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Caminha and Vila Praia de Âncora, in Viana do Castelo, stand out for their picturesque coast, peaceful beaches and charming villages full of history and natural beauty.
You will say goodbye to Póvoa de Varzim pedaling happily along a bike lane that crosses the town. Upon reaching the end of the beach, you will continue your peculiar walk by the sea. The first kilometers of the day will take you along beaches, momentarily moving away from the sea to pass through some greenhouse areas and fields. After reaching the small town of Apulia, you will approach an area of forests and pine groves that lead to Bofins Beach. A few more kilometers and you will be in Esposende, a perfect place to take a break. You will continue the route climbing up to the cemetery of Castelo de Neiva on a fairly steep slope, but it will be rewarded with the pilgrim atmosphere that the area has due to the presence of hostels. Once on more bike-friendly terrain, you will arrive at Chafé and after a slight ascent of 2 kilometers, you will have unbeatable views of the first city of the day: Viana do Castelo. Be careful on the descent, as the signs can be confusing; you must not leave the road at any time. You will continue pedaling towards the higher part of the city, towards the beautiful basilica of Santa Luzía. Moving north, you will reach the sea again, riding parallel for a few kilometers. After passing through an area of labyrinthine streets, stone walls, and cobblestones, you will arrive at a small ravine, in an area of rivers, waterfalls, and watermills. The last 20 km of the stage run through forests of pines and eucalyptus and some hills. After crossing a bridge and a stream, we arrive at the first houses of Vila Praia de Ancora.