Current as of: April 24, 2024 - 12:03
Portugal Coastal Way to Santiago Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Self-Guided Holidays
- Destination: Portugal, Spain
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
-
Activity Level:
3 out of 7 - Moderate
- 15 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 8+
- Trip Code: W14CP
Trip Overview
Recently officially certified by the Portuguese Government in February 2022, the Coastal Way is according to some historians, one of the most important routes to reach the Apostle’s home in Santiago de Compostela.
The Portuguese Coastal Way, connects Porto to the northern regions and became important in the 15th century. Before, it was mainly used by locals and those who disembarked in the ports.
The Camino along the coast is one of the most unique routes leading to the shrine. Along your way, you will be amazed by the kindness of the local people, the historical sites on route and the natural landscapes. Each step of the way is accompanied by a light sea breeze which invigorate the mind, challenging the body.
Each day there are moments to enjoy and appreciate, where the immensity of the ocean contrasts against the mountains that surround the Way, bringing emotions that will make you hold your breath. The kind-hearted local people, greet all walkers in a friendly way, trying to support each pilgrim in their mission to reach the next stage. The Coastal Way has a specific spirituality, experienced in a different manner by each pilgrim, which transforms each trip through nature into an emotional journey.
The mountains cross the valleys which reflect the brightness of the rivers and streams, reinvigorating each step of the way. Each day is a new idyllic scenery : admire the contrast between the tranquil beaches and the strong Atlantic waves. The sea breeze with a characteristic smell of seaweed that is drying on the sands, is the setting for a perfect painting.
You will feel The Santiago de Compostela devotion in each towns you will cross on the Coastal way. The unique landscapes attracts serenity. This trail is for those who are looking for new sensations, which go beyond the body and provide clarity to the mind. A journey that offers spiritual and cultural interests with breath-taking sceneries.
At a Glance
- 14 nights hotel-to-hotel accommodation in a mix of 2-star,3-star, and 4-star hotels
- Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
- GPS route directions and maps
Highlights
- A spectacular walk on the coastal path from Porto to Santiago
- Stamp your pilgrims passport in the villages, chapels, churches and cathedrals.
- Medieval treasures, Atlantic landscapes and scrumptious seafood
Is This Trip for You?
Route : Coastal path with a mix of Wooden boardwalks and pavements sandy beaches, countryside routes and forest path.
As this is a self-guided holiday there is no group and no leader. There maybe others on the same departure date as you, but you will not be organised together. The routes notes contain a 24-hour emergency assistance telephone number should you need it and in emergencies, the hotels are normally able to dispatch a taxi or pick you up themselves. They may wish to charge for this service.
Adult min age: 8
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Porto
- End City: Santiago
Land Only Itinerary
Arrival in Porto
A UNESCO World Heritage City and best European City destination for 2013, 2014, and again for 2017, Porto is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The old centre boasts more than 1500 listed monuments, and the history of the traditional Port Wine can be explored by visiting many of the Port cellars which are open to the public.
You stay at Porto Trindade**** (Breakfast included)
Porto - Vila do Conde
Walking transfer in the morning to Matosinhos Wooden boardwalks and pavements will lead you along the coastline via a series of wide sandy beaches, natural reserves and fishing villages to the historical coastal town of Vila do Conde.
You stay at Hotel Brazao*** (Breakfast included)
Vila do Conde - Esposende
Walk alongside the coast between flowers and sand dunes and across beaches. Then head north crossing the Coastal Natural Park in direction of Esposende, an old fishing village with a great setting on the estuary of the River Cavado.
You stay at Hotel Suave Mar*** (Breakfast included)
Esposende - Viana do Castelo
Pass through various villages and some delightful sections of woodland and rivers. Discover Viana do Castelo, an attractive town famous for its ancient and contemporary architecture, offers magnificent views over the Lima valley and estuary with views of distant mountain ranges.
You stay at Hotel Laranjeira** (Breakfast included)
Viana do Castelo - Ancora
Today’s journey is mostly inland, with occasional coastal views from hillside villages. Enjoy the shade of the eucalyptus forest as you make your way uphill before descending to the low-key beachside resort town of Vila Praia de Ancora.
You stay at Hotel Meira**** (Breakfast included)
Ancora - Aguarda
Follow the coastal path to Moleda. Then continues to the charming town of Caminha. Option to walk through the pine forest beside the beach. Continue with a scenic ferry journey takes you across the Minho River to the fishing town of A Guarda in Spain.
You stay at Hotel Vila da Guarda** (Breakfast included)
A Guarda - Oia
Before leaving A Guarda, do not miss the Santa Tegra Celtic settlement – the views are spectacular. Follow the Camino on the coastal way, going through the forest before reaching the seaside village of Oia, dominated by its 12th century monastery.
You stay at Hotel Raina** (Breakfast included)
Oia - Baiona
Start your day along fields, coastal villages before a total change of scenery and terrain as you reach the mountains. Continue through countryside before arriving at the medieval center of via two ancient churches.
You stay at Hotel Anunciada** (Breakfast included)
Baiona- Vigo
From Santa Maria church, walk through the countryside offering peaceful paths and rivers. As your way climb, admire wonderful views before entering to Vigo via a park.
You stay at Hotel Tres Luces*** (Breakfast included)
Vigo - Arcade
Start your day with peaceful hillside villages with beautiful views over the estuary and port. Then, head down to Arcade, a riverside town famous for its oysters.
You stay at Hotel Duarte** (Breakfast included)
Arcade - Pontevedra
Leave Arcade via its iconic bridge. Follow ancient stone paths up through the forest. Enjoy a scenic detour along the River Tomeza to approach Pontevedra surrounded by birdsong and greenery. Explore the historical city centre, its vibrant squares and enjoy some tapas at a local bar.
You stay at Hotel Virgen del Camino*** (Breakfast included)
Pontevedra - Caldas de Reis
Walk through the lovely countryside and peaceful forest to the riverside spa town of Caldas de Reis. This place is known for its thermal waters and for healing properties. Enjoy the thermal spring on the main square.
You stay at Balneario Acuna** (Breakfast included)
Caldas de Reis - Padron
Cross a luxuriant landscape alongside the Valga River. Several impressive churches and stone crosses line the route to Padron, the riverside town where St. James’s body is said to have been laid to rest by his faithful followers.
You stay at Pazo de Lestrove**** (Breakfast included)
Padron - Santiago
The final stage of the Camino is going through Galician villages. Once you enter the medieval narrow streets of Santiago, the atmosphere changes while reaching the cathedral square.
You stay at Hotel Lux Santiago*** (Breakfast included)
Leave Santiago
Explore the old city of Compostela before airport transfer.
Ascents, descents and distances
All ascents, descents and distances listed above have been measured by our local partners or tour leaders, in many cases with satellite-based mapping software. Please note, different GPS measuring devices can give differing results, particularly on winding paths or in mountainous terrain. Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will encounter. Timings stated will vary depending on the pace of your group.
Accommodation
This tour offers a mix of accommodation from 2* to 4* hotels from rural family run hotel to modern luxury hotels in big cities.
Food & Drink
Along the Camino Portugués, here are local specialties you should add to your list of things to taste:
You can’t get more traditional in terms of Portuguese cuisine than salted cod or ‘bacalhau’ or grilled sardines.
Try Portugal’s classic ‘sopa de caldo verde’. Originally from the North of the country and similarly to its Galician ‘cousin’, ‘caldo verde’ basic ingredients are collard greens, potatoes, and onion, with many also adding sausage or other pork meat.
For the sweet tooth do not miss Pastel de Nata : The most famous one with custard tart. A crunchy pastry with exquisitely sweet custard.
Weather & Seasonality
The climate here is long, warm summers and mild winters, with most rain falling in the winter months, but possible in all other months. Seasons are marked, with pleasant temperatures in the spring, in the summer and in the autumn. Heat waves can push up temperatures between mid June and September.
Joining Instructions
Transfer Details
Alternative transfers
If you require alternative transfers (because you will be arriving at a different time to our standard flights), then we can usually arrange these for you (there may be an additional charge).
What To Take
Practical Information
Visa
Portugal
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Portugal. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/portugal
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/portugal
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Portugal.html
Spain
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Spain. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/spain
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/spain
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Spain.html
Vaccinations and Health
Portugal
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Spain
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Local Time
Portugal's time zone: Europe/Lisbon (UTC +01:00)
Spain's time zone: Europe/Madrid (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
Portugal's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Spain's electricity: Plug type F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Portugal's currency: Euros (EUR)
Spain's currency: Euros (EUR)
At Exodus we believe in the power of Responsible Travel.
Every time we travel, we are part of a global movement that creates jobs, builds more sustainable societies, encourages cultural understanding and safeguards common natural and cultural heritage. To learn more about what Responsible Travel means to Exodus click here…
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.