The stage, step by step
Leaving Viana do Castelo
Make use of the services in central Viana before setting off. The departure combines streets and open areas until you approach Areosa; the climb does not begin immediately, so use the first kilometres to find a comfortable rhythm.
Climbing through the Serra de Santa Luzia
The longest climb is concentrated between kilometres 8.3 and 14, with 96 m of elevation gain. It is not a wall, but it is sustained. Trekking poles can help, and the views towards the Atlantic make it worth taking your time.
Carreço and Vila Praia de Âncora
Once you have cleared the high point, the path drops 130 m to kilometre 19.3 and approaches Carreço and Vila Praia de Âncora. The descent can put strain on your knees; Vila Praia de Âncora is a good opportunity to buy something before continuing.
Moledo and arrival in Caminha
The final section passes through Moledo, with its beaches and the Ínsua fortress as landmarks, before continuing to Caminha. On arrival at the harbour, check your plan for crossing the Minho: the ferry affects the start of the following stage.
What to see on stage 4
Church of Santa Luzia
The Neo-Byzantine temple rises above Viana do Castelo and dominates the city from the hill. The climb towards Santa Luzia is one of the stage’s defining moments.
Castelo de Santiago da Barra
This star-shaped fortress protects the area near the river mouth. If you have set off with enough time, you can visit it at the beginning before leaving Viana.
Praia de Moledo and Ínsua fortress
The beach opens fully onto the Atlantic, with the Ínsua fortress standing out offshore. It is a good place to stop before tackling the approach to Caminha.
Church of Misericórdia
In Viana do Castelo, it is notable for its gilded woodwork and interior azulejos. It is particularly worth visiting if you do not know the city and have time before setting off.
Sé Cathedral
The cathedral has a fortified-looking façade, closer to a defensive tower than a conventional church. It is part of the heritage you can see when leaving Viana.
Where to sleep in Caminha
In Viana do Castelo you can choose between Albergue de Peregrinos, HI Viana do Castelo - Pousada de Juventude and Villa Margarida. Halfway along the stage, there are Albergue Hostel, Casa do Sardão - Albergue and Quinta de quinhas; near Vila Praia de Âncora you will find Hotel Albergueria and Hostel d'Avenida. In Caminha, options include Albergue Bom Caminha, Caminha hostel & suite, Albergue de Peregrinos - Caminha and Arca Nova. The climb and the 27 km make it advisable to book your destination before setting off.
Where to eat and refuel
Viana do Castelo offers plenty of places for breakfast and supplies: Antiga, Tasquinha da Trincheira, Bota d'Água and Praça Café are all near the start. In Vila Praia de Âncora you can replenish supplies at Froiz, Covirán or Anossa loja. Moledo has beach bars such as Sweet Ice, Bar Mergulho Vapor and Vapor Beach bar; Caminha again has the widest choice of restaurants and bars at the end.
Practical tips for this stage
Make use of the fountains
On the way, you have the fountain at Largo da Giesteira de Areosa, around the first third, and Torneira, already close to Vila Praia de Âncora. Even so, leave Viana with a full bottle.
Do not underestimate Santa Luzia
The climb between kilometres 8.3 and 14 is sustained and comes after several approach kilometres. Save your strength from the start and do not treat it as a simple coastal stroll.
Protect yourself from the wind
There are sections exposed to Atlantic winds, even when the temperature is pleasant. Carry a light layer and avoid getting too close to the edges on open stretches.
Decide on the crossing in good time
Caminha is the gateway to Galicia. The ferry to A Guarda takes around 23 minutes, but timetables can affect the following day’s plans, particularly outside the main season.
Frequently asked questions about stage 4
How much elevation change does the stage have?
There are 166 m of ascent and 172 m of descent. The most sustained section climbs 96 m between kilometres 8.3 and 14.
Where can I buy food halfway through?
Vila Praia de Âncora is the most useful reference point. There you have Froiz, Covirán and Anossa loja; Moledo also has bars where you can take a break.
Can I cross to Galicia from Caminha?
Yes. The traditional option is the ferry from Caminha to A Guarda, with a crossing of around 23 minutes. It is best to check the timetable before setting off.
Is the stage entirely coastal?
No. It alternates urban and coastal sections with the climb to Santa Luzia and inland stretches before returning to the beaches of Carreço, Vila Praia de Âncora and Moledo.