Ourense

Ourense, a city in northwestern Spain's Galicia region, is known for its thermal springs and Roman ruins. The old town is home to the 12th-century Cathedral of San Martiño, while both ancient and modern bridges span the Miño River. Restaurants serve Galician dishes paired with local Ribeiro wines. Beyond the city limits, you'll find hiking trails and nature reserves in the surrounding countryside.

Thermal Waters of Ourense

Ourense's thermal springs have drawn visitors since Roman times. The city produces over 3 million liters of hot water daily from various springs. In the old town, As Burgas has three thermal fountains where steaming water emerges from the ground. For a more immersive experience, visit the Thermal Route along the Miño River. This 5 km stretch includes several free, open-air pools with waters ranging from 41°C to 72°C. The Japanese-inspired Outariz and Burga de Canedo spas provide a refined bathing experience with admission fees.

Exploring the Old Town

You can easily walk through Ourense's compact historic center. Begin at the Plaza Mayor, lined with colonnaded buildings including the town hall. Nearby stands the Cathedral of San Martín, dating back to the 12th century. Inside, you'll find the ornate Pórtico del Paraíso, similar to Santiago de Compostela's famous Pórtico de la Gloria. The narrow streets lead to medieval churches, Renaissance palaces, and squares filled with tapas bars. The Archaeological Museum, located in the former Episcopal Palace, displays artifacts from the region's past.

Bridges of Ourense

The Miño River has shaped Ourense's development, and its bridges span different eras. The Ponte Vella (Old Bridge) dates to Roman times, though it was largely rebuilt in the Middle Ages. Its seven arches still carry pedestrians across the river. For a more modern experience, cross the Millennium Bridge, completed in 2001. Its design includes pedestrian walkways both above and below the roadway, providing unique views of the city and river.

Galician Cuisine and Wine

Ourense's restaurants serve Galician dishes. Try octopus prepared "á feira" style – boiled, sliced, and seasoned with olive oil, salt, and paprika. Other local dishes include lacón con grelos (pork shoulder with turnip greens) and empanada gallega (a savory pie filled with meat or seafood). Pair your meal with wines from the nearby Ribeiro region, known for its crisp white wines made from native grape varieties. At the Praza de Abastos market, you can see the fresh ingredients used in local cooking and purchase regional products.

Festivals in Ourense

Ourense celebrates various events throughout the year. In February, the city hosts Entroido (Carnival), with parades, costumes, and street parties. May brings the Festa dos Maios, when residents create elaborate sculptures from flowers and moss to welcome spring. In November, join locals for the Magosto festival, centered around roasting chestnuts and sampling the year's new wine. Throughout the year, cultural events take place at venues like the Auditorio Municipal and the Teatro Principal.

Day Trips from Ourense

The countryside around Ourense has natural areas and historic sites. Visit the Ribeira Sacra region, where steep vineyard-covered slopes descend to the Sil River. Take a boat tour through the Sil Canyon or hike to viewpoints like the Balcones de Madrid. Nature lovers can explore the Serra do Xurés Natural Park, with its granite peaks and varied plants and animals. For a dose of history, visit the well-preserved medieval town of Allariz or the imposing Monterrei Castle near the Portuguese border.