Spain is a privileged country as far as beaches and coves are concerned. The fact that it forms part of (and occupies the largest extension of) the Iberian Peninsula means that a large part of our geography is in direct contact with the sea, and this is also due to our country’s two beautiful archipelagos. But if Spain’s coastal beaches are many and very beautiful, we must remember that inland there are also high-quality river beaches where you can take an unbeatable dip.
The Galician province of Ourense is the only one in the region that does not have a coastline. However, its spectacular inland natural landscapes, bathed by the rivers Miño and Sil, keep corners where authentic inland beaches full of tranquillity and beauty have been set up.
The beach of Pradomao
A good example is the river beach of Pradomao, which you can see in the image that opens the article. This place is located on the banks of the A Hedrada reservoir, very close to the village of the same name and four kilometres from Pradomao. Facing south, it has white sand and areas where you can cool off in the shade. This beach is a perfect place to eat, have a snack and rest, and also to bathe: the water temperature is very pleasant. It can be reached by taking the road from Vilariño Frio to Salto del Mao. Passing over the reservoir, there is a sign on the left indicating the access to the Recreational Area.
La Cova and Oira
The river beach of La Cova is located in San Martiño da Cova, in a backwater of the Miño. It is about one kilometre from the church of San Martiño, in a nook in the river called Cabo do Mundo. On this beach there is a recreation area, a restaurant and a viewpoint nearby. Another fantastic river beach is that of Oira, which in this case is formed by a swimming pool area, but also by the banks of the river Miño. The proximity of the Velle reservoir means that in this place, the waters of the Galician river are calm and invite you to swim…
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