Stage 19. Barcelos – Ponte de Lima (34.5 km)

This is a long and interesting stage, in which we go through places with a great wine tradition. The slopes are generally moderate, although we will have a considerable climb when we head towards Portela de Tamel. As the route of this stage is longer than usual, it is possible to divide the section into two, staying overnight in Vitorino dos Piães, 22 kilometres from Barcelos, although the official stage ends in Ponte de Lima, the capital par excellence of Portuguese vinho verde.

Ponte de Lima was considered the first Portuguese town, after being granted the status of a charter by Teresa de León in the 12th century. It stands out for the excellent preservation of its historic centre.

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

A long stage through rural Portugal, among villages, churches and cobbled paths. You leave Barcelos and move on unhurried through Vila Boas, Tamel and Balugães — many pilgrims split the day in Vitorino dos Piães. The reward comes at the end: crossing the beautiful medieval bridge over the river Lima and entering Ponte de Lima, one of the most charming towns on the Camino Portuguese.