Ponte Ulla is a small village located just 15 kilometres from Santiago de Compostela. In other words, it is the last stop for those who have chosen the Camino Sanabrés. Nestled in the valley of the Ulla River, this area offers a unique natural setting, surrounded by green hills and the rural landscapes typical of the region.
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A village full of history and tradition
This small village is much more than just a stopping point; it is a place full of history and deeply rooted in Galician traditions.
Its name comes from the historic bridge that crosses the Ulla River, a vital structure that has facilitated trade and communication in the region for centuries. This river has also been essential for the village’s way of life, providing resources for agriculture and fishing.
The economy has traditionally been linked to agriculture and livestock farming. The fertile lands here are perfect for cultivation, particularly of typical Galician produce such as vegetables and maize.
In fact, the village celebrates traditional annual events that reflect its connection to rural life, such as local fairs and festivals that promote regional products and traditional music.
At Mundiplus, we want to help you plan your Camino de Santiago. Before introducing you to the wonders you can discover here, let us tell you about the Camino Sanabrés, the route where this unique Galician gem is located.
Why choose the Camino Sanabrés?
The Camino Sanabrés stands out as one of the most authentic and least overcrowded routes to Santiago de Compostela. Starting in the town of Granja de Moreruela, it crosses landscapes of stunning natural beauty and small towns steeped in history.
But, what makes this route special? Below, we compare it with other iconic routes to help you decide.
Lower footfall and greater tranquillity
While routes like the Camino from O Cebreiro are very popular and offer excellent infrastructure for pilgrims, they tend to be busier, particularly during high season.
The Camino Sanabrés, on the other hand, allows you to experience a more introspective journey and direct contact with nature. The peaceful paths, surrounded by rural landscapes, are perfect for those seeking serenity and spirituality.
Connection with the most rural Galicia
As you can see in the guide to the Camino Primitivo, this route traverses mountainous terrain and offers landscapes of great ruggedness.
The Camino Sanabrés is characterised by traversing the most rural and authentic Galicia. This route allows you to discover small hamlets, fertile valleys, and local traditions that have remained unchanged over time. It is an ideal choice for those seeking a cultural immersion into Galician life.
More favourable weather in certain sections
The Camino Sanabrés is also a wonderful choice depending on the time of year. Compared to routes like the Camino Inglés from Ferrol, which can be more humid due to its proximity to the sea, it has a milder climate for much of its journey. This makes it more comfortable to walk during autumn or spring.
Shorter length and better accessibility
The Camino Sanabrés is shorter than the Camino Inglés when comparing their starting points to Santiago and is better connected by public transport. This makes it a perfect option for pilgrims with less time or those seeking a less logistically complex route.
Here is some additional information about the Camino Inglés.
Historic and cultural heritage
Yes, the route to Santiago to Muxía offers the unique opportunity to reach the “end of the world.” On the other hand, the Camino Sanabrés is home to historical treasures such as the Church of Santa María A Real de Oseira or the medieval Ponte Ulla bridge. Additionally, this route maintains an equilibrium between history, spirituality, and natural beauty that makes it unique.
What to See in Ponte Ulla?
One of Ponte Ulla’s greatest charms is its architecture, which faithfully reflects Galician traditions. Walking through its streets is like travelling back in time: the stone houses with slate roofs and wooden balconies are a perfect example of the Galician rural style. These buildings, which have withstood the test of time, embody the authenticity of life in this region.
Guntián Bridge
The Guntián Bridge is an impressive engineering feat that rises majestically over the Ulla River. Constructed in the 20th century, this railway bridge is notable for its modern architecture, with a large concrete arch that reaches over 70 metres in height, connecting the two banks of the river in a landscape of unparalleled beauty.
From here, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the valley, with green hills and a unique natural setting. Additionally, it is an ideal spot for all those who love bungee jumping.
The Ulla River: Nature and Outdoor Activities
As mentioned, the Ulla River is much more than just a geographical feature; it is the heart of local life and a natural attraction for visitors. Surrounded by green hills and lush vegetation, it offers the perfect setting for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities.
Among the most popular options are the walks along its banks, where well-marked trails allow visitors to enjoy panoramic views and the tranquillity of the landscape. The river is also an excellent spot for bird watching, as its waters and surroundings are home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including herons, cormorants, and other local species.
The Church of Santa María Magdalena
The Church of Santa María Magdalena is another major attraction in the village, especially for art and religious history enthusiasts. This temple, whose construction dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries, stands as a perfect example of Galician Baroque architecture from the period.
The church’s facade is simple, with stone details and a bell tower that rises over the surrounding area. Inside, visitors can find altarpieces of great artistic value, as well as other significant pieces, such as wooden religious sculptures.
The Pazo de Ortigueira
Another notable point of interest near Ponte Ulla is the Pazo de Ortigueira and Lemos, an imposing stately building dating back to the 16th century. This manor is surrounded by gardens and lands that reflect the region’s agricultural tradition.
Although currently it is privately owned and not open for interior visits, its impressive facade and setting offer a unique insight into the life of Galician nobility in past centuries.
The Ulla River’s Fishing Weirs
The traditional fishing weirs of the Ulla River are another lesser-known but equally fascinating attraction. These stone structures built in the river to facilitate the fishing of species such as lampreys stand as a testament to the historical importance of fishing in the local economy.
Walking along the riverbanks and observing these ancient constructions is a great way to connect with local traditions and their close relationship with water.
Pico Sacro Viewpoint
A few kilometres from Ponte Ulla is the Pico Sacro Viewpoint, a place rich in history and legends worth visiting. This hill, visible from several points in the valley, is well-known for its significance in Jacobean tradition. It is said that from here the lands where the remains of Saint James were first sighted could be seen.
From its summit, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Furthermore, the area is surrounded by hiking routes.
Local Gastronomy
No visit to Ponte Ulla would be complete without enjoying its rich gastronomy. In addition to classic Galician dishes such as octopus á la Gallega and fish or meat empanadas, the area is renowned for its local produce.
The valley’s orchards produce fresh vegetables, while the nearby vineyards offer wines from the Rías Baixas denomination of origin, perfect to accompany any meal. Don’t forget to try the lamprey, a traditional dish fished from the Ulla River and prepared in a unique way in this region.
