Arzua is one of many official stops on the famous Camino De Santiago long-distance walking trail. Whether you arrive by car or on foot, the town will enchant you with its tree-lined streets and centuries-old stone churches. Walk in the footsteps of pilgrims and enjoy authentic Galician food and wine.
Things to do in Arzúa
Arzua is dotted with historic sites that recall the town’s ancient past. Peer into 14th-century Mary Magdalen's Chapel built by Augustinian monks and walk across the Ribadiso Bridge. It was built in the 12th century from locally quarried slate and connects Arzua with the neighbouring pilgrim town of Ribadiso. The magnificent Parish Church overlooks the main square and built entirely from silver-hued ashlar stone.
Use Arzua as a base to explore the picturesque Galician countryside. Follow trails to tumbling waterfalls, flower-filled fields and historic mills. Set off on a relaxing walk to nearby villages or lace up your boots and tackle the entire Camino De Santiago trail. Work up an appetite, then return to the village for traditional Galician cuisine. Fill up on pilgrim favourites like “bocadillo” sandwiches, lentil stew and “Gâteau Basque” cake filled with cherry jam.
Cheese lovers will be in their element in Arzua. The town is famous for its cone-shaped “tetilla” cheese. Your mouth will water as you bite into the smooth and buttery cow’s milk cheese. Honey is another local specialty produced in Arzua for centuries. Find out more about the town’s sweet tooth at the Living Museum of Honey, where you can learn about the secret life of bees, admire working apiaries and stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens.
Getting around Arzúa
Arzua is compact and easy to get around on foot. The Camino De Santiago passes through Arzua and connects it with nearby towns like Melide and O Pedrouzo. Arzua is in Galicia, a 30-minute drive from Santiago de Compostela and one hour from Lugo. Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport is a 20-minute drive away.