The stage, step by step
Leaving Gondán
You begin with an immediate climb between km 1.5 and km 3.3, gaining 139 m at an average gradient of 7.7%. Do not be misled by the short distance: the first kilometres call for a patient pace.
Descending towards the next valley
Between km 3.3 and km 6.3, you descend 176 m at an average gradient of 5.9%. This section allows you to recover, although it is worth saving energy because the toughest climb is still to come.
The central climb
From km 6.3 to km 8.6, you climb 191 m at an average gradient of 8.5%. This is the key climb of the day; if you are carrying a heavy pack, tackle it in sections and do not run low on water.
Descent and entry into Mondoñedo
Once over the high point, the profile drops 98 m between km 8.6 and km 11, then another 97 m between km 11.6 and km 13.2. The final section climbs gently back towards Mondoñedo, where the cathedral awaits.
What to see on stage 29
Gondán
Gondán is the starting point for a stage that is short in kilometres but intense at the beginning. Start with water and food, as the first clear support point comes on reaching Mondoñedo.
Galician inland valley
The route crosses the inland valleys of Galicia and changes rhythm between climbs and descents. The second half feels more manageable thanks to the descent towards Mondoñedo.
Catedral de Mondoñedo
Catedral de Mondoñedo is a 16th-century Gothic cathedral and the main arrival landmark. Mondoñedo was also an important medieval episcopal centre in Galicia.
Where to sleep in Mondoñedo
Mondoñedo offers several options for finishing the stage. The most straightforward is Albergue Público de Peregrinos de Mondoñedo; nearby, you will find Albergue Castelos, Albergue de Peregrinos da Gracia, Tropicana, Albergue Lumen and Albergue O Bisonte. If you prefer a room of your own, there is Pensión Bracamonte. At the start of the stage, Refuxio de Peregrinos de Cabarcos is available if you set off late and prefer to shorten the day. Book ahead if you are walking in a busy season.
Where to eat and refuel
Do not count on having a full meal in Gondán before setting off. In Mondoñedo, you can choose between O Pipote, A Voltiña, A Horta da Paula, Pulpería Suso and Taberna O Valeco; for breakfast or an afternoon snack, there are Café Canton and O Rei das Tartas, and you can shop at Supermercado Onda.
Practical tips for this stage
Do not underestimate 15.6 km
The distance is short, but the stage includes 434 m of ascent and 451 m of descent. Set off with time to spare and do not turn the morning into a race.
Tackle the climbs in sections
The first climb comes between km 1.5 and km 3.3, and the second, more demanding one, between km 6.3 and km 8.6. Their average gradients are 7.7% and 8.5%.
Take water from Gondán
Along the route, you can stop at Fonte do Adro, Fonte de San Pedro and Fonte dos Pelamios. Even so, set off with enough water so that you do not depend on the next point being conveniently placed.
Make the most of Mondoñedo
On arrival, you will have the day’s widest choice of food, shopping and accommodation. It is a good time to prepare the following stage before resting.
Frequently asked questions about stage 29
Is it an easy stage because it is only 15.6 km?
Not entirely. The average duration is 3.5 hours, but the route includes 434 m of ascent and an 8.5% climb between km 6.3 and km 8.6.
Where is the hardest climb?
The main climb runs from km 6.3 to km 8.6 and gains 191 m. Before that, you will already have tackled another 139 m climb between km 1.5 and km 3.3.
Is there water along the route?
The marked points are Fonte do Adro, Fonte de San Pedro and Fonte dos Pelamios. Take water from Gondán and use these as useful references, not as your only guarantee.
Where can I sleep in Mondoñedo?
The public option is Albergue Público de Peregrinos de Mondoñedo. You can also look for a bed at Albergue Castelos, Albergue Lumen, Albergue O Bisonte or Albergue de Peregrinos da Gracia.
