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

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. This beautiful city is home to an old town, the Cividade de Terrosso Fort, more than 3000 years old as well as an ancient aqueduct. Overnight in Povoa do Varzim. Distance 27km/16.8mi *It is possible to walk from Porto, in which case this is a long day - 40km/25mi.

Meals:  B

A fairly easy walk 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

Meals:  B

Continue along the coastal plains to the town of Marinhas, and Church of San Bartolome do Mar. Head inland briefly before returing to the coast following a forest path to the port of Cabedelo. Cross the Eiffel Bridge, arriving into Viana do Castelo. Viana do Castelo is a beautiful city located in the Minho region in North Portugal with an appealing medieval centre, a 5th Century Cathedral and the Basilica of Santa Lucia. Distance 25km/15.6mi

Meals:  B

The walk today is a gentle one, and you'll be sure to enjoy the sea-air as you walk along the coast. Your destination for the day 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

Meals:  B

As you leave Villa Prais de Ancora you'll continue onto the beach of Praia de 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 Ferry tickets to be purchased locally, allow approx EUR6 per person, takes 10 minutes to cross, hourly departures in the main season.

Meals:  B

Leaving from A Guardia this morning, the trail takes you around the peninsula, with ample opportunities to stop for a coffee or lunch and enjoy the magnificent beach scenery before continuing your walk to the lovely small village of Oia. Overnight Viladesuso or Oia. Distance 13km/8mi or 19km/11.8mi

Meals:  B

The walk today is a real feast for all 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. Overnight Baiona. Distance 19km/11.8mi or 13km/8mi

Meals:  B

As you leave Baiona you will walk alongside sandy beaches for most of the day. There is also plenty of opportunities to take a break in a lovely seaside cafe along the way. This afternoon you will arrive in Vigo, a typical Galician town with a wide sandy beach. Walking along the harbour you'll arrive at your hotel for the night. Overnight Vigo. Distance 23km/14.3mi

Meals:  B

The route as you leave Vigo is mainly uphill. The uphill walking will reward you with specatacular views of the city and harbour. Continue walking though to Redondela where you will join the main Portuguese Camino route and then on to Arcade. Overnight Arcade. Distance 22km/13.7mi

Meals:  B

You start the day by walking over the beautiful old bridge at Ponte Sampaio. From here there’s a short uphill stretch following ancient stone paths before the path descends to the provincial capital of Pontevedra. There are some interesting sites to be explored here 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

Meals:  B

Most of this stage is through woodland and countryside along gentle river valleys with virtually no climbing. 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. Distance 21km/13.2mi

Meals:  B

This is a beautiful walk, first through the Bermana river valley then the path drops down into the Valga valley. 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, with some St James relics to be seen at the Igrexa de Santiago (church). Overnight in Padron. Distance 19km/12mi

Meals:  B

The final day takes you through pine, oak and eucalyptus wood, before there’s a climb to reach Santiago. Closer to Santiago the route follows some sections of main road. Overnight in Santiago. Distance 26km/16.3mi

Meals:  B

Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. If you'd like to stay an extra night in Santiago please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B