White water rafting and kayaking in Galicia

If you are looking for a good setting for adventure sports in Spain, then Galicia is a safe bet. Here, our proposals centre on its rivers, whether kayaking or white water rafting, individually or as a group. Come and face the challenge of the Miño or Ulla Rivers. If you prefer calmer waters, then on some of the reservoirs here you can row in peace and quiet.

Take note. Whether you are looking for sheer excitement or if you simply want to pursue outdoor sports in the countryside, then this proposal is perfect for you. The more daring can go for white water rafting, the most popular of all the river sports. Don't worry if you haven't tried it before: this is a team activity, for groups of eight or ten people. You head down the river in an inflatable boat under the supervision of an instructor who is an expert on the stretch in question.

It is no coincidence that the Region of Galicia, in northwestern Spain, is a favourite destination for adventure holidays. There you will find a section of the Miño River that is well known amongst white water rafting enthusiasts: the one that passes through Arbo, in the province of Pontevedra. It is suitable for beginners, but is a challenge that will also satisfy the more experienced. In fact, this part of the Miño is the setting for national white water rafting competitions such as the Spanish Championship. Specialists recommend summer and autumn for descent of this river. There are also organised trips on the Ulla and Deza Rivers. The former is particularly suitable for beginners looking to gain technique and balance, and winter and spring are the best times of year here. For more information, head for Arbo Municipal Tourist Office.

The kayak is no less exciting. Negotiating rapids in one of these boats requires good technique and a fair amount of practice, but they are also perfect for calmer waters and reservoirs. You will find several reservoirs in inland Galicia – Fervenza, Eume, Belesar, Portodemouros… - offering organised leisure activities and water sports. Here you can obtain all the necessary equipment for each activity.

Whatever you choose, one thing is for sure: the rivers of Galicia provide stunning landscapes as backdrop. Can you imagine rowing through reedbeds, under the watchful eye of ducks and flocks of water birds? This spectacle is not so far away. Don’t get left behind: put on a life jacket and helmet, and set off on this river adventure. Galicia awaits you in the region known as Green Spain.