The stage, step by step
Boarding in Vilanova de Arousa
Start by sorting out breakfast and provisions in Vilanova: Cafe-Rest Faro de Lua, Tapería Pé de Cuba and Mesón O Timón are among the options along this section. Boarding is at a set time, so the first priority of the day is reaching the quay with time to spare.
From the Ría de Arousa to the Ulla River
The journey changes from open water to a river landscape, passing mussel rafts, quays and small islands. The route links Vilanova de Arousa with Vilagarcía de Arousa, O Carril and Abalo - Catoira before heading inland along the Ulla.
The Torres do Oeste and the Vía Crucis
The most memorable point of the journey is Catoira, where the Torres do Oeste stand, built to defend the approach to Santiago. The 17 granite crosses of the Vía Crucis Marítima-Fluvial serve as devotional landmarks along the way.
Disembarking in Pontecesures and reaching Padrón
Pontecesures is the disembarkation point. From there, it is a short walk to Padrón, where you can regain your strength at Kiosko Aier or head into town, where the choice is much wider; the overall profile is flat, with small variations between km 4.8 and 24.
What to see on stage 3
Vía Crucis Marítima-Fluvial
The route includes 17 granite crosses marking the journey between Vilanova de Arousa and Pontecesures. Their presence turns the boat trip into a Jacobean experience unlike any walking stage.
Torres do Oeste
This medieval fortress stands in Catoira, at the mouth of the Ulla. Two of the original seven towers remain, recalling the defence of the river route to Santiago against Norse incursions.
Ría de Arousa and the Ulla River
The landscape changes from the open waters of the estuary to the riverside setting of the Ulla. During the journey, you will see mussel rafts and fishing boats, two features closely associated with the Rías Baixas.
Padrón
The town marks the end of the day after disembarking in Pontecesures. It is a good place to rest, eat and prepare for the final stage towards Santiago.
Where to sleep in Padrón
In Vilanova, you can set off from the Albergue A Salazón. On arrival in Padrón, you will find several options, including the Albergue de Peregrinos de Padrón, Albergue Corredoiras, Albergue Murgadán, Albergue D'Camino and Albergue Río Sar. The choice improves considerably in Padrón, but boat capacity and sailing times are limited, so do not leave your accommodation until the last minute.
Where to eat and refuel
Eat and buy provisions before boarding: in Vilanova, Mesón O Timón, Tapería Pé de Cuba and Cafe-Rest Faro de Lua are all close to the quay, while Eroski and Froiz are useful for filling your rucksack. There is nothing to buy on board, so take water and something to eat with you. After disembarking, Merca Express in Pontecesures can get you out of trouble and, in Padrón, you have places such as Kiosko Aier along the way, as well as the town’s full range of options.
Practical tips for this stage
Confirm the boat before setting off
This is not a flexible walking stage: Traslatio sailing times are fixed and may vary depending on the operator. Confirm the departure in advance and arrive at the boarding point with time to spare.
Take food and water on board
There is nowhere to buy anything during the sailing. Shop in Vilanova or prepare something before boarding so you are not relying on finding a stop halfway through the journey.
Protect yourself from the wind
Although the profile is flat, it can feel cool on the estuary and you may get splashed. Bring an extra layer and, if you are prone to seasickness, prepare any medication you use in advance.
Book accommodation in Padrón
Disembarking in Pontecesures is not the end: you still have to walk to Padrón. If you want to sleep there, secure your bed before setting off, especially if you are relying on the Albergue de Peregrinos de Padrón.
Frequently asked questions about stage 3
Is this stage done on foot?
No. It is a boat journey along the Ría de Arousa and the Ulla River, followed by a short walk from Pontecesures to Padrón. The stated total distance is 35.1 km and the average duration is 6.1 hours.
What places can you see during the sailing?
The route passes through the Ría de Arousa, Vilagarcía de Arousa, O Carril, Abalo - Catoira and the Ulla River. The main heritage landmark is the Torres do Oeste, together with the 17 crosses of the Vía Crucis Marítima-Fluvial.
Can I board without booking?
It is not worth taking the risk. Departures run to fixed times and depend on the operator, so confirm your place and departure time in advance.
Where do I sleep at the end?
In Padrón, you can choose between the Albergue de Peregrinos de Padrón, Albergue Corredoiras, Albergue Murgadán, Albergue D'Camino and Albergue Río Sar.
