Start of the Adventure: Puerto de Carril
Our journey begins in the small fishing port of Carril, where we will embark for the magical Cortegada Island, part of the Atlantic Islands Maritime-Terrestrial National Park, known for its laurel forests, unique in Europe, and its rich and varied biodiversity.
Guided Tour in Cortegada
Accompanied by guides who are experts in the island's history and natural environment, we'll explore Cortegada through an interpretive tour. We'll discover its native flora and fauna, learn about conservation efforts, and hear fascinating stories about the island's former inhabitants. During the visit, we'll stop at iconic sites such as the old stone cross and the chapel of Our Lady of Miracles, sites steeped in history and spirituality that will transport you back in time, or at the old village, a testament to settler life on the island.
Our guides will not only share knowledge about the flora and fauna, but also stories about the culture and architecture that give life to the island. These points of interest offer a unique insight into Cortegada's rich cultural and religious heritage, making this visit a complete and unforgettable experience.
Navigation on the Ulla River: Journey of the Apostle Santiago
After exploring Cortegada, we'll continue our adventure by sailing along the Ulla River, following the historic path of the remains of St. James the Apostle. This journey not only offers breathtaking scenery but is also steeped in profound spiritual and cultural significance. As we sail, our guides will share the rich history of this route, explaining its religious significance and the legends passed down from generation to generation.
Final Destination: Port of Pontecesures or Return to Lane
Our route has two possible final destinations, depending on the group's preferences. Pilgrims who wish to continue their journey to Santiago can disembark at the port of Pontecesures, from where they can continue their pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. Those who prefer to return to Carril can enjoy a peaceful return trip, reflecting on the experience and connecting with nature.
Travel Guide
Inland transport
Boat transportation to Ons Island from the ports of Bueu or Portonovo
At Amare Turismo Náutico, we are committed to environmental preservation and the promotion of responsible ecotourism. The "Senda Verdeazul to Santiago" route offers a unique experience that combines history, nature, and spirituality, and incorporates a series of concrete actions to actively contribute to nature conservation. These actions include environmental education, the use of low-impact vessels, the promotion of sustainable practices, waste reduction, and the encouragement of responsible ecotourism. Through these initiatives, we seek to ensure that our visitors can enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of the Arousa Estuary, Cortegada Island, and the Ulla River, while supporting the conservation of the natural and cultural environment for future generations.
1. Environmental Education and Awareness
Each stage of our "Blue-Green Path to Santiago" route is designed to educate participants on the importance of sustainable practices and biodiversity conservation. During the guided tour of Cortegada Island, participants will receive detailed explanations about the island's native flora and fauna. Throughout the journey along the Ulla River, the route's rich history and spiritual significance are emphasized, fostering greater awareness and commitment to environmental and cultural heritage preservation among our visitors.
2. Use of Low Impact Boats
Our vessels used on the "Blue-Green Path to Santiago" route are equipped with efficient engines that minimize emissions and impact on the marine ecosystem. Furthermore, we maintain strict navigation protocols to avoid disturbances in sensitive and protected areas, such as Cortegada Island and the Ulla River. These practices ensure that our presence does not disrupt the tranquility and balance of marine and coastal life, contributing to the conservation of the natural environment and respecting the historical and cultural context of the route.
3. Promotion of Sustainable Practices
During the "Blue-Green Path to Santiago" activity, we taught participants the importance of respecting natural cycles and the regeneration of natural resources. This not only ensures the sustainability of the activity but also serves as a practical example of how ecotourism can be carried out responsibly. Participants will learn about conservation practices for the flora and fauna of Cortegada Island and the importance of preserving historical and spiritual sites along the Ulla River.
4. Waste Reduction
We implement strict "leave no trace" policies in all our activities. We encourage the use of recyclable and biodegradable materials and ensure that all waste generated during our excursions is properly managed, avoiding any negative impact on the natural environment. Additionally, we encourage participants to bring their own reusable water bottles and minimize the use of single-use plastics, contributing to waste reduction.
5. Promotion of Responsible Ecotourism
We promote ecotourism as a tool for sustainable development along the "Blue-Green Path to Santiago." By engaging local communities and our visitors in environmental protection and the enhancement of cultural and spiritual heritage, we create a virtuous cycle where tourism supports conservation and vice versa. Our approach ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty, biodiversity, and rich cultural heritage of the Arousa Estuary, Cortegada Island, and the Ulla River. We also collaborate with initiatives that strengthen sustainable development and the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. At the end of the route, visitors have the option of disembarking at the port of Pontecesures to continue their pilgrimage to Santiago, thus promoting sustainable and cultural tourism.
6.- Small groups
This tour is specially designed for those seeking an experience in communion with nature. Small groups of between 10 and 24 people guarantee an intimate and personalized experience, minimizing environmental impact and fostering greater respect and appreciation for the natural environment.
7.- Promotion of personalized activities.
Local guides can provide a more personalized and educational experience, increasing environmental awareness and respect among participants. Visitors have more opportunities to interact, ask questions, and learn in-depth about the importance of conservation and sustainable practices.
These actions reflect our deep commitment to nature and our responsibility as tourism operators to promote and protect the natural treasures that make the Arousa Estuary and the Ulla River such a special destination. We invite all ecotourists to join us in this mission, enjoying a unique experience and leaving a positive impact on the environment.
1. Continuous Staff Training
We communicate our policy of sustainability and environmental conservation practices to our employees. This ensures that all team members are aligned with our ecological values and can share this knowledge with visitors.
2. Promotion of Local and Sustainable Products
We offer our customers local and sustainable products, such as locally sourced food and beverages, which not only support the local economy but also reduce the carbon footprint associated with transporting products.
3. Off-Season Tourism
We encourage tourism during the off-season to reduce pressure on natural resources and local infrastructure. This helps distribute the impact of tourism more evenly throughout the year and supports the local economy during the off-peak months.
4. Commitment to the Circular Economy
We promote the circular economy in our operations by reusing and recycling materials. This includes repairing and reusing equipment and promoting products and services that adhere to these principles.
5. Sustainability Certifications
We seek and maintain sustainability certifications, which validate and recognize our efforts in ecotourism and conservation. These certifications assure our guests that we are committed to the best environmental practices.
6. Wildlife Observation and Conservation Programs
We implement specific wildlife observation and conservation programs. Our company collaborates in the monitoring of ringed birds by reporting any sightings to the Environment Department, or when we spot a dead bird, so that the corresponding monitoring studies can be carried out on the different species.
We also collaborate with cetacean monitoring by reporting any anomalies we detect or by reporting their location outside their normal habitat.
7. Use of Ecological Cleaning Products
We use eco-friendly and biodegradable cleaning products to maintain our vessels, thus preventing water pollution and protecting the health of aquatic and, consequently, terrestrial ecosystems.
These practices reinforce our commitment to ecotourism and sustainability, ensuring that our efforts benefit both nature and the local community.
