Ponte de Lima in September

[Antipodean]

I'm in the very early stages of planning to walk the Camino beginning mid-September. I already have one definite issue. My proposed schedule is going to get me to Ponte de Lima right in the middle of the local festival - Feiras Novas. Any ideas on just how crowded it gets? I understand there is an albergue in the town but is this accommodation available only to pilgrims or will I be competing with the party-goers too? Should I just book hotel accommodation very early?

 

[chrisinvermont]

If I remember correctly, the festival is the third weekend in September. We'll be walking that route at that time and will probably book a hotel early and enjoy the festival.

June and Chris

 

[chrisinvermont]

Quoting from John Brierly's guide, "a sea of humanity floods the town in the biggest party of the year that goes on for 3 days, 24 hours a day." Maybe we'll shift our schedule to miss that!

 

[AnaC]

Hi,

yes, Ponte de Lima is packed for Feiras Novas. Thousands of people there.But the albergue is just for the pilgrims. I stayed there last year, during Feiras Novas, and had no problems at all.

The main festivities in Ponte de Lima, this year, are:

June 3 - Vaca das Cordas
June 24 to 27 - Horse fair http://www.feiradocavalo.com/index_en.htm
August 12, 13, 14 , 15 - Festival Expolima
September 10, 11, 12 ,13 - Feiras Novas

More inf at:
http://www.cm-pontedelima.pt/ver.php?cod=0L0E


I live 20 km from Ponte de Lima. Let me know if you need any other information about this camiño.

Ana