Coastal Way from Oporto

Easy

12 stages

256 km

1090 €

Bed & Breakfast

Room with ensuite bathroom

Backpack transfer

Day 1: Oporto

Description: The Coastal Way from Oporto begins in this vibrant city, famous for its wines and spectacular riverside. Oporto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers pilgrims the opportunity to explore its old town, the Ribeira district, and its churches, such as the Church of San Francisco.

Recommendation: Don’t miss a tour of Oporto’s wine cellars and a walk across the Don Luis I Bridge, which offers stunning views of the Douro River.

Accommodation: Oporto.

Day 2: Oporto - Póvoa de Varzim (27.2 km ~ 6 hours)

Description: The stage begins in Matosinhos, from where you will head towards the beaches of the Atlantic coast. The route is easy, mostly flat terrain along wooden walkways over the dunes. Perfect for enjoying the breathtaking views of the Portuguese coastline.

Recommendation: Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking along wooden paths. Make stops to enjoy the beaches along the way.

Accommodation: Póvoa de Varzim.

Day 3: Póvoa de Varzim - Esposende (21 km ~ 5 hours)

Description: This stage combines coastal scenery with sections further inland. You will cross the Cávado River before reaching the charming town of Esposende. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the Northern Coastal Natural Park.

Recommendation: Visit the Esposende lighthouse and relax on the local beach at the end of the stage.

Accommodation: Esposende.

Stages from Oporto

Day 4: Esposende - Viana do Castelo (24 km ~ 6 hours)

Description: On this day, you move away from the coast and walk inland. The highlight is reaching Viana do Castelo, a city with an impressive old town and the Basilica of Santa Luzia, which offers panoramic views of the surroundings.

Recommendation: Take time to explore the old town and climb to the basilica for the best views of the city.

Accommodation: Viana do Castelo.

Day 5: Viana do Castelo - Caminha (27 km ~ 7 hours)

Description: This is your last stage in Portugal before crossing into Spain. You can either follow the Official Way inland or choose the coastal route, which will take you along beaches like Vila Praia de Âncora. The final destination is Caminha, a charming town at the mouth of the Miño River.

Recommendation: If you choose the coastal route, enjoy the sea breeze and the walk along the beaches. In Caminha, don’t miss the chance to try the fresh local fish.

Accommodation: Caminha.

Day 6: Caminha - Oia (16.6 km ~ 4 hours)

Description: You cross the Miño River to enter Galicia, using the ferry service from Caminha to A Guarda. This stage is mostly coastal, passing through the picturesque fishing village of A Guarda, known for Monte de Santa Tegra and its Celtic hillfort.

Recommendation: Visit Monte de Santa Tegra to enjoy its views and explore the ruins of the ancient hillfort.

Accommodation: Oia.

Day 7: Oia - Baiona (18 km ~ 4 hours)

Description: You continue walking along the coast, enjoying maritime landscapes before heading inland and crossing the hills toward the historic town of Baiona. Baiona is famous for its marina and well-preserved old town.

Recommendation: Explore the Castle of Monterreal and the marina, and enjoy fresh seafood at the local restaurants.

Accommodation: Baiona.

Day 8: Baiona - Vigo (27 km official route / 25 km coastal route ~ 6 hours)

Description: This stage offers two routes: one along the coast, passing beaches like Panxón and Samil, and another inland. You will arrive in Vigo, the largest city in Galicia.

Recommendation: Take the coastal route to enjoy the beaches and views of the Cíes Islands Archipelago. In Vigo, visit the Casco Vello and try seafood at the Mercado de la Piedra.

Accommodation: Vigo.

Day 9: Vigo - Redondela (16 km ~ 4 hours)

Description: You walk from Vigo to Redondela along the Senda da Traída das Augas, a route surrounded by forests and views of the estuary. Before arriving, some pilgrims choose to make a detour to the Trasmañado waterfall.

Recommendation: The Trasmañado waterfall is an optional stop worth visiting if you are looking for a unique natural landscape.

Accommodation: Redondela.

Day 10: Redondela - Pontevedra (19.6 km ~ 5 hours)

Description: Walking towards Arcade, famous for its oysters, and then crossing the historic Puente de Sampaio. Finally, you will arrive in the beautiful city of Pontevedra, with its charming old town.

Recommendation: Try the oysters in Arcade and take a stroll through Pontevedra’s old town, especially Plaza de la Leña.

Accommodation: Pontevedra.

Day 11: Pontevedra - Caldas de Reis (21 km ~ 5 hours)

Description: A calm and mostly flat stage. You will pass through several rural villages before arriving at Caldas de Reis, known for its thermal waters.

Recommendation: After a long day of walking, relax in one of the thermal spas in Caldas de Reis.

Accommodation: Caldas de Reis.

Day 12: Caldas de Reis - Padrón (18.6 km ~ 4 hours)

Description: This stage passes through vineyards, farmlands, and the Bermaña Valley, offering varied and beautiful scenery. You will reach Padrón, famous for the peppers that bear its name.

Recommendation: Visit the Church of Santiago in Padrón and try the Padrón peppers at a local restaurant.

Accommodation: Padrón.

Day 13: Padrón - Santiago de Compostela (24.3 km ~ 6 hours)

Description: The final stage takes you to Santiago de Compostela, crossing the N-550 road several times and following the train tracks. As you get closer, you’ll see the towers of the cathedral, an exciting sight after days of walking.

Recommendation: Arriving at Plaza del Obradoiro is a special moment. Be sure to visit the Cathedral of Santiago and attend the pilgrim's mass.

Accommodation: Santiago de Compostela.

Day 14: Santiago de Compostela

Description: Free day in Santiago to explore the city, enjoy its cuisine, and immerse yourself in the pilgrim atmosphere. Buen Camino and see you next time!

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