The provincial capital of Ourense on the banks of the impressive River Miņo, named by the Romans from the word oro - gold - because of its ancient gold mines and for its amazing unusual steaming hot springs - Las Burgas, is a city of surprises. You can take a relaxing soak in one of the springs - temperatures reach around 70ēC, wander around its old quarter with its patchwork of little squares and porticoed streets, visit its fine cathedral and its Santisimo Cristo - the crucifix has real hair and beard, admire the Roman Puente Viejo - one of the longest bridges in Spain and if hunger strikes in Ourense sample some of the best octupus in Galicia washed down with the excellent wines from Ribera Sacra.