Monte Louro, Galicia, Spain

Monte Louro is a small peninsular mountain wedged between the Atlantic Ocean and a small lagoon, Lagoa Xalfas, in Galicia, Spain. The Monte Louro Nature Preserve is accessible from AC-550, just north of the town of Muros. It’s a great day trip from Santiago de Compostela, just 45 miles if you take the coastal route, or if you want to stay the night campsites are available.

Monte Louro is just over 700 feet tall. If you hike up you will probably get a nice view and you will be able to see the light tower on the southeastern side, I didn’t do this though so I am just speculating about the good view. Lagoa Xalfas is separated from the sea by series of sand dunes that form a beach. Not too far from the lake is the campsite as well as a recreation area.

Spring is a great time to visit. The blooming flowers paint the surrounding hills yellow. Just be cautious, I went off the main trail into the bush and found what I identified as a tick later that day on my leg. I have no formal training in entomology, but I have had several ticks on me before, so I am pretty sure that’s what it was.

Monte Louro is just one of many great places to stop if you are traveling along the coast on AC-550 in Galicia. Make sure you check out the small surrounding coastal villages like Esteiro to the south and Rúa del Pindo Norte, to the north.

Monte Louro Map