Alba in Galicia: Wetland and Pilgrimage Route

Xunqueira de Alba is one of the few natural wetlands of the Ría de Pontevedra and has been designated an ENIL. The ENIL Xunqueira de Alba covers 67 hectares. In Alba, an extensive natural area, routes of the Portuguese Way, and structures dating from several centuries thus come together.

Nature

In Xunqueira de Alba, near the path leading from the O Vao Bridge, there is an observation platform for observing fauna and birds. The observation platform is located near the path leading from the O Vao Bridge and is used for observing fauna and birds.

Routes

The stage of the Coastal Portuguese Way from Pontevedra to Santa María de Alba runs alongside the extensive marshland of Xunqueira de Alba. There is also a 3.6-kilometre route known as Río de A Gándara–Xunqueira de Alba for walking or cycling, which runs in only one direction. In the surrounding area, a new 1.8-kilometre path connects Xunqueira da Gándara with da Tomba Forest Park in the parish of Campañó. For walks or cycling trips, the route and current trail conditions are among the usual points to consider when preparing. On a route that runs in only one direction, it is advisable to consider the return journey or onward transport in advance. For cycling trips, current transport timetables for the return journey can be checked.

Culture and History

The Church of Santa María de Alba was built in the Romanesque style in the 12th century and completely rebuilt in the 18th century. The Chapel of San Caetano in Alba dates from the 18th century, while the A Devesa Chapel dates from the 19th century.

A milestone dedicated to Emperor Caracalla was found in Alba. It is regarded as evidence that Roman Road XIX ran through this parish. One of Alba’s cruceiros inspired Castelao when he wrote his work “As cruces de pedra na Galiza e na Bretaña”.

The Portuguese Way is also associated with a specific place: Guxilde in Alba accommodated numerous pilgrims because the Portuguese Way passes through the area. Alba’s patronal festival is celebrated on 15 August in honour of Santa María. For a patronal festival, the date and event times should be checked for the latest information before travelling.

Other destinations at the same higher-level location are A Lama, Tabagón, Rodeiro, Sanxenxo, Cangas, Picoto, Viascón and O Rosal.

Getting There

The Church of Santa María de Alba can be reached from Pontevedra via the N-550 towards Santiago. At Alba, turn off after 4 kilometres, continue for 400 metres to a washhouse, and then drive another 500 metres to the church.

To the higher-level travel overview: Pontevedra.