Spain’s unique wine region nominated for UNESCO status

BBC recently highlighted the Ribeira Sacra as one of Spain's most intriguing and scenic wine regions.  

In the breathtaking landscapes of Ribeira Sacra, vineyards cling almost vertically to the cliffs above the rivers. The dramatic scenery and exceptional wines make it a paradise for wine enthusiasts.  

The mountains unfolded like a mosaic of stone and trees, extending to the horizon. Below, the river cut through the granite terrain with surprising ease, as if it were a sponge. From the Cabezoás viewpoint, perched over 700 meters high, I was awed by the sheer force of the water (and grateful for the sturdy beams keeping me safe).  

Ribeira Sacra, located in Galicia in Spain's northwest, is renowned for its steep, vertiginous views. The region, known for its lush, green landscapes due to frequent rainfall, is shaped by the Sil and Miño rivers. 

This inland area, whose name translates to "sacred riverbank" in Galician, reflects its dramatic topography and a rich monastic heritage dating back to Roman times. Navigating this terrain is challenging, with narrow, winding roads that wind around hills and through groves of chestnuts and oaks. Leaving Cabezoás, I traveled west to the region's principal monastery, Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil.

While it’s only about 7 kilometers away in a straight line, the drive nearly doubles the distance. Perched high above the Sil River, Santo Estevo is an exquisite restoration now part of Spain’s national paradores network, which includes state-run hotels often situated in historic buildings. Although the monastery is first recorded in documents from the 10th century, it is believed to be much older. It features three cloisters, a church, and the monks' quarters, prompting curiosity about how such an enormous structure was constructed on the mountain’s edge centuries ago.  

The monks certainly chose a prime location, but the miradoiros (scenic viewpoints) I encountered offered a different kind of awe-inspiring experience. Like Cabezoás, these overlooks extend out from cliff edges, defying gravity and providing breathtaking views that can either uplift or unsettle you, depending on your tolerance for heights. The region's natural formations create their own grand cathedrals, often more imposing than any human-made structures. The Ribeira Sacra was named a biosphere reserve in 2022 and is Spain’s sole candidate for Unesco World Heritage status in 2024.