Faro: Monte Faro, Praia de Area and Punta Faro

Monte Faro is a small mountain with an elevation of 198 metres. From the summit, there are views of the islands of Coelleira, Gabeira and Insua. The route on Monte Faro offers views of Praia de Area and its hamlets characterised by granite houses. The three island names give the panorama a maritime breadth, while the beach and hamlets also connect the view with the nearby coastal landscape.

Paths and views

The route on Monte Faro can be accessed from Praia de Area or Praia de Esteiro, in opposite directions. From the access point to the summit, a footpath leads to Punta Faro. On the way to Punta Faro, there is a view of the small Praia de Portonovo. The beacon at Punta Faro marks the eastern entrance to the ria. The route therefore follows a clear sequence from the respective starting point via the summit to a nautical marker at the entrance to the ria. If travelling on foot, it is advisable to check the current trail conditions before setting out.

Beach and nature

Praia de Area is a 1,200-metre-long, sheltered beach with fine sand in the parish of Faro (San Xiao). Next to Praia de Area lies Insua de Area, an important refuge for seabirds. Praia de Area has a dune area of considerable landscape interest. At the Area-Faro promenade, the recreational area has a children's playground. Fine sand, dunes and the seabird refuge represent different coastal features here, complemented by the playground as a dedicated facility within the recreational area. For visits to natural and recreational facilities, current information on opening hours can be checked before travelling.

Geographical setting

The Faro viewpoint is located in the parish of Faro (San Xiao), in the village of Faro in Viveiro.

Culture and history

The old church with its bell tower is a notable point along the route on Monte Faro. Apparently, the old church was built after the settlement disappeared. The parish church of Faro, by contrast, has a modern architectural style. The old church and the modern parish church thus represent two different architectural and commemorative traces. Beneath the waters of Carrucedo Lagoon there are also remains of walls and mills.

Other places in the same destination area include Friol, Casacamiño, Pedrafita Do Cebreiro, A Ermida, Camposo, Meirengos, Carballedo and Fonfría.

Water sports

Courses in sailing, surfing and other water sports were organised at the youth camp at Praia de Area. For sailing and surfing courses, current dates can be checked before travelling, as such activities may be tied to fixed event times. Water sports thus complement the paths, viewpoints and nature destinations with a dedicated area for activities.

For the higher-level travel overview: Lugo.