The best running trails around Maceda

Camp site with an astonishing view on the Ribeira Sacra

The Balconies of Madrid have a history that speaks of emigration, dreams and human adventures in unknown lands. The original name of Os Torgás was changed when the people of the Ourense villages of the Ribeira Sacra hung themselves from the cliffs of the River Sil to say goodbye to their loved ones who were leaving for Madrid and other lands in the south with the dream of a new life. The viewing points form small steps hanging over the river gorge and cause a special fascination. The breeze in the air carries the aromas of vineyards hanging on steep rocky terraces and melodies of elves emerging from enchanted forests, descendants of the primitive mythological beings who resisted the sacralisation of their plant kingdom by the monks and long before by the Roman legions. The walls of the Sil Canyon are a monumental sculpture five hundred metres high made of fierce, bare granite, a fortress of living rock up to the edge of the viewing points that filter the wind, the lights and the eternal songs of all the people who have passed through this fantastic natural balcony to say goodbye or find someone.

The Monastery of San Pedro de Rocas is one of the oldest and most unique monasteries in Galicia, located in the municipality of Esgos, in the province of Ourense. This monastery stands out for being partially excavated in the rock, which gives it a unique and mysterious character. The foundation of the monastery dates back to the 6th century, although most of the structures visible today date from the 9th and 10th centuries. The monastery church is composed of three naves excavated in the rock, with a series of anthropomorphic tombs also carved in the stone. Outside, you can see a bell tower that was added in the 15th century. San Pedro de Rocas is known not only for its architecture, but also for its natural environment, surrounded by forests and mountains, making it a place of great beauty and tranquility. The monastery has been declared a Historic-Artistic Monument and is an important tourist and pilgrimage destination.

Miradoiro dos Penediños is a beautiful viewing point located in the Ribeira Sacra, a region known for its stunning landscapes and terraced vineyards along the Miño and Sil rivers in Galicia. From this viewing point, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the Miño River canyons and the lush forests surrounding the area. The viewing point is an ideal place for nature and photography lovers, as it offers a unique perspective of the natural beauty of the Ribeira Sacra. In addition, it is a popular stopping point for visitors touring the region's viewing point route.

These are two wooden walkways that go several meters into the canyon, providing us with spectacular views.

collegiate church and monastery with an organ where we can still attend live concerts

Spectacular collegiate church and monastery in front of the pilgrims' hostel

The Torgás recreational area is in an area where a bush called heather abounds, it is also close to leafy groves of century-old chestnut trees. Mountainous hiking area, with viewpoints that offer panoramic views of a river valley.