Stage 5: Caminha - Valença - Portuguese Camino de Santiago

The Caminha - Valença stage is the original variation of the Portuguese Coastal Path. Here we say goodbye to the ocean as a companion for all our steps, and the river takes its place. Despite the beauty along the flow of water, this route can be difficult as there are many climbs and descents all the way to Vila Nova de Cerveira.

Take the opportunity to stroll around the town and visit its castle. It was King Dinis who had it built and today it is a central point on the Camino da Costa. If you get hungry, visit the excellent local bakeries and have a "Cerveirense"!

When you arrive in Valença, you can choose to stay in the city or take the Friendship Bridge that connects Portugal and Spain to Tui. From here, your path joins thousands of other people who have already walked the central route. Your adventure has just begun.

Finally, we leave you with this note: If you prefer a different kind of walk, the ecovia do Minho already connects part of the route between Caminho and Vila Nova da Cerveira and the municipality of Valença. An adventure not to be missed for those who love the sea!

Exit:

Arrival:

Where to eat

Where to sleep

Caminha - Valença: Photos

Caminha-Valença: Itinerary

A: Caminha

The farewell to Caminha is via the bridge over the River Coura, which is right next to the local pilgrims' hostel. The perception of the route walked and the small islands of green around the flow are a postcard of memories that only those who choose this variation can understand.

B: Gondarém

This is a village on the Way. The human space that receives pilgrims in the municipality of Vila Nova de Cerveira has an ancient relationship with the millenary route. It is here that we find a 17th-century manor house, which in its first life was a pilgrim hostel. We know this because on one of its doors there is the inscription: "a shelter for passengers and beggars who want to sleep in it (1666)".

Today, it's the Boega Hotel that's set up in this space and is available if you want to book a night here.

C: Vila Nova de Cerveira

You're halfway along the path when you reach this point. Some people stop here to regain their strength. Even if you don't, try to take the opportunity to see the Castle, where there used to be a hospital dedicated to pilgrims passing through.

D: Chamosinhos Medieval Bridge

One of the favorite places for pilgrims. If you don't know it and only see pictures of it, you'll think you're in Greece or Italy when you see the deep blue sea, divided by the beautiful houses nestled naturally in the mountains. Although we are still in Spain, Oia seems to be in a world of its own.

E: Valença

The city of Valença is a comfort for all pilgrims. With excellent hostels and restaurants, this town knows how to welcome those walking to Santiago, especially at the Café Mineiro. If you want to continue the journey, just take the International Bridge. From now on, you're also on the Portuguese Central Way.