The stage, step by step
From Armenteira to the river
Leave Armenteira along the Ruta de la Piedra y del Agua (PR-G 170). The first section follows the Armenteira River through riverside woodland, past old mills and over small bridges; Pedra e da Auga GASTROBAR appears early as a useful place for a break.
Meis and the vineyard landscape
After the shadier section, the route opens out towards Meis and the vineyards of the Val do Salnés. Between km 7 and 13.8, the route gains only 39 m, with an average gradient of 0.6%, making this a good point to settle into a steady rhythm.
The brief climb before the estuary
Between km 14.8 and 16.3, there is a short climb of 72 m at an average gradient of 4.8%. Adega da Igrexa sits right at the top, a good excuse for a stop, and a little further on, once you are descending again, you will find Alfar Cocina Tradicional.
Descent and arrival in Vilanova
The final kilometres descend gently, with 97 m of elevation loss between km 16.3 and 23.2. The approach passes beaches such as Terón and gardens before entering Vilanova de Arousa, where the choice of food, pharmacies and accommodation improves.
What to see on stage 2
Ruta de la Piedra y del Agua (PR-G 170)
The path follows the Armenteira River through riverside vegetation, old mills, bridges and waterfalls. It is the most recognisable section of the stage and the one that best explains the route’s name.
The vineyards of Meis and Ribadumia
The landscape changes as you leave the woodland behind and enter the Val do Salnés. Albariño vines accompany you for several kilometres, making the area’s connection with D.O. Rías Baixas wine immediately obvious.
The beaches of Terón
The approach to Vilanova draws closer to the coast and passes through the surroundings of the Terón beaches. It is a clear change from the first half, which is more closely linked to the river and its mills.
Casa-Museo de Valle-Inclán
Vilanova de Arousa is home to the Casa-Museo de Valle-Inclán, associated with the Galician writer. If you arrive with time to spare, it is an interesting way to round off the day before turning your attention to the estuary.
Where to sleep in Vilanova de Arousa
You can sleep at the Albergue de Armenteira before setting off. On arrival in Vilanova, there are the Albergue de Peregrinos and Albergue A Salazón, two names worth noting in advance because there is not a wide choice of accommodation in between. If you are walking in the busy season, book in Vilanova ahead of time.
Where to eat and refuel
There are places to eat along the way, but they are not evenly spread. At the beginning, you have A Fonte and O'Comercio; further on there are Pedra e da Auga GASTROBAR, O Chiringuito, Taberna Os Castaños, Peneira Restobar and Pazo de Barrantes. In Vilanova, you can finish at Cafe-Rest Faro de Lua, Tapería Pé de Cuba, Mesón O Timón or Alfar Cocina Tradicional, and shop at Eroski or Froiz.
Practical tips for this stage
Easy does not mean short
The profile is kind, but the stage is 23.9 km and may take you between six and seven hours depending on your pace. Set off with time in hand and do not let the comfortable terrain tempt you into starting too late.
Use Meis to top up your water
In Meis, you still have water and somewhere to stop for a coffee. Afterwards, the landscape opens out among vineyards and beaches, with greater exposure to the sun, so fill your bottle before tackling the final section.
Save some energy for the short climb
The climb from km 14.8 to 16.3 is only 1.5 km long, but gains 72 m at an average gradient of 4.8%. Reach it at a comfortable pace, without spending too much energy during the first half.
Bring sun protection
The start beside the river offers more shade; the vineyards and coastal approach are much more open. On hot days, a hat, sun cream and enough water make a real difference.
Frequently asked questions about stage 2
Is this an easy stage?
Yes, technically it is straightforward and gains only 106 m. Even so, it covers 23.9 km, includes 353 m of descent and has an average duration of 5.3 hours, so do not underestimate it.
Where is the one climb you will actually notice?
Between km 14.8 and 16.3, you climb 72 m at an average gradient of 4.8%. The rest of the profile is gentler, especially the final descent from km 16.3 to 23.2.
Are there places to eat along the stage?
Yes, there are stops at different points, including Pedra e da Auga GASTROBAR, Peneira Restobar, Taberna da Ponte and Adega da Igrexa. The choice is broader in Vilanova.
Where is it best to sleep?
You can start at the Albergue de Armenteira and finish at the Albergue de Peregrinos or Albergue A Salazón, both serving the approach to Vilanova.