Pico Sacro and Ulla River Loop Trail

This route is classified as a difficult hike, requiring very good physical condition. It's not suitable for beginners or young children due to its significant length and elevation gain. Hikers should be prepared for a challenging experience.

Hikers generally complete this trail in approximately 6 hours and 35 minutes. This estimate is for a steady pace and does not include extended breaks.

The trail features a varied terrain. You'll walk on approximately 11.1 km of road, 9.42 km of dedicated paths (senda), and 1.11 km of narrower trails (sendero), along with some street sections. Expect a mix of surfaces, from paved to natural paths, often through lush forests and along riparian landscapes near the Ulla River.

As you hike, you'll discover several notable spots. Highlights include the beautiful Gardens of Pazo de Ortigueira, the panoramic Viewpoint of Alto do Castro, the scenic Fervenza de Codeso waterfall, and the prominent Pico Sacro summit.

While specific restrictions are not detailed, many trails in Galicia are dog-friendly. However, given the trail's length and difficulty, ensure your dog is accustomed to long hikes and varied terrain. Always keep your dog on a leash, especially near wildlife or other hikers, and carry waste bags.

Galicia is known for its lush landscapes, which means it can be wet. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, making them ideal. Summer can be warm, while winter might bring colder, wetter conditions, potentially making some sections muddy or slippery.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Rivadulla – Ulla River trail through Monte Sacro. It is freely accessible to the public.

Specific parking areas for this exact trailhead are not detailed in the available information. However, for trails of this nature in Galicia, it's common to find parking near villages or significant landmarks close to the starting point. We recommend checking local maps or community resources for the most convenient parking options near Rivadulla or the Ulla River access points.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of other official trails. You'll find it intersects with parts of the Camiño Xabrés (Oeste), the Mtb Camiño Xabrés (Oeste), and smaller sections of the Sendeiro de San Xoán da Cova, A Ponte de Gundián, and Rúa da Raíña Lupa.

Given the trail's difficulty and length, you should bring plenty of water, snacks, appropriate hiking footwear with good ankle support, and layers of clothing suitable for changing weather conditions. A first-aid kit, navigation tools (like a fully charged phone with the komoot app), and sun protection are also highly recommended.

While the trail itself is a natural route, the region around the Ulla River and Monte Sacro has villages and towns where you can find facilities. It's advisable to check for cafes, restaurants, or accommodation in nearby communities like Rivadulla or other settlements along the Ulla River before or after your hike.