Stage 21 Redondela - Pontevedra
Introduction
The oyster coast
As far as Pontesampaio, the stage is stunning, with the Vigo lagoon always nearby. Be sure to observe the impressive clusters of granaries along the route. Between Cesantes and Tuimil, the EN 550 junction can be dangerous, as the roadsides are tarmacked, extending the lane. The small climb to the western side of Alto da Cabaleira is worth the descent, along dirt tracks with the maritime horizon of the lagoons accompanying us all the way. At Pontesampaio, famous for its oysters, it is time to rest, enjoying the harmony of the elements that come together there.
On the other side of the lagoon, the climb is short, through sections of a road of Roman origin, now made of old irregular slabs. Further ahead, despite the tarmacked sections, the forest surroundings reinforce the solitude and the nostalgia of the first stages, so many days ago.
Pontevedra, a militantly Jacobean city, is just a few steps away. If you arrive early (if possible around 3 p.m.), you can rest for a while at the hostel and then set off to discover the historic centre, free of cars, where you will be amazed by the Chapel of the Pilgrim Virgin and many other spots of Pontevedra.