Arcade is a small village on the Portuguese Camino De Santiago in the Galicia region of Spain. The village serves as a stopping point between Redondela and Pontevedra.
Arcade played an important role in the Napoleonic Wars. The Battle of Puente Sampaio was fought at the mouth of the Verdugo River between the 7th and 9th June in 1809. Spanish forces commanded by Colonel Pablo Maorillo forced the French troops led by Marshall Michel Ney to retreat. This victory played an important part in the War of Independence and led to the evacuation of the French troops from Galicia.
So, let’s take a look at the things to do and see in 24 hours in Arcade.
The Village
The village of Arcade with its stone houses over one hundred years old nestled in the green hills that plunge into tranquil bays will transport visitors to another time and place. There are ancient Roman bridges, cobblestone streets, and narrow lanes that pass up and down through old-time neighbourhoods with traditional horreos on almost every home.
The village has cafes, restaurants and bars to sit down, relax and enjoy the seafood that is abundant in this area.
Relax On The Beach
Arcade is located on the Atlantic Coast so many pilgrims enjoy the small coves and pristine beaches where they can take a dip after a long day on the Camino during the summer months.
Many of the beaches have small bars and cafes serving simple cuisine.
Oysters
Arcade is famous for its oysters. In the first week of April, thousands descend on the village to celebrate the yearly oyster festival. Outside of this time, oysters are available from the small oyster bars dotted along the main street.
Puente Sampaio Bridge
The Puente Sampaio played a significant role in the history of Arcade being the main battleground where the French were defeated in the Napoleonic Wars (see above).
The bridge that runs over the River Verdugo was first constructed in Roman times. The bridge that remains today was rebuilt in medieval times and pilgrims walk over the bridge on the way to Pontevedra.
Castle of Soutomaior
Built in the 12th century, the Castle of Soutomaior was one of the major castles in the Galician region. The castle has a functioning draw bridge and visitors can walk around the battlements of the Castle.
If you plan to walk the Camino de Santiago and need a little helping hand preparing for your journey, why not let me take care of the mundane, leaving you to enjoy the magic? I offer Camino Itinerary Planning on the Portuguese Camino and Camino Finisterre y Muxia.
If you plan to walk the Camino de Santiago, check out my book, A Wild Woman’s Guide To The Camino de Santiago. I share everything you need to know before you begin your Camino. Read at A Wild Woman’s Guide To The Camino De Santiago or click the link below.
(c) Samantha Wilson 2019. All Rights Reserved.
Photo Credit Uma Aguarela on Instagram
