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Monastery · Ourense, Galicia
Mosteiro de Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil
Former Benedictine monastery with three cloisters overlooking the Sil canyon in the Ribeira Sacra, about 30 km from Ourense. It now operates as a historic guesthouse.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mosteiro de Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil
The Monastery of Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil sits on the slope of the Sil canyon, in the municipality of Nogueira de Ramuín, about 30 km from Ourense. It has a medieval origin, linked to the hermits who lived on the river’s slopes, and in the 12th century it became the main monastery of the region, one of the most important in Galicia.
The monastery was abandoned after the 19th-century disentailment and, after many years in ruins, was restored and converted into a historic parador in the Paradores network. The complex has three cloisters from different periods, from Romanesque to Renaissance, and a church of Romanesque origin.
The location is the most impressive thing: the monastery stands on the canyon’s slopes, among chestnut and oak woods, with the Sil river down below. Nearby a road descends to the boat piers for canyon tours.
Visitors who are not staying overnight can usually see the church and part of the cloisters; check conditions before you go.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour for the monastery and the canyon view.
Best time
In the morning or late afternoon, combined with the boat trip through the canyon. In autumn the vines and chestnut trees of the Ribeira Sacra change color.
How to get there
It is about 30 km from Ourense, on mountain roads, roughly a 40-minute drive. Public transport is limited: driving or taking an organized tour is the most practical option.
Tip
Combine the monastery with the catamaran tour of the Sil canyon on the same day. The roads are narrow and winding—drive carefully.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mosteiro de Santo Estevo de Ribas de Sil
Can you visit the monastery without staying overnight?
Visitors can usually see the church and part of the cloisters. Confirm visiting conditions before you go, because the monastery also functions as accommodation.
How long does it take from Ourense to the monastery?
About a 40‑minute drive on mountain roads, roughly 30 km.
What is the Ribeira Sacra?
The region along the banks of the Sil, Miño and Cabe rivers, with medieval monasteries and terraced vineyards on the canyon slopes.