Portuguese Coastal Camino Caminha Variant

Arrive in Porto where you journey on the Camino Portuguese Coastal Way begins. After checking into your hotel, set out to explore this UNESCO World Heritage city. Stroll its historic streets and enjoy the wealth of gastronomy on offer here. Then it’s time to enjoy a good night’s rest before your first day of walking tomorrow!

Your first day departs from the same place as the standard Portuguese Way, but both routes follow different paths onwards (one is on the coast, and the other one, inland). After leaving behind the outskirts of Porto, you’ll be greeted by the stunning coastline its picture-perfect beaches. Continue on the coast until reaching Povoa de Varzim.

Set out this morning following breakfast to enjoy more of the captivating coast. Today’s route will introduce you to several lovely beaches and charming, small coastal villages on the path to Esposende.

The walking day from Esponsende to Viana do Castelo combines rural tracks and paved roads, making for a peaceful section. On arrival in Viana do Castelo, cross its bridge, a symbol of the town, you’ll arrive in the town center and head to your next accommodations.

Today marks your final day in Portugal before reaching Galicia. You kick off the day with a choice: follow the official path marked by yellow arrows leading inland, or opt for the coastal route, tracing your path along the beaches and the sea. While the coastal option may lack detailed markings, it doesn't entail any setbacks. Both routes guide you to Vila Praia de Âncora, a picturesque fishing village renowned for its urban beach and extensive promenade. Departing from this charming locale, your journey continues towards today's destination: Caminha, a historic city situated at the mouth of the Miño River.

Today’s stage marks the arrival in Galicia, crossing the Miño River—the natural border between Portugal and Spain—and leaving Portugal behind for the dramatic coastal landscapes of northwestern Spain. The river crossing is made with Xacobeo Transfer, which runs from the Caminha Rowing Club, just 50 metres from the old ferry point, to the ferry station in A Guarda, with crossings timed according to the tides.

From there, the route follows the Atlantic coast to A Guarda, a colourful fishing town known for its traditional architecture and the hilltop site of Monte de Santa Tegra, home to impressive archaeological remains and sweeping sea views. Continuing along the coast through Portecelo, the walk ends in Oia, where the striking Royal Monastery of Santa María adds a memorable cultural highlight to the day.

Today's journey starts with an easy stroll along the coast for the initial kilometers. Then, you venture slightly inland, relishing a delightful path through the mountains until you arrive at the charming town of Baiona. Noteworthy attractions include the historic old town and the picturesque marina.

Beginning at the mouth of Vigo, you trek towards Nigrán, passing by scenic beaches like Panxón, Patos, and Samil before reaching Galicia's largest city, Vigo. Today's challenge lies in the distance covered and elevation changes. Alternatively, there's the option to hike inland towards Priegue and Coruxo, then follow the river path. However, this route may be slightly less appealing due to its passage through industrial areas, especially when approaching Vigo.

Pilgrims will be able to take in the impressive views of the Estuary of Vigo on the left as you depart this morning. Today you’ll enjoy a shorter, and less intense section and can enjoy a dip at one of the many beaches along the way!

From this point up to Santiago, the path will be the same as the traditional Portuguese Camino, so you may see more Pilgrims on the way. Pontesampaio is a village which is worth seeing, it is interesting to learn about the historical events which took place here and cross the Roman bridge over the Verdugo river. This stage ends in Pontevedra, a beautiful town which is famous for its historical centre and its squares made of stone.

Your way out of Pontevedra this morning will lead you back to the rural side of Galicia, where you will be able to enjoy the woods and streams. Many pilgrims stop in Barro to see the Natural Park of the Barosa River with its cascades and mills, well worth the stop,

Finally, you’ll arrive in Caldas de Reis, a town which is famous for its thermal spring waters and spa resorts.

Today, the Camino passes peacefully through small villages, with dispersed houses along the route.

Padrón is known as the first place on land spotted by the boat which carried the remains of Saint James the Apostle. Also, it is the birthplace of great authors like Rosalía de Castro and Camilo José Cela.

The last stage is the longest of this itinerary, so it is a good idea to get a nice, early start!

Today marks the culmination of your cycling route to Santiago de Compostela. The initial path will take you through rural landscapes as in the previous days, but during the final kilometers, as you approach Santiago, the landscape becomes more urban.

When you get to Santiago do not forget to go to the Pilgrim’s Office with your Pilgrim Passport to get your long-awaited “Compostela” (Pilgrim Certificate)! Enjoy some time taking in the world-famous cathedral and the invigorating sights and sounds of this incredible city.

Following breakfast your Camino adventure comes to an end. Enjoy your last moments in the city before making arrangements for your onwards journey.