Ourense, is the capital
city of the only Galician province that lacks sea coast. It was an
important place in Roman times due to their settlement and because
it was a convenient spot for crossing the River Mino. The Puente
Viejo (Old Bridge) dates from that time. The Cathedral dates back
to the 12th century and its Portico del Paraiso recalls the
well-known Portico de la Gloria of Santiago Cathedral. Streets,
squares and gardens make up a pleasant site. The Burgas, unique
thermal springs, are not to be missed.
Lunch will be taken in Luintra before continuing to San Estevo
Ribas do Sil. Benedictine monastery located in a characteristic
deciduous forest, whose existence is documented proven since the
10th century, although its origins seem to date back to the 6th
and 7th century. It is basically a Romanesque church, though it
also shows Gothic and Baroque-style elements.

The Ribeira Sacra's relief is comprised of high plateaus and
mountains with gentle slopes, which due to erosion, give way
abruptly to the waters of the River Sil. The result is a canyon
that is up to 500 meters deep in some spots. At the top of the
canyon there are numerous natural viewpoints that "hang" over the
river, making them ideal places to contemplate an unusually
beautiful landscape.

In San Pedro de Roca you will find a historical-artistic
monument founded in the year 573. The monastery gives impressive
views over the Rocas Manor and a huge conifer forest that climbs
uphill towards the rocky peaks which gave it its name (Rocas).