A Quinta da Auga is a countryside retreat on the edge of Santiago, set in a restored eighteenth-century paper mill on the banks of the Sar River. Part of the Relais and Chateaux collection, it combines stone buildings, landscaped gardens and a spa that makes it one of the most relaxing places to stay near the city. It is not in the old town, and that is the point. Guests come to rest, to enjoy the grounds and to have the cathedral as a day out rather than a doorstep. A short taxi ride links the hotel to the centre.
The setting is calm. Rooms are large and elegantly furnished, many with garden views, and some have a terrace. The spa includes treatment rooms, a heated pool and quiet corners for rest. Gardens with old trees and water features make for a peaceful stroll, and the river adds sound and atmosphere.
Food is a draw. The restaurant focuses on Galician produce, with seasonal menus and local wines, and breakfast is relaxed and generous. Dinner here is a special occasion for many guests. The bar and lounges offer a place to unwind, and the staff are known for attentive service.
Practical points
The hotel is a few kilometres from the old town, so a car or taxi is useful. Ask about shuttle options and parking. Rates are high, especially in summer and for festival dates, so reserve early and compare packages that include spa or dining. It is a superb choice for honeymoons, anniversaries and travellers who want to balance sightseeing with serious relaxation.
To enjoy the property fully, plan at least two nights. Spend one day in the old town and another resting at the hotel, with a spa treatment, a swim and a long dinner. The surroundings are good for gentle walks along the river, and the staff can suggest routes. Bring a swimsuit and flip-flops, and ask about the dress code for dinner.
If you are travelling with a car, the countryside setting makes day trips to the coast easy, and the hotel can recommend drivers or guides for the Rías Baixas or the Costa da Morte. Reserve spa slots in advance, since popular times fill quickly.
Pack a light jacket for the gardens in the evening, because the river valley can be cool and damp even after a warm day. Ask about packages that bundle dinner or a treatment, which can offer better value than booking each separately, and confirm the cancellation terms before you pay.
Why stay here
- ✓Spa and wellness area
- ✓Indoor pool
- ✓Gardens
- ✓On-site restaurant
- ✓Bar and lounge
- ✓Concierge desk
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Parking
Good questions
Is it near the old town?+
It is a short drive or taxi ride from the centre, not within walking distance.
Does it have a spa?+
Yes, the hotel offers spa facilities. Check treatments and hours when you book.
Is parking available?+
Parking is typically available. Confirm with the hotel.
