The stage, step by step
Leaving Redondela
Redondela is a good place to have breakfast and shop before setting off: you have Café Bar A Farola, O Café da Vila and supermarkets such as Mercadona and Froiz. The climb from km 0.8 to km 4.2 begins almost immediately, gaining 147 m.
Descent towards Pontesampaio
After the first climb comes a steep descent between km 4.2 and km 5.6, losing 101 m at an average gradient of 7.5%. The route continues towards Soutomaior and Pontesampaio; if the ground is wet, take the descent steadily.
The second effort
After several changes in elevation, the route steepens again between km 9.2 and km 11.3. This section gains 134 m at an average gradient of 6.4%. A little further on, around km 12.5, Furancho de Elisa is a good place for a break.
Arrival in Pontevedra
From km 12.3 onwards, the route generally descends towards Pontevedra. The final section crosses comfortable rural areas before entering the city; you will find Albergue de Peregrinos de Pontevedra and, a little further on, Albergue De Peregrinos De Pontevedra.
What to see on stage 9
Iglesia de Santa María de Pontesampaio
This 13th-century Romanesque church is one of the stage’s most interesting heritage sites. It also marks your passage through an area closely linked to the route towards Pontevedra.
Medieval bridge
The historic bridge is one of the medieval landmarks on the way to Pontevedra. It is a good place to pause briefly before continuing through the changing terrain.
Iglesia de la Peregrina
In Pontevedra, this 1778 church is notable for its scallop-shell-shaped floor plan. It is dedicated specifically to pilgrims and is a natural place to visit at the end of the stage.
Real Basílica de Santa María la Mayor
The basilica combines late Gothic and Renaissance elements with a Plateresque façade. Its restoration was completed in August 2025 and admission is free, although donations are welcome.
Iglesia de San Francisco
This 14th-century church forms part of Pontevedra’s historic heritage. It is in the centre and easy to visit after leaving your rucksack at your accommodation.
Where to sleep in Pontevedra
Redondela has plenty of accommodation for anyone who prefers to shorten the previous day: Albergue Santiago de Vilavella, Albergue A Conserveira, Albergue A Rotonda and Albergue A Casa da Herba are some of the options. In Pontevedra, you can stay at Albergue de Peregrinos de Pontevedra or Albergue De Peregrinos De Pontevedra; there are also private hostels such as Aloxa albergue and Albergue Nacama. If you want a relaxed start, Pontevedra is the most convenient place to spend the night.
Where to eat and refuel
Redondela has the widest choice at the start, with 78 Gastrobar, Casa Consejo and O Funil, as well as supermarkets such as Mercadona and Froiz. Services are more limited in the middle section: Furancho de Elisa and Casa Fermín are two specific options. On reaching Pontevedra, you will find bars, cafés and restaurants again, so you can leave your main shopping until the city.
Practical tips for this stage
Do not underestimate the elevation
Although the stage is 19.6 km, it includes 319 m of ascent. The central climb between km 9.2 and km 11.3 has an average gradient of 6.4% and comes after the first climb and descent.
Take care on the descents
Between km 4.2 and km 5.6, you lose 101 m at an average gradient of 7.5%. If it has been raining, adjust your pace and use poles if you carry them; the first climb will already be in your legs.
Shop in Redondela
Redondela is the last fully serviced point before the rural section. Set out with water and something to eat, although Furancho de Elisa and a few other isolated establishments offer possible breaks.
Leave time for Pontevedra
The finish is not just about logistics. Iglesia de la Peregrina and Real Basílica de Santa María la Mayor are well worth visiting, so try not to arrive in the city with too little time.
Frequently asked questions about stage 9
Is it a tough stage despite being only 19.6 km?
It is moderately difficult, but the elevation is significant: 319 m of ascent and 305 m of descent. The two main climbs and the 7.5% descent make it feel more demanding than a flat stage.
Where is the steepest climb?
The climb between km 9.2 and km 11.3 gains 134 m and has an average gradient of 6.4%. The first is longer, between km 0.8 and km 4.2, gaining 147 m.
Are there services between Redondela and Pontevedra?
Yes, but they are more limited outside the built-up areas. Furancho de Elisa is in the middle section and Casa Fermín further on; for important shopping, Redondela or Pontevedra are safer options.
What is worth visiting on arrival?
Iglesia de la Peregrina, Real Basílica de Santa María la Mayor and Iglesia de San Francisco are the clearest sights in Pontevedra. The basilica has free admission.
