Set on the banks of the Douro River, Porto’s historical centre was declared a World Heritage site in 1996 and in the 12th Century it was in Porto that the country took its name and became an independent nation. Its maritime legacies and importance as a New World trading port have shaped its rich heritage. After checking in to your hotel, take the time to explore the city with its many cultural sites including the impressive cathedral and port wine lodges. Overnight in Porto.

Meals:  Nil

This morning you go to the bike shop to collect your bike. Today you will cycle along quiet country roads, passing a mixture of churches and historic sites. You will continue to head north along the coast crossing the Coastal Natural Park and the Cavado river in the direction to Esposende, an old fishing village located on the estuary of the River Cavado. If you prefer to spend more time in Porto today and avoid the largely urban cycle to Esposende, it is possible for us to arrange an afternoon transfer from Porto to Esposende. An additional cost will apply and this needs to be pre-booked (speak to our staff for details, including price). You will still qualify for a Compostela Certificate on arrival into Santiago as you will have ridden just over 200km from Esposende to Santiago, which is the minimum requirement for cyclists. When taking this option, you need to be at the bike shop by 5pm for the bike fitting, as the transfer will be arranged from the bike shop at 5:30pm.

Meals:  B,D

Today you will continue cycling along the Atlantic coastine. You will pass through the villages of Marinhas, Belinho, Neiva and Darque until reach the historic town of Viana do Castelo. Later today you will pass farms before continuing to the fishing village of Praia de Ancora.

Meals:  B,D

This morning a short 10km cycle along the coast will bring you to the ferry terminal. From here you will take the ferry at Caminha in Spain, across the river Miño. The cost of the ferry is not included (around EUR2). You will then get back on the bike and cycle to Baiona.

Meals:  B,D

Today you will join the traditional Camino. You will cycle towards O Porriño, and then later in the day a short climb leads up to the chapel of Santiaguiño de Antas, and you will then cycle through pine forests en route to the fishing village of Arcade. Enjoy stunning views over the Bay of Vigo as you pedal towards the historic city of Pontevedra, where you stay overnight. In Pontevedra there are some interesting sites to be explored including the Santuario da Peregrin chapel and the Convento de San Francisco. The medieval town centre is a maze of cobbled laneways with tapas bars and cafes.

Meals:  B,D

Today you will pedal through chestnut groves, pine and eucalyptus forest. You will pass through the hamlet of Tivo and the village of Caldas de Reis, before crossing the River Umia and gradually climbing to the village of Santa Marina. Your destination for today is Padron, where the body of Saint James is said to have first landed, when it was brought to Santiago. As of mid July the O Burgo bridge in Pontevedra is closed, there is a temporary diversion of the Camino via the As Correntes bridge before returning to the usual route in A Santiña. The diversion is signed and local businesses and accommodation are aware, if you need to ask for directions.

Meals:  B,D

The final day takes you again through pine, oak and eucalyptus wood before climbing up to reach Santiago. You will pass a number of small villages en route, before spotting the spires of Santiago’s Cathedral in the distance. If you time your arrival well you will be able to attend the midday Pilgrim’s Mass in Santiago, a very special experience. This afternoon you are free to discover the many interesting sites of Santiago’s charming old town at leisure.

Meals:  B

Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast.

Meals:  B