The first stage of the Spiritual Route goes from Pontevedra to Armenteira and begins in the heart of the city, next to the emblematic Church of the Pilgrim, where many pilgrims stamp their first mark. The route continues through the historic streets and soon leads to the Monastery of San Xoán de Poio, guardian of one of the largest hórreos in Galicia and an impressive mosaic dedicated to the Way. Then, in Combarro, the scenery changes: hórreos lined up by the sea, cobbled streets and a picturesque setting make this the ideal place for a break and lunch before the most demanding part of the journey.
Leaving Combarro marks the start of a long and challenging climb, almost always in contact with nature and with few services available, only interrupted by the Loureiro viewpoint, from where you can see the Pontevedra estuary. It is essential to bring enough water and supplies to tackle this isolated stretch. At the end, after the effort has been rewarded by the views and the silence of the hills, the Monastery of Armenteira rises. Shrouded in serenity, the Cistercian monastery welcomes the pilgrim with its tranquil grandeur, making this destination the perfect end to a demanding but profoundly remarkable stage.
