Santa Maria da Feira - Vila Nova de Gaia

The third stage in Porto and Northern Portugal. Starting from Arrifana as the gateway to the Caminos in Santa Maria da Feira, this is an interesting route, mostly urban, with associated Jacobean heritage. Examples of this include the churches of Lourosa, São Tiago de Rio Meão, São Tiago de Espargo, and São Tiago de Lobão. In the 11th and 12th centuries, the region was known as the "Terras de Santa Maria," serving as a link between Coimbra and the North. Its name derives from a fair that used to take place in these lands during that time. With the 15th-century Castle as its centerpiece, the city boasts excellent infrastructure, including the Europarque, a modern congress center hosting a diverse range of cultural events, and the Visionarium, an interactive science museum. The Paper Museum, the Fogaceiras Festival on January 20th, and the Medieval Journey in August add to the extensive tourist offerings. This stage also crosses the São Salvador de Grijó Monastery, located in Vila Nova de Gaia. A route covering 13,048 meters, with medium to low difficulty and only 142 meters of elevation gain.