A Guarda is a centuries-old town set at the mouth of the Miño River. Monte de Santa Trega soars over the town and forms a dramatic backdrop. Landmarks like an Iron Age fort and centuries-old castle recall the town’s colourful past.
Things to do in A Guarda
Explore the ruins of Castelo de Santa Cruz, an imposing fort built to defend the town from the Portuguese in the 17th century. Behind the stone walls are grassy courtyards shaded by stately pine and eucalyptus trees. Interpretive panels offer more information on the unique history of the fort and the battles it helped win over the centuries.
Work up a sweat on the two-kilometre-long walk up Monte de Santa Trega. The mountain towers over the town and commands spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean and across the Miño River to Portugal. Stop to explore an Iron Age fort on your way up and visit the small archaeological museum at the summit.
Seafood is a specialty in A Guarda, and no ingredient is more famous than lobster. Enjoy the crustacean stirred into paellas, baked into pies and cooked into stews. In addition to lobster, local fishermen haul in fresh prawns, crab, clams, cockles and mussels. All pair perfectly with the fresh and fruity aromas of Albariño wine, another Galician specialty. Visit in June to experience the party atmosphere of the annual Festa da Langosta lobster festival.
Getting around A Guarda
A Guarda is compact and easy to get around on foot. Local buses are a fast and affordable way to cover longer distances, or you can take a taxi. A Guarda is in Galicia, a one-hour drive from Vigo and 1.5 hours from Santiago de Compostela. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit A Guarda and explore Galicia at your own pace. Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport is a 1.5-hour drive away.