Faro: Monte Faro, Praia de Area and island views

In Faro, coastal landscapes, walking trails and historical traces are key themes to consider when planning your trip. Specific points of interest include the route on Monte Faro, Praia de Area and the view of the islands from the summit. The Faro viewpoint is in the parish of Faro (San Xiao), in the village of Faro in Viveiro. If you are looking for a hotel in Faro, you can first consider whether views and trails, the beach and nature, or cultural attractions will shape your stay.

Route and views on Monte Faro

Monte Faro is a small mountain that reaches 198 metres in height. The route on Monte Faro offers views of Praia de Area and its hamlets characterised by granite houses; from the summit, you can see the islands of Coelleira, Gabeira and Insua. Along the route, the beach and granite hamlets define the scenery, while all three islands are visible from the summit.

The route can be accessed from either Praia de Area or Praia de Esteiro, in opposite directions. Choose your starting point according to which direction suits your route plans. From the access point, a footpath leads to the summit and on to Punta Faro. Along the way, you can enjoy views of the small Praia de Portonovo.

Praia de Area: beach, dunes and nature

Praia de Area is a 1,200-metre-long protected beach with fine sand, located in the parish of Faro (San Xiao). Its dune area is of considerable scenic interest. Next to the beach is Insua de Area, an important refuge for seabirds.

The recreational area on the Area-Faro promenade has a children’s playground. As recreational facilities may be affected by maintenance or seasonal changes, check their condition before your visit.

Courses in sailing, surfing and other water sports have been organised at the youth camp on Praia de Area. Before your trip, check whether a suitable activity is available for your dates; availability may depend on the season and programme.

Churches, lagoon and maritime traces

An old church with a bell tower is one of the sights along the route on Monte Faro. It appears to have been built after a settlement disappeared. Faro’s parish church has a modern architectural style. You will therefore encounter different architectural points of interest in the village and along the route.

The Carrucedo lagoon also preserves traces of the past: remains of walls and mills lie beneath the water. At Punta Faro, a beacon marks the eastern entrance to the estuary. As a maritime navigational marker, it serves a different purpose from the churches and lagoon remains.

Discover more destinations: Barreiros, Carballedo, Argozón, Bascuas, Foz, Incio, Trabada, A Pontenova

For the main travel overview: Lugo.