Yearly Summer Retreat of Luis Zahera: Insights into the Galician Island Town, Its Location, and Top Eateries
In the westernmost part of Pontevedra province, nestled in the heart of the Ria de Arosa, lies the enchanting island of Isla de Arosa. This paradisiacal beach destination, once only accessible by motorboat, has since 1985 been connected to the mainland by a bridge, making it more accessible to tourists.
With approximately 5,000 inhabitants, Isla de Arosa is an insular municipality in Galicia, a region renowned for its fresh seafood and stunning coastal landscapes. The island is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.
The top activity to experience in Isla de Arosa is the Ria de Arosa boat tour. This unique experience takes you on a journey around the estuary, visiting mussel, oyster, and scallop farms. The tour includes unlimited mussel tasting and a white wine open bar on board, offering stunning views of the island, the estuary, and nearby locations like El Grove and Cambados. A glass-bottomed boat allows you to observe the underwater marine life, adding an extra layer of wonder to your adventure.
For dining, the region is famous for its seafood, especially mussels and shellfish, which you can sample directly on the mussel farm cruises. For on-island dining, visitors typically seek seafood restaurants offering local Galician specialties. Notable restaurants in Isla de Arosa include O Triskel, known for its love of local and traditional offerings, and O Novo Tuno, a charming and recognised eatery. Other notable options include Tapería A Chabola, Chiringuito Punta Furado, and A Meca, each offering a unique dining experience.
One of the island's highlights is the Mirador de Con do Forno, a viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the sea and coastal landscape. For those seeking a more active experience, a hiking trail around Isla de Arosa offers spectacular views and a chance to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty.
Isla de Arosa has a rich history, with dolphins commonly seen in the waters around the island before 1985. The island's charm has not gone unnoticed, with actor Luis Zahera, who has spent around 50 summers on the island, endorsing it.
The Carreirón Natural Park, located in the south of Isla de Arosa, is another must-visit destination. For those seeking a relaxed atmosphere, A Boa Vida, a chiringuito (beach bar), offers high-quality local products, cocktails, and live performances, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration. The Faro de Punta Cabalo, serving as a restaurant, offers views of the Atlantic Ocean and Galician coast, providing a picturesque backdrop for your meal.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local culture, Isla de Arosa offers something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to discover this hidden gem in Galicia.
Enjoy a motor-driven boat tour around the Ria de Arosa, taking in the sights of mussel farms and gorgeous landscapes, then later unwind at home-and-garden style A Boa Vida, a chiringuito on Isla de Arosa, offering delicious local dishes and refreshing cocktails while enjoying live performances.
For those who love exploring new places, travel to El Grove and Cambados, nearby locations visible from the unique Ria de Arosa boat tour, or embark on a hiking trail around the island to truly appreciate its natural beauty.
