The stage, step by step
Leaving Lubián
Before setting off you can shop at Ferreras or have breakfast at Estrella de Lubián. Fonte da Paneira is still close to the start; use it if you need to fill your bottle before tackling the climb.
Climb towards A Canda
The profile first descends between km 0.5 and 2.3, but changes quickly. Between km 3.5 and 7 you climb 263 m at an average gradient of 7.5%, the most demanding section of the entire stage.
Descent and crossing into Galicia
After reaching the top, you descend 203 m between km 7 and 10.5. A Fonte da Portela lies near the climb and Porta Galega appears around km 11, a useful reference point before continuing.
Final climb and arrival in A Gudiña
Between km 15 and 21.3 you gain another 124 m, with an average gradient of 2%. The final section descends to A Gudiña, where you can sort out food, shopping, the pharmacy and accommodation.
What to see on stage 29
Lubián
The last Zamora village on the Via de la Plata, tucked into the valley before the crossing into Galicia. Ferreras is where you should buy the day’s water and food, because there is nothing further up.
Santuario de la Tuiza
The sanctuary lies in the surroundings of Lubián and serves as a reference point before the climb. From here, the route clearly begins to take on a mountainous character.
Puerto de A Canda
The climb to the pass contains the main effort of the day. It also marks the crossing into Galicia and the change in scenery after leaving the Castilian plateau behind.
A Gudiña
This is the destination and the place where you should finish stocking up. There you will find Supermercado Maver, Nicoya, Casa da Viúva and Farmacia Ortopedia Estévez A Gudiña.
Where to sleep in A Gudiña
Accommodation is limited and concentrated in three places. In Lubián you have Albergue de Peregrinos; around halfway, Albergue da Vilavella appears. In A Gudiña you can choose between Casa da Viúva and Albergue de Peregrinos. If you want to sleep at the destination, book before setting off.
Where to eat and refuel
In Lubián you can stop at Estrella de Lubián and shop at Ferreras. Porta Galega lies around halfway through the stage, but it is best not to count on continuous options during the climb and descent. A Gudiña has Nicoya and Supermercado Maver, enough to sort out your arrival.
Practical tips for this stage
Do not underestimate the first kilometres
Although the stage is 23.8 km, the climb between km 3.5 and 7 gains 263 m at an average gradient of 7.5%. Start slowly and save your legs for the final climb.
Plan your water in sections
You have Fonte da Paneira near the start, A Fonte da Portela close to the first climb, and A Fonte da Praza Maior and A Fonte de San Pedro further on. Do not assume every point will be available; leave with a margin.
Make the most of crossing into Galicia
The stage enters Galicia after A Canda. It is a good moment for a short break, to check your feet and rucksack, and to tackle the second half with your pace settled.
Book in A Gudiña
The destination has Casa da Viúva and Albergue de Peregrinos, but the choice is limited. If you plan to finish there, confirm your bed before you start walking.
Frequently asked questions about stage 29
How long does the stage from Lubián to A Gudiña take?
It is 23.8 km long and the average duration is 5.3 hours. Although it is shorter than the previous days, it includes 440 m of ascent and 445 m of descent.
How hard is the climb to A Canda?
The main climb runs from km 3.5 to 7: it gains 263 m at an average gradient of 7.5%.
Where do you cross into Galicia?
You enter Galicia on the climb towards A Canda, after leaving Lubián and the Castilian plateau behind.
Are there services in A Gudiña?
Yes. On arrival you have Nicoya, Supermercado Maver, Casa da Viúva, Albergue de Peregrinos and Farmacia Ortopedia Estévez A Gudiña.
