Centred around a medieval core, Baiona is a historic harbour town on the Portuguese Way of the Camino de Santiago. It was founded in 140 BC by Diomedes of Aetolia, where the Vigo River meets the North Atlantic Ocean. In 1493, the “Pinta” arrived in Baiona, bringing news of the New World’s discovery that would spread across Europe.
Things to do in Bayona
For a day at the beach, head to Praia da Ribeira, a sheltered stretch of sand that looks out across Baiona’s yacht-filled harbour. To the north is Blue Flag-listed Praia da Barbeira, which is backed by a grassy hill. On the other side of the peninsula are rocky Praia da Cuncheira and Praia dos Frades, named after the monks who once swam here.
Occupying the same peninsula is the Castelo de Monterreal, an impressive fortress constructed between the 11th and 17th centuries. It’s surrounded by three kilometres of walls that can be explored along a picturesque walking trail, with influences from Romans, Visigoths and Moors uncovered at the site. Admire its well-preserved towers and visit the charming Ermida da Nosa Señora do Carmen.
Originally established in 1965, the Monte Real Yacht Club Baiona is still going strong today and is home to a sailing school where you can learn the ropes. Explore the Vigo Estuary or venture to the nearby Islas Cíes, a stunning archipelago and nature reserve. Alternatively, you can watch the boats coming and going from the yacht club’s cafe terrace.
Getting around Bayona
Baiona is around 35 minutes’ drive from the centre of Vigo and 25 minutes from Vigo Airport, which has flights to destinations across Spain. The much larger Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport is 1.5 hours away. Regular buses connect to Baiona and the town is compact enough to explore on foot.