Self-guided pilgrimage
14 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
15.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
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.
The Portuguese Way gently winds its way northwards, along the coast, through woodlands, farmlands, villages, towns and historic cities following a mixture of ancient tracks, paths and roads.
A UNESCO World Heritage City,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 Selected hotels.
Hotels, Porto to Santiago
This tour offers a mix of accommodation ranging from 2* to 4* hotels including rural family run hotels and modern luxury hotels in big cities.
All prices are based on 2 persons sharing, so if there is an odd number of people travelling in your party or you are travelling alone, there will be a compulsory supplement for a single room for the tour duration. For a solo traveller there is an additional charge to cover transfer costs.
Transfer in the morning to Matosinhos from where you start your walk. 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.
Walk alongside the coast between flowers and sand dunes and across beaches. Then head north crossing the Coastal Natural Park towards Esposende, an old fishing village with a great setting on the estuary of the River Cavado.
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, offering magnificent views over the Lima valley and estuary with views of distant mountain ranges.
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.
Follow the coastal path to Moleda. Then continue to the charming town of Caminha. Option to walk through the pine forest beside the beach. Continue with a scenic ferry journey (payable locally) which takes you across the Minho River to the fishing town of A Guarda in Spain.
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.
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 centre of Baiona via two ancient churches.
From Santa Maria church, walk through the countryside alongside peaceful paths and rivers. As your way climbs, admire wonderful views before entering Vigo via a park.
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.
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.
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 healing properties. Enjoy the thermal spring on the main square.
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.
The final stage of the Camino is going through Galician villages. Once you enter the medieval narrow streets of Santiago, the atmosphere changes as you reach the cathedral square.
Explore the old city of Compostela before departing.
These tour prices are based on two people sharing. Single supplement from £519.
We can book your flights, protected by ATOL and ABTA. Please ask at time of enquiry.
If you choose a flight inclusive package with us, you will fly into Porto airport.
We hold an ATOL License and are fully ABTA bonded, so you can book your flights with us in confidence. We can book most airlines and will advise you of your most convenient airport and flight options.
Flight prices vary massively and change quickly. At Headwater we will sell you your flights at the same price you can buy them yourself. We simply add £35 per person to cover your flight protection, to learn more please click here.
Subject to availability and dependent on service provider, please ask at time of enquiry and book early to avoid disappointment.
Self-guided pilgrimage
14 nights,
hotel-to-hotel
Level: 2
Moderate
Flights
available
15.0Kg CO2e
Printed route
directions
