Stage 3. Esposende – Viana do Castelo (24 km)

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In this stage we leave the characteristic coastal environment of Esposende to go a little inland, although you can rest assured that we will meet the ocean again on our arrival in Viana do Castelo, also known as the golden filigree. Besides, just because we leave the coastline for a few kilometres doesn't mean that we won't find spectacular scenery, right?

This stage is part of the Portuguese Way along the coast. Would you like to walk it with your accommodation already booked? These organised trips include it: Portuguese Way along the coast from Oporto to Santiago and Portuguese Way along the coast from Porto to A Guarda.

You leave Esposende and head into a more inland stretch, with the beautiful descent to the river Neiva as the best moment of the day. Past chapels and churches you keep gaining ground until crossing the famous Eiffel bridge and entering Viana do Castelo, with its deep seafaring roots. Wander its centre as far as the Praça da República and treat yourself to a good bacalhau, the soul of Portuguese cuisine.