Stage 4: Marinhas - Viana do Castelo - Portuguese Camino de Santiago

The Marinhas - Viana do Castelo stage takes us away from the sea, towards the sacred mountains of the millenary route. Although not difficult, a few climbs after the Church of Santiago in Castelo de Neiva may make our twins complain a little at the end of the day, but nothing out of this world.

When you miss walking by the sea, just look around. From the top, you'll see a glimpse of the wonderful Atlantic Ocean that calls out to all pilgrims at this stage of the route. However, make the most of this journey into the deep green of nature. There are pilgrim secrets in every building.

On arrival in Viana do Castelo, cross the bridge and head towards the city. If you want to rest for a day, there are monuments to delight you, such as the Interpretive Center of the Portuguese Coastal Path or, if you still have the strength, climb the 659 steps of the Santa Luzia staircase and visit the Confraternity of the same name.

Exit:

Arrival:

Where to eat

Where to sleep

Marinhas - Viana do Castelo: Photos

Marinhas - Viana do Castelo: Itinerary

A: Marine

Marinhas is still close to the main road that leads us to decide whether to go by sea or through the mountains. The idea is to keep going straight until (as usual) you come across the yellow arrows. There will be times when you need to pay extreme attention to the cars passing by.

B: Old Church of São Bartolomeu do Mar

This 17th-century medieval-inspired church shares with pilgrims a space to admire the interesting architecture of several of the monuments in northern Portugal. This combination of blue tiles and humble origins is reminiscent of the Portuguese tradition of doing a lot with a little.

C: Church of Santiago de Castelo de Neiva - Castelo do Neiva

After an unusual climb in these parts, when the water starts to taste softer than usual, we have a place here, in the Parish Church of Castelo do Neiva, where we can rest and put the canteen back on the way home

According to historians, this is the oldest evocation of Saint James in Portuguese territory, dating back to 862. It was found during restoration work on the building, and the record goes back to D. Nausti, the former bishop of Coimbra.

It is open to the public and can be seen at the entrance on the right.

D: Organic trade

Although we passed magical places such as the Parish Church of Santiago de Anha or beautiful landscapes where the true spirit of the path is shown at all times, there is one place we couldn't fail to mention. Here, just past the church of Santiago, is a market with no owner, but with food, water and refreshments and chairs. You just have to take what you want and decide what to pay. Thank you to the people responsible.

E: Viana do Castelo

After a long, narrow bridge (which can be avoided) by taking a ferry to the city, we arrive in Viana do Castelo. This stage, although long, is not difficult. The hostel is just across the train tracks and, if you have the energy, you should take a walk around the city, which is well worth a visit.