What are the hardest stages of the Portuguese Way?
In all the routes and stages of the Camino de Santiago there is a lot of beauty, nature and heritage. Of course, all this, between dozens of kilometers, with sections and stages that are easier to travel and others that are more complicated. The latter are characterized, above all, by having large slopes and, sometimes, accumulating many kilometers of ascent.
Below we want to inform you of the most commented stages and climbs due to their physical demands on the Portuguese Way. Some of them, for many, are part of the hardest stages of the Camino de Santiago.
- Codesal – Alto da Portela Grande de Labruja
If the Portuguese Way is quite flat and accessible for any pilgrim, it is not exempt from some climbs. In Portugal, on stage number 20 between Ponte de Lima and Rubiães, walkers face the Alto de A Portela Grande in Labruja. In 4.2 km of distance you climb about 300 m between forests and beautiful landscapes in a short stage but with a demanding challenge.
- Barcelos – Ponte de Lima
This is one of the longest stages (34.5 km) of the Camino Portugues and without a doubt one of the hardest. The section between Barcelos and Ponte de Lima is famous for its length and steep slopes, especially near Portela. The unevenness and length of the stage make this journey a real challenge, even for the most experienced pilgrims.
