Day 9 Porto to Vila do Conde

The first time I've ever repeated a bit of a camino, as I did this stage in 2015. Like last time, I decided to skip the walk through the suburbs and catch the bus to Matsinhos, the big ferry port on the outskirts of the city and then walk from there. I must have taken a different bus this time as the bus route went alongside the river bank which actually looked rather nice. Whatever, I got to Matsinhos and approached the big swing bridge which controls entry to the port.

Someone had unfortunately taken the bridge away. So it was Shank's pony for an additional 4km around the port, including a stretch along a big commuter route into town. It was only at a cafe later that I heard about the courtesy bus laid on for foot passengers and pilgrims who needed to cross the port entrance. Still, it was a pleasant enough warm-up and the coast was sunny and welcoming.

The wonderful aspect of walking north out of Porto is the long wooden broad walk that keeps feet off delicate flora while keeping one next to the water. Occasionally, as pictured here, the winter storms do a bit of damage and parts are closed but generally it is in very good nick.

A few coffees and beers later and one arrives in Vila do Conde, a picturesque little town on the estuary of the river Ave. Stayed in a super little guest house built over an antique shop which had cats trying to bust in for breakfast the following morning. Dinner was at a fish restaurant which was also fun. Not fun for the fish though.

I do like this little town. It has a prosperous air about it, and it's positioned well; not too breezy but still very coastal. And there is something about a glass of wine next to an old sailing ship which is rather nice.