Stage 1: Porto-Póvoa de Varzim

The Porto - Póvoa de Varzim stage is a long one. Starting at the historic Sé Cathedral, part of the route is right in the heart of the city. This urban trail is perfect for those who want to experience the contrast between the bustling metropolis and the inner peace of those who follow in Santiago's footsteps.

However, as in a baptism, it is the water that brings the profound change. The appearance of the River Leça at the edge of our vision changes the landscape until we reach our destination for the day. In this way, it's the sea that guides us and, if you manage to cover the 30 kilometers in the first stage (don't worry, because there are places to rest if you want to finish earlier, in Labruge or Vila Chã, for example), you'll be welcomed as if you'd arrived home, at the pilgrims' hostel, São José de Ribamar.

Exit:

Arrival:

Where to eat

Where to sleep

Porto-Póvoa de Varzim: Photos

Porto-Póvoa de Varzim: Itinerary

A: Porto Cathedral

All the routes in Porto leave from the Cathedral, as if it were a tradition. From here you have to head into the city for a few kilometers. These first steps may be counter-intuitive, but the experience gets closer to nature with every step.

B: Medieval Bridge of D. Goimil

This small infrastructure has been here since the 13th century. It's the first moment when you feel the difference between the previous settlement and the journey you're about to embark on.

C: Libertadores Army Square.

This is a long day. That's why you should rest whenever possible. This is where other people have rested before you. Whether they were ancient pilgrims or even combatants in the Portuguese civil war that pitted two brothers and two different ideas of state against each other.

D: Vila do Conde

This wonderful town on the Portuguese coast is reminiscent of a small village where everyone knows each other. Arriving here means stopping to look at the sea for a moment and being dazzled by the small details of this town. There are also several hostels if your legs start to feel heavy, such as "Eça agora". A calm and safe haven. We are greeted by the majestic Santa Clara convent, an imperial and future hotel to enjoy in Vila do Conde.

E: Póvoa de Varzim

We arrive in Póvoa de Varzim just after Vila do Conde. We are greeted by new architecture, with a different pulse of life from the rest of the way. The municipal hostel, São José de Ribamar, is facilitated by one of the friendliest hospitallers along the way. A unique character.