The original medieval castle ruins at the summit date back to the 11th century.
The cross was intentionally placed at the peak as a navigation aid and a spiritual protector for local sailors.
On clear days, the view extends past the mouth of the Ría de Arousa to include the Atlantic Ocean and the distant Ons and Sálvora islands.
The site was once part of the defensive network for the Diocese of Santiago de Compostela.
The mountain is composed of granite, which has been historically quarried in the surrounding region.
Mirador de la Cruz de Lobeira is a scenic vantage point located atop Monte Lobeira in Vilanova de Arousa, providing expansive 360-degree views of the Ría de Arousa estuary. The site is marked by a prominent stone cross, erected in honor of those lost at sea. It sits at an elevation of approximately 290 meters above sea level, overlooking the towns of Vilagarcía de Arousa, Vilanova, and Cambados. The summit also contains the ruins of the medieval fortress known as Castelo de Lobeira, which historically guarded the estuary entrance. The area is accessible via a well-maintained path through native Galician forest, primarily composed of eucalyptus and pine trees.
From the base of the stone cross looking toward the sunset over the Atlantic islands.
Bring windbreakers even in summer, as the hilltop is exposed to strong maritime breezes.
Wear sturdy footwear with good grip to navigate the loose gravel paths around the ruins.
Bring binoculars to spot the mussel rafts (bateas) dotting the estuary below.
Attempting to climb the summit in heavy fog or high wind conditions, as the path visibility decreases and the peak becomes very exposed.
Respect the archaeological remains by not climbing on or removing stones from the castle ruins; keep noise levels low as it is a site of remembrance.
