Río Landro

Río Landro is a river in northwestern Spain, in the province of Lugo, flowing through the Galicia region toward the Bay of Biscay. It rises on the western and southwestern slopes of the Sierra del Gistral, in the parish of Viveiro (municipality of Muras), at an elevation of roughly 800 metres above sea level, and runs for approximately 37 kilometres in total. After its mountain stretch, the river gradually slows and forms a series of meanders — those near Landrove, about five kilometres from the mouth, are already influenced by the tides. The Landro eventually reaches the sea just past the bridges of Viveiro, opening into the Ría de Viveiro.

Why is Río Landro ecologically important?

The middle and lower course of the river, running through the municipalities of Ourol and Viveiro, is subject to constant tidal influence, which creates a mosaic of distinctive habitats — estuaries, salt marshes, alder riparian forests, oak groves, chestnut groves, and dry heathland. This habitat diversity is why the Río Landro area has been designated a Special Conservation Zone (ZEC) under the European Natura 2000 network. The Site of Community Importance (LIC) covers land around several municipalities, including Mañón, Ortigueira, Alfoz, Burela, Cervo, Muras, Ourol, O Valadouro, O Vicedo, Viveiro, and Xove.

What species live along the river?

Río Landro is considered one of the best salmon rivers in northern Galicia, still hosting a small but reproducing population of Atlantic salmon. The clean water quality also supports freshwater mussels, including a notably significant population of the freshwater pearl mussel — a species highly sensitive to water quality, whose presence signals a healthy river ecosystem. Together with its tributary, the Río Bravos, the Landro preserves good examples of riparian gallery forest, forming an important ecological corridor for numerous plant and animal species.

What can visitors see along Río Landro in Viveiro?

In the town of Viveiro itself, a riverside walking path (paseo fluvial) runs along the banks of the Landro and the adjacent Ría de Viveiro, starting near the Valdeflores convent. The walk offers views over the river and its estuary and gives easy access to areas of significant ecological value without leaving the town. It is a popular spot with both locals and visitors exploring this stretch of the Galician coast, known for its mild climate and scenic river-mouth views.

Frequently asked questions

How long is Río Landro? The river runs for about 37 kilometres, from its source in the Sierra del Gistral to its mouth at the Ría de Viveiro.

Is Río Landro a protected area? Yes, the river valley is protected under the Natura 2000 network as a Special Conservation Zone (ZEC) due to its distinctive riverine and estuarine habitats.

What wildlife lives in the river? The Landro is home to a small population of Atlantic salmon and to the freshwater pearl mussel, an indicator species of clean water.

Where does the riverside walk in Viveiro start? The walking path along the river and its estuary begins near the Valdeflores convent in Viveiro.