The stage, step by step
Leaving Santarém
Start in Santarém, where you can have breakfast, buy water and sort out your food for the day. The first kilometres still retain the city's presence before you enter the Tagus's agricultural landscape.
The initial climb
Between km 2 and 11.3, the profile gains 46 m, with an average gradient of 0.5%. It is a gradual climb, much easier if you start at a relaxed pace and avoid wasting energy.
Down towards the plain
From km 11.3 to 14.3, you descend 45 m, with an average gradient of 1.5%. Afterwards, the route becomes more open and agricultural; the challenge is no longer the gradient, but maintaining your pace.
The final kilometres to Golegã
The final section follows the flat character of the riverbank and enters Golegã. Bar Central is the only clear support point on the route; FM Bar, Meu Super and Lusitano are close to the destination.
What to see on stage 4
Santarém
The stage begins in a city known as the Capital of Portuguese Gothic. If you were unable to visit its churches and convents when you arrived the previous day, the morning is a good time to do so.
River Tagus
The Tagus defines the character of the day and explains the route's low-lying agricultural landscape. The path leaves Santarém's elevated position and gradually approaches the plain.
Farmland
Fields dominate much of the stage, making the route open and largely non-urban. A steady rhythm is more useful than looking for changes of terrain that simply do not come here.
Golegã
This is the day's destination and the place where food, shopping and accommodation become concentrated again. If you are walking in a busy season, it is wise to arrive with a booking.
Where to sleep in Golegã
To start from Santarém, you have Santarem Hostel and Casa da Misericórdia. In Golegã, there are Inn Golegã and Albergue das Ademas. The accommodation does not require you to split the stage, but you should book your destination before tackling the 30.7 km.
Where to eat and refuel
Santarém has plenty of options for breakfast and preparing your pack: Amassa, Taberna do Quinzena I, Bom Garfo, Hamburgueria da Baixa, My Auchan and Meu Super. Along the route, support is more limited, with Bar Central and Mini-Mercado. In Golegã, you can finish at FM Bar, Meu Super or Lusitano.
Practical tips for this stage
Shop before setting off
The most reliable place to buy food and water is Santarém. There is a mini-market on the way, but building your whole day around a single shop that may be closed is not a good idea.
Tackle the climb early
The 46 m climb between km 2 and 11.3 is gentle, but it comes at the beginning. Take it steadily and use the subsequent descent to settle into a comfortable pace.
Do not underestimate the distance
The gradient is not severe, but it is 30.7 km with an average duration of 6.8 hours. The open agricultural landscape can make the day feel even longer, so conserve your energy.
Protect yourself from the sun
The stage crosses agricultural fields and does not offer continuous shade. Set off with a hat, sun protection and enough water so that you are not dependent on one particular stop.
Frequently asked questions about stage 4
Is the stage from Santarém to Golegã difficult?
It is not notable for extreme elevation gain: there are 58 m of ascent and 139 m of descent. Even so, its 30.7 km and average duration of 6.8 hours require stamina.
Where is the main climb?
Between km 2 and 11.3, you gain 46 m, with an average gradient of 0.5%. A 45 m descent to km 14.3 follows.
Is there food along the route?
There are a few isolated options, such as Bar Central and Mini-Mercado, but the safest choices are in Santarém and Golegã. Set off with your pack prepared.
Where can I sleep?
In Santarém, there are Santarem Hostel and Casa da Misericórdia. In Golegã, you can look for Inn Golegã or Albergue das Ademas.