A shorter, more manageable stage after the demanding hill country of the previous days. The route leaves Coimbra heading north through a mix of suburban outskirts and increasingly rural terrain. The walking is relatively gentle with modest elevation changes.

The path passes through agricultural areas and small villages, with the landscape flattening out as you move into the Bairrada wine region. The terrain is a welcome relief after the steep hills between Tomar and Coimbra, and the easier walking allows tired legs to recover.

Mealhada is famous throughout Portugal for one thing: leitao assado (roast suckling pig). The town's main street is lined with restaurants competing to serve the best version of this regional specialty. Beyond the food, Mealhada has good services including accommodation, supermarkets, and pharmacies.