Have you ever wondered what the first place in Europe to hear about the discovery of America was? If you're thinking it was in southern Spain, you're looking in the wrong area. It was in Baiona that Martín Alonso Pinzón first made landfall aboard the caravel La Pinta in 1493 after the American adventure. (On March 1 of each year, the event is commemorated in great style.) The Parador de Baiona displays its many charms on the Atlantic coast. It is one of the most beautiful places in Galicia for a getaway and to enjoy an endless variety of activities.

The Parador de Baiona is located in the ancient medieval Monterreal Castle, a truly spectacular spot with incredible views. It is also the perfect place to dine on fresh seafood and local specialties. There are two restaurants with a selection of absolutely delicious dishes: Torre del Príncipe is more formal and offers the Parador Set Menu or the House Specialty chosen by Internet users: rice with lobster. In contrast, Enxebre A Pinta is more in the "tapas and medium plates" vein. In the latter, you absolutely must try the pulpo a feira (octopus and potatoes dressed with olive oil and paprika), house empanada (savory pie) and baked scallops.

Book your room at the Parador de Baiona

How about some suggestions for a three-day getaway to Baiona? Let's get started!

Day 1: Sail the seas

Escape to the Cíes Islands, a wonderful place! Discover this nature reserve with its unique cliffs, native flora and fauna protected over time. It is not at all surprising that Ptolemy christened them the Islands of the Gods. Today they are a treasure which has been preserved as a marine national park. You can rent a boat to spend the day or travel by yacht from Vigo and enjoy a bit of diving in an exceptional spot. The Parador can make the travel arrangements so you don't have to worry about a thing. 

Day 2: Discover every corner of the city

After an intense first day, we recommend taking the second to explore Baiona and its sights. What are the absolute must-sees on your city tour?

• 13th-century Santa María Collegiate Church.
• Monterreal Castle itself, with more than 3 kilometers of walls, the perfect spot to contemplate magnificent sunsets before enjoying exquisite cuisine prepared with fresh local seafood products at the Parador's restaurants.
• Tour of the replica of the caravel La Pinta. If you'd like to see what the vessel which returned from America after the discovery was like, visit the marina and tour this ship/museum to explore every detail.
• Ribera Beach: an urban beach located at the start of the promenade beneath the walls of Monterreal fortress. In summer, deck chairs and umbrellas are available. Another excellent local beach can be found on the other side of the peninsula, Os Frades Beach.

Day 3: Water sports

For another active day, why not sign up for windsurfing classes in a spot where the power of the ocean turns this sport into a spectacular show? The area also offers hang-gliding and paragliding.

At the end of the day, visit O Cortelliño Viewpoint to take in the truly memorable sight of one the most beautiful panoramic views in the entire Rías Baixas region. The viewpoint is at the top of Mount A Groba, approximately 12 km outside Baiona.

When the time comes to head home, we recommend stopping for something to eat at one of our Paradores along your route: Puebla de Sanabria, Tordesillas or Zamora. If you use your Stop Along the Way voucher, you will receive a discount on the Parador set menu. Take this chance to extend your #ExperienciasParadores by enjoying the best cuisine and local ingredients.

Book your room at the Parador de Baiona

 And as always, we leave you with a map to give you an idea of the location of the Parador and its surrounding area. Enjoy!