Stage 1120 km · up 350 mModerate

Rubiães to Tui

Distance
20 km
Walking time
4-6 hours
Ascent
350 m
Descent
440 m
High point
271 m
Difficulty
Moderate
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About this stage

Rubiães to Tui · 20 km · up 350 m, down 440 m

A predominantly downhill stage descending from the Minho hills to the border town of Tui on the Mino River (Rio Minho in Portuguese, Rio Mino in Spanish). The walking is a satisfying reversal of the previous day's climbing, with the path dropping steadily through forested hillsides and rural villages.

The approach to Tui follows the river valley, with the Spanish town's cathedral visible across the water well before arrival. Valenca, the Portuguese border fortress town, offers an alternative stopping point with its impressive walled fortifications and duty-free shopping.

Tui (or Tuy in Spanish) sits just across the border in Galicia, Spain. This historic episcopal city has a fortress-like cathedral, a charming old town, and excellent pilgrim services. Crossing into Spain is seamless, with no border controls. Remember to set your clock forward one hour when entering Spain.

Terrain: Descending forest paths, rural roads, riverside approach, cobblestone streets

Along the route7 towns and 0 highlights on 20 km

The day, stop by stop

  1. 0km

    Rubiães

    village

    A small mountain village between Ponte de Lima and the Spanish border with a pilgrim albergue. Set at the top of the challenging Alto da Portela Grande de Labruja climb.

    View town guide
    Restaurant
    Cafe
  2. 2.1km
  3. 7.8km

    Fontoura

    village
    View town guide
    Cafe
    Water
  4. 10.1km
  5. 11.3km

    Pedreira

    hamlet
    View town guide
    Restaurant
    Cafe
  6. 16.6km

    A fortified border town overlooking the Minho River and the Spanish city of Tui. The well-preserved Fortaleza de Valenca is one of the most impressive landmarks on the entire Camino Portugues.

    View town guide
    Restaurant
    Cafe
    Grocery
    Water
    Pharmacy
    ATM
    Bus
    Train
    Pilgrim Office
    Clinic
    Post Office
  7. 20.1km

    Tui

    town

    A historic Galician cathedral town on the Spanish bank of the Minho River, facing Valenca across the border. A major Camino starting point for pilgrims walking the last 100 km to Santiago.

    View town guide
    Restaurant
    Cafe
    Grocery
    Water
    Pharmacy
    ATM
    Bus
    Train
    Pilgrim Office
    Clinic
    Post Office
Where to stay

Places to stay along this stage

Koala Picks first, then each town in walking order. Where a place does not book online, walk in, call or message them.

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