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This tour offers the opportunity to walk on the Coastal, Central and Spiritual variant of the Portuguese Camino paths. From the lively city of Porto, set on the banks of the Douro River and famous for its port wine production, the trail heads north alongside the ocean shores of the Coastal Route, leading through small hamlets, past eucalyptus and pine woods, over ancient bridges and through stunning coastal scenery. Crossing the Spanish border by ferry to A Guarda, continue to Redondela to join the main Central Portuguese Camino to Pontevedra. From here you'll follow the Spiritual variant to Santiago, marveling at the Ruta da Pedra e da Auga (Route of Stone and Water) and relaxing on a boat trip through the Arousa estuary. Throughout the journey there are ample reminders of past pilgrims and the route offers many insights into the religious significance of the Camino. Walking the last 100km to the holy city of Santiago ensures you qualify for the Compostela certificate upon your arrival at the cathedral.
The Spiritual variant is an officially recognized route, including the boat ride from Vilanova de Arousa to Pontecesures (you can even get a stamp onboard).
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Day 1
Arrive in 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,D
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 (at times accommodation is in Fao). 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
Meals: B
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 Vila Praia de Ancora. This afternoon you can take the opportunity to swim in the Atlantic ocean. 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 the 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 (central) Portuguese Camino route, and on to Arcade. Overnight Arcade. Distance 23km/14.4mi, ascent/descent approx +-180m/590ft
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 the Spiritual Variant to Armenteira (4-5hrs)
Today you leave the main Portuguese Camino and join the Spiritual variant, walking to Armenteira. From the Sanctuary of the Pilgrim, in the heart of Pontevedra's historic centre, on leaving town you'll cross the Lérez River via the Burgo Bridge and gradually enter a rural area. Continue along secondary roads and some well-trodden dirt tracks that will lead you to the Monastery of San Xoán de Poio. From here, the path descends to the charming fishing village of Combarro before heading uphill to the Mirador do Loureiro viewpoint. Enter a predominantly rural area, passing through small forests with the sound of the Armenteira River in the background. The final section up to Armenteira is the most demanding part of the stage, with a fairly steep ascent. The stage ends at the peaceful Monastery of Santa María de Armenteira. Subject to availability in Armenteira, overnight may be in Campano at a rural hotel with transfers included. Distance 21km/13.2mi, ascent +400m/1312ft descent -100m/320ft approx
Day 13
Continue to Vilanova de Arousa (5-6hrs)
From the Armenteira Monastery the trail descends through forests, past mills and small waterfalls along the Ruta da Pedra e da Auga (Route of Stone and Water). This is one of the most beautiful sections of the Spiritual Variant. From Barrantes, you'll pass vineyards and small villages. In Pontearnelas, you'll reach the Umia River estuary and soon arrive at the Arousa Estuary. Pass the Illa de Arousa (Island of Arousa) in the middle of the estuary and, continuing along the path to Playa del Terrón (Terrón Beach), you'll reach the Vilanova de Arousa Marina. Overnight in the capital of the Arousa Estuary and the natural port of Santiago de Compostela. Distance 24km/15mi, ascent +100m/320ft, descent -250m/820ft approx
Day 14
By boat to Pontecesures, continue on foot towards Santiago (3-4hrs)
From the Marina in Vilanova you'll travel by boat (approx 15 nautical miles, 1.5hrs) along the Arousa estuary, passing mussel rafts and Cortegada Island, part of the Atlantic Islands Marine-Terrestrial National Park. This boat takes you into the Ulla River estuary, where you'll see the markers indicating the route of the world's only Maritime-Fluvial Way of the Cross. You'll pass through Catoira, in front of the iconic Torres de Oeste (West Towers), and continue along a stretch of river surrounded by vegetation until you reach the Pontecesures dock. Here you'll disembark to continue on foot through Padron to Ames. Our usual accommodation is an old farmhouse with pool in the small town of Ames. To Ames approx 16km/10mi, ascent +200m/656ft, descent 30km/98ft approx
Day 15
Through typical Galician landscape to Santiago (3hrs)
The last day on the Camino takes you through small villages, meadows, fields, and forests. Typical Galician landscapes will guide you along paved roads and well-trodden dirt paths. At the end of the day you walk into the outskirts of Santiago. You'll pass through O Milladoiro and, leaving the Alameda de Santiago behind, enter the cobbled streets of its historic centre and soon reach the Plaza del Obradoiro, where the imposing Cathedral of Santiago stands. Overnight in Santiago. Distance approx 10km/6mi, ascent +230m/656ft, descent -170m/558ft
Day 16
Trip concludes Santiago de Compostela
Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. We can assist with booking extra nights on request.
What's included
What's not included
During the trip you will be accommodated in comfortable hotels and guesthouses with ensuite facilities.
GRADE 3 - Daily walks are between 7.5-12 to 27km (4.7-7.5 to 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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