The Portuguese Camino - Porto to Viana do Castelo extension

Name: The Portuguese Camino - Porto to Viana do Castelo extension
Brand: UTracks
SKU: PC6
Rating: 4.40 (5 reviews)

Two keen walkers setting off on the Portuguese Camino Trail. | Dana Garofani

A relaxed beach town found on the Portuguese Camino. | Dana Garofani

Signage on the Camino in Portugal

Walking the Portuguese Coastal Camino on a perfect day. | Dana Garofani

The colourful rooftops of Portuguese towns. | Dana Garofani

Following the Camino shell signage, which points travellers in the right direction. | Dana Garofani

The beautiful Capela Das Almas chapel near Porto train station | Pat Rochon

Enjoy the typical sweets of Portugal | Pat Rochon

Two keen walkers setting off on the Portuguese Camino Trail. | Dana Garofani

A relaxed beach town found on the Portuguese Camino. | Dana Garofani

Signage on the Camino in Portugal

Walking the Portuguese Coastal Camino on a perfect day. | Dana Garofani

The colourful rooftops of Portuguese towns. | Dana Garofani

Following the Camino shell signage, which points travellers in the right direction. | Dana Garofani

The beautiful Capela Das Almas chapel near Porto train station | Pat Rochon

Enjoy the typical sweets of Portugal | Pat Rochon

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Duration

4 days

Activities

self guided walk

Accommodation

3 nights in comfortable hotels

Meals

2 Dinners
3 Breakfasts

Price

SPECIAL OFFER

$690USD

Overview

Trip Code: PC6

Trip highlights

Enjoying a quieter pilgrimage route, following in the footsteps of Celtic, Roman and Christian wayfarers
Mix of scenery from coastal sand dunes to forests
Experiencing culinary delights, including the local port varieties in Porto
Arriving in Viana do Castelo with its lovely old centre

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 north takes you along paths and boardwalks and through small seaside towns and fishing hamlets, largely following the coast. Throughout the journey there are ample reminders of past pilgrims and the route offers many insights into the religious significance of the Camino. Charming Viana do Castelo is your destination, located in stunning surroundings full of natural beauty.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

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Itinerary

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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 (7.5 hrs, 27km/16.8mi)

After breakfast, catch the metro train to Matosinhos avoiding the urban sprawl of Porto and cross the lifting bridge ponte movel to start your walk. The route takes you along the coast visiting 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 aquaduct. Overnight Povoa do Varzim *It is possible to set out on foot from Porto, in which case this is a long day - 40km.

Meals: B,D

Day 3
Walk to Fao or Esposende (4-5.5 hrs, 18 or 20km/11.25 or 12.5mi)

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 Fao or Esposende.

Meals: B,D

Day 4
To Viana do Castelo (6hrs, 26km/7mi)

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 where your tour ends. Continue to Baiona or Santiago, or we can assist with booking the night in Viana do Castelo - please ask for our rates.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

3 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner will consist of 3 courses, usually starting with a salad, followed by a chicken, red meat, fish or pasta dish & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cakes.
3 nights in comfortable hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
Digital information pack with route notes, maps & GPX
Pilgrim Passport
Emergency hotline

What's not included

Travel to Porto and from Viana do Castelo
Meals not listed as included, drinks
Travel insurance
Guide – this is a self guided walking holiday
A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
Entrance fees not listed as included
Transfers not listed as included
Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
Excess luggage
Items of a personal nature

Grading

moderate

Daily walks are between 18-27km (11.25-17mi) on well marked trails and boardwalks over diverse terrain – from flat to low hills. Route finding is straightforward following the yellow arrows and granite pillars (showing distance to Santiago), and keeping the ocean to your left, however you still need to be vigilant at times especially further inland as markers from other trails such as the GR11 can be confusing (refer below for further details on self guided adventures). However our notes include hints and pointers to help you navigate the route. 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.

Departure dates

Daily from 1 Mar to 15 Nov

Notes

High Season

Note:

High season is 10 Jul to 15 Sep - supplement applies

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$690USD

Options & Supplements*

excess luggage (per piece, max 20kg in weight)USD$80
Single SupplementUSD$280
Solo traveller supplementUSD$300

*Prices listed are per person

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