Where can you sleep?
If you are thinking about coming to this province, you can stay in the capital, although we must tell you that the accommodation there consists mainly in hotels which often become full very quickly.
Nevertheless, there are areas in the outskirts of the city that will offer you the peace and quiet that you need to enjoy of the perks of staying far from the bustle, and explore in depth each corner of its natural landscape.
You will find in the outskirts of the city true natural gems such as Combarro, which has deep-rooted, longtime seafaring tradition, and an fishing village look with the famous 'hórreo' constructions and the boats, overlooking the sea.
In the area of Ría de Arousa you will find the town of Cambado and its traditional and impressive architecture worth visiting.
Baiona and Sanxenxo are coastal towns where you will be able to enjoy of the tranquility of its beaches, a perfect plan for the day.
O Grove is known as the seafood town, so much so, that there is a special occasion dedicated to this product. It is also close to the entrance to Ría de Arousa, where the views are spectacular.
What to do in the area?
There is a very wide offer of activities to enjoy of the tranquility, culture and folklore of this region, and explore each of its hidden spots.
To begin with, we suggest you get to know the capital of this province, the main touristic focus of the province, and a place where you can visit the sanctuary of Santuario de la Peregrina, or the remains of the convent of Santo Domingo.
Another location of this province that you cannot forget to visit is A Guarda, a fishing village with a very unique atmosphere that has become a favourite European destination par excellence. If you are looking for the right beach, in Sanxenxo you will find some of the most beautiful ones here, such as A Lanzada or Caneliñas.
Vigo, the most populated city in the province, is home to the natural reserve of Las Islas Atlánticas, a true natural treasure. All of this, together with the seaside views that will accompany each stage of your journey ,make Vigo an ideal destination.
To wrap this intense tourist tour up, you can also visit the Illa de A Toxa , a place famous for its thermal bath, which will make for a great, relaxing day.
What typical foods are recommended?
You will fall in love with the local gastronomy. Here you will find many local products which are truly natural, and will guarantee the best flavours, the best cooking techniques and, of course, the essence of the tradition of this province.
Due to its location in between 'rías', the most commonly used ingredients used in the local cuisine are fish and seafood, which have a very good reputation, and also reach other provinces in Galicia.
Amongst the most popular dishes is 'lacón con grelos', a traditional dish made with pork shoulder and a local, green and leafy vegetable which is boiled and cooked with the pork.
Turbots, conger eels, hakes, and baby eels are some of the fish that predominate in Pontevedra's gastronomy.
Amongst the most popular ones is the famous 'empanada gallega', a savoury pastry elaborated with the local fish of this area.
For dessert, some of the local delicacies here are quince, or the so famous 'filloas', that will add the perfect, sweet, final touch to your meal.
Where are the festivities?
If you would like to discover Pontevedra in all its glory, and enjoy each of the days of your stay here to the maximum, all you have to do is write down the following festive dates.
It is during these days that you will be able to truly get to know and enjoy of its customs, tradition, culture and people, either during the local religious, gastronomic or amusement events.
Amongst the most important local celebrations in the province is the Fiesta de San Benitiño de Lérez, which takes place in the 11th of July and has been declared of National Tourist Interest.
A Rapa das Bestas is another local festivity that has become more popular through the years and is celebrated in several places in Galícia.
In the town of Ponteareas you will also be greeted with one of the most important festivities in the whole region the first Monday of Easter, known and celebrated here as San Cibrán.
To wrap this trip up, one of the most emblematic festivities of cultural interest is Pontevedra's Jazz festival, which has also become very popular with time. It I held in July, and the historical center of the city is brightened up and decorated to welcome its thousands of visitors.
