The stage, step by step
Leaving Cernache
Before setting off, you can buy supplies at Aurélio Apóstolo or Meu Super and have something to eat or drink at Pastelaria Olpy, Café Hortense or O Moleirinho. The route leaves Cernache and passes through Antanhol before approaching Coimbra.
A climb and the first descent
Between km 3.2 and km 4.1, you descend 47 m, then tackle a 66 m climb between km 4.1 and km 6.6. It is a short section, but the changes of pace are more noticeable than its distance might suggest.
Descending towards the city
The main descent runs from km 6.6 to km 8.6 and loses 114 m at an average gradient of 5.8%. You are now reaching Coimbra’s services: Intermarché, Farmácia Baptista and Padaria/Pastelaria Sta Clara.
Entering Coimbra
The final descent, between km 9.5 and km 11, drops another 83 m. You arrive in a city with cafés and restaurants such as Universidade das Tostas, Petiscos Come e Cala-te, Restaurante Barca do Mondego and Fogo e Tradição.
What to see on stage 9
Sé Velha
The Old Cathedral is one of Coimbra’s great historic landmarks, and you encounter it just as you finish the stage. If you complete the route early, it is well worth allowing time to visit it without rushing.
Igreja de São Tiago
It stands in Praça do Comércio and dates from the 12th century. Its dedication to Santiago makes it a particularly meaningful stop on a pilgrimage route.
Monastério de Santa Cruz
It was founded in the 12th century by the Canons Regular of Saint Augustine and combines Romanesque and Manueline elements. Its royal pantheon contains the tombs of Dom Afonso Henriques and Sancho I.
River Mondego
The approach to Coimbra has a strong riverside connection with the Mondego. It is the most visible change between the small-town route and the arrival in the urban centre.
Where to sleep in Coimbra
In Cernache, you can set off from Albergue de Peregrinos Cernache or Casa Amazon. Coimbra has a much wider choice: Albergue de Peregrinos Rainha Santa Isabel, O Convento, Pousada de Juventude, Coimbra Portagem Hostel, Change the World Hostel, Hostel Sé Velha, Serenata Hostel & Suites, Residencial Aviz, NS Hostel & Suites and The Luggage. If you are travelling in peak season, book before leaving Cernache.
Where to eat and refuel
In Cernache, you can have breakfast at Pastelaria Olpy, Café Hortense or O Moleirinho and buy provisions at Aurélio Apóstolo or Meu Super. As you descend towards the city, you pass Churrascaria Brasão 2000 and João dos Leitões; in Coimbra, the choice is extensive, including Restaurante Observatório, Restaurante Barca do Mondego, Fogo e Tradição, Cordel, O Casarão and Petiscos Come e Cala-te.
Practical tips for this stage
Do not judge it by distance alone
It is only 11.3 km, but you gain 170 m. The final descent has average gradients of 5.8% and 5.5%, so wear footwear with good grip.
Buy supplies before setting off
Cernache is the easiest place to pick up water and some food: Aurélio Apóstolo and Meu Super are at the start. You will find more services as you approach Coimbra.
Allow time for Coimbra
You can finish early, but the stage is not really over if you want to explore the city. Set aside part of the day for Sé Velha, Igreja de São Tiago and Monastério de Santa Cruz.
Secure your bed
Coimbra has plenty of alternatives, but it is also a popular urban destination. If you want to stay at O Convento, Pousada de Juventude or one of the hostels in the centre, do not leave it until you arrive.
Frequently asked questions about stage 9
Is it an easy stage because it is only 11.3 km?
It is short, but includes 170 m of ascent and several steep descents. Between km 6.6 and km 8.6, you descend 114 m at an average gradient of 5.8%.
Where can I buy supplies before setting off?
In Cernache, you have Aurélio Apóstolo and Meu Super. You can also have breakfast at Pastelaria Olpy, Café Hortense or O Moleirinho.
Which monuments are worth visiting in Coimbra?
Sé Velha, Igreja de São Tiago and Monastério de Santa Cruz are three particularly significant sights to visit on arrival.