Galicia in Spain is more than just the endless ocean and the famous cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. In its green valleys, far from popular tourist routes, true treasures are hidden, ready to offer unforgettable experiences to travelers. One such place can be found in the municipality of Barro, where nature and history intertwine, creating a landscape of exceptional beauty. Here, in the Barosa River Natural Park, there is a trail that quickly immerses you in the region’s authentic atmosphere.
We are talking about the PR-G 105 hiking trail, also known as Sendeiro dos Muíños de Barosa. This is more than just a walk through the woods—it’s a real journey into the past. Along the rushing waters of a stream, cascading over granite ledges, stand seventeen stone watermills. These structures, called “muíños” here, once were the heart of local rural communities, providing them with flour. Today, they form a valuable ethnographic complex, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. It seems as if just yesterday work was bustling, and the grinding of millstones echoed throughout the valley.
The main gem of this place is undoubtedly Fervenza da Barosa—a cascading waterfall with a total height of about thirty meters. Water torrents thunder down several tiers, creating a spectacular sight and filling the air with mist. The mills are perched right along the slope beside the waterfall, clinging to the rocks as if part of the landscape. This blend of man-made structures and wild nature sparks the imagination. The integration of architecture into the landscape is so seamless that it appears as if these stone houses sprouted here naturally.
The route itself is a circular trail with a low difficulty level, which can be completed in less than an hour. It is ideal for family walks and does not require any special physical training. The trail starts at the parking area and leads to a group of lower mills, then ascends along the river to the San Breixo bridge. From here, there is a beautiful view of the valley, and visitors can continue to the XVII-century church of the same name. The return path runs along the opposite bank via the A Bua bridge, offering fresh perspectives and a full appreciation of the cascading layout of the old buildings.
This place is beautiful at any time of year. In the hot summer months, the river forms natural coves and small pools with cool water where you can swim. In autumn and winter, when rains fill the river, the waterfall reveals its full power and splendor. The park area is equipped with rest and picnic zones, making it an ideal spot for spending a whole day outdoors. Its proximity to the Portuguese Way of Saint James adds to its appeal, and many pilgrims stop here to rest and enjoy the tranquility.
But the walk would not be complete without gastronomic discoveries. Some of the mills have been carefully restored and turned into small taverns. Here, in an incredibly colorful setting and accompanied by the sound of rushing water, you can sample traditional Galician cuisine. This is a unique opportunity to combine physical activity with immersion in the culture and culinary traditions of the region, creating a truly rich and memorable experience during your trip to this remarkable corner of Spain.
