Etapa 14 del Portuguese Way: São João da Madeira → Grijó
Stage 14 of 25

Stage 14 of the Portuguese Way: São João da Madeira → Grijó

From São João da Madeira to Grijó

Distancia
19.0 km
Time
4.2 h
Terreno
Rolling
Elevation gain
↑152m ↓261m

You leave São João da Madeira and reach Grijó after a short stage with several undulations that make themselves felt from the outset. The route passes through Escapães, Fiães, Lourosa and Argoncilhe, finishing with a long descent towards Grijó.

What you will find

  • 19 km and an average walking time of 4.2 hours.
  • Up-and-down terrain, with 152 m of ascent and 261 m of descent.
  • The climb between km 3.5 and km 7.3 gains 85 m, with an average gradient of 2.3%.
  • The final descent between km 13.3 and km 18.5 loses 118 m.
  • Passes through Escapães, Fiães, Lourosa and Argoncilhe.
  • Igreja de Lourosa is the main monument on this section.
  • Accommodation is concentrated in Lourosa and Grijó rather than spread evenly along the stage.

Stage map and track

80 places near the trail.

Inicio End Place

Stage elevation profile

120 213 306 km 0 km 10 km 19.0
↑ 152 m de subida ↓ 261 m de bajada Altitud: 120–306 m

The stage, step by step

Leaving São João da Madeira

You start in São João da Madeira, where it is worth sorting out breakfast, shopping and any pharmacy needs before setting off. The route begins with a climb between km 0.5 and km 2, followed by a short descent to km 3.5.

Escapães and the central climb

The most sustained climb comes between Escapães and Fiães: from km 3.5 to km 7.3, you gain 85 m. The path then descends towards Lourosa, losing a further 96 m between km 7.3 and km 10.3.

Fiães, Lourosa and Argoncilhe

Lourosa is the most useful intermediate stop for a break. You will find Bombeiros Voluntários de Lourosa and Farmácia Teles there, before continuing through Argoncilhe towards the final part of the route.

The descent to Grijó

From km 13.3 onwards, the profile becomes clearly downhill, losing 118 m as you approach Grijó. You finish near Albergue de Peregrinos, a practical reference if you plan to spend the night at your destination.

What to see on stage 14

São João da Madeira

The city has been known for footwear and hat-making since the 19th century, and celebrates that heritage with a hat-making museum. For pilgrims, it is above all the last place on the stage with everything conveniently open: shops, pharmacies and cafés at street level.

Igreja de Lourosa

This historic Romanesque church stands in Lourosa, which also makes a useful practical stop. Its origins are linked to the 12th century.

Grijó

Grijó is a small town that depends to a large extent on passing pilgrims, with its monastery as the main landmark. After the long descent, it is reassuring to find the albergue, shop and bar all close together.

Where to sleep in Grijó

Accommodation is concentrated in Lourosa and Grijó, with nothing dependable between the two. In Lourosa you have Bombeiros Voluntários de Lourosa and, at the end of the stage, Albergue de Peregrinos in Grijó. If you want to secure a bed, do not arrive without a booking, especially in high season.

Where to eat and refuel

São João da Madeira has the most convenient choice for breakfast, lunch or provisions, including Concha Doce - Cafetaria Confeitaria, Galito Dourado, Mutamba and Casa d'Avó. In Escapães, you can stop at Desafio Bar. In Grijó, Bar Minimercado and O Mercadinho are useful for a quick end-of-day shop; between them, do not assume that every village will have a full meal available.

Practical tips for this stage

Set off with water

The stage is short, but the fountains have no clear information about their names or whether the water is drinkable. Leave São João da Madeira with enough water and refill in Lourosa if necessary.

Short does not mean flat

The route includes climbs and descents, with 152 m of ascent overall. The climb between km 3.5 and km 7.3 is easier if you slow your pace from the start.

Make the most of Lourosa

Lourosa is the clearest intermediate stop for a pharmacy, a rest and accommodation. If your legs are already feeling heavy, reassess your options there before continuing to Grijó.

Book the final stop

The only accommodation on this section is in Lourosa and Grijó. Having a bed secured avoids having to extend the day if Albergue de Peregrinos is full.

Frequently asked questions about stage 14

How many kilometres is the stage?

It is 19 km, with an average walking time of 4.2 hours. The route includes climbs and descents, with 152 m of ascent and 261 m of descent.

Where is the most notable climb?

The main climb runs from km 3.5 to km 7.3, gaining 85 m with an average gradient of 2.3%.

Where can I stop along the way?

Lourosa is the most useful stop, with Farmácia Teles, Bombeiros Voluntários de Lourosa and places to rest. São João da Madeira offers more services at the start.

Is there accommodation in Grijó?

Yes. At the destination you have Albergue de Peregrinos. You can also consider Bombeiros Voluntários de Lourosa if you prefer to split the stage.

Hostels and services near this stage

Hostels, restaurants, supermarkets and other services close to the trail.