The stage, step by step
Urban departure from Ourense
Make the most of Ourense for breakfast, buying water and carrying enough food: after leaving the city, there is no obvious intermediate settlement. The profile drops 31 m between km 0.8 and 1.8 before beginning to climb.
The day's main climb
Between km 6.3 and 9.8, you face 278 m of ascent, with an average gradient of 7.9%. This is the section that defines the stage; use a short stride and do not try to rush it.
A change of pace in the middle section
After the climb, there is a 59 m descent between km 12.8 and 15.3, preceded by another 42 m of ascent between km 11.3 and 12.8. This is a transitional area: use the descent to drink and eat.
Final climb and arrival in Cea
The final section rises again between km 15.3 and 19.7, with 125 m of elevation gain and an average gradient of 2.8%. After that, there are only the final kilometres to Cea, where it is worth having your accommodation and food arranged in advance.
What to see on stage 33
Ourense
The city is the day's main provisioning point and should be treated accordingly: Froiz, Gadis and Mercadona for shopping, and Panatier or Café Lateral for breakfast. Once the climb begins, there is nothing for hours.
The climb between km 6.3 and 9.8
This is the most recognisable feature of the route. You gain 278 m in 3.5 km, with an average gradient of 7.9%, so it is worth tackling by focusing on your rhythm rather than the clock.
The transitional section between km 12.8 and 15.3
After the first effort, the profile allows you to recover with a 59 m descent. It is a good moment to pace yourself before the second climb, which starts shortly afterwards.
Cea
Cea is known for its bread with Protected Geographical Indication, baked in a stone oven, and it is one of the few places on the Camino where the lasting memory of the stage is a loaf. Arrive with enough time to buy one before the shops close.
Where to sleep in Cea
Accommodation is concentrated in Ourense, whether you are starting there or staying overnight: the Albergue de Peregrinos de Ourense, the Albergue de Peregrinos Eligio Rivas Quintas and Grelo Hostel. There is no comparable hostel provision on the way to Cea, so if you plan to sleep in Cea, arrange it in advance.
Where to eat and refuel
Ourense is the key place to eat and shop before setting off. You can have breakfast at Panatier, Villabús, Café Bar Caypa or Café Lateral, and stock up at Froiz, Gadis, Mercadona or Eroski City. Once you leave the city, do not count on an intermediate settlement for an improvised meal; in Cea, you need to arrive with a plan.
Practical tips for this stage
Have breakfast and shop in Ourense
The departure town has the stage's main concentration of services. Carry enough water and food so you do not depend on finding a bar during the climb.
Save your energy for km 6
The climb from km 6.3 to 9.8 gains 278 m at 7.9%. Set off slowly and avoid turning the first urban kilometres into an overly fast warm-up.
Do not consider the stage over after the first climb
There is still a 125 m climb between km 15.3 and 19.7. The average gradient is lower, but it comes when you already have most of the day in your legs.
Plan your arrival in Cea
Cea is the destination, but the stage does not offer a continuous chain of services. Confirm where you will sleep and what you will do for dinner before leaving Ourense.
Frequently asked questions about stage 33
Is it a flat stage?
The distance is 22.2 km, but the profile includes 506 m of ascent. The 278 m climb between km 6.3 and 9.8 means it is not a flat day in practice.
Which part of the stage is hardest?
The climb between km 6.3 and 9.8, with 278 m of elevation gain and an average gradient of 7.9%. This is the section where pacing matters most.
Are there villages to stop in between Ourense and Cea?
Ourense is the only intermediate settlement indicated on the route. It is therefore advisable to set off with water, food and everything you need to complete the 22.2 km.
How long does it take to reach Cea?
The average time is 4.9 hours. The actual time may be longer because of the initial climb, the second 125 m climb and the weight of your pack.