The stage, step by step
From Santiago to Castelo and Ames
The way out of Santiago combines streets and paths that soon lead into greener surroundings. Between Castelo and Ames, woodland and dirt tracks predominate, with short rises that are manageable as long as you do not push too hard.
Down to the valley and Augapesada bridge
Between kilometres 8.1 and 11.3, the route loses 127 m and takes you to the bottom of the valley, at Augapesada, beside its medieval bridge over the Roxos river. This is a good time to drink and have something to eat: the day's climb starts immediately afterwards.
Alto do Mar de Ovellas
The climb that defines the stage begins at kilometre 11.3. It covers 2.4 km to kilometre 13.7, gaining 215 m at an average gradient of 9%, with a series of bends and barely any respite. Take it steadily and make use of the fountain and rest area just before the summit.
Descent to Ponte Maceira
From the high point, the way descends 119 m between kilometres 13.7 and 16.7, bringing you to Ponte Maceira on the banks of the Tambre. This is a stop to savour, even if you are making good time.
The final kilometres to Negreira
Just over five kilometres of rolling terrain separate the Tambre from Negreira, with more road walking than you might like. The final approach follows roads with traffic, so stay alert just when you think you have nearly arrived.
What to see on stage 1
Augapesada Medieval Bridge
This small medieval bridge crosses the Roxos river during the first few kilometres of the stage. It comes just before the climb to Alto do Mar de Ovellas, so it also serves as a useful marker that the most demanding section is approaching.
Ponte Maceira
Its five-arched bridge crosses the Tambre and forms part of a particularly well-preserved rural setting. It was built in the 13th and 14th centuries on the initiative of the Chapter of Compostela Cathedral, to facilitate the passage of pilgrims and goods towards Fisterra.
San Brais Chapel
Also known as the Chapel of Carmen or San Blas, this chapel stands opposite one end of Ponte Maceira's medieval bridge. It is an 18th-century church with a small central belfry.
Pazo de O Cotón
This historic fortification marks your arrival in Negreira. Beside the pazo stands the chapel of San Mauro, another of the most recognisable heritage sites at the end of the stage.
Where to sleep in Negreira
In Santiago de Compostela, you have every kind of accommodation for a well-rested start, from Albergue The Last Stamp and Albergue do Seminario Menor da Asunción to Hospedería San Martín Pinario. There is no obvious overnight stop between Santiago and Negreira, so most pilgrims complete the stage in one go; at the destination, the Albergue de Peregrinos de Negreira is the obvious choice, and in summer it pays to get there early.
Where to eat and refuel
Santiago de Compostela is the best place to eat and stock up, with A Tafona Restaurant, O Tamboril, Mesón El Bombero, Século XXI and CHUORE (Churros & More...), as well as supermarkets such as Covirán and Froiz. Beyond the city it is all small villages: do not count on finding anything open mid-morning, least of all on the stretch between Ponte Maceira and Negreira.
Practical tips for this stage
Set off with time to spare
Start early so you reach Alto do Mar de Ovellas with plenty of energy. The climb accounts for practically all the difficulty of the stage, and it is best not to tackle it after building up unnecessary fatigue.
Fill your bottle before the summit
There is a fountain and rest area before the summit, plus another marked fountain at the end of the climb. Do not pass them by: after that effort is the ideal time to replenish your water.
Leave Santiago with your supplies sorted
There is no run of bars or shops between Ponte Maceira and Negreira. Buy what you need in Santiago and do not rely on a rural establishment being open on the day you pass through.
Take care on tarmac and near traffic
The stage mixes paths, tracks and roads. There are traffic-heavy sections on the approach to Negreira, so walk carefully and stay alert at the end, when you are already tired.
Frequently asked questions about stage 1
Is it a difficult stage?
It is a manageable 22 km, but with one very specific climb. Alto do Mar de Ovellas gains 215 m between kilometres 11.3 and 13.7, with an average gradient of 9%.
How long does it take to walk from Santiago to Negreira?
The estimated average time is 6.3 hours. The actual time will depend on your stops at Augapesada and Ponte Maceira, and on the pace you keep on Alto do Mar de Ovellas.
Are there services along the way?
Santiago has plenty of options, but from there the route is rural and there is very little after Ponte Maceira. It is best to set off with enough food and water rather than depend on finding an open establishment.
Does the stage finish in central Negreira?
The stage destination is Negreira, where you will find Albergue de Peregrinos de Negreira. The final approach combines paths and roads, so take particular care with traffic.
