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The Portuguese Coastal Route is one of the quieter Camino paths and it offers a wealth of history. From the lively city of Porto, set on the banks of the Douro River and famous for its port wine production, the journey travels north alongside the ocean shores and leads through small hamlets, past eucalyptus and pine woods, over ancient bridges and through stunning coastal scenery. Throughout the walk there are ample reminders of past pilgrims and the route offers many insights into the religious significance of the Camino. Crossing the Spanish border and walking the last 100kms through Galicia to the holy city of Santiago ensures you qualify for the Compostela certificate upon your arrival at the cathedral.
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19kg of CO2-e PP per day
(267kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Porto
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 it into the proud city it has become, with its impressive cathedral and port wine lodges. After checking in to your hotel, take the time to explore the city with its many cultural sites. Overnight Porto. We can assist with booking pre-tour accommodation on request - highly recommended as Porto has much to offer.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Metro train to Matosinhos, walk to Povoa do Varzim (7-7.5hrs)
From Porto there are two coastal paths - the original Coastal route which is approx 3km inland and the 'Senda Litoral' which hugs the coast. Both options are well waymarked with signs of the Camino de Santiago. The night stops are the same, the difference is walking through a rural environment or following the coastline. We suggest taking the 'Senda Litoral' as it offers impressive views over the Atlantic Ocean. Today you take the metro train to Matosinhos to avoid the urban sprawl of Porto. From the station you set out on foot across the lifting bridge Ponte Movel to start your walk. Following the shell signs, the route takes you along the coast, past seaside villages such as Leca da Palmeira, Labruge and Vila do Conde, before arriving at Povoa do Varzim. Home to an old town, the Cividade de Terrosso Fort, more than 3000 years old, and an ancient aqueduct, there is a scenic working harbour and seaside cafes and bars. Overnight in Povoa do Varzim. Distance 27km/16.8mi, ascent/descent approx +-70m/230ft *It is possible to walk from Porto, in which case this is a long day - 40km/25mi.
Meals: B
Day 3
Walk to Esposende (5hrs)
A fairly easy walk on the Senda Litoral as you take the esplanade to the Chapel of San Andres before continuing into Litoral Norte Natural Park a protected natural area consisting of diverse habitats of imposing sand dunes, wetlands and estuaries, and home to many different wildlife habitats. You will reach Fao on the southern side of the Cavadoy river. Cross the iron bridge over the river before arriving in the city of Esposende. Overnight Esposende. Distance 20km/12.5mi, ascent/descent approx +-30m/98ft
Day 4
To Viana do Castelo (6hrs)
Continuing north on the Senda Litoral, before the town of Marinhas the trail meanders along the coast offering the opportunity to savour the authentic local gastronomy. At the port of Cabedelo, cross the Eiffel Bridge to arrive at Viana do Castelo. Viana do Castelo is a beautiful city located in the Minho region in northern Portugal with an appealing medieval centre, a 5th Century Cathedral and the Basilica of Santa Luzia which offers great views. The Coastal inland route takes you through forest after Ponte and has some elevations. Distance 26km/16.2mi, ascent/descent approx +-40m/131ft
Day 5
Walk to Vila Praia de Ancora (5hrs)
The walk today is gentle as you continue along the coast, surrounded by lush vegetation and golden beaches. Your destination for today is the small but charming town of Praia de Ancora. This afternoon you can take the opportunity to swim in the Atlantic ocean. Overnight Praia de Ancora. Distance 19km/11.8mi, ascent/descent approx +-20m/65ft
Day 6
On to Caminha, then by ferry to A Guarda (4hrs)
Leaving Vila Praia de Ancora you'll continue to the beach at Moledo. You then leave the coast slightly, walking through forest and back to a boardwalk before reaching Caminha, the last town before crossing into Spain - which you do by ferry. Continue on foot either inland or along the coast until you reach A Guarda, today's destination. Distance 15km/9.3mi, ascent/descent approx +-40m/131ft Ferry tickets to be purchased locally, allow approx EUR6 per person, takes 10 minutes to cross, hourly departures in the main season.
Day 7
Continue to Oia or Viladesuso (3 or 4hrs)
A more undulating stage, meandering along the coast between the ocean and O'Rosal's prized vineyards. Leaving A Guardia the trail takes you around the peninsula, with opportunities to stop for a coffee or lunch and enjoy the scenery before continuing to the lovely small village of Oia with its Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Oia, a former Cistercian monastery. Overnight in Oia or further along the way in Viladesuso, dependent on availability. Distance 13km/8mi or 18km/11.3mi, ascent/descent approx +-80m/263ft
Day 8
Walk to Baiona (5.5hrs or 4hrs)
The walk today is a feast for the senses. For the first 10km the route takes you along a coastal footpath away from the main road. You then continue along picturesque coastline, walking along the boardwalk, all while enjoying stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day you should be able to see the Cies islands, which belong to the Atlantic Islands National Maritime and Terrestrial Park. Overnight in Baiona. Distance 18km/11.3mi or 13km/8mi, ascent/descent approx +-45m/148ft
Day 9
On to Vigo (6.5hrs)
From Baiona you will walk alongside sandy beaches for most of the day, with plenty of opportunities to take a break at a seaside cafe along the way. It's a long stage with some slopes. Pass the Roman Villa of Toralla in the neighbourhood of Oia, and continue to the historic centre of Vigo, located near the mouth of the nearby Vigo Estuary and sheltered by the Cíes Islands. Overnight in Vigo. We recommend exploring the narrow streets to discover historical buildings of the old town. Distance 26km/16.3mi, ascent/descent approx +-60m/197ft
Day 10
Join the main Portuguese Camino as you walk to Arcade (5-6hrs)
The route as you leave Vigo is mainly uphill and will reward you with spectacular views of the city and harbour. Continue to Redondela, where you will join the main Portuguese Camino route, and on to Arcade. Overnight Arcade. Distance 23km/14.4mi, ascent/descent approx +-140m/460ft
Day 11
A shorter walk to the old town of Pontevedra (3-4hrs)
You start the day by walking over the beautiful old bridge at Ponte Sampaio. From here there’s a steep uphill stretch following ancient stone paths before the path descends to the provincial capital of Pontevedra. There are some interesting sites to be explored in Pontevedra 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. Overnight in Pontevedra. Distance 12km/7.5mi, ascent/descent approx +-140m/460ft
Day 12
Walk to Caldas de Reis (6-7hrs)
Most of today's stage is through woodland and countryside along gentle river valleys, allowing you to enjoy the serenity of the Galician rural landscapes. Closer to Caldas de Reis the route crosses the N550 and follows this road for short sections. Located between the Umia and Bermana rivers, the town of Caldas developed as a result of its thermal waters and continues to be a major health spa. The botanical gardens next to the river are lovely for some respite from the walk. Overnight in Caldas de Reis. Option to upgrade to a comfortable 4 star inn with pool or 3 star rural inn - supplement applies and must be requested when initially booking the trip. Note transfers are required for the rural inn option - additional cost applies. Distance 21km/13.2mi, ascent/descent approx +-120m/394ft
Day 13
Via the river valleys of Bermana and Valga to Padron (5hrs)
This is a beautiful walk, first through the Bermana river valley then the path drops down into the Valga valley. You'll pass through fields, forests and small villages, and there are two short stages of main road: leaving Caldas and entering Padron. Padron town is lovely, set on the banks of the Sar and Ulla rivers. The "Pedron" stone (a St James relic) is under the altar at Igrexa de Santiago (church). Overnight in Padron. Distance 19km/12mi, ascent/descent approx +-130m/427ft
Day 14
Through Galician villages to Santiago (6-7hrs)
The final day takes you through pine, oak and eucalyptus wood, then approaching Santiago the route follows some sections of main road. Arrival in the historic city of Santiago. Overnight in Santiago. 25km/15.6mi, ascent approx +220m/722ft
Day 15
Trip concludes Santiago de Compostela
Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. If you'd like to stay an extra night in Santiago please ask for our rates.
What's included
What's not included
During the trip you will be accommodated in comfortable hotels and rural B&Bs on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities.
Daily walks are between 12-27km (7.5-16.8mi) on well marked trails over diverse terrain – from relatively flat to hilly. The trail takes you along the coast and quiet rural roads, occasionally on the verges of roads with traffic. Some of the route is on walking trails away from the road and there are often alternative routes available. Route finding is reasonably straightforward following the yellow arrows and granite pillars (showing distance to Santiago). The route will inevitably cross main roads close to cities and towns, although the majority is on side roads and walking trails. The main areas to concentrate on route finding are arriving and leaving towns and cities. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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