There are several ways of getting to Caminha,Portugal, from Puebla de Sanabria, but only one route avoids narrow, mountain roads. So ignoring the charms of Braganza and Chaves, both visited many years ago , the Autovia was the route of choice, passing close to A Gudina, Verin , Ourense and Vigo before dropping due South to enter Portugal by Valenca do Mino – a walled , fortress town on the River Mino. I have stayed in most of these places on various Caminos;memories came flooding back.
Both this day’s drive and that to Puebla have been really enjoyable as the Autovia A 52 makes for a scenic route, quiet and well facilitated with opportunities for coffee and refuelling. It was only a short run from Valenca to Caminha and the Orbitur campsite situated close to the Foz Do Mino beach.
The campsite has good reviews and though small, has all the amenities.Hannah celebrated her birthday on the cafe terrace with breakfast, cards and presents brought from home and a lollipop presented to her by the waiter.
The hot sunshine for the four days here was tempered by breezes and made for a really relaxing time, exploring the town and for a walk through the adjacent pine forest. The town was once thriving fishing port, but most of its trade was overtaken by nearby Viano de Castelo, yet it remains a tranquil place with some fine architecture, especially around the main square.
I have stayed here,twice,once on the interior Camino Portuguese and more recently on the Coastal Camino Portuguese – but being the ” ensuitepilgrim” not in the Albergue!- it’s a place I am very fond of.
It’ a very pleasant walk along the Mino into town along boardwalks for part of the way.
And after some sight seeing or shopping, the main square is a must for a beer or coffee.
Leaving here, tomorrow, Saturday and driving towards Aveiro, A place surrounded by water dating back to Roman times, a town I have always wanted to visit . A journey of 172 KM. It should take a couple of hours.
Goodnight and goodbye from Caminha.
ensuitepilgrim's Blog 
How well I remember those towns from my numerous Caminos on both the coastal and central route. And the pasteis de nata, now that is a celebration in itself but definitely extra special on your birthday. Happy Birthday, Hannah!
Enjoy and I know you will love Aveiro, some people from my retreat in Ponte de Lima last year visited for one day and brought back many photos, I look forward to your photos.
Enjoy Aveiro, the “Venice of Portugal”.
And Happy Birthday Hannah!