Souto da Retorta Chavín
A serene forest preserve famous for its ancient, gigantic eucalyptus trees and aromatic air, offering a peaceful mill race walk.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Souto da Retorta Chavín
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene forest preserve famous for its ancient, gigantic eucalyptus trees and aromatic air, offering a peaceful mill race walk.
"A really lovely walk along a mill race, under the shade of huge trees. All very relaxing, and impressive.
"🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a relaxing meal amidst the towering trees and serene atmosphere. :sandwich:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Well-maintained paths are great for walking, but good shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gigantic Eucalyptus Trees
Marvel at ancient eucalyptus giants, some over a century old, creating a unique, aromatic forest canopy.

Mill Race Walk
Enjoy a serene stroll alongside a picturesque mill race, shaded by impressive trees.

Galicia's Tallest Tree
Seek out 'The Grandfather,' Galicia's tallest tree, a truly impressive natural landmark.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Aroma
Navigating Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a relaxing meal amidst the towering trees and serene atmosphere.
:sandwich:👟 Comfortable Footwear
Well-maintained paths are great for walking, but good shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe:
👃 Breathe in the Scent
The eucalyptus aroma is a key part of the experience; take deep breaths! :evergreen_tree:
🚗 Arrive Early
Parking is limited and can get busy, especially on weekends.
:car:Tips
from all over the internet
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a relaxing meal amidst the towering trees and serene atmosphere.
:sandwich:👟 Comfortable Footwear
Well-maintained paths are great for walking, but good shoes are essential. :athletic_shoe:
👃 Breathe in the Scent
The eucalyptus aroma is a key part of the experience; take deep breaths! :evergreen_tree:
🚗 Arrive Early
Parking is limited and can get busy, especially on weekends.
:car:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the relaxing atmosphere and the impressive, ancient eucalyptus trees that fill the air with a heavenly scent. The mill race walk is a particular highlight, offering a serene experience. Some note limited parking and occasional path closures, but the natural beauty and free entry make it a worthwhile visit.
"A really lovely walk along a mill race, under the shade of huge trees. All very relaxing, and impressive. Take a picnic it's a beautiful place to stay for a while. Not sure on fishing rules but that stream probably has some nice trout in it."
Tom Wykes
"You can’t access anymore the oldest biggest tree. The original pathway following the river is currently closed and lot of trees are marked up (hoping they won’t cut them out). There’s a parallel path in the forest much less scenic. Parking is small and extremely busy. The forest smell was heaven !"
Ella A.
"Beautiful eucalyptus trees in a small forest, surrounded by villages. It won't give you that true forrest feeling, but worth a visit. Some beautiful reptiles and insects, like butterflies and dragonflies can be seen."
Paul Goudriaan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Souto da Retorta is located near Chavín. Driving is the most common way to access it. Parking is available but can be limited and busy, so arriving early is recommended.
Information on direct public transport is scarce. It's best to check local bus schedules for routes to Chavín and then consider a short taxi ride or walk if feasible.
Parking is described as small and can be extremely busy.
It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or holidays, to secure a spot. :car:🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Souto da Retorta is a free-to-enter forest preserve.
Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission cost. :moneywithwings:As a natural forest preserve, there are no set opening or closing hours. You can visit anytime, though daylight hours are recommended for safety and enjoyment. :clock1:
Since there is no entrance fee, advance booking is not required. You can visit spontaneously. :calendar:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The original pathway following the river is a popular choice, offering scenic views. However, parts may be closed. A parallel forest path is also available.
Look for signs indicating 'The Grandfather' tree.The paths are generally well-maintained, but some sections might be uneven. It's advisable to check current conditions locally for the most up-to-date accessibility information. :wheelchair:
Visitors have spotted beautiful reptiles, insects, butterflies, and dragonflies.
Keep an eye out for local fauna during your walk. :butterfly:One reviewer mentioned the possibility of trout fishing, but specific rules and regulations are not provided. It's best to inquire locally or check regional fishing permits if you plan to fish. :fishingpoleand_வத:
While not explicitly mentioned, it's generally recommended to check local regulations for pet policies in natural areas. If allowed, ensure your dog is leashed. :dog:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the forest preserve. It's recommended to bring your own food and drinks. :forkandknife:
You'll find dining options in the nearby villages surrounding the forest. Exploring Chavín or other local hamlets will offer traditional Galician cuisine. :restaurant:
Absolutely! It's a beautiful place to stay for a while and enjoy a picnic under the shade of the large trees.
:picnic_table:📸 📸 Photography
Capture the immense scale of the eucalyptus trees, the serene mill race, and the unique forest light. 'The Grandfather' tree is a must-photograph subject. :camerawithflash:
Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden light filtering through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere. Early mornings can also offer soft, diffused light. :sunrise:
The pathways along the mill race and the areas surrounding 'The Grandfather' tree offer excellent vantage points. Experiment with different angles to capture the height of the trees. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bringing a picnic is highly recommended, as it allows for a relaxed and enjoyable break amidst nature. While there are no specific play areas, the open forest space provides ample room for kids to wander and discover. Be mindful of the mill race and ensure children are supervised near water.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
While not a strenuous hike, you can extend your exploration by following the stream further upstream towards the hydropower station. The forest offers a refreshing escape and a chance to immerse yourself in the unique scents and sights of this special Galician woodland.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Eucalyptus Giants
Walking amongst these towering specimens feels like stepping into another world. The forest floor is often carpeted with fallen leaves, and the dappled sunlight filtering through the dense canopy creates a magical ambiance. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the power and longevity of nature.
While the forest is beautiful year-round, the scent of eucalyptus is particularly potent on warmer days. Visitors often describe the smell as 'heavenly,' making it a sensory experience as much as a visual one.
Exploring the Waterways and Trails
The trails are generally described as well-maintained and easy to follow, making it accessible for most visitors. However, it's worth noting that some original pathways along the river have been closed, with a parallel forest path available as an alternative. This alternative path, while less scenic, still allows visitors to experience the forest's charm.
For those who enjoy a bit of exploration, continuing upstream past the main walking areas can lead to a small hydropower station and weir, adding another point of interest to your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit