ZEC Sobreirais do Arnego

ZEC Sobreirais do Arnego is a protected natural area in Galicia, Spain, designated as a Special Area of Conservation (ZEC) within the European Natura 2000 network. The site spans three municipalities — Agolada, Lalín and Vila de Cruces — covering more than a thousand hectares along the valley of the Arnego River, a tributary of the Ulla.

What makes this place special?

The area's main natural feature is one of the best-preserved and most extensive mixed forests with cork oak found anywhere in Galicia. Cork oak is a rare species in the region, surviving almost exclusively in the most sheltered river valleys, and some of the specimens growing along the Arnego reach up to 25 metres in height, with many trees centuries old. The valley's distinctive microclimate, shaped by river humidity and sheltered slopes, allows this Mediterranean-type vegetation to persist within Galicia's otherwise typically Atlantic landscape.

What does the landscape look like?

The terrain within the ZEC is varied, combining forested valley slopes with open meadows and riverside paths running alongside the Arnego. One of the best-known access points to the river is the Carmoega valley in the municipality of Agolada, where a well-preserved former millers' path — known locally as the "path of the mills" — leads to a designated rest area for visitors.

What can visitors do here?

The terrain and network of trails and tracks make this a popular destination for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy road cycling, touring cycling, mountain biking and hiking along the river. Anglers will find a free fishing zone on the Arnego River, bounded by the Ponte Tuíriz bridge in Vila de Cruces and the Portodemouros dam — one of the valued inland fishing spots in this part of Galicia.

Why visit?

ZEC Sobreirais do Arnego appeals to visitors looking for contact with a type of nature rarely found elsewhere in Galicia — an old cork oak forest growing along a river, away from the region's more heavily visited tourist routes. The site combines scenic value with active outdoor options: a walk along the historic millers' path, a cycling route through the surrounding countryside, or a quiet day of fishing by the water.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is ZEC Sobreirais do Arnego located? The area lies in the province of Pontevedra, Galicia, spanning the municipalities of Agolada, Lalín and Vila de Cruces along the valley of the Arnego River.

What is the main natural attraction here? An extensive, well-preserved mixed forest containing old cork oaks — one of the best examples of this habitat in Galicia, with trees reaching up to 25 metres in height.

Can you go fishing here? Yes, there is a free fishing zone on the Arnego River between the Ponte Tuíriz bridge and the Portodemouros dam.

What other activities are available besides fishing? Hiking, road and mountain biking, and walks along riverside paths, including the historic mills path in the Carmoega valley in Agolada.