19 km | 5-6 hours | +368m / -483m
A moderate stage descending through the southern outskirts of the Porto metropolitan area. The route passes through Santiago de Riba-Ul and Cucujaes, where the Monastery of Sao Martinho de Cucujaes is worth a brief detour. The path mixes suburban walking with forest sections through towns absorbed into the greater Porto urban sprawl.
The walking is not particularly scenic through this peri-urban landscape, but the stage is physically manageable and serves as a practical stepping stone towards Porto. Granite churches and manor houses appear more frequently, signalling the distinctive architecture of the north.
Grijo is a small town with the notable Mosteiro de Grijo (Grijo Monastery), a 12th-century Augustinian foundation worth visiting. Note that accommodation in Grijo itself is very limited; many pilgrims continue to Vila Nova de Gaia for more options.
Terrain: Suburban roads, forest paths, cobblestone streets, some steep descents
An industrial city known as Portugal's shoe-making capital. Has a municipal albergue and full services. The terrain approaching the city is mostly urban and industrial.
A parish on the southern outskirts of Porto with a parish albergue and the historic Monastery of Grijo. The last overnight stop before reaching Porto.
5 places to stay between São João da Madeira and Grijó
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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