The wide variety of landscapes on the Camino da Geira e dos Arrieiros is evident again on this stage, which runs from Cortegada to Pazos de Arenteiro.
Rivers dominate the first part of the walk, with the mighty Miño to the fore. Then it’s the vineyards of the Ribeiro designation of origin, which produce white wines; the oldest DO in Galicia.
On the final section the route heads back into the hills for forests and greenery.
It’s a long stage, measuring approximately 33.5km, with 650 metres of height gain. A reasonably early start is needed as many trees have come down in the forest, slowing progress on the path.
At the beginning, head out of Cortegada on the main street (the opposite way to which you arrived) and cross the OU-801 to go along the OU-402 road towards Arnoia.
The route descends to the village of Meréns. The turn-off the OU-402 is around 10 metres before the church.
The ‘camino’ goes down a lane (see photo below), passing a large stone cross and continuing to descend to the River Miño.
After turning right, the track follows the bank of the Miño, the longest river in Galicia, for around 3.5km.
It’s a lovely route, next to this wide waterway, walking through the trees.
The track turns into a lane and emerges at a very wide section of the Miño, where it is joined by a tributary, the River Arnoia.
To get to the bridge over the Arnoia, bear right and then take a left at a field of vines.
Cross over the bridge and head for the village of Os Chaos before bearing left to go back down towards the Miño.
Pass the municipal sports pitches and head for the bank of the Miño to continue to walk next to this wonderful waterway.
Just short of Ribadavia, two rivers meet again. Bear right to ascend on the lane and turn left to cross the bridge over the Miño and wave goodbye to this river.
Follow the OU-0305 road along the right bank of the River Avia and cross the bridge to go into the town of Ribadavia. It’s a good place to stop for a meal or refreshment.
Walk out of Ribadavia on the OU-504 main road and bear right along Rúa Veronza to walk along the bank of the Avia.
The route moves away from the river to go under the motorway and then bear right to follow the bank of the Avia for a while longer.
When the track forks, keep left and follow the arrows which lead across the main road and into the village of San Cristovo, along Rúa Freás, as far as the church square.
Part 2 follows
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