A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Ourense: Discover the beauty of this thermal city

Ourense, located in the province of the same name in Galicia, is a city full of charm and tradition. Known for its thermal waters and rich history, Ourense is a perfect tourist destination for those looking to relax and enjoy Galician culture.

Thermal Baths and Hot Springs

One of the main attractions of Ourense are its thermal waters. The city has several public baths where visitors can immerse themselves in warm and relaxing waters. The Outariz and Burgas baths are the most popular, offering outdoor pools with panoramic views of the city.

Old Town

The old town of Ourense is another tourist attraction. Its cobbled and narrow streets are full of history and charm. The Plaza Mayor is the heart of the city, surrounded by historic buildings and enlivened by bars and restaurants where you can enjoy delicious Galician cuisine.

Ourense Cathedral

The Ourense Cathedral, dedicated to San Martiño, is an architectural gem that you cannot miss. Built in the 12th century, it combines different architectural styles and houses numerous works of religious art. Climbing its tower will allow you to enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

Roman Bridges

Ourense has several Roman bridges that bear witness to its historical past. The Roman Bridge, built in the 1st century, is one of the oldest in Galicia and offers a spectacular view of the Miño River. Another notable bridge is the Millennium Bridge, a work of modern architecture that contrasts with the historical surroundings.

Baixa Limia-Serra do Xurés Natural Park

If you are a nature lover, you cannot miss the Baixa Limia-Serra do Xurés Natural Park, located in the surroundings of Ourense. This park offers stunning landscapes, hiking routes and the possibility of observing a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Galician Cuisine

Ourense is known for its delicious Galician cuisine. You cannot miss trying typical dishes such as Galician octopus, empanadas, lacón with grelos or the famous wines of the region. Local markets are the perfect place to taste fresh and quality products.

Ourense is a city full of charm, history and tradition. Its thermal waters, its old town, its cathedral, its Roman bridges and its exquisite cuisine make this destination a perfect place to enjoy unforgettable holidays in Galicia.

Gastronomic Products from Ourense

• Galician Pie

  The Galician pie is a traditional dish of Galician cuisine that can also be found in Ourense. It consists of a dough filled with different ingredients, such as meat, fish or vegetables, which is baked until it is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It is a perfect option to enjoy a tasty bite.

• Wines from the Ribeiro Designation of Origin

  Ourense is known for being a land of wines, especially the wines from the Ribeiro Designation of Origin. These wines are made with native grapes from the area and are characterized by their freshness and fruity flavor. They are perfect to pair with the typical dishes of the region and enjoy a complete gastronomic experience.

• O Cebreiro Cheese

  The O Cebreiro cheese is a handmade cheese that is produced in the region of O Cebreiro, in the province of Lugo, but can also be found in Ourense. This cheese is made with cow's milk and has a mild and creamy flavor. It is perfect to taste alone or accompanied by bread or quince.

• Padrón Peppers

  The Padrón peppers are a very popular product in Galician cuisine and can also be found in Ourense. These peppers are small and green, and are characterized by their slightly spicy flavor. They are usually fried in olive oil and served as a tapa or accompaniment. But beware, some are spicy and others are not!

Sporting Activities in Ourense, Spain

Hiking

Ourense has a large number of hiking routes that will allow you to enjoy its impressive nature. You can explore the Ribeira Sacra Route, the Sil Canyon Route or the Camino de Santiago.

Cycling

Cycling is a very popular activity in Ourense, both on the road and in the mountains. You can travel the Via de la Plata, an ancient Roman route, or enjoy the challenging mountain trails.

Water sports

The Miño River, which runs through Ourense, is perfect for water sports such as canoeing or rafting. You can also enjoy the outdoor thermal pools, famous in the region.

Golf

Ourense has several golf courses where you can practice this sport while enjoying the panoramic views of the region. The Montealegre Golf Club is one of the most popular.

Places near Ourense (Spain)

If you are in Ourense and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Allariz, a charming Galician village, will captivate you with its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. In addition, you can delight in its exquisite cuisine, where dishes such as Galician octopus and lacon with turnip tops stand out. An unforgettable tourist and culinary experience!

Ribadavia, a charming village in Galicia, will captivate you with its rich history and delicious cuisine. Discover its beautiful landscapes, visit its impressive castle, and enjoy its wines and traditional dishes in its cozy restaurants.

Lugo, a charming city in the northwest of Spain, will surprise you with its impressive Roman wall and its delicious Galician cuisine. Enjoy its pulperías, where you can taste the famous Galician octopus, and let yourself be captivated by its medieval charm.