The stage, step by step
Redondela and the first climb
Redondela is the best place to have breakfast, shop and fill your bottle. You’ll find Albergue de Peregrinos Casa da Torre, supermarkets such as Froiz and Mercadona, and cafés including Café Bar A Farola and O Café da Vila. The first climb begins soon after leaving, between km 1 and 4.
Descending towards Soutomaior
After gaining 128 m, the route descends 126 m between km 4 and 7.8. Along this section you’ll find Fonte da Coviña and Xesteira, two useful landmarks for a break. Soutomaior is the midway settlement before the route starts climbing again.
The steepest climb
The most demanding section comes between km 9.3 and 11.3: 122 m of ascent at an average gradient of 6.1%. Afterwards, you can stop at Furancho de Elisa and Casa Fermín, both good places to recover before the descent.
Descent and arrival in Pontevedra
From km 11.3 to 17.5, the route loses 114 m at a more gradual pace. Fonte de Pedrouzo is around km 14.5. In Pontevedra you’ll find Albergue de Peregrinos de Pontevedra and plenty of places to eat and rest.
What to see on stage 22
Santuario de la Virgen Peregrina
It dates from the 18th century and has a circular plan inspired by the scallop shell, unique in Spain. It stands in central Pontevedra, exactly where the Way enters the old town, so there is no need to detour.
Basílica de Santa María la Mayor
Basílica de Santa María la Mayor, built in a Gothic-Renaissance style, was commissioned by the seafarers’ guild in the 16th century, when Pontevedra depended on fishing and shipbuilding. It stands in the old town, just a few minutes from the hostel.
Soutomaior
Soutomaior is the midway settlement dividing the two very different parts of the route profile. You reach it after the first descent and before tackling the steepest climb.
Where to sleep in Pontevedra
Redondela offers plenty of places to rest, including Albergue Santiago de Vilavella, Albergue A Conserveira, Albergue A Rotonda and Albergue A Casa da Herba. At the destination, you’ll find the city’s public Albergue de Peregrinos de Pontevedra. Private options in the city include Aloxa albergue, Albergue Nacama, Acola Rooms and Turoqua Hostel.
Where to eat and refuel
In Redondela, it is easy to have breakfast and shop: Café Bar A Farola, O Café da Vila, 4Esquinas and Bar A Cepa are among the options, alongside Froiz, Eroski and Dia. In the middle section, you’ll find Furancho de Elisa and Casa Fermín, but don’t expect continuous services. Pontevedra offers many more choices again, including Cambalache, La Audiencia and Taberna La Quesera in the old town, as well as Mercadona and Froiz if you prefer to shop.
Practical tips for this stage
Don’t be misled by the short distance
The 19.8 km feel longer because of the two climbs. The second, between km 9.3 and 11.3, has an average gradient of 6.1%, so start it with energy still in reserve.
Fill your bottle in Redondela
Set off with plenty of water and use the fountains along the route: Fonte da Alameda, Fonte do Picho, Fonte da Coviña, Xesteira and Fonte de Pedrouzo. Don’t leave replenishing your water until Pontevedra.
Use Soutomaior as a reference point
Soutomaior divides a stage with two very different profiles. If you arrive there comfortably after the first descent, you will still need to save energy for the climb between km 9.3 and 11.3.
Book ahead if staying in Pontevedra
Pontevedra is a popular overnight stop. If you want Albergue de Peregrinos de Pontevedra or a particular private option, arrange it before setting off.
Frequently asked questions about stage 22
How long does it take to walk from Redondela to Pontevedra?
The stage is 19.8 km long, with an average walking time of 4.4 hours. Your actual time will depend mainly on how you tackle the two climbs.
Which section is the hardest?
The climb between km 9.3 and 11.3 is the steepest, gaining 122 m at an average gradient of 6.1%. The first climb, between km 1 and 4, is longer.
Are there services outside Redondela and Pontevedra?
Yes, but they are more spread out. You can find Furancho de Elisa, Casa Fermín and several fountains, although services are not as continuous as in the two towns.
Where can I stay if I don’t want to reach Pontevedra?
There are intermediate options including Albergue O Recuncho do Peregrino and Albergue Casa Calvar. At the destination, there is Albergue de Peregrinos de Pontevedra.
