Ribeiro: Viña Costeira Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting

Summary

Galician vineyard strolls, Miño River views, wine stories and cheese

You’ll wander historic Ribeiro vineyards with a local guide, sample two regional wines paired with Galician cheeses and mariñeira cookies, and catch peaceful Miño River views from San Cibrao. Expect relaxed conversation, real stories behind each bottle, and those small sensory details that stick with you long after leaving Galicia.

What’s the experience like?

I never thought I’d care much about grape varieties until we were standing in the middle of Viña Costeira’s vines, shoes a bit muddy from last night’s rain. Our guide, Marta, waved her hands around as she explained how the Miño River shapes this whole place—honestly, I was more distracted by the way the morning smelled like wet leaves and something sweet I couldn’t name. She handed me a grape leaf to rub between my fingers (it felt soft and kind of fuzzy) and told us about Treixadura grapes—her favorite, apparently. I tried to say it right; she grinned but didn’t correct me.

The walk through the vineyard wasn’t rushed at all. We stopped at this San Cibrao viewpoint where you can see the river winding below—Marta called it “the heart of Ribeiro.” It’s not dramatic or anything; just quiet hills and old stone houses tucked in. I remember thinking it looked like a painting but less perfect. There was a breeze that kept carrying this earthy smell mixed with something floral (maybe wildflowers?), and you could hear someone working in another row, snipping vines—just little clicks and murmurs in Galician.

Inside the winery, it was cooler and smelled like wood and fermenting fruit. We learned about how they still use traditional methods for some wines—Marta showed us these old barrels lined up against stone walls. The tasting itself was casual; two wines (I liked the white better), plus slices of local cheese and these crunchy mariñeira cookies that are salty but light—I ate too many without meaning to. Someone made a joke about pairing wine with river views instead of food; everyone laughed except me because I was still chewing.

I keep thinking about that moment on the hilltop when everything felt slow for once. If you’re looking for a day trip from Ourense or want to actually meet people who care about their land, this Viña Costeira winery tour is worth it—even if you can’t pronounce Treixadura either.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tour Viña Costeira vineyard and winery

• Tour vineyard and learn viticulture
• Enjoy views from San Cibrao viewpoint
• Visit winery and discover wine processes
• Taste two wines with cheese and cookies

Top questions

How do I get to Viña Costeira from Ourense?

The winery is located in the Ribeiro region near Ourense; travelers usually drive or take a taxi for this day trip.

Is there a guided tour included at Viña Costeira?

Yes, your visit includes a guided tour through the vineyards and winery led by local staff.

What wines are tasted during the experience?

The tasting features two regional Ribeiro wines selected by the winery team.

Are food pairings included with the wine tasting?

Yes, Galician cheeses and mariñeira cookies are served alongside the wines.

Is this tour suitable for families or people with limited mobility?

The experience is suitable for all fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap during any transfers.

Are service animals allowed at Viña Costeira?

Yes, service animals are permitted during your visit to the winery.

How long does the Viña Costeira winery tour last?

The full experience typically takes several hours including vineyard walk, cellar visit, and tasting session.

What’s included

Your day includes a relaxed guided tour through Viña Costeira’s historic Ribeiro vineyards overlooking the Miño River, an inside look at traditional winemaking processes in their cellar, plus a tasting of two regional wines paired with local Galician cheeses and mariñeira cookies before heading back whenever you feel ready.