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Tour Overview
Embark on a serene pilgrimage along "The Portuguese Camino - Coastal Way to Santiago," traversing the scenic landscapes of Portugal and Spain. This self-guided walking tour offers a quieter route, allowing you to savor the coastal beauty and lush greenery of Galicia. Delight in the culinary experiences and the charming towns along the way, from the medieval allure of Viana do Castelo to the historic Santiago de Compostela. Enjoy comfortable accommodations with ensuite facilities, daily breakfasts, and most dinners included. With luggage transfers and a digital information pack, your journey is well-supported, leaving you free to immerse yourself in the spiritual and natural wonders of this iconic trail. ...more ...less
Highlights
Enjoying a quieter pilgrimage route
Experiencing culinary delights
Enjoying the mix of scenery from the coast to the greenery of Galicia
Walking to the fabled church of Santiago de Compostela
Exploring the medieval center of Viana do Castelo
Swimming in the Atlantic Ocean at Praia de Ancora
Taking a ferry from Caminha to A Guarda
Visiting the 13th Century church of Santa Maria in Pontevedra
Make your own way to Viana do Castelo and check in to the first hotel. Viana do Castelo is a beautiful city located in the Minho region in North Portugal. With an appealing medieval centre, the 5th Century Cathedral and the Basilica of Santa Lucia, and beaches just outside the city there is plenty to see this afternoon.
Day 2
:
Walk to Praia de Ancora (5hrs, 19km/11.8mi)
Location: Praia de Ancora
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The walk today is a gentle one, and you'll be sure to enjoy the sea-air as you walk along the coast. Your destination for the day is the small but charming town of Praia de Ancora. This afternoon you can take the opportunity to swim in the Atlantic ocean. Overnight Praia de Ancora.
Day 3
:
On to Caminha, then by ferry to A Guarda (4hrs, 15km/9.3mi)
Location: Caminha
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
As you leave Villa Prais de Ancora you'll continue onto the beach of Praia de 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 on your ferry trip. You will need to take the ferry to A Guarda where you will overnight (ferry tickets to be purchased locally).
Day 4
:
Continue to Viladesuso or Oia (4hrs, 13km/8mi or 5.5hrs, 19km/11.8mi)
Location: Oia
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Leaving from A Guardia this morning, the trail takes you around the peninsula, with ample opportunities to stop for a coffee or lunch and enjoy the magnificent beach scenery before continuing your walk to the lovely small village of Oia. Overnight Viladesuso or Oia.
Day 5
:
Walk to Baiona (5.5hrs, 19km/11.8mi or 4hrs, 13km/8mi)
Location: Baiona
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The walk today is a real feast for all 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. Overnight Baiona.
Day 6
:
On to Vigo (6.5hrs, 23km/14.3mi)
Location: Vigo
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
As you leave Baiona you will walk alongside sandy beaches for most of the day. There is also plenty of opportunities to take a break in a lovely seaside cafe along the way. This afternoon you will arrive in Vigo, a typical Galician town with a wide sandy beach. Walking along the harbour you'll arrive at your hotel for the night. Overnight Vigo.
Day 7
:
Join the main Portuguese Camino as you walk to Arcade (5-6hrs, 22km/13.7mi)
Location: Arcade
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The route as you leave Vigo is mainly uphill. The uphill walking will reward you with specatacular views of the city and harbour. Continue walking though to Redondela where you will join the main Portuguese Camino route and then on to Arcade. Overnight Arcade.
Day 8
:
A shorter walk to Pontevedra (3.5-4hrs, 14km/8.7mi)
Location: Pontevedra
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
On today's walk you will cross a Romanesque bridge which is where Napoleon was defeated by the Spanish during the War of Independence. As you arrive into Pontevedra you will head through the narrow streets before reaching the 13th Century church of Santa Maria. Overnight Pontevedra.
Day 9
:
Walk to Caldas de Reis (6-7hrs, 21km/13mi)
Location: Caldas de Reis
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Most of this stage is through woodland and countryside along gentle river valleys with virtually no climbing. Closer to Caldas de Reis the route crosses the N550 and follows this road for short sections. Located between the Umia and Bermana rivers, the town of Caldas developed as a result of its thermal waters and continues to be a major health spa. The botanical gardens next to the river are lovely for some respite from the walk. Overnight Caldas de Reis.Option to upgrade to a comfortable 4 star inn with pool or 3 star rural inn - supplement applies and must be requested when initially booking the trip.
Day 10
:
Via the river valleys of Bermana and Valga to Padron (5-6hrs, 19km/11.8mi)
Location: Padron
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This is a beautiful walk through the Bermana river valley before dropping down into the Valga valley, one short climb. Two short stages of main road, leaving Caldas and entering Padron. The town is lovely, set on the banks of the Sar and Ulla rivers, with some St James relics to be seen at the Igrexa de Santiago (church). Overnight Padron.
Day 11
:
Through Galician villages to Santiago (6-7hrs, 26km/16.2mi)
Location: Santiago
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The final day takes you through pine, oak and eucalyptus wood, then approaching Santiago the route follows some sections of main road. Arrival in the historic city of Santiago. Overnight Santiago.
Day 12
:
Trip concludes Santiago de Compostela
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. If you'd like to stay an extra night in Santiago please ask for our rates.
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People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:
11 breakfasts, 9 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 de
11 nights in comfortable hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities. Optional hotel upgrade at Caldas de Rei - supplement applies - must be requested at time of booking
Digital information pack with route notes, maps & GPX
Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
Pilgrim Passport
Emergency hotline
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What's Not Included
Travel to Viana do Castelo and from Santiago de Compostela
Meals not listed as included, drinks
Travel insurance
Guide – this is a self guided walking trip
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
Daily walks are between 13-26km (8-16.2mi) on well marked trails over diverse terrain – from relatively flat to hilly. The trail takes you along 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 straight forward following the yellow arrows and granite pillars (showing distance to Santiago), however you still need to be vigilant as markers from other trails 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.
As the walks are fully supported you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements including wet weather gear, good walking boots / shoes, water bottle, lunch supplies, mobile phone and sun protection etc.
Mode of Transport
Travel to Viana do Castelo and from Santiago de Compostela is included, with additional transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage.
Accommodation
Enjoy 11 nights in comfortable hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities, ensuring a restful stay after each day's journey.
Check out our Q&As
What type of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 11 breakfasts and 9 dinners. Breakfasts are usually continental, inclusive of breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee, and juices. Dinners will consist of 3 courses, usually starting with a salad, followed by a chicken, red meat, fish, or pasta dish, and finishing with a dessert.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in comfortable hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities for 11 nights.
Is luggage transfer provided during the tour?
Yes, luggage transfer is provided. You can transfer one piece of luggage with a maximum weight of 20kg. A supplement applies for excess luggage.
Will I receive any information to help me navigate the route?
Yes, you will receive a digital information pack that includes route notes, maps, and GPX files to help you navigate the route.
Is there any emergency support available during the tour?
Yes, there is an emergency hotline available for support during the tour.
Do I need to arrange my own travel to and from the starting and ending locations?
Yes, you need to arrange your own travel to Viana do Castelo and from Santiago de Compostela.
Is this a guided tour?
No, this is a self-guided walking trip. You will not have a tour guide.
What should I carry with me during the walks?
As the walks are fully supported, you only need to carry a daypack with your daily requirements, including wet weather gear, good walking boots or shoes, a water bottle, lunch supplies, a mobile phone, and sun protection.
What is the difficulty level of the daily walks?
Daily walks are between 13-26km (8-16.2mi) on well-marked trails over diverse terrain, ranging from relatively flat to hilly. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.
Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, additional costs include meals not listed as included, drinks, travel insurance, entrance fees not listed as included, and transfers not listed as included. A supplement will also apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.
How fit do I have to be?
Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.
What happens if something goes wrong?
On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.
I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?
Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.
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Reviews from travellers on this tour
S. Kiritsis(Massachusetts, United States)
Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago
23 Jul 2024
Camino Portugese coastal route- spectacular, beautiful, very special. Accommodations and transfers were spot on. This is a magical, life affirming and life changing opportunity.
K. Seeling(Garden Bay, Canada)
Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago
25 Oct 2023
Easy to book, reasonable price, helpful staff, nice hotels.
Phillip Jay(Lodi, California, United States)
Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago
25 Jun 2024
What a great trip. The UTracks staff were easy to work with in planning and setting up the trip, including the extra days on both ends of the trip. They asked questions of us and seemed to want to make sure we would enjoy the experience. All the hotels were overall fine. Yes, some were better than others, but all were safe and clean. The luggage was always on time and the local hotel staff were always courteous. We didn’t have any need or problems that required us to contact the company in our trip. The written directions weren’t as useful as the GPS files for our phones. That helped a lot more, as well as the Camiño markings on the way. All around, it was a great experience. I would recommend!
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M. Thompson(Phippsburg, Australia)
Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago
7 May 2024
Very organized. Good communication.
R. Meehan(Mt Lofty, Australia)
Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago
2 Jan 2024
We finished the Portuguese Coastal Camino in early December 2023. It was a fantastic experience. UTracks made everything seamless from the initial contact with the company to the completion of our walk. Accommodation was always clean and comfortable, our bags were transported each day and were waiting for us on our arrival at the next accommodation. Unbeknown to us there was a change in our accommodation one day. A local UTracks representative contacted us and told us of the change and the rearranged accommodation. A brilliant example of their organisation. The information and maps provided in the package which we received at our first hotel were excellent. We'd definitely use UTracks when planning another trip.
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K. Hawkins(Narrabeen, Australia)
Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago
29 May 2024
The hotels and meals that were included exceeded our expectations - very good value! The support team were helpful when we needed to make adjustments due to illness. Highly recommend!
V. Rollason(Hamilton South, Australia)
Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago
16 Oct 2023
The Portuguese Camino is the far less known cousin of the Camino Frances. It is beautiful, changing scenery everyday along the Atlantic coast of Portugal and Spain, before heading inland through woodland and farmland to Santiago. It is absolutely beautiful, and well worth the adventure!
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K. Andersen(Pullenvale, Australia)
Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago
6 Jul 2023
We did a self guided Portugal Coastal Camino walk and had a great trip. Hotels booked where on the whole very adequate. However the paper maps we were provided to find our hotel were not sufficiently detailed enough and always had to ask for directions. Signage on the walk itself was very good. It was great meeting all the different people walking the Camino we felt part of a bigger community which was nice. Really enjoyed the sights and scenery along the way.
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C. Mandel(Toronto, Canada)
Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago
11 Oct 2022
Overall a very good trip. Luggage was always waiting at our hotels. Trip was quite well marked for solo travellers. Only in Vigo did we have trouble heading to a park to start the walk quite far from our hotel. Great food and accommodation. Perfect. I would recommend this trip for ease and coastline beauty.
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P. Argue-Kiefer(USA)
Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago
5 Oct 2022
The Coastal Camino was a fabulous choice. The team did an amazing job picking hotels and restaurants. Our baggage was delivered promptly.
UTracks requires a minimum deposit of
250 GBPper person
or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago
12 Days Starting in Viana do Castelo, Portugal and ending in Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Visiting:
Viana do Castelo, Praia de Ancora, Caminha, Oia, Baiona, Vigo, Arcade, Pontevedra, Caldas de Reis, Padron, Santiago, Santiago de Compostela
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[{"title":"Day 1: Arrive Viana do Castelo","name":"Viana do Castelo","description":"Make your own way to Viana do Castelo and check in to the first hotel. Viana do Castelo is a beautiful city located in the Minho region in North Portugal. With an appealing medieval centre, the 5th Century Cathedral and the Basilica of Santa Lucia, and beaches just outside the city there is plenty to see this afternoon.","lat":"41.691828","lng":"-8.83441"},{"title":"Day 2: Walk to Praia de Ancora (5hrs, 19km/11.8mi)","name":"Praia de Ancora","description":"The walk today is a gentle one, and you'll be sure to enjoy the sea-air as you walk along the coast. Your destination for the day is the small but charming town of Praia de Ancora. This afternoon you can take the opportunity to swim in the Atlantic ocean. Overnight Praia de Ancora.","lat":"41.82077","lng":"-8.852816"},{"title":"Day 3: On to Caminha, then by ferry to A Guarda (4hrs, 15km/9.3mi)","name":"Caminha","description":"As you leave Villa Prais de Ancora you'll continue onto the beach of Praia de 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 on your ferry trip. You will need to take the ferry to A Guarda where you will overnight (ferry tickets to be purchased locally).","lat":"41.873208","lng":"-8.837845"},{"title":"Day 4: Continue to Viladesuso or Oia (4hrs, 13km/8mi or 5.5hrs, 19km/11.8mi)","name":"Oia","description":"Leaving from A Guardia this morning, the trail takes you around the peninsula, with ample opportunities to stop for a coffee or lunch and enjoy the magnificent beach scenery before continuing your walk to the lovely small village of Oia. Overnight Viladesuso or Oia.","lat":"42.03204","lng":"-8.858331"},{"title":"Day 5: Walk to Baiona (5.5hrs, 19km/11.8mi or 4hrs, 13km/8mi)","name":"Baiona","description":"The walk today is a real feast for all 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. Overnight Baiona.","lat":"42.120153","lng":"-8.852367"},{"title":"Day 6: On to Vigo (6.5hrs, 23km/14.3mi)","name":"Vigo","description":"As you leave Baiona you will walk alongside sandy beaches for most of the day. There is also plenty of opportunities to take a break in a lovely seaside cafe along the way. This afternoon you will arrive in Vigo, a typical Galician town with a wide sandy beach. Walking along the harbour you'll arrive at your hotel for the night. Overnight Vigo.","lat":"42.240599","lng":"-8.720727"},{"title":"Day 7: Join the main Portuguese Camino as you walk to Arcade (5-6hrs, 22km/13.7mi)","name":"Arcade","description":"The route as you leave Vigo is mainly uphill. The uphill walking will reward you with specatacular views of the city and harbour. Continue walking though to Redondela where you will join the main Portuguese Camino route and then on to Arcade. Overnight Arcade.","lat":"42.340784","lng":"-8.604871"},{"title":"Day 8: A shorter walk to Pontevedra (3.5-4hrs, 14km/8.7mi)","name":"Pontevedra","description":"On today's walk you will cross a Romanesque bridge which is where Napoleon was defeated by the Spanish during the War of Independence. As you arrive into Pontevedra you will head through the narrow streets before reaching the 13th Century church of Santa Maria. Overnight Pontevedra.","lat":"42.429885","lng":"-8.64462"},{"title":"Day 9: Walk to Caldas de Reis (6-7hrs, 21km/13mi)","name":"Caldas de Reis","description":"Most of this stage is through woodland and countryside along gentle river valleys with virtually no climbing. Closer to Caldas de Reis the route crosses the N550 and follows this road for short sections. Located between the Umia and Bermana rivers, the town of Caldas developed as a result of its thermal waters and continues to be a major health spa. The botanical gardens next to the river are lovely for some respite from the walk. Overnight Caldas de Reis.Option to upgrade to a comfortable 4 star inn with pool or 3 star rural inn - supplement applies and must be requested when initially booking the trip.","lat":"42.604177","lng":"-8.642126"},{"title":"Day 10: Via the river valleys of Bermana and Valga to Padron (5-6hrs, 19km/11.8mi)","name":"Padron","description":"This is a beautiful walk through the Bermana river valley before dropping down into<br/>the Valga valley, one short climb. Two short stages of main road, leaving Caldas and entering Padron. The town is lovely, set on the banks of the Sar and Ulla rivers, with some St James relics to be seen at the Igrexa de Santiago (church). Overnight Padron.","lat":"42.738103","lng":"-8.660766"},{"title":"Day 11: Through Galician villages to Santiago (6-7hrs, 26km/16.2mi)","name":"Santiago","description":"The final day takes you through pine, oak and eucalyptus wood, then approaching Santiago the route follows some sections of main road. Arrival in the historic city of Santiago. Overnight Santiago.","lat":"42.876861","lng":"-8.544173"},{"title":"Day 12: Trip concludes Santiago de Compostela","name":"Santiago de Compostela","description":"Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. <br/>If you'd like to stay an extra night in Santiago please ask for our rates.","lat":"42.876861","lng":"-8.544173"}]
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