Casa Grande la Almuiña

Right in the heart of Condado de Tea wine country, this is my favourite Galician Pazo. Marisa and Vicenta take such good care of everything and make the stay comfortable. The food is amazing, and I always order the Lamprea Seca. Manolo showed us his Bodega, and we even tasted wine straight from the fudre. A foodie paradise!

The garden is magnificent, with antique statues and fountains, and the views are wonderful. Inside, the mansion is full of incredible details, from the soft cotton sheets to its exquisite, luxurious corners. Patricia, the manager, and the owners, Marisa and Manuel, were friendly and gave us personal service. Everything was impeccably clean, too. We were pleasantly surprised and very satisfied, and we’ll return. The mansion is in Arbo, in a privileged spot on the banks of the Miño River, just a stone’s throw from Portugal and close to Tuy and Vigo. Be sure to walk around and visit the beautiful rooms, then climb up to the central glass dome for a view across the whole landscape. It has the feel of a fine Parador hotel.

The place is charming, well cared for, and the people are so attentive, from the receptionist to the woman who prepares breakfast and cleans. Whenever we left the room, they came in and cleaned without us having to ask, changing the towels too. Everything was very clean, and the views were incredible. There’s a short, lovely hiking trail nearby, along with the Roman bridge of San Xoan, with the Deba River flowing under it. The Prexigueiro hot springs are a 28-minute drive away, and Ourense and Allariz are 46 minutes away. Allariz also has the Outariz hot springs, both free and paid, 42 minutes away. The Pozo do Inferno trail is 16 minutes away, and Portugal is right next door. My phone even seemed to think it was in Portugal. The location couldn’t be better. They allow pets, which is a big plus since it can be hard to find places that do. I happened to meet the owner while looking for one of her cats, and she’s lovely. I encourage anyone considering this place to come, you won’t be disappointed.

The owner and Vicenta are truly lovely, and the service is second to none. They’re friendly and kind, and make you feel right at home. The house and its surroundings are wonderful, with so many little details in the beautiful decor. We’ll definitely be back.