The stage, step by step
Leaving Rubiães and the first climb
Rubiães has the first useful services: before setting off, you’ll find Farmácia Sousa, Albergue Peregrinos de Rubiães and Ninho Alojamento Rubiães. The route begins gaining height between km 1.3 and 4.5, so it’s worth saving your energy from the very first steps.
The long descent into the valley
From km 4.5 onwards, the route changes character, losing 239 m by km 10.8. Along the way you pass through Castro and by Taberna da Igreja, while around km 10 you can find Albergue Quinta Estrada Romana. It’s a good section for taking your time, although the sustained descent can be hard on tired knees.
Valença and the final climb
The route approaches Valença and starts climbing again between km 14.3 and 17. In this area you’ll find Snack Bar Contrasta, Albergue São Teotónio and supermarkets including Minipreço, Intermarché and Continente Bom Dia. Valença’s fortifications are an unmistakable landmark before you head for the border.
Entering Tui
After descending between km 17 and 18.3, there is still a gentle climb before you enter Tui. In Tui you’ll find Albergue de Peregrinos de Tui, Ideas Peregrinas, Hostal Albergue La Sigrina and Jacob's Hostel Tui. The arrival beside the Miño and Catedral de Tui make the final effort worthwhile.
What to see on stage 20
Fortifications of Valença
Valença’s fortress is a reminder that you are crossing an ancient frontier. It is the main point of interest on the Portuguese section and a good place to pause before continuing towards the Miño.
River Miño
The Miño marks the transition from Portugal to Galicia. You cross it on the international iron bridge, with traffic alongside you and the railway above: a few hundred noisy, windy metres that almost everyone remembers. On the other side, you are already in Tui.
Catedral de Tui
Catedral de Santa María de Tui is a 12th-century church combining Romanesque and Gothic elements. Its cathedral-fortress character gives the arrival a particularly striking presence.
Where to sleep in Tui
In Rubiães, you can choose between Albergue Peregrinos de Rubiães and Ninho Alojamento Rubiães. Halfway along the route there is Albergue Quinta Estrada Romana and, near Valença, Albergue São Teotónio. If you prefer to finish in Tui, options include Albergue de Peregrinos de Tui, Ideas Peregrinas, Hostal Albergue La Sigrina and Jacob's Hostel Tui. Albergue Convento Del Camino is another option.
Where to eat and refuel
Before leaving Rubiães, you can eat at places such as Bom Retiro and Constantino. Afterwards, food becomes more spread out: you can stop at Restaurante Fonte de Ouro, Cantinho de Passos or Restaurante Quinta do Caminho, and near Valença you’ll find Rocha Grill, D. Raxo and Restaurante Ibéria. In Tui, options become plentiful again, with Boby and Peregrinus among the places along the route. For supplies, Jaime - Ponte Nova (Amanhecer), Castro, Minipreço and Continente Bom Dia cover the main stopping points.
Practical tips for this stage
Set off with enough water
Don’t plan the day around a particular fountain. Fill your bottle in Rubiães and use Valença to replenish your supplies before tackling the final section to Tui.
Take care on the descent
The loss of height between km 4.5 and 10.8 is long and steady. Trekking poles and a short, controlled stride will help more than trying to make up time.
Don’t rush the final climb
After the descent between km 17 and 18.3, there is still a short rise before entering Tui. Keep some energy in reserve so the final kilometres don’t become a painful chore.
Keep your documents handy
This is an international border crossing. Even though the crossing itself is straightforward, keep the necessary documents somewhere accessible rather than at the bottom of your pack.
Frequently asked questions about stage 20
How long does it take to walk from Rubiães to Tui?
The stage is 19.1 km long, with an average walking time of 4.2 hours. The 191 m of ascent and 356 m of descent may make it take longer if you need to slow down on the way down.
Where is the most noticeable climb?
The first climb is between km 1.3 and 4.5, gaining 103 m at an average gradient of 3.2%. There is another climb between Valença and the final section, from km 14.3 to 17.
Is it better to stay overnight in Valença or Tui?
Both places have accommodation. Valença has Albergue São Teotónio, while Tui offers Albergue de Peregrinos de Tui, Ideas Peregrinas, Hostal Albergue La Sigrina and Jacob's Hostel Tui.
Does the stage finish in Galicia?
Yes. The route crosses the Miño and finishes in Tui, Galicia. Catedral de Tui provides the main arrival landmark.
