32 km | 7-10 hours | +323m / -405m
Another long day leaving Santarem and heading north through rolling agricultural country towards Golega. The descent from Santarem's hilltop is steep and the route then crosses a transitional landscape of olive groves, vineyards, and horse pastures as the Ribatejo gives way to more undulating terrain.
The route passes through several small villages where cafes and water sources can be found, though services are more spread out than on previous stages. The walking is varied, mixing quiet country roads with farm tracks and occasional woodland sections.
Golega is known throughout Portugal as the "Capital do Cavalo" (Horse Capital), famous for its annual horse fair in November. The town has a charming centre with good restaurants, a few accommodation options, and a relaxed atmosphere that rewards an evening stroll.
Terrain: Undulating rural roads, dirt tracks through farmland, some paved sections
The historic capital of the Ribatejo region, set on a high bluff above the Tagus River. Known as the 'Gothic Capital' of Portugal for its wealth of medieval churches and the well-preserved Castle of Santarem.
The Porta de Santiago is the sole surviving gate of the seven that once punctuated the medieval walls encircling the ancient city of Santarém.
The birthplace of Nobel Prize-winning author Jose Saramago, with a municipal albergue and a small museum dedicated to the writer. A useful mid-route stop between Santarem and Golega.
A charming Ribatejo town famous throughout Portugal for its annual National Horse Fair (Feira Nacional do Cavalo) in November. Has a private albergue and a pleasant town centre with cafes and restaurants.
11 places to stay between Santarém and Golegã
Accommodation at the start of this stage (useful for booking the night before)
No accommodation options available
Accommodation at the end of this stage
No accommodation options available
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