On the way to Minho

It feels good to cross the bridge over the Tâmega River at dawn and pass the still sleeping monastery. This stage marks the journey between two worlds. Left behind is the vertigo of the Douro, but we have not yet reached the transparent horizons of Minho. 

Departure from Amarante happens in an urban and industrial environment. At Golas, after the wayside shrine of Our Lady of Fátima, you have to go through part of the old Tâmega railway line, which has been converted into a cycle track, but the following way to Telões is worthwhile. Here, a visit to the church, one of the most interesting temples on the Route of the Romanesque, is a must.

The second part of the journey starts with the climb to Lixa, the main urban centre that you will find throughout the stage. To get there, we follow the vineyards and an itinerary through Quinta do Paço. While in the city, take the opportunity to stock up for the rest of the journey. The following section passes through various villages, but what will be remembered most is the Roman road that precedes the arrival at St. Martin of Caramos, one of the most stunning Baroque pilgrimage sanctuaries of the Torres Way. Then we pass through Moure and arrive at the Praça da República of Felgueiras, next to the oldest factory of Pão de Ló de Margaride (typical sponge cake).