Autumn in Galicia has a unique charm. As the summer heat gives way to gentle warmth and the crowds of tourists thin out, the Atlantic coast reveals a new, tranquil side of itself. This is the season when seaside walks, filled with the scent of salt and the sound of waves, become a true balm for the soul. In the municipality of Ribeira, in the province of A Coruña, there is a trail seemingly made for such meditative moments. It’s not just a path from one point to another, but a one-and-a-half-kilometer journey accessible to everyone.
This is the pedestrian route O Touro – A Ameixida, which stretches along the picturesque coastline. Its total length, round-trip, is three kilometers. What makes this route special is its thoughtful infrastructure: wooden walkways that allow for comfortable passage without disturbing the natural landscape. The trail is designed for families with children, dog owners, and even people with limited mobility, making it truly inclusive. Stunning views of the Ría de Arousa open up along the way, especially beautiful in the light of the setting sun.
The trail begins at the O-Touro pier, once home to a fish processing plant that still recalls the area’s rich fishing heritage. From there, the path leads to the sandy Areea-Secada stretch, famous for its crystal-clear waters. Here, you can still see the ruins of old salt-curing facilities, lending a historic touch to the walk. The boardwalk then winds along the shoreline, passing through groves of pine trees and, surprisingly for this latitude, cacti, creating a striking natural contrast that leaves no visitor indifferent.
During the walk, a spectacular panorama of the bay unfolds at every turn. It’s common to spot ‘dornas’ gliding across the water—traditional small wooden boats that remain an essential part of the region’s maritime culture. Locals still use them for fishing, making them a living symbol of the generations’ enduring bond with the sea. On clear days, the Salvora, Vionta, and Noro islands—three natural treasures—are clearly visible on the horizon, adding to the Atlantic landscape. Come evening, as the sun sets, everything is bathed in golden light, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Formally, the route ends at the sandy strip of A-Ameixida, but many enthusiasts prefer not to stop there, continuing on to Castiñeiras or branching off onto the longer Camiño do Barbanza. The main section can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace in about an hour. For visitors’ comfort, there are benches with water views installed all along the path, as well as modern self-cleaning toilets, such as those in the Das-Avesadas park. The starting point at Pedra-Pateira Park is equipped with a spacious parking lot, so parking is never a problem.
This pedestrian area is part of a large-scale municipal project aimed at connecting the entire Ribeira coastline with a seamless network of eco-friendly green corridors. Another highlight of the system is the ‘Blue Trail’ Coroso-Río Azor, stretching for more than four kilometers. Over 800,000 euros have been invested in this initiative, reflecting the local government’s commitment to harmoniously integrating the urban landscape with its natural surroundings while preserving the fragile ecosystem. Few things compare to the sense of tranquility this waterfront promenade brings, where every step invites you to linger just a bit longer.
