Rivers of Galicia

The rivers of Galicia form part of a dense hydrographical network in the Spanish autonomous community of Galicia and has been described by Otero Pedrayo as “the land of a thousand rivers”.

However, small boats are sailed in the lower courses of the River Minho and several others, as well as at many of the dams.

The rivers flowing into the Bay of Biscay (Cantabrian Sea) tend to be very short.

There are numerous rapids, due to the steep gradients of many river courses.

In addition to river fishing, rivers have been used to power mills, and dams have been constructed to provide hydroelectric power and water storage.