The grove was declared a Natural Monument by the Xunta de Galicia in 2000.
The eucalyptus trees were initially planted for the paper industry but were preserved due to their exceptional growth.
The site acts as a riverside forest, protecting the banks of the Landro River from erosion.
Some of the largest specimens in the grove are over 160 years old.
Retorta's Grove, locally known as Souto da Retorta or the Grove of the Bend, is a protected natural monument situated along the Landro River in Viveiro. It contains one of the oldest and tallest eucalyptus stands in Europe, originally planted in 1860 to drain the marshy soil. The grove features exceptionally large specimens of Eucalyptus globulus, some exceeding 60 meters in height and 2 meters in trunk diameter. The site serves as a vital riverine ecosystem, characterized by its dense canopy and moisture-rich microclimate. It is managed as a public forest preserve with maintained walking paths along the riverbank.
From the base of the tallest trees looking directly up to capture the scale of the trunks and the high canopy.
Wear footwear with good traction as the riverside paths can remain damp and slippery.
Bring insect repellent, as the humid river environment often attracts mosquitoes.
Visit during low tide if possible, as the Landro estuary environment is influenced by tidal changes.
Do not attempt to swim in the Landro River, as currents can be unpredictable and the banks are often unstable.
Stay on marked trails to protect the delicate root systems of the giant trees; avoid removing flora or fauna.
