riding experience during your adventure.
Agenda
- Day 1 - Arrival to Lobios, welcome dinner
- Day 2 - Lobios - Salas
- Day 3 - Salas - Muiños or Bande
- Day 4 - Aquis - Riocaldo
- Day 5 - Riocaldo - Campo Gêrés
- Day 6 - Campo Gêrés - Lobios
- Day 7 - breakfast and departures
Daily itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and receipt
Possibility of arriving at your home a day before. Welcome dinner and presentation of assistants. You will carry out a brief introduction to the trip.
Day 2: Stage of archaeological, scenic, and “possible” observation of wild horse herds
At 8:00 a.m., you will have breakfast followed by horse preparation at 9:00 a.m. From 10:00 a.m., you leave the installations. You will visit the town of San Martiño with a brief introduction to the landscape and its ancient castle like the Quinta where you are located. You will leave behind the pueblo and join the Via Nova, crossing the Lindoso Embalse. This first stage is an ascension up the mountain and you will pass through the towns of Ganceiros, Parada, and Pazó until you reach your first technical food stop in Prado.
After recovering strength, you will continue along your path towards Maus do Salas before crossing the one-kilometer trail. When you arrive, you will head to the reservoir with your horses, and if the climate allows you to bathe with your animals, refresh yourself with them and relax. At 7:00 p.m., Caballoos accommodation and rest in the mountain hostel, and then you will have dinner and rest at 9:00 p.m.
Day 3: Stage of historical, scenic, and thermal interest
At 8:00 a.m., you will have breakfast followed by horse preparation at 9:00 a.m. From 10:00 a.m., Saldremos de Maus do Salas towards Muiños. This will be the longest stage where you start resting on the Rio Limia passing through La Clamadoira and other enclaves of interest. You will have your food at the Embalse de las Conchas and continue your walk up the riverbank of the Rio Limia.
You will pass to the other shore and head towards the Campamento Romano Aquis Querquernis. During these last kilometers, you will enter forests of native plants and small villages and visit the Roman settlement Aquis Querquenis. At 9:00 p.m., scene, thermal bath, and rest in vivacity on the shore of Rio Limia.
Day 4: Stage of historical, scenic, ethnographic, and thermal interest
At 8:00 a.m., you will have breakfast followed by horse preparation at 9:00 a.m. From 10:00 a.m., you leave the campsite and reincorporate yourself onto the Via Nova, making a circular return to Riocaldo passing through different mountains, forests, and villages. You will visit the pre-Roman Church of Santa Comba de Bande and enjoy a short walk along the left side of the Río Limia riverbank. You will arrive at the Espendelo area where you will settle in the camp. You will make a brief visit to the Aquis Origins Roman deposit. At 9:00 p.m., scene, thermal bath, and rest.
Day 5: Stage of scenic, historical, and archaeological interest
At 8:00 a.m., you will have breakfast followed by horse preparation at 9:00 a.m. From 10:00 a.m., you reincorporate onto Via Roma and begin your route to Portugal, crossing the border that joins the Biosphere Reserve. You will enjoy cross-border landscapes limited by ancient glaciers that will intoxicate you with river floods, waterfalls, and natural pools where you can bathe. Once arriving at the destination, you will rest in the bungalows of a tourist complex. At 9:00 p.m., dinner and rest.
Day 6: Stage of scenic, historical, and archaeological interest
At 8:00 a.m., you will have breakfast followed by horse preparation at 9:00 a.m. From 10:00 a.m., this is a cross-border return trip marked by the great visual impact of the landscape. YOu will join the Via Nova and join other trails of the Camino from Santiago de San Rosendo. You will enjoy this trip without hesitation. At 9:00 p.m., dinner and rest.
Day 7
Breakfast and departures.