Lamego - Mesão Frio

The walk between Lamego and Peso da Régua is one to remember for many years to come. Between the terraced landscapes of the Douro wine region and the steep gorge carved by the River Varosa, we travel from Santiago de Sande to Valdigem, crossing a medieval bridge, before approaching Peso da Régua from higher ground, with historic wine-producing estates along the way and the Régua riverside quay on the horizon. After crossing the River Douro, it is worth walking slowly along the banks of this great northern river and regaining strength for what lies ahead. Between Souto de Sergude and Fontelas, the climb is vertiginous. In fact, the ascent is only 300 metres, but it follows steep paths and slippery cobbled tracks. Upon entering the municipality of Mesão Frio and following the road towards Nostim, the prevailing feeling is one of complete freedom: our feet remain firmly on the ground, yet the destination towards which we walk lies above earthly things. It is the kind of freedom that only the Camino de Santiago can provide. From Mártir onwards, the route becomes easier, descending all the way to Mesão Frio. We are accompanied by the course of the River Douro, a silent and ever-present companion guiding us from below, towards which we occasionally glance in wonder and admiration.