Stage Melide – Arzúa: Camino Primitivo guide along the Francés
From Melide the Primitivo already follows the route of the Camino Francés. It is a short stage through oak, pine and eucalyptus woods, with the medieval bridge at Furelos and the corner of Ribadiso da Baixo before the last climb into Arzúa.
Distance
About 14 km
Difficulty
Medium
Estimated time
About 3.5 – 4 h
Altitude
Broken profile, with a descent into the River Iso valley
Route map
The stage section by section
Leaving Melide and Furelos
You go down to Furelos and cross its medieval bridge over the River Furelos.
Woodland
A dirt path through oak, pine and eucalyptus, with short ups and downs.
Boente
A church of Santiago of Romanesque origin and the Fonte da Saleta with a wayside cross.
Fraga Alta and the descent to the Iso
Descent towards the River Iso valley.
Ribadiso da Baixo
A historic ensemble beside the River Iso, one of the prettiest places on the Camino.
The final climb into Arzúa
A short steep rise to Arzúa, a town famous for its cheese with Protected Designation of Origin.
What to see
The Furelos bridge, the church of Boente and Ribadiso da Baixo are the landmarks of the day.
Food and drink
Melide: pulpo á feira. Arzúa: artisan cheese with the Arzúa-Ulloa Designation of Origin.
Practical tips
- Make the most of Melide to eat and restock: the route is much busier.
- Ribadiso offers accommodation as a nearby alternative to Arzúa.
- In high season book accommodation in Arzúa in advance.
- The final approach into Arzúa is less attractive.
Frequently asked questions
How many km is Melide – Arzúa?
About 14 km.
How difficult is it?
Moderate, because of its broken profile with short climbs.
What do you see on the way?
The Furelos bridge, the church of Boente, Ribadiso da Baixo and Arzúa.
Where do you eat the octopus and the cheese?
Octopus in Melide and cheese in Arzúa.
What happens in Arzúa with the routes?
The Camino del Norte joins the Francés, so three routes continue together to Santiago.
You have reached Arzúa
Rest at Casa Buen Camino, an entire house for up to 8 people, 400 m from the centre of Arzúa, with arrival by code and confirmation of your booking within 60 minutes. Booking directly is always 10 % cheaper.