Sorry Laurie. I saw your reply just a minute ago !
We had a fantastic caminho.
The trail is fantastic.
If you can , start at the Porto cathedral and follow the river and oceanside to Matosinhos where you go over the bridge.Alternative is take the metro to Matosinhos to stop "Mercado " and you are at the same bridge. Follow the yellow signs at the boardwalk all along to Vila do Conde.
The last part goes through a kind of natural park but you still can see the ocean at your left
From there is a nice walk to Rates next day .
Be prepared on a though day from Ponte the Lima to Rubiaes in rough terrain
Further north you'll meet some nasty steep hills downwards. Mind your knees there
If you can stay at
casa da Fernanda in Vitorino de Piaes. (Past Barcelo ! ) best caminho experience ever. Lovely people Fernanda and Jacintho who give you bed and food. Give them a ring on forhand because many like to stay there for the night
Have your breakfast in Padron at Pepe's bar
Makes your day ! A good start ! And on wings you walk to Santiago !
Bom caminho
Sounds fabulous. I'm so glad you and your wife enjoyed the Caminho! Thank you for your "tips" and well wishes.
Take care,
Laurie
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