Stage 9: Redondela - Pontevedra - Portuguese Camino de Santiago

The Redondela - Pontevedra stage, after the great walk of the previous day, is a refreshing ride with the best that the route to Santiago has to offer. Just outside the town, there are trails that lead us through small Galician villages and forests. The landscape remains calm until we reach Arcade, an area that many hikers pass through and are amazed by the imposing Sampaio Bridge. This place, where every nook and cranny tells the story of Galicia and Santiago, is one of those treasures hidden in front of our feet, forgotten between two of the main cities on the route. However, if you're tired or just fancy a snack, you should know that this is where the best oysters in all of Iberia are said to be eaten. For seafood lovers, this is no small feat.

From here, the path thickens. Entering a forest path, we climb until we reach an altitude of 147 meters. What you gain in natural beauty, you lose in calories.

Pontevedra is one of the most iconic cities on the Portuguese route. Don't miss the chance to see the many monuments here and the thousand-year-old churches set in the center of a car-free city.

From here, the Costa and Central roads come together completely. For more stages, read here.

Exit:

Arrival:

Where to eat

Where to sleep

Redondela - Pontevedra: Photos

Redondela - Pontevedra: Itinerary

A: Redondela

The exit from Redondela is through alleys and woods. This will be a constant throughout the stage. For many people this is the most beautiful of all the stages.

B: Soutomaior Castle

For those taking the "big" road, this is a place not to be missed. You can spend the night here. The castle is well preserved, but it's the gardens around it that are the most eye-catching

C: Ponte Sampaio

A historic site in the village of Arcade, this imposing bridge is one of the best-known sights on the Caminhos Portugueses. However, it's uphill from here.

If you want to rest, just cross over and a few kilometers later you'll be in Arcade, which has several lodgings on offer. However, if you'd rather just take a dip to refresh your energy, you can use the river beach.

D: Chapel of Santa Marta

Simple, dating from 1617, this chapel is the last one we came across before arriving in Pontevedra. A good place to think, reflect and, above all, rest.

E: Pontevedra

After a climb that requires an effort of endurance and persistence, Pontevedra welcomes us with the usual hospitality of the Camino de Santiago. After a walk through the woods and along the river, we are in the city. In every street there seem to be hostels to stay in. If you're still feeling energetic, take the opportunity to walk around the city center. Spacious, with plenty of shops and places to eat, it has all the ingredients for an unforgettable evening. Now the central road and the coastal road have merged into one. You can read more here.