Portuguese Camino

Challenge yourself to a journey from pretty Porto to the historic Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela on a 10-day alternative coastal Camino trail. This Portuguese Camino trail passes through coastal Baiona, Vigo and Redondela, and joins the pilgrim route onwards to Pontevedra, Caldas de Reis and Padron, finishing in Santiago de Compostela. You’ll embark on a journey through the countryside in mostly north-western Spain, retracing the ‘Way of Saint James’, trekking past the Bay of Vigo and visiting old churches and quaint villages. As one of the three most important Christian pilgrimages, you’ll take part in a powerful journey through some idyllic landscapes and beautiful towns.

Itinerary

Day 1: Porto

Ola! Welcome to Portugal. Your Camino adventure begins with an important welcome meeting at 6 or 7 pm (please check welcome note at hotel lobby for details). As this trip spends very little time in Porto, we recommend you arrive a day or two before your trip if you want to experience all the city has to offer. Stretching along the banks of the River Douro, Porto is one of Portugal's most romantic cities, known for majestic bridges, medieval riverside district with its cobbled streets, merchants’ houses and cafes. After your meeting, your group might like to get together and head riverside to find a delicious dinner.

Day 2: Baiona

This morning, transfer to Oia and begin your Camino. This walk you’re embarking on makes up the final section of the Portuguese Coastal Walk, and most of your time is actually spent in north-western Spain around 20 kilometres from the Portuguese border. Oia is a small coastal town and marks the beginning of your walk. Take the 19-kilometre journey to seaside Baiona. Once arrived, you can stroll along the port, visit the impressive Monte Real fortress and taste the best of the Rias Biaxas seafood and white wine, before you start your journey to Santiago de Compostela tomorrow.

Day 3: Vigo

This morning, hug the coastline from Baiona to Nigran on your way to the city of Vigo. With your trail along the water, pass by beautiful seascapes of the magnificent Bay of Vigo, with the acclaimed Illas Cies natural park on the horizon. These rugged islands form a main focal point of the bay. If you do happen to be walking on a hot day, why not cool off with a swim at Praia De Samil beach in Navia? Arrive in Vigo in the late afternoon, ready for a leisure day tomorrow.

Day 4: Vigo

Today is free for you to do as you please in Vigo. Vigo is a city cradled by the mountains on one side and the sea on the other, flourishing from a humble fishing village into this region’s most populated city. Perhaps pack a picnic and stroll around parquet Monte del Castro, or head in town and enjoy some local seafood, like oysters, gambas, lubinas and more. If you’re feeling more active, stroll to the Castro Fortress – a defence system built in 1665 in an attempt to protect the city from attacks from the British navy allies of Portugal. Now, the fortress is more so ruins, and is a perfect place to walk around the gardens and admire the surrounding views. In the evening, be sure to get a group together and head to dinner. Your leader will be able to provide all the recommendations you need!

Day 5: Redondela

This morning, continue the Camino on your way to Redondela. You will continue to follow the coastline and see the Bay of Vigo from different angles. As this is a shorter walking day, feel free to take in all of your surroundings and relax into the journey. Along the way, let your leader guide you through delicious seafood tasting before heading to Redondela for the evening. This city, at the upper end of the Bay of Vigo, is where you will finish your coastal walk, and will join the original Portuguese Camino trail.

Day 6: Pontevedra

Today is your last day along the coast, so do make the most of the seaside. On your way, you’ll stop by the fishing village of Arcade and enjoy a relaxed seafood lunch and a glass of locally grown Albarino (at your own expense). Continue for about another 3 hours on your hike into Pontevedra. It will be mid-afternoon by the time you arrive, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore the old town with its many Romanesque churches and quaint granite squares.

Day 7: Caldas de Rei

Head inland today, passing by beautiful chestnut groves and pine and eucalyptus woods on your way to Caldas de Rei. On your journey, you’ll visit the village of Ponte Cabras, and will have the chance to see the rectory of Santa Maria de Alba. Continue on your way past Lombo da Maceira with a statue of Saint James and the hamlet of Tivo with its fountain and public washing bath. Arrive in Caldas de Reis and enjoy an included visit to one of the nearby wineries to learn about the history of wine in this region.

Day 8: Padron

From Caldas de Reis you will cross the river Umia and find the hot springs that have given the town its name since Roman times. The trail today takes you through forests and gradually climbs to the village of Santa Marina. After stopping and looking around, continue on the trail through pine forests to tonight’s stop: the town of Padron.

Day 9: Santiago de Compostela

Today is your final day of walking and a longer journey, taking you through small villages and on to the historical sanctuary of A Escravitude. Keep an eye out for the ruins of Castro Lupario fort on a nearby hilltop. Make your way towards Agro dos Monteiros, catching a glimpse of the spires of the cathedral and passing the ruins of the castle of A Rocha Vella. As you come to the end of the final leg, you’ll walk through the town to the magnificent Plaza del Obradoiro and then to the gates of the marvellous Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. You’ve made it! Be sure to receive your Compostela certificate for your journey. After you’ve rested and freshened up, take the time to wander around the historic quarter of the city and get your group together for dinner. It’s definitely time for celebration!

Day 10: Santiago de Compostela

With no walks or activities planned for today, you’re free to leave your accommodation at any time. If you wish to spend more time in Santiago de Compostela, we'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Departure Dates