Covas can be explored through three specific themes: the rock formations of the Penedos da Raíña Loba, traces of former fortifications, and birdwatching in different parts of the landscape. There is also the Igrexa de San Breixo de Covas, a Baroque church built around 1712. The combination of cultural heritage and nature observation is a useful starting point when choosing a destination. You can choose Covas based on which of these themes you want to make the focus of your stay.

Penedos da Raíña Loba: Rock and Folklore

The Penedos da Raíña Loba reach an elevation of more than 1,100 metres. The O Cebreiro–Raíña Loba route is recommended for exploring their rock formations. A rock among the Penedos once served as the site of a castle and its towers; traces of their construction are visible on the ground. These structural remains give the landscape a historical connection without the need to draw on legend.

A game board for “Alquerque de nove” is carved into a rock at Penedo da Raíña Loba. A well carved into the rock is also visible at the Penedo. Galician folklore also places the fortress where the legend of Raíña Loba takes place among the Penedos. Visible traces, carved details and the traditional story offer different ways of engaging with this cultural heritage.

Pine Forests and Birdwatching

According to the area description, the pine forests in the highest part of Covas, in the Serra de Gomariz at an elevation of 1,100 metres, are excellent for observing Bonelli’s warbler. Woodlarks and northern wheatears are common in Covas. Booted eagles can also be seen while climbing to Covas. The information therefore ranges from a specifically named woodland area to common sightings in Covas and possible sightings during the ascent.

Season and environmental conditions affect these birdwatching opportunities: sightings are seasonal and may vary. This is a different focus from the construction history and folklore of the Penedos or the Baroque architecture of the church. Those choosing Covas for its nature themes will therefore find specific species and landscape connections here, not just a general reference to wildlife.

The cultural themes can also be distinguished when deciding on a trip: at the Penedos, visible traces sit alongside a traditional legend, while the church is dated to around 1712. O Castelo Vello and Os Blancos add to this picture with fortification traces whose interpretation is explicitly uncertain or unresolved. This lets you choose how to balance landscape, birdwatching and cultural heritage during your stay in Covas. O Castelo Vello is a granite hill about 1,000 metres high with large granite boulders; some remains of a rock castle are said to still be preserved there.

For the broader travel overview: Os Blancos.