Sálvora: Wild Nature and Legends in the Atlantic
Sálvora Island, at the entrance to the Ría de Arousa, is a place that seems frozen in time. Its combination of wild landscapes, fascinating history and mysterious legends make it one of the most unique destinations in Galicia. Surrounded by crystal clear waters and crowned by imposing rock formations, Sálvora invites you to lose yourself in its natural beauty and the stories that have shaped its identity.
A unique natural refuge
Part of the Atlantic Islands Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, Sálvora is a biodiversity sanctuary. Its coasts are inhabited by birds such as shags and yellow-legged gulls, while its waters are home to rich marine life, including dolphins that are often seen on the journey to the island.
The landscapes of Sálvora are equally impressive: white sand beaches such as Playa del Almacén contrast with the imposing granite rocks that look like sculptures carved by the wind and the sea.
The story of Sálvora: an island with a soul
Sálvora is not only nature, it also has a fascinating history. The island was inhabited until the mid-20th century, when the families who lived there were mainly dedicated to fishing and agriculture. Today, the ruins of the old town and the remains of the salting factory are silent witnesses of that past.
A heroic episode stands out in the collective memory: in 1921, a shipwreck off its coast mobilized the few women who inhabited the island, who, in an act of bravery, rowed out to save the shipwrecked. This fact consolidated the “heroines of Sálvora” as iconic figures in Galician history.
What to do on Sálvora Island?
- Tour your old town: Explore the ruins of the houses and learn what life was like in this remote corner of the world.
- Visit the lighthouse: The Sálvora Lighthouse, a construction dating from the 19th century, offers spectacular views and an aura of mystery.
- Stroll along its beaches: Playa del Almacén, with its white sand and crystal clear waters, is a paradise of tranquility.
- Admire natural sculptures: The island’s rock formations, shaped by erosion, have surprising shapes that stimulate the imagination.
- Immerse yourself in its legends: Hear the stories of shipwrecks, heroes and mysteries that have shaped the soul of the island.
Curiosities about Sálvora
- A granite giant: Sálvora is made up almost entirely of granite, which gives it that robust and unique appearance.
- The Heroines of Sálvora: This group of local women earned admiration for their bravery in saving the shipwrecked people from the steamship Santa Isabel.
- An inhabited lighthouse: Until not long ago, the Sálvora Lighthouse was inhabited by lighthouse keepers, who led an isolated but essential life for maritime safety.
- The stone mermaid: A sculpture of a mermaid on Almacén Beach recalls the seafaring legends that surround the island.
A destination to disconnect
Sálvora is a perfect place for those looking for disconnection and connection at the same time. Away from the hustle and bustle, its atmosphere allows you to reconnect with nature in its purest form, while discovering a unique chapter in Galician history.
Explore Sálvora with Illa Tours
At Illa Tours, we take you to live this unique experience. We will navigate the Ría de Arousa until we reach this magical enclave, where you can explore its nature, history and enjoy unforgettable moments.
Do you dare to discover Sálvora? 🌊
