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Day Seventeen on the Camino Portugués
~ Esposende to Viana do Castelo, 25 Km (15.5 Miles) Via the Coastal Route

On day seventeen on the Camino Portugués there is no practical Senda Litoral route, but instead we turned inland onto the historical Coastal Route. Plus the day had started out windy and cool, another reason to stay inland. I did not relish the idea of wind and rain blowing on me from the sea. 

“I have always had a liking for pilgrimages, and if I had lived in the Middle Ages would have spent most of my time on the way to Rome. The pilgrims, leaving all their cares at home, the anxieties of their riches or their debts, the wife that worried and the children that disturbed, took only their sins with them, and turning back on their obligations, set out with that sole burden, and perhaps a cheerful heart.”  ~ Elizabeth Von Armin, Elizabeth and her German Garden, British Novelist

I love this quote, because, when stripped bare, most folks are traveling on the Camino for this very reason ~ escape from ordinary life. On day seventeen of our Camino Portugués, we had the same goals, as well as meeting many a pilgrim, with whom, having only a few weeks' respite from work, were spending it on the Camino. 

Map and Stats of Day Seventeen on the Camino Portugués

Here are my GPS tracks from day seventeen. I have placed accommodations, grocery stores, cafés and places of note along the Way, for your reference. 

I have placed an alternative route, in red, on the map, in the event the Rio Neiva is too high to cross on the footbridge on the path. Please see the text below for more information. It is imperative that you check with the locals in Estrada before attempting the river crossing, or be prepared to back-track about a kilometer if it has been raining!

The route was predominantly on coastal hills, as you can see. Several of them were quite significant, leading to lots of terrain variation for the day. However, nothing was truly difficult for the average walker. 

There is a steep climb to Neiva at about 12 kilometers, of about 130 meters (425 meters) over two kilometers. The second climb at the end of the day is steep also, but shorter and milder.

Elevation Profile, Day Seventeen, Camino Portugués, Esposende to Viana do Castelo, Coastal RouteElevation Profile, Day Seventeen, Camino Portugués, Esposende to Viana do Castelo, Coastal Route

There is actually an unofficial Senda Litoral for the adventurous, offered by Luis Freixo, that I am including for your information. It begins from the turn towards Marinhas (or from the municipal albergue in Marinhas) all the way to Viana do Castelo. You can have a look at it by clicking here. The route is about a total of 4.0 kilometers more from the Hostel Eleven, where this day’s description begins. It requires route finding, map reading and GPS tracks. There are no arrows or waymarks, so in my mind it is not an "official" camino. However, if enough pilgrims travel this way over time, I am sure that will change! 

Photo-Rich Travelogue of Day Seventeen on the Camino Portugués

We awoke to what I called in my voice journal, a "pilgrim's tragedy!" Rich had mistakenly placed his backpack directly on his water tube nozzle, and it oozed out all night, drenching everything in the bottom of his pack. I think I learned some new expletives, after more than 30 years of marriage to him, when he discovered his mistake!

When I assessed the situation, it was not nearly as bad as all the cursing would have indicated. Only the items on the very bottom of the pack were wet. After he settled down, we simply set off for the day, with his long sleeve shirt draped over the outside of his pack to dry, and I had his underwear! Ha ha!

The hostess of the Hostel Eleven Esposende had a fabulous continental breakfast set out for us, on very nice trays and beautiful china, for us to enjoy our breakfast. She had it all prepared the night before. All we had to do was turn on the coffee pot. This privado has all the nice touches!

If you plan to walk on through to Marinhas, you can avoid Esposende altogether, by walking along the coast. However, we found the town to be quite lovely, with historic sites, churches, beaches, and nice cafés.

On the morning of day seventeen on the Camino Portugués, we headed north on the Rua Narciso Ferreira, from the Hostel Eleven, thru the main square, then walked across the plaza by the City Hall and onto the Rua Primeiro de Dezembro, below.

Through Esposende on the Rua Primeiro de DezembroThrough Esposende on the Rua Primeiro de Dezembro

We quickly came to the church, the Igreja Matriz de Esposende, walked in front of it and through its plaza. 

Walk in Front of the Igreja Matriz de Esposende on day seventeen of the Camino PortuguésWalk in Front of the Igreja Matriz de Esposende

On the other side of the plaza, we joined the Avenida Dr. Henrique Bamos Lima. 

Past the Church on the Avenida Dr. Henrique Bamos LimaPast the Church on the Avenida Dr. Henrique Bamos Lima

We continued on about 350 meters, then turned left onto broad avenue of Av. Rocha Conçalves to join the Cávado River on the way to the sea, on a lovely coastal promenade with a sidewalk and bike track, pictured here. 

Join the Cávado River on the Way to the SeaJoin the Cávado River on the Way to the Sea

We walked by the Forte de São João Baptista de Esposende and a lighthouse, brilliantly lit by the morning sun, after about 1.8 kilometers from the center of Esposende. 

Forte de São João Baptista de Esposende and LighthouseForte de São João Baptista de Esposende and Lighthouse

We walked along this sea promenade for about one kilometer, until the road bends eastward and becomes the Avenida de Banhos.

In 3/4 km, we turned left onto the cobblestone road, below, the Rua da Agrela, to walk into the town of Cepães.

Along the Rua da Agrela, to the Town of Cepães on day seventeen of the Camino PortuguésAlong the Rua da Agrela, to the Town of Cepães

After another 3/4 kilometer, we turned right onto the Avenida da Praia, at the Coviran supermarket. Within one block walk right by the Villa Ribeiro, a medium-priced accommodation. 

It is immediately after the villa Ribeiro that you would turn to the left, if you were taking the Senda Litoral. 

The "Beach Avenue," the Avenida da PraiaThe "Beach Avenue," the Avenida da Praia

After about yet another 200 meters, the pilgrimage traveler must cross the busy N13, to have this small chapel greet you on the other side, the Capela de São Sebastião. There is also a brown sign in the intersection that announces the way to the Albergue São Miguel in Marinhas.

The Way to the Albergue São Miguel, by the Capela de São SebastiãoThe Way to the Albergue São Miguel, by the Capela de São Sebastião

After the chapel, turn left onto the Avenida Padre Francisco Cubelo Soares to walk into Marinhas and find the municipal albergue almost immediately, on your right, pictured below.

Albergue São Miguel in MarinhasAlbergue São Miguel in Marinhas

It took us about one hour to arrive here, after 4.4 kilometers from Esposende.  Fortunately there are close by accommodations if the albergue is full and if you planned to stay in Marinhas. There is the Hostel Costa Selvagem, +351 913 212 250, with dormitory accommodations, just ¼ kilometer farther on, and right along the Camino.

If you have another kilometer in you, the Casa by Anita is about 100 meters off Camino, and the Casa do Avô Grande is an inexpensive guest house, 500 meters farther along the Camino, a few blocks to the west. And a few more meters along, another inexpensive Guesthouse Montemar  (+351 969 140 390) is one block to the East of the Camino. So don’t despair if the municipal albergue is full!

You can always search for nearby beach accommodations in Marinhas/Esposende. It may cost a bit, but it is a solution if you are extremely tired.

The German ladies we met on day sixteen were looking out the window waving at us as we walked by. It was the first pilgrims we saw that day. 

The Igreja das Marinhas is just down the street from the albergue. The road comes to a T-intersection at the church and the pilgrimage traveler must turn right onto the Rua Conde de Madimba.

Igreja das Marinhas on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésIgreja das Marinhas on day Seventeen of the Camino Portugués

There was a cafe open to the left of the church at 07:45 as we walked by ~ Important to note if you are staying in the albergue. After our lovely breakfast, just one hour ago, we kept on. 

Rua Conde de Madimba, Just Past Church in MarinhasRua Conde de Madimba, Just Past Church in Marinhas

After about 350 meters, turn left onto the Rua de São João (Street of St. John), below.

Yellow Arrow Along the Rua de São João on day seventeen of the Camino PortuguésYellow Arrow Along the Rua de São João

After about 1/3 kilometer come to a Y-intersection, with the Capela de São João do Monte, below in the center of the Y. You are in the town of Monte

This chapel is a sweet little place to take a look inside and maybe a brief respite from your pilgrimage to ponder the meaning of your Camino! You are 5.25 kilometers into day seventeen at this chapel. 

Capela de São João do Monte at Y-IntersectionCapela de São João do Monte at Y-Intersection

Turn right at the Y to walk past the Capela, and onto the Rua da Ponte Nova. Here it starts to become more rural-looking as you walk along the narrow cobblestone road. 

In a couple hundred meters the Rua da Ponte Nova becomes the Rua da Estrada Velha. It is through this next section that you can find the economical Casa do Avô Grande and the Guesthouse Montemar  (+351 969 140 390) if you are wanting to call it a day. Click on the link for its exact location and for more information. 

Then continue on the Rua da Estrada Velha for about 3/4 km, when the road name changes again to the Estrada Real.

Along the Estrada RealAlong the Estrada Real on Day Seventeen of the Camino Portugués

After a few meters, pass a lovely pilgrim statue next. 

Pilgrim Statue Along the Estrada RealPilgrim Statue Along the Estrada Real

Continuing on the Estrada Real, there is a high ridge on your right shoulder to the east, pictured below. You can see the sea to your left, west. You have reached the first Alto or high point and continue along a high plateau.

Estrada Real, Mountain Ridge on Your RightEstrada Real, Mountain Ridge on Your Right

After one kilometer, the road takes a bend westward to become the Rua Marco do Rei, as it heads toward the next town of Oteiro.

Right Turn Onto the Rua Marco do ReiRight Turn Onto the Rua Marco do Rei

After 1/3 km farther on, we turned right onto the Rua Padre Almeida. At the next intersection, we came to this signpost to the Café O Lampião, pictured below, after about 7.6 kilometers from Esposende. We were ready for our first break, so we walked to the café. This is an ultra-friendly pilgrim stop and the proprietor brings out free bowls of nuts and other goodies! I highly recommend the Café O Lampião! 

In addition, a few steps beyond the cafe, continuing on the Rua São Pedro is the Casa São Pedro Belinho, a possible accommodation specifically for pilgrims. 

Signpost to the Café O LampiãoSignpost to the Café O Lampião

To me, the walking thus far was relatively monotonous, with rural houses strung along the cobblestones, that all looked the same. I was as bored then as I am now as I write this! There were no other pilgrims to chat with, the weather was not bad, and I wished that we had taken the Senda Litoral along the coast. 

Having studied the day's route, I knew there were no roads right along the coast, nor nice boardwalk systems for this leg. Plus there is no way across the Rio Neiva unless you turn inland a long way at the same bridge you will see farther below. I knew that wishing for the Senda Litoral was folly, however, this day's walk was boring none-the-less! (If you really, really want to try the Senda Litoral see above for Luis Freixo's route, but you really are not walking on the coast. Plus you will miss the very historic church, farther below.)

I reminded myself that indeed, this simple pilgrim's life was a relief from the ordinary stressors, even if it was boring! What else could I do? So I plodded on...

The next town on day seventeen of the Camino Portugués is Belinho, which you walk into the center, after about 3/4 km after the signpost for the Café O Lampião and after about 8.25 kilometers from Esposende.

Walking Into Belinho on day seventeen of the Portuguese WayWalking Into Belinho

The Igreja Paroquial de São Pedro Fins de Belinho is on your right, in the center of Belinho. I did love how the light danced on the steeple. 

São Pedro Church on day seventeen of the Portuguese WaySão Pedro Church
Along the Rua Padre Almeida, Just Past the Church on day seventeen of the Portuguese WayAlong the Rua Padre Almeida, Just Past the Church

Then something unique caught my eye, this large and gorgeous Bottle Brush tree. 

Gorgeous Bottle Brush on day seventeen of the Portuguese WayGorgeous Bottle Brush

There are several cafés along this stretch, before and after the church, so keep you eyes open if you need one.

You are now on the Rua Padre Almeida and it continues to head north, paralleling the coastline, changing names as it walks the pilgrimage traveler on yet more cobblestone lined roads, now often with high walls. Houses continue to line the country roads, then suddenly it opens up into fields, after about another kilometer onward, along the Rua de Maracanã.

Spring Fields Along the Rua de Maracanã on day seventeen of the Portuguese WaySpring Fields Along the Rua de Maracanã

It is along this road that you will stumble into the Antas Guest House, another accommodation after the albergue in Marinhas. 

The cobblestone finally gives way to a dirt road and the Way is now a surprisingly lovely, narrow road, with high walls and a wild, overgrown look about it.

Interesting High Walls of the Dirt Road, the Rua de MaracanãInteresting High Walls of the Dirt Road, the Rua de Maracanã

The dirt Rua de Maracanã, comes to a T-intersection with the EM546 at this chapel, the Capela de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios.

Rua de Maracanã Ends Here at Chapel on day seventeen of the Portuguese WayRua de Maracanã Ends Here at Chapel

We turned left at the chapel to walk only briefly on the busier road through the town of Estrada

Close-Up of the Capela de N. Sr. a dos Remédios on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésClose-Up of the Capela de N. Sr. a dos Remédios on day Seventeen of the Camino Portugués

Then shortly, we turned right onto the Travessa do Ferreiro at approximately 10.3 kilometers. At the end of this street, you come to a T-intersection with the busy N13, with these two buildings, pictured below, on the other side. The Way is on a quaint dirt street between them, called the Rua da Carnalha. 

Take the Rua da Carnalha Between BuildingsTake the Rua da Carnalha Between Buildings

As mentioned above, it is imperative to know the status of the Rio Neiva that you will encounter on the path ahead. If there is high water, instead of crossing the N-13 at the buildings shown above, you will have to take it to the right to cross the river along the highway and go around the footbridge shown farther below. Please see the alternative route shown in red, on the interactive map above, for more details. 

You essentially walk on the N13, staying left and northward until it crosses the Rio Neiva. Take the first left after crossing the river, walk a bit more than a kilometer until you come to a small chapel, the Capela de Santo António, where you will turn left. Walk about another 300 meters and take a right turn onto the Travessa de Santiago, where you rejoin the route, shown farther below. 

Otherwise, continue on this dirt road that leads you into a lovely forest for a nice change in scenery, continuing along the Rua da Carnalha. What a nice change for sore feet!

The Rua da Carnalha Forest Road on day seventeen of the Portuguese WayThe Rua da Carnalha Forest Road

In only 1/2 kilometer, the dirt road comes to this nice pillar, below.

Turn Onto Forest Path at this PillarTurn Onto Forest Path at this Pillar

This is where we turned onto the path and through the woods, with the sounds of a creek on your right. This is the Rio Neiva you are hearing

Lovely Forest PathLovely Forest Path

After about 0.6 kilometers, you come to this wonderful footbridge to cross the river. In high waters, one has to take the alternative route! Just before the crossing is the Casa da Azenha Branca (+351 919 843 434), not pictured, where you could stay the night, but it has a multiple night minimum. 

Bridge Across the Rio NeivaFootbridge Across the Rio Neiva

There is a nice information board here, on the other side of the river at about 11.6 kilometers total and a low point of the day. From here, the first steep climb up from the river begins.

We turned right after the crossing to climb a significant hill on a nice wide dirt road. At the top of the hill, we turned right onto the Rua 809 then almost immediately left onto the Rua 802, which is now rough and unimproved cobblestone. We left the woods for a more rural appearing countryside. 

Our day seventeen on the Camino Portugués was now definitely picking up in its character and in the feeling of adventure! I was loving this "simple" life, in this section!

The pilgrimage traveler then comes to a T-intersection at this church, below, and you turn right onto the Avenida de Moldes. Across the street from the church is a new private albergue, the Albergue Dom Nausti. Click on the link to see it, where you can end your day after 12.2 kilometers from Esposende.  

Right Turn Here at NS Guadalupe Church on day seventeen of the Portuguese WayRight Turn Here at NS Guadalupe Church

After a brief way the Camino led us to a side street that parallels the Avenida de Moldes, then joins it again, for a total of approx. 2/3 kilometer.

At the end of the Avenida de Moldes, below, turn right...

Turn Right Here at End of Avenida de Moldes on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésTurn Right Here at End of Avenida de Moldes on day Seventeen, Camino Portugués

...then immediately left onto the quaint cobblestone lane, the Travessa de Santiago, pictured below, a shortcut to the Avenida da Igreja. This is the way to the famous pilgrimage church of Santiago. The climb is getting steeper!

Left Here on the Quaint Travessa de Santiago on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésLeft Here on the Quaint Travessa de Santiago

The Travessa ends at the Avenida da Igreja and we turned right onto it. Now the road climbs even more steeply to the Igreja Santiago.

First, you come to a Camino marker, pictured below, only 100 meters from the church, at the top.

Almost at the Top on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésAlmost at the Top on day Seventeen of the Camino Portugués

The Santiago Niche is just 50 meters before the top. It was a lovely and welcome sight! The distractions along the way helped alleviate the climb. 

The Niche to Santiago on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésThe Niche to Santiago

Here is the Santiago Church, pictured next, or officially, the Igreja de Santiago de Castelo de Neiva, in all its glory at the top. We are more than halfway through our day seventeen on the Camino Portugués at this church, after 13.3 kilometers total. 

(Important to note, there is a white shell-shaped drinking fountain, on the left wall by some sculptures, before you enter the church proper.)

The significance of the Igreja de Santiago is that within it was found a very old inscription, depicted in the placard outside the church, that refutes the notion that the Portuguese Coastal Route was not an official medieval route! This inscription was found during the church's renovation in 1931. The inscription shows the dedication of the church to San Tiago the Greater in 862 CE by a bishop named Nausti, the Bishop of Coimbra at the time, according to the placard below.

Igreja de Santiago de Castelo de NeivaIgreja de Santiago de Castelo de Neiva
Placard Outside Santiago ChurchPlacard Outside Santiago Church

Today, this inscription can be found inside the church as you enter through the main door, high on the right side wall, beside a small window. Here is the inscription as it appears, in situ.

Inscription at the Igreja de Santiago de Castelo de NeivaInscription at the Igreja de Santiago de Castelo de Neiva

It proves that devotion to San Tiago had spread south of the Minho River, this being the most ancient coronation to San Tiago outside of Spain.

After visiting the church, continue on the Av. da Igreja and enjoy the astounding views from the top.

Views from the Top of Santiago on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésViews from the Top of Santiago on day Seventeen of the Camino Portugués

Farther west, when the road becomes divided, take a right turn to go up the hill onto a dirt lane called the Rua Monte Largo. You can see the prominent white shell waymark in the photo below. 

Right Turn Here on Dirt Road on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésRight Turn Here on Dirt Road

Next, you turn onto a path which takes you uphill a bit more, then by the cemetery behind the church where you reach the altitude top at about 13.6 kilometers into the day. It is downhill from here on a double track, through a wonderful forest.

Follow Path Through ForestFollow Path Through Forest

As you wander along the double track, you come to another pillar, below, where the Camino turns left again onto a single track. Notice the kilometer mark at 187!

187 Kilometer Waymark in the Forest187 Kilometer Waymark in the Forest

The single track joins a dirt road. This road, the Rua do Monte, eventually follows a high wall for a short while on the way to the next hamlet of Monte. The road looks rather medieval, doesn't it?

High Wall Along the Rua do MonteHigh Wall Along the Rua do Monte

But just before town, you may like to take a break at this funky Pilgrim’s stop, the Casa de Albinío.

Casa de Albinío, Pilgrim’s Stop Casa de Albinío, Pilgrim’s Stop

Take a hard left in Monte onto another dirt road, appropriately called the Rua do Caminho de Santiago. 

After the town, we came to what looks like an old Roman, or perhaps at least a medieval road, on the Travessa do Caminho de Santiago, below. I could find no information on this road, so I could only guess at its origin. But I did love walking upon it.

It always feels like I am a "real" pilgrim when I walk on these ancient roads. Especially with a road name like, "Travessa do Caminho de Santiago!" The pleasure of pilgrimage at its finest!

Along the Travessa do Caminho de SantiagoAlong the Travessa do Caminho de Santiago

The Travessa bends to the right, but the Camino continues northward, continuing through the forest. 

We stopped for a picnic lunch, at a trail juncture where the path turns hard to the right. As I was finding a nice place to sit on a stone wall, Rich suddenly stumbled serendipitously onto this carved stone cross, below, set in the wall. We were essentially in the middle of nowhere in the forest! It was a nice surprise as we were eating our picnic lunch!

It must have been a reminder to those working in the fields, to maintain a worshiping heart? Who knows? Maybe it was a waymark for them too? I had fun imagining the reason for its existence. 

Carved Cross in the Middle of the Forest on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésCarved Cross in the Middle of the Forest

I noticed on day seventeen of our Camino Portugués, that it looked and felt more like Galicia. Yesterday, the cobblestone really got to my plantar fascia at the bottom of my right foot and it ached during the night. I made Rich massage it!

I was doing better today, maybe because we were getting close to Santiago de Compostela? I watched my feelings, and couldn't determine what exactly it was that was making me happy and excited. We had only one more day left to walk in Portugal. Then we would actually be in Galicia!

The walled forest paths were charming, below, as we continued onward.  

High-Walled Forest Path on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésHigh-Walled Forest Path

The forest path brings you out to a road and the Mosteiro de São Romão do Neiva, after 16.2 kilometers.

Mosteiro de São Romão do NeivaMosteiro de São Romão do Neiva

The Chapel Senhora do Crasto is directly opposite, on the other side of the road and at the top of this long flight of stairs! 

Chapel Senhora do Crasto on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésChapel Senhora do Crasto

If I had had more energy, I would have loved to have climbed up this very long flight of stairs, to see the view! Alas, I did not. It looked like a lovely shrine. 

After walking by the monastery, the Camino turns left at a nice picnic area with a water fountain and immediately onto another paved road. Then briefly back through the forest.

The scenery consists mostly of rural villages on this next stretch. Here are the first houses, I photographed, below, as we walked toward the next town of Chafé. You can see our destination ahead - Viana do Castelo!

Walking Toward Monte do Sul on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésWalking Toward Monte do Sul

After 3/4 kilometer from the Monastery, turn left onto a narrow dirt road, the Caminho da Rebadeira. Come to a T-intersection, turn right to walk into the center of Chafé. A left turn onto the Av. da Amorosa brings you into the center at approximately 17.7 kilometers. We walked by two open cafés in Chafé, if you need a pitstop. There is also an accommodation here, in the center of town, the Casa do Campo do Forno, +351 934 122 695.

At this point we had only about 7 km left to go to Viana do Castelo.

Some time after lunch, I digressed a bit, felt less energetic, and had to ask my right foot to pull as much as my left, My left toe pad started to hurt again. I was glad that our destination was not far away. 

A Cross on the Road to Chafé on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésA Cross on the Road through Chafé

In Chafé, a Camino angel came running out with a bucket of oranges from his tree, and gave us 4 total, 2 to eat and 2 for the road. He chatted and said he was born in Germany, but lives in Portugal. He initially tried his German on us, which didn't work well, then switched to Portuguese. I was able to understand most of what he said, with my Tarzan Spanish knowledge. 

After reaching the center of Chafé, the pilgrimage traveler then turns right onto the Caminho do Campo do Forno; A right onto a narrow dirt road, the Caminho de Entre Quintas, a bend to the left, then right again on the Caminho da Escola, to pick up the Caminho da Ribeira.

There is an amazing-looking hotel here, called the Casa da Reina, that the Camino walks right by. If you need a break from the albergue grind, this may be your ticket. We walked onward. 

Next, you take a right turn on the Rua do Noval, to walk past the town of Noval. Then a left turn on the Rua da Casa da Fábrico, leading to the town of Anha.

Take the Rua da Casa da Fábrico to the town of Noval on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésTake the Rua da Casa da Fábrico to the town of Anha

The Rua da Casa da Fábrica, is on the way to the church in Anha, with its steeple in sight, ahead.

Walking Towards the Church in Anha on day seventeen of the Portugese WayWalking Towards the Church in Anha

The church in Anha, the Igreja Matriz da Paróquia de São Tiago de Vila Nova De Anha, that you will reach after 20 kilometerswas an inspirational place for me, on day seventeen of the Camino Portugués, and it revived my spirits once more. Church bells were playing a lovely tune, during our visit. I sat and listened for a long time, filled with beauty and wonder at the Mystery of it all.

This lovely little pilgrim's church, with its welcoming statue to São Tiago (San Tiago) was open, I am sure, especially for we pilgrims, stumbling by. As I sat and listened to the bells, it felt like they were ringing just for me! I was grateful to the town and its willingness to use its resources to maintain this peaceful place for all to enjoy as they passed by. 

The pilgrimage traveler is able to get a stamp here, self-serve style. There is a gorgeous gilded altar and painted murals in this wonderful little intimate church. 

Church of São Tiago in AnhaChurch of São Tiago in Anha
Gilded Altar and Murals in the Church on day seventeen of the Portugese WayGilded Altar and Murals in the Church

We reluctantly continued past the church, on the Rua da Casa da Fábrica, turning left to join the main road northward, the Avenida 9 de Julho, beginning the second steep climb of the day. After about 100 meters, we joined the small cobblestone side road, the Rua Dom José de Alpuim for 1/2 km. 

Along the Rua Dom José de AlpuimAlong the Rua Dom José de Alpuim

As you walk through town, you will find several cafés if you need them.

If you were to stay on the Av. 9 de Julho, after about 300 meters you would come first to the inexpensive Dias House, and a bit farther on, the private Albergue Casa da Carolina

It was along the Rua Dom José de Alpuim that we spotted our first hórreo, below, a Galician-style granary as we got closer to Santiago de Compostela.

We See the First Horreo -Getting Near Galicia on day seventeen of the Portugese WayWe See Our First Hórreo (Granary) - Getting Near Galicia

The road ends at this photo, below, at the wine estate, the Quinta do Paço d'Anha where you can stay the night if you wish. You can see an entry pillar in the photo. This is where we turned left onto the Avenida da Estrada Real and began to ascend more steeply. 

Turn Left Here at the Estate, Quinta do Paço d'Anha on day seventeen of the Portugese WayTurn Left Here at the Wine Estate, Quinta do Paço d'Anha

We walked steeply uphill, through the town of Penedos and towards the second "alto" or summit of the day. Shortly after Penedos, you will have finally reached the top of the climb at about 21.4 kilometers. It is nothing but a descent from here, towards Viana do Costelo.

Up the Hill on the Avenida da Estrada Real on day seventeen of the Portugese WayUp the Hill on the Avenida da Estrada Real

After about 1/2 kilometer, the Avenida da Estrada Real becomes the EM544 and shortly thereafter, the Camino turns right here onto this forest road. Notice Viana do Castelo ahead!

Turn onto Forest RoadTurn onto Forest Road

It is a brief, perhaps 100 meter diversion off the highway, to walk on this ancient segment of road.

Another Ancient Road Section on day seventeen of the Portugese WayAnother Ancient Road Section

The ancient road continues, extremely steeply down the hill to join the EM544 once again. 

Extremely Steep Descent to EM544Extremely Steep Descent to EM544

Soon after rejoining the EM544, the sign for the town of Darque appears.

Walking Towards Darque on Day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésWalking Towards Darque on Day Seventeen of the Camino Portugués

Walking down the EM544, is a short quarter kilometer jaunt, and suddenly you are on the southside of Viana do Castelo. 

It was exciting to see the town ahead, with its famous chapel, the Santuário de Santa Luzia on the hill, as you steeply descend the EM544. The forest opened and we were approaching the metro area. The highway bends west, but we continued straight, here in the photo below, directly towards town. 

Nearing Viana do Castelo on day Seventeen of the Camino PortuguésNearing Viana do Castelo on day Seventeen of the Camino Portugués

After passing an abandoned development, continue straight through a sandy shortcut. I called this the "sand trap" because it is a trail with deep sand. It was dry when we crossed. I can only imagine the muck when wet. 

The “Sand Trap”The “Sand Trap”

We stumbled out of the sand trap and onto the N13 at a roundabout, and walked on the busy road through Darque. There are lots of shops and restaurants through here if you need them and one accommodation along the way, the Residencial & Restaurante Don Augusto, (+351 258 322 491).

In Cidade Nova, South Side of Viana do Castelo on day seventeen of the Portugese WayIn Cidade Nova, South Side of Viana do Castelo

Continuing on the N13, come to a large roundabout before the sign for Viana do Castelo, seen in the photo below, and just before the River Limia. Stay to the left to enter the roundabout and pick up the sidewalk on the other side to cross the bridge.

Entering Viana do Castelo on the N13 on day seventeen of the Portugese WayEntering Viana do Castelo on the N13

Follow the N13 across the River Limia on the bridge, the Ponte Eifel, along the Rua Dom Afonso III.

When you reach the other side, the bridge is elevated as you can see. When you pass a park on your left, below you, look for a set of stairs leading you down to that park. When you reach the street level, below, you are under the bridge. 

Cross the Bridge into Viana do CasteloCross the Bridge into Viana do Castelo

If you are headed to the parochial Albergue de Peregrinos de São João da Cruz dos Caminhos in the convent and church (Convento e Igreja do Carmo), proceed to walk under the bridge, straight onward (eastward) and cross the street in front of you. Turn to the left onto the Rua do Cidade do Cacheu. In a few meters, come to an intersection and cross over it, continuing on the Rua do Carmo. You can see the church ahead. (If you are walking through Viana, see the Coastal Route description for day eighteen.)

The reception area for the albergue is just before the church tower with the blue “albergue” sign, see photo below. By the doors to the reception, there is a door bell and a small blue sign with instructions, reminding you that check in is from 1330 to 1830 hours, on a first-come, first-served basis. Ring the bell for service. 

The Albergue de Peregrinos de São João da Cruz dos CaminhosAlbergue de Peregrinos de São João da Cruz dos Caminhos

If you were walking onward into town, after descending the steps from the bridge, and landing directly under the bridge facing to the east, make a complete turn around, to walk westward, and look for the yellow arrows. To continue on the coastal route from here, go to Day Eighteen on the Coastal Route or to Day Eighteen on the Senda Litoral, depending on your choice of routes. 

We met Tatiana, a Czech pilgrim, while we were waiting for a response at the Convent. She had arrived shortly after us. 

After dropping off our packs, we went into town to have a look around. We stumbled upon the Capela das Almas, a lovely little historical chapel first built in the 13th century. The chapel has some evidence of uncovered Romanesque walls, perhaps from as long ago as the 9th century. 

Capela das AlmasCapela das Almas

Then onwards, to the narrow streets in the center of town, with shops and cafés:

Rua Mateus Barbosa, Viana do Castelo on day seventeen of the Portugese CaminoRua Mateus Barbosa, Viana do Castelo
R. de São Pedro, Viana do Castelo on day seventeen of the Portugese CaminoR. de São Pedro, Viana do Castelo

Then we turned northward toward this 18th century church, the Casa da Capela das Malheiras, with its flamboyant Baroque-style. It was closed when we sat by the café here to wait for our friend Steve and have a beer! We knew he was near and texted him to join us!

Casa da Capela das Malheiras in Viana do Castelo on day seventeen of the Portugese CaminoCasa da Capela das Malheiras

After hooking up with Steve, from the UK, and celebrating the day with a beer, we ran into Yanni from the Netherlands, and off we all went to the main square, the Praça da República. In the square there is this old edifice, below, the Antigos Paços do Concelho, the old town hall converted into an art gallery.

The Praça da RepúblicaThe Praça da República

Rising majestically above the town is the 20th century Santuário de Santa Luzia, the prominent building on the hill behind Viana do Castelo that you can see on your approach to town. If you can find a few hours during your time here, I highly encourage you to go see it! You can either climb the steep stairway to the top of the hill, about 600 meters long, or take the elevador, photos below, which only costs three Euros for a round trip. 

Escadório da Confraria de Santa LuziaEscadório da Confraria de Santa Luzia
Elevador de Santa LuziaElevador de Santa Luzia

The sanctuary, rises mightily on the hill and offers free entry. You can actually climb to the top of the dome of the sanctuary for an additional 2 Euros if you wish. 

Santuário de Santa LuziaSantuário de Santa Luzia

There is also the Albergue de Santa Luzia on the hilltop as well, which receives excellent reviews from fellow pilgrims with its fabulous views. 

And below is a panorama that I shot standing at the top of the stairs, by the green statue in the middle. The 360 degree views are truly extraordinary and are worth the effort to go. 

The Majestic Panoramic View from the Steps of the Santuário de Santa LuziaThe Majestic Panoramic View from the Steps of the Santuário de Santa Luzia

We rounded up our old and some new friends and went to a small restaurant for dinner together. Despite what your information says, there is NO kitchen at the albergue. Just a microwave, hot plate and a few bowls and cups. 

A group of us, hungry for a meal we could prepare for ourselves had bought chicken breasts, pasta, bread and veggies in town, only to end up donating what we couldn't take with us to the nuns, when we learned there was no kitchen! Needless to say, the nuns appreciated our mistake very much!  

Now, I recommend a restaurant by the bridge, and almost under it, called Cerqueira’s in Rio. They have designer dishes and drinks, without designer prices, and the setting by the bridge, especially the outdoor seating is fabulous! The owner is amazingly friendly and customer-oriented and he puts special touches on everything! Normally I don't recommend restaurants, because this is still a pilgrim's splurge, but I felt it was worth it! 

Cerqueira's in Rio, Viana do CastloGourmet Salads and Regional Olives, Cerqueira's in Rio
Cerqueira's in Rio, Viana do CastloVolcano Drinks, Cerqueira's in Rio

There are several inexpensive places with hostel/dormitory-type accommodation in Viana do Castelo, including the HI Hostel Viana do Castelo - Pousada de Juventude right after the bridge, down by the river to the east (right), the Villa Margarida, farther along the N13 to the northeast of town. Check the google map above, for their exact location. For even more choices, here is a link to Viana do Castelo hotels

We met lots of new friends at the Senhora do Carmo church albergue. Tatiana, a Dr from the Czech Republic, Yanni from the Netherlands, again, and we got to know the Frenchman, Michele, and Steve the Britt much better. And we would continue to run into them on the next day, day eighteen!

Reflections on Day Seventeen, Camino Portugués

Our day seventeen was filled with the simplicity, discovery and adventure that Elizabeth Von Armin refers to in the beginning quote. Thus far, our personal adventure, though different on the Caminho Portugués da Costa, in comparison to the Camino from Lisbon to Porto, was still fulfilling in its own unique way. 

We were making new friends, yet continuing on at our own rhythm. I missed the coast on day seventeen of the Caminho Portugués da Costa, yet I knew that there was much more to come on day eighteen if I chose the Senda Litoral!

Salutation

May your own day seventeen on the Caminho Portugués da Costa, be filled with no worries of everyday life and be filled with simplicity, adventure and discovery!



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And the Journey Continues:

~ Lisbon to Porto

~ Porto to Santiago Via the Coastal Route and/or the Sendal Litoral

~ Porto to Santiago Via the Central Route



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Need suggestions on what to pack for your next pilgrimage? Click Here or on the photo below!




Carbon Trekking Poles

Carbon fiber construction (not aluminum) in a trekking pole makes them ultra lightweight. We like the Z-Pole style from Black Diamond so we can hide our poles in our pack from potential thieves before getting to our albergue! There are many to choose from!  (See more of our gear recommendations! )




Gregory BackPack - My Favorite Brand

An ultralight backpack should serve you well for years, like my Gregory has - six Caminos in all! My 28L Women's pack gets a 5-star on Amazon (Ones for Guys too)!




Microfiber Towel Set

Do not forget your quick-dry microfiber towel! 




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