The stage, step by step
Leaving Ponte de Lima
Make the most of Ponte de Lima to have breakfast, buy food and fill your bottles. You can do this at Solar da Picota, Mercearia da vila, Aldi or Supermercado Mira before leaving the town.
The first undulations
The profile starts gaining height between km 3.8 and km 6.5, though gradually. Another uphill section follows between km 7.8 and km 9.8, with 91 m of ascent.
The decisive climb
The main effort comes between km 10.2 and km 12.8: the climb to Portela Grande above Labruja. It gains 240 m in 2.6 km, with an average gradient of 9.4%, as well as sections of loose stone and exposed roots. This is the place to slow down and save strength for the descent afterwards.
The descent towards Rubiães
From the high point, you descend 148 m between km 12.8 and km 15.6, with an average gradient of 5.2%. In the final section, you pass Cabana no Caminho and Roulotte Bar, two informal stops beside the route, before entering Rubiães.
What to see on stage 19
Ponte Medieval de Ponte de Lima
The medieval bridge crosses the Lima and gives the town its name. It is the most recognisable point at the start and worth visiting before tackling the climb towards Rubiães.
Ponte de Lima
The starting town is the last place on the route with a wide choice of food, shops and pharmacies. Leaving well supplied from here makes a real difference in the second half.
Rubiães
Rubiães is the day's destination and an important stopping point before the Galician border. The stage ends after a steep descent, so it is best to arrive with accommodation and dinner arranged.
Where to sleep in Rubiães
In Ponte de Lima, you have Pousada de Juventude, Old Village Hostel and Albergue de Peregrinos de Ponte de Lima. Along the route, you can split the day at Noah's Ark or O Conforto Albergue. In Rubiães, you can book Albergue Peregrinos de Rubiães or Ninho Alojamento Rubiães; in the final kilometres, there are also beds at Casa DAs Lavra and Casa San Sebastião. Demand is concentrated on this final night in Portugal, so book ahead.
Where to eat and refuel
Ponte de Lima is the place to set off well fed: Casa do Provedor, O Gordo, Muralha and Turi Pizza are specific options, while Solar da Picota and Pastelaria Vilar are good for breakfast. Further on, once you are into the climb, you have Baloiço do Peregrino - Alojamento Local / Restaurante Café. Near the end, there are Cabana no Caminho and Roulotte Bar, but you should not rely on them for the whole day.
Practical tips for this stage
Allow yourself plenty of time
The stage is only 17.4 km, but includes 438 m of ascent. Set off early so you can tackle the main climb before the heat builds or any pressure to reach Rubiães.
Take the 9.4% seriously
The climb from km 10.2 to km 12.8 has an average gradient of 9.4% and gains 240 m. It defines the stage: shorten your stride and avoid using up all your energy before it begins.
Do not rush the descent
After the climb comes a 148 m descent between km 12.8 and km 15.6, with an average gradient of 5.2%. The descent can be just as punishing as the climb if your legs are already tired.
Do not rely on the fountain
The only signposted water point on the section is near the end and warns that the water is not controlled. Do not treat it as your only guarantee: leave Ponte de Lima with full bottles, as the climb is long and often exposed to the sun.
Book in Rubiães
Rubiães has the main end-of-stage options, including Albergue Peregrinos de Rubiães and Ninho Alojamento Rubiães. Having a confirmed bed lets you focus on the climb.
Frequently asked questions about stage 19
Is it easy because it is only 17.4 km?
No. The average walking time is 3.9 hours, but the stage includes 438 m of ascent and 231 m of descent. The main climb has an average gradient of 9.4%.
Where is the hardest section?
Between km 10.2 and km 12.8, you climb 240 m over 2.6 km. This is followed by a 148 m descent to km 15.6.
Where can I buy food before the climb?
In Ponte de Lima you have Aldi, Supermercado Mira, Lima Shopping and several cafés and restaurants. It is the safest place to set off with food and water.
Is there accommodation in Rubiães?
Yes. You can book Albergue Peregrinos de Rubiães or Ninho Alojamento Rubiães. There are also beds at Casa DAs Lavra and Casa San Sebastião in the final kilometres.