Camino de Santiago: the Scenic Portuguese Route
Camino de Santiago: the Scenic Portuguese Route
Camino de Santiago: the Scenic Portuguese Route
11 Days Starting and ending in Porto, Portugal
Visiting: Porto, Valença do Minho, Tui, Baiona, Nigrán, Vigo, Redondela, Pontevedra, Combarro, Covelo, Cambados, Padrón, Santiago de Compostela, Ponte de Lima, Bom Jesus do Monte
Tour operator:
Tour code:
5380-2024
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
5-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Rediscover the wonders of nature and the stillness of the mind on this scenic blend of the Portuguese and the Spiritual routes of the Camino de Santiago. The walk will cover a total of approximately 75 miles. Take time to reflect, contemplate, meditate, and give this challenge the meaning you prefer, whether spiritual, religious, physical, or just an opportunity to meet like-minded people. After landing in Porto, start your journey by walking across the Portuguese-Spanish border on the bridge over the Minho river. Drive to the coastal town of Baiona and walk the Portuguese Way skirting the Atlantic Ocean to Pontevedra. From there, join the Spiritual Variant towards the Ulla River in Cambados and experience a boat cruise to Padrón.
The Spiritual Variant is the name given to the route that joins the Camino Portugues, both the Coastal and Central route, with the Traslatio (or Transfer) route. It ends in Santiago de Compostela following the route taken by the remains of the Apostle James, from Jerusalem to Iria Flavia, near Padrón. Discover spectacular landscapes and seascapes, and seize the opportunity to discover historical places, and enjoy the authentic cuisine of the Galician region.
Evening Mass will be available in most towns for those who wish to attend. In Santiago de Compostela you can attend Pilgrim Mass. You will receive the Compostela Certificate upon completion of the entire route on foot.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In Porto, Portugal
Location: Porto
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Jaguar
Meals Included: Dinner
Check into your hotel and, if you have time, start exploring this lively city on your own with the help of the CosmosGO app. In the late afternoon, meet your tour companions and your Tour Director, who will explain the dos and don’ts of the walk and give you some important advice. Take a pleasant stroll to a nearby restaurant for an included welcome dinner.
Day 2 : Porto - Valença Do Minho - Tui, Spain - Baiona
Location: Porto, Valença do Minho, Tui, Baiona
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Bahia Baoina
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 3 km/2 mi - avg 40 min – difficulty 1/3. Time this morning for a quick guided orientation through Porto’s bustling city center with views over the Douro River, followed by free time or the opportunity to attend Mass Mass in the Cathedral. After lunch, transfer by coach to Valença do Minho to walk a section of the Camino de Santiago into Spain across the Minho river towards Tui. Rejoin the coach to Baiona, on the Atlantic coast. Fun fact: Baiona was the first town in Europe to receive news of America’s discovery in 1493. We recommend touring the medieval fortress on the Monterreal peninsula, visiting the replica of Columbus’ ship la Pinta and discovering this beautiful beachside town.
Day 3 : Baiona - Vigo
Location: Baiona, Nigrán, Vigo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sercotel Baia De Vigo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Approximately 25 km/15.5 mi – avg 5 hrs – difficulty 2/3. This is the real start of your journey. May every step be a thought on peace and an extension of loving kindness. Leave Baiona behind, and follow the coast across the Rías Baixas through the beach town of Nigrán. Walk along long pristine beaches and admire the magnificent Cíes Islands from a distance. Vigo is Galicia’s most important harbor and busiest city. If you wish, attend Mass Mass at Vigo Cathedral.
Day 4 : Vigo - Redondela - Pontevedra
Location: Vigo, Redondela, Pontevedra
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Rias Bajas
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 16 km/10 mi – avg 3 hrs – difficulty 2/3. Take in the stunning views of Vigo Bay, the Atlantic Islands, the Morrazo Peninsula, and Rande Bridge. After a pleasant walk on an unpaved path through woodlands, reach Redondela. Our driver will take you to the hotel in the centre of Pontevedra, where you will spend the next two nights. You may wish to visit the stunning Sanctuary of the Virgin Pilgrim and attend Mass Mass.
Day 5 : Pontevedra - Redondela - Pontevedra
Location: Redondela, Pontevedra
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Rias Bajas
Meals Included: Breakfast
Approximately 19 km/12 mi–Average 4 hrs, 30 min. – Difficulty 3/3. After a short transfer back to Redondela, continue your journey; first uphill by the coast with stunnning views over the Vigo Bay and across the infamous Ponte Sampaio bridge, where Napoleon’s Army suffered one of the greatest defeats during the War of Independence. Continue then mostly downhill, through peaceful oak forests and along the river to the center of Pontevedra, the city founded by the Romans and dedicated to the Virgen Peregrina (the Pilgrim Virgin). Your Mass Mass option tonight is at Saint Francisco Convent. Take advantage of the vast choice of restaurants to immerse yourself in the local culinary culture.
Day 6 : Pontevedra - Combarro - Covelo
Location: Pontevedra, Combarro, Covelo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Villa Covelo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 14 km/8.7 mi – Average 3 hrs – Difficulty 1/3. Leave the inland Portuguese Camino to take the Spiritual Variant, which follows St. James’ final journey. Legend says that a stone vessel carried the Apostle’s remains from Jaffa in Israel to Padrón along the River Ulla some 2000 years ago. Today, you will walk past the Monastery of San Juan de Poio and the beautiful town of Combarro, famous for its many horreos (traditional granaries on pillars). After Combarro, continue another two miles along the coast to reach the hotel.
Day 7 : Covelo - Cambados
Location: Covelo, Cambados
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Casa Rosita
Meals Included: Breakfast
Approximately 20 km/12.5 mi–Average 4 hrs 30 min.–Difficulty 3/3. Expect a beautiful walk today, through vineyards and alongside refreshing streams in the forests. Stop at the 12th Century Cistercian Monastery of Armenteira, founded by the knight Ero in 1168. Follow the relaxing “Ruta da Pedra e da Agua”(the rock and water route), a forest path next to a water stream with over 30 medieval water mills. The destination today is Cambados, considered to be the capital of Albariño, one of the best white wines in the world. Mass Mass is available at the impressive Santa Mariña Dozo Church.
Day 8 : Cambados - Catamaran Cruise To Padrón - Pontecesures - Santiago De Compostela
Location: Cambados, Padrón, Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximately 24 km/15 mi–Average 5 hrs–Difficulty 3/3. Start the day on a high note: a one-hour catamaran cruise on the Ulla River, following the journey of the legendary stone boat that carried the remains of St. James. See the remains of the Catoira towers, which used to protect Santiago de Compostela from Viking attacks. Disembark on the outskirts of Padrón, famous for its “pimientos,” small, mild green peppers, usually served fried and salted. Only a few more miles to Santiago de Compostela! Enjoy a celebratory dinner upon completing your Camino de Santiago, served in a local restaurant in the old town. If you have walked all stages of the Camino, you will receive your Pilgrim Certificate.
Day 9 : Santiago De Compostela
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day to rest and to discover Santiago after your Camino. Follow the Tour Director on a guided tour of the Santiago Cathedral and its squares, and attend the Pilgrim Mass in the Cathedral. You can join your Tour Director for a more detailed tour of the old town in the afternoon, go shopping, explore on your own, or just enjoy a well-deserved rest. Discover Santiago’s culinary specialties on your own tonight, and take in the special atmosphere of this historic town.
Day 10 : Santiago De Compostela - Ponte De Lima, Portugal - Dom Jesus Do Monte - Porto
Location: Santiago de Compostela, Ponte de Lima, Bom Jesus do Monte, Porto
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Jaguar
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Camino has come to an end, but there are more hidden gems to discover. Depart Santiago de Compostela by bus and explore Ponte de Lima, the oldest riverside town in Portugal, featuring an impressive Medieval bridge with an ancient Roman section over the Lima River. Next stop is the Sanctuary of Dom Jesus do Monte, a UNESCO World Heritage site. See the unique zigzag stairway dedicated to the five senses: sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste—and the three theological virtues: faith, hope, and charity. Continue to Porto.
Day 11 : Porto
Location: Porto
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take home with you the spiritual growth and appreciation for simple things. This is your most important souvenir of the Camino. Your vacation ends with breakfast.
What's Included
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Transportation
Transportation includes coach transfers between key locations, allowing you to explore the scenic Portuguese route of the Camino de Santiago. Enjoy a one-hour catamaran cruise on the Ulla River, and various coach rides to and from walking sections, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided in various hotels along the route, including Hotel Jaguar Oporto, Bahia Baoina, Sercotel Baia De Vigo, Rias Bajas, Villa Covelo, Casa Rosita, and Compostela. All hotels offer modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and private bathrooms.
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Meals
Buffet breakfasts daily and 5 dinners are included.
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Guided Tours
Guided orientation through Porto’s bustling city center, guided tour of the Santiago Cathedral and its squares, and a more detailed tour of the old town in Santiago de Compostela.
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Small Group Discoveries
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select faith-based dates, limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure.
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UNESCO Sites
Visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Historic Centre of Porto, Routes of Santiago de Compostela, Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, and Santiago de Compostela (Old Town).
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Transportation for Incomplete Stages
If unable to complete any of the stages on foot, transportation by taxi will be arranged at an extra cost.
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Backpack Essentials
You will need to pack a backpack containing essentials for the day (such as water, raincoat, essential medication, money, sunblock, etc.
) to carry during the walk.
Small Group
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select faith-based dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Cosmos escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
Historic Centre of Porto|Routes of Santiago de Compostela: Routes of Northern Spain|Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga|Santiago de Compostela (Old Town)
Meals
Buffet breakfasts daily, 5 dinners
Notes
This is a walking tour. You will require a good level of physical fitness as well as some training before starting the walk. If unable to complete any of the stages on foot, transportation by taxi will be arranged at an extra cost. You will need to pack a backpack containing essentials for the day (such as water, raincoat, essential medication, money, sunblock, etc.) to carry during the walk.Hotel accommodations may be of simple standards, often with no elevators, but always with private facilities. Mass services are available in the evenings at most overnight towns/villages. (Mass services may be in local language and venues are subject to change).
Accommodation
The Hotel Jaguar Oporto is situated just minutes away from the heart of Porto and its busy Rua de Santa Catarina shopping street, there is a cozy restaurant serving breakfast and dinner and a funky bar for drinks. All of the 66 air-conditioned guest rooms are elegantly decorated, soundproofed and come with a kettle, safe, minibar, a flat-screen TV, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Free Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout the property. The Hotel offers a great beachfront location in Baiona. All rooms have simple and modern decor and include TV, desk and safe box. Bayona Restaurant offers traditional Galician Cuisine, alternatively, other restaurants and bars can be found just a short stroll away along the sea promenade. The Hotel is located between Vigo's old town and Cies Island's departure pier, offering accommodation with a great view of the Vigo Estuary. All guest-rooms are equipped with hot tubs, flat screen tv and minibar. A restaurant with traditional Galician cuisine and a Cafe Bar are available. Located in the financial and commercial center of Pontevedra, the hotel is 100 m away from the old town. Restaurant offer local cuisine. All rooms come with Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning and heating. This Hotel is placed along one of the alternative routes of the famous Camino de Santiago (Portuguese Route). The 50 different type of rooms provide accommodation overlooking the sea or the Estuary of Ria de Pontevedra. The on-site restaurant offers typical Galician gastronomy. A snack bar, outdoor swimming pool and a relax area are also available. Hotel Casa Rosita combines traditional architecture and decor with modern facilities. Guest-rooms are equipped with television, air conditioning and have a balcony. Ancient Saint Mary Church in Cambados is just 2 km, while Ruinas de Santa Marina is a short drive away. This hotel is perfectly positioned in the heart of Santiago de Compostela and is housed in an historic building with a beautiful facade and modern interiors in the famous Plaza de Galicia. The air-conditioned rooms are decorated in soft organic colors with hardwood floors and include Free Wi-Fi, satellite TV and private bathrooms with a hairdryer. The bar-cafeteria serves a complete buffet breakfast every morning and there are plenty of bars, restaurants and artisan shops to be discovered within walking distance of the property.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes coach transfers between key locations, allowing you to explore the scenic Portuguese route of the Camino de Santiago. Enjoy a one-hour catamaran cruise on the Ulla River, and various coach rides to and from walking sections, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
Transportation includes coach transfers between key locations, a one-hour catamaran cruise on the Ulla River, and various coach rides to and from walking sections, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
The tour offers a variety of accommodations, including the Hotel Jaguar Oporto in Porto, Bahia Baoina in Baiona, Sercotel Baia De Vigo in Vigo, Rias Bajas in Pontevedra, Villa Covelo in Covelo, Casa Rosita in Cambados, and Compostela in Santiago de Compostela. These hotels range from beachfront locations to historic buildings, and all offer modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and private bathrooms.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes buffet breakfasts daily and five dinners.
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Is this tour suitable for someone with limited physical fitness?
This is a walking tour that requires a good level of physical fitness and some training before starting the walk. If you are unable to complete any of the stages on foot, transportation by taxi can be arranged at an extra cost.
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Are there any special religious activities included in the tour?
Yes, Mass services are available in the evenings at most overnight towns and villages. Additionally, you can attend the Pilgrim Mass in the Santiago Cathedral and other religious sites along the route.
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What should I pack for the daily walks?
You will need to pack a backpack containing essentials for the day, such as water, a raincoat, essential medication, money, and sunblock.
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What are some of the key highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include a guided orientation through Porto, walking sections of the Camino de Santiago, a catamaran cruise on the Ulla River, and visits to historic sites such as the Sanctuary of Dom Jesus do Monte and the Santiago Cathedral.
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What is the group size for this tour?
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select faith-based dates, limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure.
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Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes visits to several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Historic Centre of Porto, Routes of Santiago de Compostela, Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, and Santiago de Compostela (Old Town).
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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