Trip to Ourense (Pareja): Ultimate Relax Guide
Trip to Ourense (Pareja): Ultimate Relax Guide
Ourense, the thermal capital of Galicia, offers an enchanting blend of history, natural beauty, and relaxation perfect for a couple's retreat. This itinerary focuses on a laid-back experience, allowing you to savour the city's charm at your own pace, with a focus on its famed thermal baths and culinary delights.
📅 Day 1: The Adventure Begins+
- Morning (10:00 AM): Arrive in Ourense. Check into your hotel. For a truly relaxing stay, consider 🏨 Reservar Hotel con Descuento (25% OFF). A good choice would be the NH Ourense 📍 NH Ourense. Leave your luggage and freshen up.
- Late Morning (11:30 AM): Stroll through the historic city center. Start at the Praza Maior 📍 Praza Maior, the heart of Ourense, and admire the architecture.
- Lunch (1:30 PM): Indulge in a traditional Galician meal at Adega das Caldas 📍 Adega das Caldas. Try pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) and a local Albariño wine.
- Afternoon (3:30 PM): Explore the Ourense Cathedral 📍 Ourense Cathedral. Take your time to admire the Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
- Late Afternoon (5:00 PM): Relax at the Jardines del Posío 📍 Jardines del Posío, a beautiful park offering a tranquil escape.
- Evening (8:00 PM): Enjoy a tapas tour around the city center. Many bars offer free tapas with drinks.
- Night (9:30 PM): Dinner at a restaurant with live music like Café Cultural Auriense 📍 Café Cultural Auriense.
📅 Day 2: Going Deeper+
- Morning (10:00 AM): Visit the Roman Bridge (Ponte Romana) 📍 Roman Bridge (Ponte Romana). Take a leisurely walk across the bridge, enjoying the views of the Miño River.
- Late Morning (11:30 AM): Immerse yourselves in the city's history at the Museo Arqueolóxico Provincial de Ourense 📍 Museo Arqueolóxico Provincial de Ourense, housed in a former palace.
- Lunch (1:30 PM): Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river, purchasing local delicacies from the Mercado de Abastos 📍 Mercado de Abastos.
- Afternoon (3:30 PM): The highlight: Head to Outariz thermal baths 📍 Termas de Outariz. These outdoor thermal baths offer a natural and relaxing experience. Spend a few hours soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters. Consider a couples massage for added relaxation.
- Evening (8:00 PM): Enjoy dinner at a restaurant near the thermal baths, such as Restaurante A Derrasa 📍 Restaurante A Derrasa, known for its traditional Galician cuisine and views.
- Night (9:30 PM): Relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the thermal area.
📅 Day 3: Hidden Gems+
- Morning (10:00 AM): Visit the Espazo Marcos Valcárcel 📍 Espazo Marcos Valcárcel, a cultural center hosting art exhibitions and events.
- Late Morning (11:30 AM): Explore the Iglesia de Santa Eufemia 📍 Iglesia de Santa Eufemia, a beautiful baroque church.
- Lunch (1:30 PM): Have a relaxed lunch at a café in the Alameda Park 📍 Alameda Park.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): Drive to the Ribeira Sacra region (approx. 1-hour drive). This area is known for its stunning landscapes, monasteries, and vineyards. 🚗 Alquiler de Coche (Mejor Precio) will be useful here.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM): Take a scenic boat tour on the Sil River 📍 Embarcadoiro de Santo Estevo.
- Evening (7:00 PM): Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery in Ribeira Sacra.
- Dinner (8:30 PM): Have dinner at a restaurant in Ribeira Sacra with views of the vineyards.
- Night (10:00 PM): Return to Ourense or stay overnight in a rural hotel in the Ribeira Sacra for a truly relaxing experience.
💡 Practical Tips+
- Transportation: Ourense is a walkable city, but consider renting a car 🚗 Alquiler de Coche (Mejor Precio) if you plan to explore the surrounding areas like Ribeira Sacra. Public transportation is also available. ✈️ Vuelos Baratos (Expedia) will help you getting there.
- Safety: Ourense is generally a safe city. However, be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Language: Spanish and Galician are spoken. Knowing some basic Spanish phrases will be helpful.
- Currency: Euro (€).
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot.
⭐ Conclusion+
Ourense offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty for a memorable couple's getaway. From its thermal baths to its historical charm and the stunning landscapes of Ribeira Sacra, this itinerary provides a framework for an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ourense known for?+
Ourense is famous for its thermal springs, Roman heritage, and its proximity to the stunning Ribeira Sacra region.
Is Ourense a romantic destination?+
Yes, Ourense offers a romantic atmosphere with its thermal baths, scenic river walks, and delicious cuisine, perfect for couples seeking a relaxing getaway.
Ourense was the perfect relaxing getaway for me and my partner. The thermal baths were incredible, and the city center was charming. We loved exploring the Ribeira Sacra!
We had a great time in Ourense. The thermal baths were definitely the highlight, and the food was delicious. Renting a car was a good idea to explore the surrounding areas.