From Monforte de Lemos to Chantada

Today we are once again facing a somewhat long stage. However, the stage between Monforte de Lemos and Chantada will reward us with the incredible landscapes of the Ribeira Sacra that will accompany us throughout the journey. The only hard part of the stage is the descent to the Belesar reservoir and the subsequent ascent.

Today we leave Monforte de Lemos and head towards Chantada, crossing the Cabe River via the historic medieval bridge of the city. Our first point of reference on the way will be Pantón, which we will reach after crossing the Carboeiro stream and visiting the church of San Salvador de Moreda.

We continue our journey passing in front of the majestic pazo of O Reguengo, where its 15th-century chapel stands out. From here, the route takes us along ascending dirt tracks and paths that traverse the areas of Castrotañe, Piñeiro, and Castillón. Alternating stretches of asphalt with uphill and downhill trails, we will continue along the "Camiño Grande" until we reach A Barxa.

Throughout our journey, we will cross the municipality of O Saviñao, specifically passing through the parishes of San Lorenzo de Fión, Diomondi, Rendal, and Fontela. The path continues among meadows, oak groves, and beautiful rural settings of great scenic value.

The final stretch of the stage leads us downhill towards the Miño River through the famous "Cóbados de Belesar", following the remnants of an ancient Roman road that zigzags towards the reservoir. After crossing the Miño River, we will begin a final ascent that, after passing through several small population centers, will take us directly to Chantada, our stage end.

Things to consider

You are in the heart of the Ribeira Sacra, an area famous for its heroic viticulture. You will find numerous small wineries where you can stop to taste their exquisite varieties of wines with Denomination of Origin.

Places of interest

• Church of Santa María de Camporramiro
• Belesar Bridge
• Fortress of Chantada
• Church of San Cristóbal de Fornas (Chantada)

Typical dishes

• Chestnuts (in all their varieties)
• Red fruits: strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and cherries
• Maria cookies
• Beef and Galician veal
• Wines from Ribeira Sacra (especially Mencía and Godello)