Vilalba to Sobrado dos Monxes (By Bike)

A second day through the interior of Lugo, this cycling stage of around 58 kilometres crosses the Terra Chá from north to south, along with the first relief that heralds entry into the province of A Coruña. It is a journey through deep Galicia, with long stretches among woods, wetlands and scattered hamlets, and a rolling profile that toughens in its second half.

The departure from Vilalba runs across the Terra Chá plain to Baamonde, where the Camino crosses the river Parga and meets pilgrims also coming from the Camino de Santiago via Lugo. The landscape is one of damp meadows, oak groves and the inevitable eucalyptus plantations, with a comfortable surface that allows a good pace over this first third.

Beyond Baamonde begins the longest and most solitary stretch, the one leading towards Miraz and the montes da Cova da Serpe. The route gains height gradually along forest tracks and rural paths, crossing one of the least populated areas of the Northern Way (Camino del Norte). It is wise to carry supplies, as services are scarce from one hamlet to the next.

The end of the stage rewards the effort with arrival at Sobrado dos Monxes and its monumental monastery of Santa María, a Cistercian cenobium with a spectacular Baroque façade and a cloister of remarkable value. Beside it, the lagoon of Sobrado, the monks' former fishpond, completes an ensemble of great serenity. The monastery still offers lodging to pilgrims, a singular place to recover one's strength before the final stage towards Santiago.