Portuguese Camino starting in Santarem via Fatima

[JaneM]

Hi all I appreciate the wealth of wisdom here.
I have done copious amounts of research and will be travelling to Portugal next May for the Portuguese Camino - train from Lisbon to Santarem then walking via Fatima and then picking up the main Portuguese Camino in Tomar.
I have previously walked from Tui to Santiago and also the Via Francigena from Lucca to Rome so not a notice. but I am a lone female and like to go slow and really take it all in.
Just wondering on any tips for those initial stages to Fatima and onto Tomar. I plan to be in Fatima on May 13 so expecting that to be busy but not sure about the rest.
Did others find the signage ok?
Hoping its not too much road walking between Santarem and Tomar?
Any first hand advice greatly appreciated.

 

[Corned Beef]

A link to route description for the sections to Fatima

Santarém - Monsanto | Caminhos da Fé

When leaving Santarém, the landscape en-route starts to show signs of change, with expansive rural fields and the emergence of mountainous landscapes. The astonishing settlements along this stretch are a portrait of a Portugal almost untouched since the end of the 19th century, when farming...

www.pathsoffaith.com

Plenty of signs (blue/white). If you do end up on the roads, they tend to be very quiet. Because it's a quiet area, you'll need to take water/food with you are there are not many cafes to stop at - if they are open at all.

 

[JaneM]

A link to route description for the sections to Fatima

Santarém - Monsanto | Caminhos da Fé

When leaving Santarém, the landscape en-route starts to show signs of change, with expansive rural fields and the emergence of mountainous landscapes. The astonishing settlements along this stretch are a portrait of a Portugal almost untouched since the end of the 19th century, when farming...

www.pathsoffaith.com

Plenty of signs (blue/white). If you do end are on the roads, they tend to be very quiet. Because it's a quiet area, you'll need to take water/food with you are there are not many cafes to stop at - if they are open at all.

Thanks so much Corned Beef I have found the paths of faith website very helpful. I was more just interested in first hand experiences and tips from those who have walked the path. Great to hear there are plenty of signs and I will definitely take water and food.

 

[André Walker]

There is a Google Maps map showing the various Caminhos de Fátima. I think it's possible to download the KML-tracks from the map into your smartphone. Might be helpful if for navigation purposes?

Caminhos de Fátima - https://www.google.nl/maps/d/viewer?mid=18iGd0PrWLrBINUXaieLn79RywjEEQKI&usp=sharing