Spiritual Variant of the Camino de Santiago Portugues from Porto (inland route)
Spiritual Variant of the Camino de Santiago Portugues from Porto (inland route)
Begin your pilgrimage in the vibrant city of Porto, where art, history, and the Douro River come together in a truly unique atmosphere. From its cobbled streets and impressive cathedral, set off northward along the Portuguese Way, passing through peaceful rural landscapes, charming villages, and ancient paths that have guided pilgrims to Santiago for centuries. Upon entering Galicia, the Spiritual Variant offers an alternative route full of mysticism, blending the lush inland scenery with the spiritual depth of legendary monasteries and the evocative journey across the Arousa estuary, retracing the steps of the Apostle James.
- Travel an inland route that connects the rich history of northern Portugal with the deep spirituality of Galicia.
- Visit unique sites like the Monastery of Armenteira and relive the Traslatio, the mythical boat journey across the Arousa estuary.
- Be amazed by the beauty of towns such as Pontevedra, Vilanova de Arousa and Padrón—each full of life, tradition, and character.
- Savor the rich local cuisine: fresh seafood, Galician empanadas, Albariño wine, and the famous pulpo a feira.
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Porto
Start your route in one of the most consecrated destinations in Western Europe, Porto.
In this city, you will find a variety of tourist attractions, as well as places full of history and culture.
Its centre has been listed as a World Heritage Site, with constructions such as the Romanesque Cathedral, the Casa da Musica and the Don Luis I Bridge.
Overnight in Oporto
Porto City Hotel
This hotel in Porto offers all the comforts for a great stay. The rooms have private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi service.
You can also enjoy a delicious breakfast to start your day.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 2 - Porto to Fajozes 15 miles | 24,6 km
You will leave the wonderful port city from the Maia metro station. From then on, our path is heading towards the north of Portugal.
We will find several churches of historical value on the way to Fajozes, such as the Church of Leca do Balio.
Ascent: 140m (459ft) / Descent: 178m (583ft)
Noche en Fajozes
Casa Mindela
Casa Mindela is a pleasant and cosy accommodation in a recently renovated traditional building of more than 150 years.
Surrounded by nature, it offers rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and they serve a continental breakfast.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 3 - Fajozes to San Miguel de Arcos 7 miles | 12 km
Today's stage begins in Fajozes and continues along the coast to the northeast, gradually approaching Barcelos through an urban landscape.
The road will take us through Bagunte, where we will cross the robust and historic Dom Zameiro Bridge that dates back to Roman times. We will continue through pine and eucalyptus forests that will give us shade during the day, until we reach San Miguel de Arcos.
Ascent: 101m (331ft) / Descent: 108m (354ft)
Overnight in San Miguel de Arcos
Quinta São Miguel de Arcos
Surrounded by nature, this cosy hotel offers a peaceful atmosphere to rest.
Its rooms offers ree Wi-Fi, a private bathroom and toiletries.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 4 - San Miguel de Arcos to Barcelos 9 miles | 15 km
Today's destination will be Barcelos, a city known for being full of colour and culture.
There you will find a large number of monuments and its historic quarter is a must, where the medieval bridge from the 14th century and the main Church of Santa Maria de Barcelos stand out.
Ascent: 119m (390ft) / Descent: 123m (403ft)
Overnight in Barcelos
Art'otel Barcelos
The rooms at Art'otel Barcelos offer air conditioning, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
Guests have access to outdoor furniture, and luggage storage and they can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 5 - Barcelos to Ponte de Lima 22 miles | 35 km
A walk through the valley occupied by the River Limia, will take you to Ponte de Lima, a charming city in northern Portugal.
Here, you will find old houses, religious buildings, museums and beautiful gardens covered with flowers.
Ascent: 315m (1,033ft) / Descent: 315m (1,033ft)
Overnight in Ponte de Lima
Hotel Império do Norte
Hotel Império do Norte is located in Ponte de Lima, the oldest village in Portugal. Following a renovation, the hotel opens its doors with a simple yet elegant decor.
Its rooms offers a private bathroom and toiletries, TV and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 6 - Ponte de Lima to Sao Pedro de Rubiaes 12 miles | 19 km
This route will be full of nature, passing through the Coura Valley to San Pedro de Rubiaes, where its 12th-century Romanesque church stands out.
Ascent: 367m (1,204ft) / Descent: 208m (682ft)
Overnight in San Pedro de Rubiães
Quinta da Gandra
With rustic decor and a large garden, Quinta da Gandra offers a surrounding landscape that invites relaxation.
Stay in an old and cozy house, where rooms feature heating, free Wi-Fi, TV and private bathrooms.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 7 - Sao Pedro de Rubiaes to Tui 12 miles | 20 km
You will leave Portugal and arrive in Spain through rural landscapes and forests.
Your first destination in Spain will be Tui, where you can visit its cathedral, built in the 12th century, and the Diocesan Museum.
Ascent: 163m (534ft) / Descent: 316m (1,036ft)
Overnight in Tui
Hotel A Torre do Xudeu
This hotel is located in Tui, on the banks of the Miño River. Its rooms have a private bathroom, TV and free Wi-Fi.
It offers restaurant service where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 8 - Tui to O Porrino 10 miles | 16 km
Start this first stage along the River Louro, not without first visiting the Romanesque temple of San Bartolome de Rebordans. Cross the industrial park or deviate through the vineyards to the da Veiga medieval bridge.
Take the forest trail to Ponte das Febres over San Simon Creek, where San Telmo, patron saint of sailors, became ill, and died in 1251.
Cross A Magdalena and the large stone bridge over the Louro to Orbenlle. Arriving in O Porrino, visit the Town Hall, the Fonte do Cristo, the Madrid Metro monument and the Botica Nova.
Ascent: 55m (180ft) / Descent: 54m (177ft)
Overnight in O Porrino
Hostal Expo
Rest overnight at Hostal Expo, located in the middle of the idyllic region of the Rias Bajas and surrounded by a beautiful rural landscape.
It offers rooms with a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 9 - O Porrino to Arcade 14 miles | 22 km
Before embarking on the road today, you will get to know a little more about Povoa de Varzim, a city that in the 18th century was the main fishing port in the north of the country.
On your way to Esposende, you will have the option to visit the Convent of Santa Clara, one of the largest and richest in Portugal, founded in 1318. From there, you can enjoy the incredible views of the beautiful landscapes that surround it.
Fao: in case there is no availability in Esposende, we will accommodate you in Fao, a small neighbouring village, only 3 km away.
Ascent: 362m (1,187ft) / Descent: 369m (1,211ft)
Overnight in Arcade
Hotel Duarte
This family hotel offers rooms equipped with a private bathroom, TV and free Wi-Fi.
The accommodation has a restaurant and a nice bar.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 10 - Arcade to Pontevedra 7,5 miles | 12,1 km
Today will be a short walk. You will start by crossing the River Verdugo over Ponte Sampaio, a medieval bridge recognized for having been the scene of the last battle in Galicia against Napoleon's army, where he was defeated.
Then you will continue along a cobbled path until you encounter several towns and you will have charming panoramic views of the Bay of Vigo. Later you will continue to Pontevedra, a city that is definitely worth knowing. Enjoy a walk through its historic quarter and take advantage of its exquisite gastronomy.
A must-see is the Shrine of the Virgin Pilgrim, one of the most emblematic buildings dating from the 18thcentury and where Our Lady, the Virgin Pilgrim is venerated.
Ascent: 64m (209ft) / Descent: 76m (249ft)
Overnight in Pontevedra
Hotel Avenida Pontevedra
Located in Pontevedra, this accommodation offers rooms with private bathroom, TV and free Wi-Fi access.
Enjoy its cosy bar and a delicious buffet breakfast.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 11 - Pontevedra to Monasterio de Santa Maria de Armenteira 14,4 miles | 23,2 km
You will start the day leaving the enigmatic city of Pontevedra to enter the beautiful region of O Salnes. On your way to the Monastery of Santa Maria de Armenteira, you will come across the baroque church of San Pedro de Campaño, which dates back to the Middle Ages and was rebuilt in the 18th century.
You will continue to the beautiful parish church of San Xoan de Poio, which has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest since 1971. You will then continue to the coastal town of Combarro, where you can visit the beach of Padron and the horreos (raised granaries) located on the seashore.
You will end your journey at the Monastery of Santa Maria de Armenteira, a building with more than 800 years of history. It is currently inhabited by Cistercian nuns.
Ascent: 453m (1,486ft) / Descent: 203m (666ft)
Overnight in Armenteira
Casa Carballo de Prado 1900
This charming accommodation stands out for its family atmosphere and natural surroundings. It has cozy rooms with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
You will start the day with a filling breakfast and you can also enjoy its garden and bar.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 12 - Monasterio de Santa Maria de Armenteira to Vilanova de Arousa 14,1 miles | 22,7 km
Today, you will walk along the outstanding "Ruta da Pedra e da Auga", a route that runs along the banks of the Armenteira River. You will see several water mills, some wholly abandoned and others restored. Further on, you will come across the Umia River, one of the most important tributaries of the province of Pontevedra, which you will follow for a long stretch.
You will leave its banks at the village of Ponte Arnelas. Once there, you will head towards the coast in the direction of Vilanova de Arousa. In this small coastal town, you can visit the Casa Museo de Valle Inclan, declared a National Historic Monument in 1976, and enjoy its beautiful beaches: O Terron and Castelete.
Ascent: 105m (344ft) / Descent: 356m (1,167ft)
Overnight in Vilanova de Arousa
Hotel Leal La Sirena
Located in the coastal town of Vilanova de Arousa, has comfortable and bright rooms, private bathroom, TV and free Wi-Fi.
You can enjoy a complete breakfast and taste traditional dishes in its restaurant.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 13 - Vilanova de Arousa to Padron 1,2 miles | 1,9 km
You will start the day with an included boat transfer from Vilanova de Arousa to Pontecesures. This boat tour will allow you to contemplate the Ulla River, one of the most outstanding rivers in Galicia.
Arriving at Pontecesures, you will take a short walk along the banks of the Sar River until you reach Padron, a village in the province of La Coruña, famous for its peppers.
In Padron, you can stroll through its charming streets and visit the Convent do Carmen, built in the 18th century, or the Church of Santiago, built just a few meters from where the disciples of Santiago moored the boat in which they transported the body of the Apostle.
Ascent: 187m (613ft) / Descent: 109m (357ft)
Overnight in Padron
Casa Antiga Do Monte
Casa Antiga do Monte offers its guests an authentic and quality rural tourism.
The rooms are warm and fully equipped, with private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 14 - Padron to Santiago de Compostela 16 miles | 25,7 km
Start the route by crossing the small and characteristic villages until you reach A Escravitude, where you can pause to visit its sanctuary and the fountain at the bottom, which has curative powers according to the story.
Later, you continue along a path of oak trees until you start a 0,14 miles ascent, which takes you to Agros dos Monteiros, the highest point of this hiking route. Afterward, you will pass near the Castle of Rocha Forte or Churruchaos, which in ancient times was a symbol of feudal oppression over the inhabitants of the region.
Gradually, the arrows that indicate the way will disappear, giving you a sign that you are close to reaching the culmination point of this unforgettable pilgrimage route. You will enter the old quarter of the city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through Porta Faxeira. As you take Rua do Franco, the excitement will begin to take hold of you. You will be just a few steps away from the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where the remains of the apostle Santiago lie.
If you prefer, you can divide this stage into two, staying overnight in Parada de Francos.
Ascent: 226m (741ft) / Descent: 140m (459ft)
Overnight in Santiago de Compostela
Hospedería San Martin Pinario
This historic monastery is the perfect place to relax in the heart of Santiago de Compostela, combining Galician tradition with maximum comfort.
Enjoy its rooms with private bathroom, free Wi-Fi and a good breakfast.
*In case this accommodation is not available, you will stay at a similar category one.
Day 15 - Santiago de Compostela
Itinerary Map
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Services
Included
- Accommodation in en suite rooms
- Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers between accommodations
- Camino de Santiago pilgrim credential
- Tickets for the boat trip from Vilanova de Arousa to Pontecesures
- Information dossier with maps and routes
- 24-hour telephone support
- Assistance vehicle in case of emergency
- Travel insurance
- Sustainable travel, we compensate the CO2 emissions of your trip
- Taxes
Extras
- Cancellation insurance
- Additional nights
- Dinners
- Picnics
Accomodation
General information
The accommodations with which we collaborate have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure the best comfort available. Our team checks in situ the quality of all the accommodations offered, so that you have an unforgettable experience during your trip. The accommodation that we will book for your trip will be selected taking into account our commitment to you: guaranteeing comfort, calm and enjoyment throughout your trip. We work with quality hotels and country cottages with limited capacity, so we invite you to confirm your reservation as soon as possible. The name of each accommodation will be provided to you a few weeks before your trip begins.
Room types
It is possible to book this journey in single, double or triple rooms. All rooms have private bathrooms.
Travel & Transfers
Our recommendation is to fly to Porto Airport (OPO).You will find 24 hour taxis at the airport, which will take you to the city center in 20 minutes.
If you can not find flights to Porto, the second option is to fly to Lisbon Airport (LIS). From Lisbon you can take a train to Porto from "Oriente station". The train company that normally operates this line is “Comboios de Portugal”.
At the end of your trip in Santiago de Compostela, we recommend flying from Santiago de Compostela airport (SCQ), which is only 15 minutes from the city center. As there is always a big choice of taxis and bus lines running every 10 minutes to the airport, you will be able to return easily.
FAQs
Is luggage transfer included? What are the luggage requirements?
Absolutely! Each traveller has included 1 piece of luggage that we will transfer between your accommodations. It's important that this piece of luggage meets the following criterias:
- Maximum weight of 45 lbs (20 kg).
- Must be only 1 piece of luggage without any attachments or accessories.
- Should not contain valuables, fragile items, food or medications.
- Must be correctly identified (booking reference of your trip and the full name of the trip holder).
The approximate luggage delivery time will be at 4:00 PM.
What is the best time of year to do this trip?
You can visit the Camino de Santiago at any time of the year. To choose the time that best suits your needs and tastes, you only have to take into account the season and the weather conditions.
How far in advance should I book my trip?
We recommend that you book as soon as you are sure about your dates, as accommodation can fill up very quickly in this area.
What equipment do I need to bring?
Once you make your reservation we will send you all the detailed information about the specific equipment you need for this route, considering recommendations for shoes, boots, clothes and a day-to day backpack.
Do I need to take out travel insurance?
Yes, this is a requirement to book with us. It's important that this insurance covers your activities, emergency evacuation, and hospital care.
Will I be free to choose my walks on this route?
Since it is a self-guided walking holiday, we will give you the instructions for the walking routes and provide you with detailed maps so you can enjoy them at your own pace, safely and with the certainty of always being accompanied by Orbis Ways.
What does the complete route itinerary consist of?
The full route itinerary will be sent to you one month before the trip, along with accommodation reservations and baggage transfers. There you can find maps, places of interest and route profiles.
What should I know about the accommodation?
All rooms in all accommodations on this tour are private, have an ensuite bathroom and all the comforts necessary to spend an excellent night after a day of walking.
What should my physical preparation be?
Before setting off for the Camino de Santiago, it is recommended that both people who live a sedentary life, and those who exercise, physically prepare for a couple of months previously, taking daily walks or at least three times a week, and increasing the amount of time and kilometres that they travel.
Can some of the longer stages of the itinerary be divided?
Yes, below is a list of all the stages that we can divide, so that you do not have to walk so many daily kilometres:
- O Porriño to Arcade (with overnight in Redondela).
- Padrón to Santiago de Compostela (with overnight in Parada de Francos).
There are some stages that cannot be divided as our quality department has determined that it is not recommended based on our standards. This is because luggage cannot be transported or there are no accommodations available.
For the stages you find longer, you can take a taxi in the morning after breakfast, to drop you off at a point along the way where you can guarantee to finish the stage. This is the most popular option with walkers.
You can also take a look at these other options of the Camino Portugues.
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