In the emerald heart of Lugo province’s coastline, known as A Mariña Lucense, there is a place that seems straight out of a fantasy novel. This is not just a grove, but a true natural cathedral of living columns reaching up to the blue sky. This is Eucaliptal de Chavín, a unique natural enclave that in 2000 received its well-deserved official designation as a Natural Monument. Here, on the banks of the quiet and peaceful Landro River, time seems to slow down, allowing every visitor to fully experience the grandeur and tranquility of these giants. Their crowns disappear high above in the clouds, creating a whimsical interplay of light and shadow on the forest floor.
Amidst roughly six hundred mighty trunks that make up this forest, there is one tree to which all paths lead and all eyes are drawn. Locals, with unmistakable reverence, call it “O Avó,” which means “Grandfather” in Galician. And he truly is the patriarch of this forest, its living heart. Planted back in 1880, this giant has, over nearly a century and a half, soared to more than 67 meters in height, with a trunk circumference at the base exceeding ten meters. Its incredible strength and venerable age impress to the core, making you feel like a tiny part of a vast, eternal world. “Grandfather” is rightfully listed in the catalogue of unique trees of the region and is considered the main jewel of this remarkable place, its silent guardian.
The story of how this Australian enclave appeared on Spanish soil is just as remarkable as its current appearance. It began in the mid-19th century, when a Galician clergyman and missionary named Rosendo Salvado returned from a long journey to a distant continent, bringing with him a handful of seeds from a plant exotic to this region. He decided to conduct a bold botanical experiment and planted them in the fertile soil near his residence. Much to the surprise of many skeptics, the seeds not only took root. The humid, mild Atlantic climate, abundant rainfall, and absence of severe frosts turned out to be the perfect environment for them. Thus began the story of the eucalyptus grove, which over time became one of the most impressive and recognizable landmarks on the entire northern coast of the country.
A walk here is truly an immersion into a different, almost fairytale-like reality. The specially designed route for visitors is not difficult and is accessible to people of all fitness levels, stretching for just about one kilometer. A well-maintained path winds along the calm riverbed and an old canal, which once diverted water from a small dam. Along the way, you can admire not only the towering, silvery tree trunks, but also small yet picturesque cascades such as Salto-do-Can. You’ll also encounter whimsical, moss-covered rock formations like Pena-da-Velha, adding even more charm and mystery to the landscape. The atmosphere is enriched by the constant birdsong and the soothing rustle of leaves, creating a sense of complete harmony with nature.
It’s no surprise that this unique corner of the world has ultimately attracted the close attention of top international experts. Recently, one of the most respected global publications dedicated to geography and travel included it in a prestigious list of the kingdom’s seven natural wonders. This high recognition has further fueled interest in this protected site, which offers visitors not just a standard hiking trail but an unforgettable experience of encountering living history and nature in its most monumental and majestic form. Visiting this forest leaves a lasting impression and remains in one’s memory as an encounter with something truly eternal and unshakable.
