Portuguese Camino Day 4: Carreço to Valença

Morning view from Casa do Sardão in Carreço — calm skies before setting off on the day’s walk.

From Carreço to Valença

On Day 4, I walked from Carreço to Valença. The route blended coastal stretches, forest paths, and peaceful rural lanes — a reflection of why the Portuguese Coastal Camino remains one of my favourite trails. I spent the night at Hostel Bulwark in Valença, just steps from the Spanish border.

Meeting Andrea

When I arrived at the hostel, I met Andrea. She looked up and asked, “Would you like a glass of wine?” I smiled and said, “Sure.” That moment marked the start of a friendship that would colour the days ahead — one of those rare connections that the Camino seems to create when you least expect it.

I’ll write the full story for this stage after completing the GR20 Trail on 11 June. Until then, here are a few images that capture the spirit of the day.

Map showing the Camino Portugués Coastal Route segment from Carreço to Valença.

The Igreja de Santiago de Castelo de Neiva — one of the historic churches along the Camino.

Have you walked the Camino or plan to?
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