Camino Portugues: Spiritual Variant
Overview
Embark on a profound spiritual journey along the Spiritual Variant Camino Portugues – from Tui to Santiago, a route steeped in history and significance.
This 9-day Camino Portugues pilgrimage offers you a unique opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the disciples of Apostle Santiago, tracing the route believed to have been taken in the 1st century.
Beginning in Tui, a picturesque border town characterized by its historical-artistic complex and international bridge linking Spain and Portugal, the journey unfolds through diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. Traverse challenging climbs, lush forests, and coastal towns like Combarro, renowned for its granaries and traditional architecture. Explore the historic Armenteira Monastery, delve into the natural beauty of the Route of Stone and Water, and experience a memorable pilgrimage moment with a fluvial Via Crucis along the Arousa estuary.
Along the way, indulge in Galicia's gastronomic delights, from fresh seafood to local specialties, and enjoy a scenic boat transfer from Vilanova de Arousa to Pontecesures.
Conclude your pilgrimage in Santiago de Compostela, where a guided tour of the old town and a taste of Galician cheese await, marking the fulfillment of your spiritual quest.
Camino Portugues: Spiritual Variant Overview
Embark on a profound spiritual journey along the Spiritual Variant Camino Portugues – from Tui to Santiago, a route steeped in history and significance.
This 9-day Camino Portugues pilgrimage offers you a unique opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the disciples of Apostle Santiago, tracing the route believed to have been taken in the 1st century.
Beginning in Tui, a picturesque border town characterized by its historical-artistic complex and international bridge linking Spain and Portugal, the journey unfolds through diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. Traverse challenging climbs, lush forests, and coastal towns like Combarro, renowned for its granaries and traditional architecture. Explore the historic Armenteira Monastery, delve into the natural beauty of the Route of Stone and Water, and experience a memorable pilgrimage moment with a fluvial Via Crucis along the Arousa estuary.
Along the way, indulge in Galicia's gastronomic delights, from fresh seafood to local specialties, and enjoy a scenic boat transfer from Vilanova de Arousa to Pontecesures.
Conclude your pilgrimage in Santiago de Compostela, where a guided tour of the old town and a taste of Galician cheese await, marking the fulfillment of your spiritual quest.
Experience the Spiritual Variant of the Camino Portugues, retracing the route believed to have been taken by the disciples of Apostle Santiago in the 1st century.
Indulge in the unique gastronomy of Galicia, known for its seafood, oysters in Arcade, and the distinctive flavors of local dishes in charming towns along the way.
Enjoy a scenic boat transfer from Vilanova de Arousa to Pontecesures, replicating the maritime route of the Traslatio and providing a memorable pilgrimage experience.
Conclude your pilgrimage in Santiago de Compostela, where you'll be rewarded with a guided tour of the old town, a taste of Galician cheese, and the satisfaction of completing your spiritual journey.
Trip map for Camino Portugues: Spiritual Variant
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Itinerary for Camino Portugues: Spiritual Variant
Tui
Make your way to Tui, a city is characterized by its historical-artistic complex. It is recommended to visit the historic old town and the cathedral. Also, the international bridge, which connects Spain and Portugal. You can also use the day to visit Valença do Minho (there is an open-air market on Wednesdays).
Tui to Porriño
This walk is probably one of the most difficult but also one of the most beautiful of the entire Camino Portugues. You will cross the Miño River and ascend to Ribadelouro. It may take some time as a large part of the itinerary goes through asphalt and urban areas, but pilgrims who want a more natural environment have been given an alternative that crosses the As Gándaras Natural Park to O Porriño. This alternative is also well marked.
Porriño to Redondela
The climbs of this stage are difficult, but the beautiful views from above reward the effort. As soon as you reach the charming city of Mos, we find the first climb to the Alto de Inxertado. As soon as this is overcome, begin a gentle descent towards Redondela.
Redondela to Pontevedra
Start the stage towards Setefontes and Arcade (famous for its oysters). Accompanied by the Vigo estuary, you’ll cross lush forests until you reach the historic bridge “Puente de Sampaio” towards Pontevedra.
Pontevedra to Armenteira
Starting at the Peregrina Square, in Pontevedra, the route runs through the landscapes of the O Salnes region, passing through the town of Poio with its old monastery and the beautiful coastal town of Combarro. The destination of the stage is the amazing Monastery of Armenteira, a construction steeped in history since the 12th century.
Armenteira to Vilanova de Arousa
The stage of the sixth day begins by going through the "Ruta da Pedra e da Auga", a path that borders the small Armenteira river, framed by exuberant vegetation and peaceful and picturesque corners. You will continue heading north through Ribadumia and Pontearnelas, to reach the coast in Vilanova de Arousa.
Vilanova de Arousa to Padrón
In the last stage, from Vilanova to Padrón, you will do the maritime route itself, the Traslatio. After setting sail from Vilanova de Arousa, you will go up the Arousa estuary until you reach the mouth of the Ulla River and navigate its last stretch to Pontecesures. Along the way you can go through the only fluvial maritime Via Crucis in the world, 17 crosses that mark the route of the Apostle. Once you have docked again on land, you will have a couple of kilometers to walk to Padrón.
Padrón to Santiago de Compostela
The last stage of the Camino Portugues. You will cross the N -550 road several times and be guided by the railway line. You first hike towards Iria Flavia and then begin an ascent to “O Milladoiro” to finally see the towers of the cathedral as you approach Santiago. Here the desire to arrive is combined with the pain of parting, that this unique experience is over.
Santiago de Compostela
Buen Camino & see you soon.
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Dates and prices for Camino Portugues: Spiritual Variant
Single Room
Double Room
Triple Room
| Single Room | Double Room | Triple Room | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 1, 2025 to Jun 30, 2025 | $1,250USD | $825USD | $775USD |
| Jul 1, 2025 to Aug 31, 2025 | $1,525USD | $975USD | $950USD |
| Sep 1, 2025 to Nov 15, 2025 | $1,250USD | $825USD | $775USD |
| Optional Extras | |||
| Dinners for 8 Nights (per person)$275USD | |||
What’s included for Camino Portugues: Spiritual Variant
Meals
8 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 8 nights are included.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation for your luggage is included throughout the tour (max. 20 kg per backpack - 1 piece of luggage per person). Airport transfers are not included, but private transfers can be arranged as an optional extra.
Also included
- 24-hour emergency line
- Guided Tour in Santiago de Compostela (old town)
- Galician cheese tasting in Santiago
- Maps for all stages
- Pilgrim pass
- Pilgrim scallop
Not Included
- Guide services
- Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Personal transfers not specifically listed as included
Optional Extras
- Half board supplement
- Picnic Supplement
- Private transfers
- Extra piece of luggage
- Extra nights
Accommodation for Camino Portugues: Spiritual Variant
During this trip you will mostly stay in quaint hotels, bed & breakfasts, and pensions along the Camino route. These accommodations cater to pilgrims, providing an authentic Camino experience and modern amenities for comfort. They are most often locally owned and operated.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel where possible. Solo travellers may be required to pay a supplement.
Frequently asked questions for Camino Portugues: Spiritual Variant
How hard is Portuguese Camino: Spiritual Variant?
We rate the difficulty this tour as a 3 / 5. Throughout the journey from Tui to Santiago de Compostela, pilgrims will encounter a variety of terrains, including urban areas, asphalt paths, natural parks, and coastal landscapes. While some stages may involve challenging climbs or long days, particularly on the sixth day, the tour also offers rewarding views and cultural highlights along the way.
Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
I’ve never been on a self-guided trip! How does it work?
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel, since you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided with all the information you’ll need to follow the route each day and often have access to phone support or other kinds of assistance. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
Are meals included on Portuguese Camino: Spiritual Variant?
8 breakfasts are included.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover hiking. Get your travel insurance.
How do I get to Tui to start this tour?
The nearest airports to Tui are Vigo-Peinador Airport (VGO) and Porto Airport (OPO). From either airport, you can take a combination of buses or taxis to reach Tui.
Where does Portuguese Camino: Spiritual Variant end?
The tour ends in Santiago de Compostella.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Spain?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Spain?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
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