Far from the bustle of big cities, in the very heart of “green Spain,” there are places where time seems to slow down. Galicia, with its emerald hills, misty valleys, and ancient forests, holds many secrets for the curious traveler. One such secret is a hiking trail that not only leads through picturesque landscapes, but immerses you in the very soul of this land, to its vital arteries. This is more than just a walk—it’s a true pilgrimage to the birthplace of one of the most important rivers on the Iberian Peninsula, a journey that clears the mind and fills you with the energy of pristine nature.
The route begins in a place of great significance for the entire province of Lugo—Pedregal de Irimia. Here, among scattered stones, the very first, still timid streams seem to spring from the ground, destined to join into the mighty Minho. Starting here, the trail runs for just over 17 kilometers, offering a challenge that takes about five hours of continuous movement. The route is classified as medium or even high difficulty, requiring a certain level of preparation from travelers, but every step is richly rewarded. The markings along the way are intuitive, and special signs and arrows ensure you stay on course, allowing you to fully focus on the surrounding beauty. The trail winds along the slopes of the Sierra de Meira mountains, unveiling a striking contrast between its northern and southern sides, and showcasing the diversity of the local ecosystem.
A test and a reward along the way
About halfway along the route, travelers are greeted by one of the most impressive sights – the A-Mesadoira stream. The waters of the Murias brook cascade from a height of fifteen meters, creating a deafening and refreshing curtain of spray. To get closer, you’ll need to proceed with caution and descend a fairly steep slope, but the view is well worth the effort. This is a place of power, where you can pause, catch your breath, and feel the incredible force of the water. The trail also offers the chance to encounter the local wildlife. If you move quietly, you might spot roe deer, and overhead, buzzards and other birds of prey often soar, scanning for prey. The biodiversity here is striking: every turn reveals new species of plants, mosses, and lichens covering ancient stones and tree trunks.
From the energy of water to forest tranquility
The next segment of the route runs alongside another important waterway in the region—the Eo River. Here, in the area of A-Treita, the landscape transforms. A hydroelectric power station comes into view, a minimalist structure that serves as a reminder of how humans have learned to harness the forces of nature. This facility creates an interesting contrast with the wild beauty surrounding it. The final part of the route is full immersion into the realm of the Galician forest. Oak, chestnut, birch, and pine trees form a living green corridor to welcome travelers. The air is filled with the scents of damp earth, bark, and leaves. This forest feels enchanting, especially in the early morning hours when sunlight streams through the dense canopy, painting whimsical patterns on the ground. It is here that one finds true tranquility and a sense of unity with the natural world.
Planning Your Adventure: Details and Tips
Technically, the route is linear, but its flexibility allows it to be adapted to various needs. It can be turned into a circular trail by adding about four kilometers to the total distance, or split into two shorter and easier sections for less experienced hikers. The trail is versatile: it’s suitable not only for hiking, but also for mountain biking or even horseback riding. The elevation change is quite significant: from a maximum point of 875 meters at the Sierra de Meira ridge to a minimum of 175 meters by the Eo River. Reaching the starting point is easy. From the town of Meira, take the CP-3003 road for about 2.5 kilometers to Pedregal de Irimia, where a rest area and parking are available for visitors’ convenience. This journey is a great opportunity to discover another side of Galicia—authentic and unspoiled by tourism.
