Cambados Old Town
Explore the ancient Tower of San Sadurniño on an islet, accessible by a stone bridge at low tide, within the charming streets of Cambados Old Town.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Island access by foot
Cambados Old Town
Best Time
Island access by foot
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the ancient Tower of San Sadurniño on an islet, accessible by a stone bridge at low tide, within the charming streets of Cambados Old Town.
"A fascinating historical site, best explored at low tide for a unique island adventure."
🚶♀️ Walk at Low Tide
Access the island and its tower by foot when the tide is out. Great for spotting crustaceans too!
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit in the afternoon for beautiful sunlight, perfect for capturing stunning photos of the tower and surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tower of San Sadurniño
Islet accessible by stone bridge
Ancient 8th-9th century fortification and lighthouse, a symbol of Cambados' defense against Vikings.
Island Exploration
Islet accessible by stone bridge
Walk across the stone bridge at low tide to discover this charming island and its historical significance.
Cambados Old Town Streets
Cambados Old Town
Wander through gorgeous streets leading to the island, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic Galician town.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respect the Ruins
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk at Low Tide
Access the island and its tower by foot when the tide is out. Great for spotting crustaceans too!
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit in the afternoon for beautiful sunlight, perfect for capturing stunning photos of the tower and surroundings.
🏛️ Respect Historical Sites
Be mindful of the ruins' condition. Avoid climbing on them for selfies to preserve this ancient monument.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be exploring charming streets and potentially uneven terrain on the island.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk at Low Tide
Access the island and its tower by foot when the tide is out. Great for spotting crustaceans too!
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Visit in the afternoon for beautiful sunlight, perfect for capturing stunning photos of the tower and surroundings.
🏛️ Respect Historical Sites
Be mindful of the ruins' condition. Avoid climbing on them for selfies to preserve this ancient monument.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be exploring charming streets and potentially uneven terrain on the island.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Tower of San Sadurniño and its island setting fascinating, especially when accessible at low tide. The historical significance and the charming streets of Cambados Old Town are frequently praised. Some note the importance of respecting the ruins and checking tide times for the best experience.
"Went during low tide. Tower is a historical monument. Many years ago the tower was not accessible, except via boat. The walkway path makes it now possible for visitors to enjoy it by walking to it."
Rosario Romero-Rey
"Interesting walk to the remnants of a church. Originally a lookout point for invading Vikings. Be respectful of its condition and heritage. Saw tourists climbing over it for their selfies."
raj badhan
"this little island accessible via a small stone bridge is really lovely. Walk through the gorgeous streets to get there. Were there at low tide and there were loads of people looking for crustaceans in the estuary mud or for shrimps with small nets."
Jean-François Ketelers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cambados is easily accessible by car, with parking available near the old town. Public buses also connect Cambados to larger cities in Galicia. Once in town, the old town and the island are best explored on foot.
While there isn't direct parking on the islet, there are parking areas in Cambados town that are a short walk away from the stone bridge leading to the tower.
Yes, you can reach Cambados by bus from cities like Santiago de Compostela or Pontevedra. The old town is compact and walkable once you arrive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the old town itself is a public area and does not require tickets for general exploration. Access to the island and the Tower of San Sadurniño is also free.
The Tower of San Sadurniño is an open-air ruin and can be visited at any time. However, access to the islet is dependent on the tide.
There is no entrance fee to visit the island or the ruins of the Tower of San Sadurniño. It's a freely accessible historical site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best time to visit is during low tide, which allows you to walk across the stone bridge to the islet. Checking tide times beforehand is recommended.
You can explore the ruins of the ancient fortification, learn about its history as a defensive tower and lighthouse, and enjoy the coastal views.
There are no facilities on the islet itself. It's a historical ruin, so plan accordingly and bring any necessities with you.
It is not recommended to climb on the ruins. They are ancient and fragile. Please be respectful of the historical site and avoid climbing for photos.
The best way is on foot. Wander through the charming streets, admire the architecture, and make your way to the coast to visit the Tower of San Sadurniño.
📸 📸 Photography
The area around the Tower of San Sadurniño, especially during low tide, offers unique photographic opportunities. The charming streets of the old town also provide picturesque backdrops.
The afternoon, particularly during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekends can be less crowded, allowing for more relaxed shooting.
There are no specific restrictions on photography in the old town or at the Tower of San Sadurniño, but always be respectful of private property and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to imagine the tower as a pirate's lookout or a castle. Emphasize the importance of respecting the historical ruins and not climbing on them. The charming streets of the old town are also pleasant for a stroll, and finding a local spot for ice cream can be a nice treat after exploring.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best light, aim for the late afternoon, particularly during the golden hour, which bathes the scene in warm, soft light. The charming, traditional architecture of the old town's streets also presents numerous picturesque scenes. Consider visiting on a weekday or during the shoulder seasons to avoid larger crowds and have more freedom to compose your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Tower of San Sadurniño
Over time, the tower endured significant damage. It suffered during the Irmandina revolt, a popular uprising in medieval Galicia, and was further impacted by a devastating earthquake in 1755. Despite these historical events, which have reduced it to ruins, the Tower of San Sadurniño remains a powerful symbol of Cambados' resilience and its maritime heritage. Its remnants stand as a testament to the town's long history of defense and seafaring.
Today, the tower is accessible via a small stone bridge, a relatively recent development that allows visitors to walk to the islet. This accessibility offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past. However, visitors are urged to be respectful of the site's condition and heritage, refraining from climbing on the fragile ruins for photographs.
Exploring Cambados at Low Tide
Beyond the tower, the exposed seabed during low tide reveals a different kind of activity. Locals and visitors alike can be seen exploring the estuary mudflats, searching for crustaceans or small fish with nets. This practice adds a charming, authentic layer to the experience, showcasing a traditional way of interacting with the coastal environment. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the local life and the natural rhythms of the Ría de Arousa.
When planning your visit, it's essential to check the local tide times. This information is readily available online or from local sources. Timing your visit correctly ensures you can fully experience the island and appreciate the unique environment that low tide reveals. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and muddy.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit