Get ready for a challenge today! We start one of our longest walks, trekking from Parque Natural Ría Barosa to San Miguel de Valga. After hugging the coastline for days, this stage ventures inland for the first time. Our path is dappled with sunlight filtering through forests and sprawling vineyards
Caldas de Reis
Caldas de Reis, named for the very thermal springs that beckoned King Alfonso VII of León in the 12th century (the place of his birth, no less!), remains a cherished stop for travelers. Renowned for its hot waters, the village continues to thrive along the ancient Roman road, Vía XIX, and the ever-popular Camino. Here, weary pilgrims like yourselves can even indulge in a rejuvenating foot soak!
The Church of Saint Thomas Becket in Caldas de Reis, built in the 19th century, stands where the Saint himself paused during his pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in the 12th century. Notably, it’s the only church in Spain dedicated to venerating this English saint.
Carracedo
After a short climb through scattered forest and farmland, we arrive in the delightful town of Carracedo. Here, we can take a break to savor a café con leche and collect a stamp. This bar holds a special tradition: pilgrims are welcome to leave their mark on the walls and ceiling, inscribing messages or simply their names!
Afterward, leaving Carracedo behind, we’ll embark on a several-hour journey through pristine farmland and thick forests. Our destination is the tranquil village of San Miguel de Valga, graced by a charming 18th-century church. This marks the end of today’s stage, which stretches from El Parque Natural de Ria Barosa to San Miguel de Valga. Afterward, we’ll head back to Caldas de Reis for dinner and our evening meeting.
Tonight, our Fresco Tours guides will get us prepped for tomorrow’s stage during our meeting. They’ll walk us through the map, highlight rest stops, and share key sights to keep an eye out for along the way. After a delicious dinner, it’s time to unwind and get some rest at our charming Galician manor house. We’ll need all our energy for tomorrow’s adventure!
