The stage, step by step
Baiona to Ramallosa
Leave Baiona with water and something for breakfast: there are plenty of options in the first few kilometres, including Baioca and Coffee Time cafe and bar. Near Ramallosa, the coastal variant splits from the official inland route; shortly afterwards, you face the climb between km 3.9 and km 5.1, gaining 44 m.
Nigrán and the central climb
The route passes through Nigrán and leaves the first descent behind. The main climb comes between km 6.6 and km 10.7, gaining 134 m at an average gradient of 3.3%. Falucha is a useful place to stop near this section before carrying on.
Descent towards Vigo
After the highest point, a short, steep descent begins between km 12.5 and km 13.1. The route then continues losing height more gradually until km 17.3; along this section you pass several fountains in succession: Fonte de Fontiñas, Fonte da Rabilonga and Fonte do Parque Forestal.
The urban approach
The final section regains a little height between km 17.3 and km 19.5. You pass near El Mastil before tackling the approach to Vigo, which can be confusing if you do not follow the arrows carefully. Rimini is practically at the finish.
What to see on stage 7
Beaches with views of the Cíes Islands
Leaving Baiona and following the coast provides some of the most striking scenery of the stage. On a clear day, the Cíes Islands stay in view for several kilometres.
Ramallosa fork
At Ramallosa, the coastal option separates from the official inland route. It is an important point at which to decide based on the weather, ground conditions and how keen you are to remain by the coast.
Lagares River
One possible approach to Vigo follows the Lagares River. The atmosphere changes completely here: the paths around Nigrán give way to an urban setting before you reach the city centre.
Vigo
The finish brings you to a port city with plenty of places to rest, shop and eat. Set aside some time to explore without your rucksack, especially if you have arrived through Coia.
Where to sleep in Vigo
Baiona has several options for starting the day well rested, including Albergue Estela do Mar and Hostel Baionamar - Albergue de Peregrinos. If you prefer to walk a little further, Albergue Playa de Sabaris is still in Baiona, while Hostal Alce, Café Bar Pension Venus and Albergue San Xurxo are further ahead. Refugio do Freixo is already close to Vigo. Accommodation is easier to find at the beginning and end, so do not rely on finding somewhere at short notice in every intermediate area.
Where to eat and refuel
Baiona has the widest choice at the start: Baioca, O Pote and Casa Gallega are three places to stop, and there are also supermarkets such as Froiz, Eroski and Carrefour Market. Services are much more spread out in the middle of the stage: Falucha is one of the few options, followed by El Mastil on the approach to Vigo. At the finish, Rimini and Vigo’s urban restaurants mean you can eat without too much forward planning.
Practical tips for this stage
Set out with water from Baiona
There are fountains along the route, including Fonte dos Gafos, Fonte do Pombal and Fonte do Sarabio, but do not wait until you are thirsty. You can refill later around Fonte de Fontiñas and Fonte do Parque Forestal.
Take it steadily in Nigrán
The climb from km 6.6 to km 10.7 is the longest of the stage: 134 m at an average gradient of 3.3%. It is not a wall, but you will feel it after the earlier changes of pace.
Take care on the approach to Vigo
The final kilometres are urban, with residential traffic and frequent crossings. Follow the yellow arrows carefully and use pedestrian crossings; GPS is particularly useful here.
Choose your variant carefully
At Ramallosa you can choose between the coastal and inland options. If the weather is poor or you are tired, decide there and then: changing route later can make the stage more complicated.
Frequently asked questions about stage 7
How long is the Baiona to Vigo stage?
The distance is 20.2 km and the average walking time is 5.8 hours. There are continual climbs and descents, with 280 m of ascent overall.
Where is the most demanding climb?
The main climb is between km 6.6 and km 10.7: it gains 134 m and has an average gradient of 3.3%. There is also a short descent at 7.2% between km 12.5 and km 13.1.
Are there services along the route?
Yes, particularly in Baiona, Nigrán and Vigo. Falucha and El Mastil are two useful stops along the way, but services are much less consistent between the built-up areas.
Is the approach to Vigo complicated?
It can be, because of the traffic and urban crossings. The stage ends in a very different environment from Baiona, so follow the arrows carefully during the final kilometres.