Stage of the Camino
Stage Description
A peaceful 15-kilometer hike through the interior of Portugal, passing through agricultural landscapes and wooded areas. It's a relaxing stage that leads to Barcelos, famous for its rooster legend and vibrant historical and cultural atmosphere. The trail is gentle in profile and passes through small villages that preserve the charm of rural Portuguese culture. It allows deep immersion into local tradition on the Camino Portugués. Arrival in Barcelos, with its medieval bridge and historic center, makes for a perfect ending to a serene and culturally rich walking day.
The stage that unites the historic parish of Rates with the monumental city of Barcelos is a short and pleasant journey, ideal for enjoying the rural landscape of northern Portugal without haste. With only 15 km and a mostly flat profile, it's a perfect walk to recover from previous stages that were longer.
The route runs through a mosaic of fields, vineyards, and dense forests of eucalyptus and pines. Small villages are crossed that maintain their traditional architecture, offering an authentic view of life in the Portuguese countryside. The route is well-signposted and combines dirt paths with tranquil local roads.
It's an stage to enjoy the peace of the surroundings, the sound of birds, and the hospitality of local people. As the path approaches Barcelos, the environment becomes a bit more populated.
Arrival at Barcelos is the highlight of the day. This important city is a milestone on the Portuguese Way, not just for its monuments, such as its medieval bridge or the ruins of the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, but also because it's the birthplace of one of Portugal's symbols: the Rooster of Barcelos. The famous legend of the pilgrim hanged who was saved by the singing of a roasted rooster originated here, and the colorful image of the rooster is present throughout the city. Its lively historic center and large weekly market (Thursdays) make Barcelos an highly recommended stop.
The route runs through a mosaic of fields, vineyards, and dense forests of eucalyptus and pines. Small villages are crossed that maintain their traditional architecture, offering an authentic view of life in the Portuguese countryside. The route is well-signposted and combines dirt paths with tranquil local roads.
It's an stage to enjoy the peace of the surroundings, the sound of birds, and the hospitality of local people. As the path approaches Barcelos, the environment becomes a bit more populated.
Arrival at Barcelos is the highlight of the day. This important city is a milestone on the Portuguese Way, not just for its monuments, such as its medieval bridge or the ruins of the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, but also because it's the birthplace of one of Portugal's symbols: the Rooster of Barcelos. The famous legend of the pilgrim hanged who was saved by the singing of a roasted rooster originated here, and the colorful image of the rooster is present throughout the city. Its lively historic center and large weekly market (Thursdays) make Barcelos an highly recommended stop.
Last updated: 14/08/2025
Where to Sleep
Accommodations in this Stage
Find the perfect place for your rest in Rates o Barcelos.
Casa do Theatro Guest House
Parque de Merendas de Macieira de Rates
Villa da floresta
Vivenda Das Torrinhas
Chalé dos Alves
Albergue Palhuco
Casa Anabela
Casa da Ana Boutique Guest House
Operação Directa
Casa da Vila Guest House
Albergue de Peregrinos
Casa Dona Maria
Art'otel Barcelos
Lux'Otel Barcelos
PALMEIRAS
Quinta de Santa Leocádia
Top’Otel
Edifício Quinta Nova
Quinta de Sendim
Casa do Monte
Hotel Restaurante Bagoeira
In Barcelos Hostel & Guest House
Residencial Kuarenta&Um
Residencial Solar da Estação
Casa São Félix
Hotel Dom Nuno Barcelos
Quintinha da anta
Casa Mattos
Area Sosta Camper - Barcelos
Casa da Rosa
Flag Hotel Barcelos
Pension San Roque
Rua das Mimosas - Faria
Casa
Casa da Idanha
Casa das Oliveiras
In barreta
Parque ermao
PedraPousa
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