The stage, step by step
Leaving Vilalba
Make the most of Vilalba for breakfast and shopping before setting off. The climb begins between km 2.3 and 4.5: 89 m of elevation gain and an average gradient of 4%, all concentrated near the start.
Descent towards the middle section
From km 4.5 to 9.8, the route loses 108 m in elevation. The descent takes up much of the first half of the day; around km 8, you can stop at Pulpería Casa Maragata.
Final kilometres to Baamonde
The second half is easier, although services are much more spread out than in Vilalba. Near the finish, you will find Autoservicio Onda, Valcarce, Casa do Labrego, Restaurante Galicia and Restaurante Parrillada La Ruta.
Entering Baamonde
Baamonde marks the end of the stage and the approach to the next long day. The Albergue de Peregrinos de Baamonde is at the finish, alongside the services where you can replenish your energy.
What to see on stage 32
Iglesia parroquial de Vilalba
The parish church of Vilalba is an easy visit before setting off, especially if you have spent the night in town. The stage begins in a centre with all the services you need to prepare for it.
La Terra Chá
Vilalba and Baamonde lie in the heart of Terra Chá, the great plain of inland Lugo. After the opening climb, the route opens out and the horizon becomes low and clear: walking is comfortable, but there is little shade and the summer sun can beat down for hours.
Baamonde
Baamonde is the destination for the stage and an important stop before tackling the long road to Sobrado dos Monxes. It is worth arriving in good time to eat, rest and organise the following day.
Where to sleep in Baamonde
At the start in Vilalba, you will find the Albergue De Peregrinos De Vilalba and several private options beside the route: Pensión A Carballeira, Villa Alta, Albergue As Pedreiras and Albergue Privado Villaba. There is nowhere to sleep in between, and at the destination the choice comes down to the Albergue de Peregrinos de Baamonde. As the next stage is the longest on the entire Camino del Norte, many people sleep in Baamonde so they can set off in the dark: secure your place.
Where to eat and refuel
Vilalba is the best place for breakfast and supplies: you will find Restaurant Terra Cha, Lar Os Pios, Mesón do Campo and Mesón As Fontiñas, as well as supermarkets such as Famila, Mercadona, Gadis and Froiz. On the way, you can stop at Pulpería Casa Maragata; near Baamonde, you will find Casa do Labrego, Restaurante Galicia and Restaurante Parrillada La Ruta.
Practical tips for this stage
Fill your bottle in Vilalba
Leave Vilalba with your water sorted. Although there are services near the finish, it is unwise to walk the central section hoping to find an open stop precisely when you need one.
Pace the climb
The average gradient of 4% between km 2.3 and 4.5 comes before your body has warmed up. Keep to a comfortable pace and use the descent afterwards to recover.
Shop before setting off
Vilalba offers the easiest place to buy supplies. If you are starting the next stage in Baamonde, take the food you need for a much longer day with you.
Secure your night
Baamonde is a logical finish and has the Albergue de Peregrinos de Baamonde, but there is less choice than in Vilalba. Confirm your place if you are walking during a busy period.
Frequently asked questions about stage 32
How long does it take to walk from Vilalba to Baamonde?
The stage is 18.5 km long, with an average walking time of 4.1 hours. It is an undulating route, with 129 m of ascent and 190 m of descent.
Where is the hardest section?
The main climb is concentrated between km 2.3 and 4.5: 89 m of elevation gain with an average gradient of 4%. This is followed by a prolonged 108 m descent between km 4.5 and 9.8.
Are there services during the stage?
Services are concentrated mainly in Vilalba and Baamonde. On the route, you will come across Pulpería Casa Maragata and, near the end, Casa do Labrego, Restaurante Galicia and Restaurante Parrillada La Ruta.
Where can I sleep when I arrive?
In Baamonde, you can stay at the Albergue de Peregrinos de Baamonde. If you would rather set off rested from Vilalba, you will find the Albergue De Peregrinos De Vilalba and several private accommodation options there.
