From Santiago: Tour to Rias Baixas with Boat Trip and Winery

Discover Galicia’s Coastal Charm with the Rias Baixas Tour from Santiago

If you’re looking to enjoy a full day of scenic beauty, authentic local flavors, and charming villages, the Tour to Rias Baixas with Boat Trip and Winery offers a compelling experience. Priced at around $63 per person, this nine-and-a-half-hour journey is packed with highlights like a boat ride through the estuaries, tastings of Galician wine and mussels, and visits to some of the region’s most picturesque towns and islands.

What I particularly love about this tour are two things: the boat trip, which offers unlimited fresh mussels and wine right on the water, and the chance to wander through old fishing villages like Combarro, where time seems to stand still. The tour’s guides—like Lucia, praised for her engaging storytelling—bring a relaxed but informative vibe to the day. On the flip side, the lengthy itinerary means some travelers might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if you prefer more leisure time at each stop. Still, for its price, the tour offers solid value, especially for those eager to see a broad slice of Galicia’s coast with minimal hassle.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic coastal experience: The boat ride through Galician estuaries features unlimited mussels and local wine, making it a highlight that truly captures the region’s seafood culture.
• Charming villages: Visiting towns like Combarro and O Grove offers a glimpse into traditional Galician life, with scenic streets, old granaries, and local markets.
• Wine tasting at Albariño vineyards: The visit to the vineyard allows you to learn about the production of the prestigious Albariño wine and sample three different varieties.
• Historical and spiritual sites: The shrine of La Lanzada, established in the 9th century, provides a peaceful walk and a sense of Galicia’s deep-rooted spiritual history.
• Island visit and ecological spots: The island of Toja, famous for its soap production and hot springs, is a quirky stop that offers cultural and ecological insights.
• Value-packed day: The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a guide, and full access to the boat trip with unlimited seafood and wine—all for just over $60.

A Day in Galicia: From Santiago to the Rias Baixas

Starting the Journey with Galicia Travels

The adventure kicks off early with a meeting at Galicia Travels’ office, located at Rua das casas reais 31. The coach ride from Santiago takes about 50 minutes, giving you a taste of Galicia’s lush countryside en route to the coast. The group size tends to be manageable, and the comfortable bus, with air conditioning, makes the long day easier to handle.

Exploring the Charming Village of Combarro

Your first stop is Combarro, a village famous for its traditional granaries and winding stone streets. Here, you’ll get a guided tour, but the real joy is wandering freely to soak in its authentic atmosphere. Multiple reviews mention that all the stops felt worthwhile, with travelers like Elspeth praising that “everything our guide Lucia told us was very interesting.” The quietness of February visits, as some noted, makes for a peaceful stroll without the crowds.

Discovering La Lanzada Beach

Next, you’ll visit La Lanzada, a mystical spot with a history dating back to the 9th century. The guided walk allows you to admire the beach, rocky outcrops, and the surrounding crosses and granaries. Tourists love the sense of walking through time, and it’s a moment of calm amidst the busy day. It’s also a spot of ecological value, so nature lovers will appreciate the surroundings.

O Grove: The Seafood and Vineyard Hub

After a short drive, you arrive in O Grove, a lively fishing port with a slower pace and genuine Galician flavor. Here, you’ll have around two hours to explore, shop for local products, or enjoy a traditional Galician meal. The highlight for many is the vineyard walk and Albariño wine tasting, which lets you learn about the region’s famous white wine. According to reviews, the wine tasting is a terrific addition, with some noting the wines are “very good” and the guide’s explanations engaging.

The Island of Toja and Ecological Sites

On the island of Illa da Toxa, you’ll explore a small museum about soap production and visit a shell-covered chapel—quirky and picturesque. The island is part of the Natura 2000 ecological network, making it a unique stop that combines culture, nature, and a bit of fun.

The Boat Ride: Mussels, Wine, and Ocean Views

The boat cruise is the tour’s real star. Over an hour, you’ll sail through the estuaries, observing shellfish farms and perhaps catching glimpses of local marine life. Onboard, unlimited mussels are served—some reviewers claim they ate more than 2 kilograms each—and paired with local white wine, it’s an authentic seafood feast. The crew keeps the drinks flowing, and the lively atmosphere, topped with music, makes this segment truly memorable. Marjory’s review sums it up: “The boat was the best fun ever, and the crew kept bringing more and more mussels and wine.”

Wrapping Up with Rias Baixas Wine Tasting

The day concludes with a one-hour wine tasting session at a Rias Baixas winery. You’ll sample three varieties, learning about the Albariño grape’s distinctive qualities. It’s a relaxing way to reflect on the day and enjoy some of the best white wines Galicia has to offer.

Transport, Schedule, and Practicalities

The entire day is smoothly organized, with transportation included from the meeting point and drop-off back in Santiago. The air-conditioned bus and professional guide make it easy to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The schedule is packed, with each stop lasting between 20 minutes to two hours, depending on the activity. This rapid pace means you’ll see a lot but might not have long at each location—perfect if you’re eager to cover several highlights but less ideal if you prefer slow, in-depth visits.

Cost-wise, at $63, the tour offers excellent value considering the included boat ride, wine tastings, transportation, and guided commentary. The reviews consistently praise the quality of the guides and the variety of experiences packed into one day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

It’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Galicia’s coast without the hassle of planning every detail. Those interested in seafood, wine, and authentic villages will find plenty to love. It’s also a good choice if you enjoy social, lively atmospheres—the boat ride, in particular, has a festive feel, with music and camaraderie. However, if you have mobility concerns, keep in mind that some stops involve walking and uneven terrain.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Galicia’s natural, cultural, and culinary riches. The boat trip, with its unlimited mussels and wine, stands out as a highlight, making it a unique experience you likely won’t forget. The stops at traditional villages like Combarro and the visit to La Lanzada provide a genuine feel of regional life and history.

The value for money is high—you’re paying for a full day of guided sightseeing, tastings, and scenic moments. The professional guides and comfortable transportation help make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

If you’re keen to see Galicia’s coast in a single day, love seafood and wine, and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suited to those who are curious, social, and eager for a taste of local tradition without the stress of organizing logistics.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours, starting at 9:45 am and returning in the evening, with scheduled stops along the way.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included at specific locations, but you should request this service 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there will be walking at several stops and on the boat.

Are there any language options?
Guides speak Spanish and English, and an audio guide is available in Polish, Italian, Portuguese, German, and Korean.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not ideal for those with mobility impairments due to walking on uneven surfaces and limited accessibility at some sites.

What’s included in the price?
Air-conditioned transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour, wine tasting, winery entrance, unlimited wine, and mussels on the boat.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities to purchase local food and souvenirs during stops.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I see dolphins or other wildlife?
Some reviews mention sightings of dolphins during the boat trip, adding a special touch to the experience.

Is the wine tasting worth it?
Absolutely, most travelers find the Albariño wine tasting informative and delicious, rounding out the day’s flavors perfectly.

This Rias Baixas tour combines scenic beauty, cultural charm, and culinary delights into an accessible package. Whether you’re a lover of seafood, wine, or just want a taste of Galicia’s coast, it offers a memorable introduction to this captivating region.