Full Portuguese Coastal Camino

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and one of the world’s oldest cities: known as Olispio by the Romans, settled by the Visigoths and the Arabs before becoming the base for the “Discoveries’ – Columbus, Magellan and Vasco de Gama all set sail from here. An earthquake in 1755 destroyed many buildings and dramatically brought an end to this powerful empire. The UNESCO-listed monastery in Belem still stands and is definitely worth a visit, as is the Alfama district for ‘fado’ (music) – or simply enjoy a stroll through the streets of this beautiful city. You will find the first waymark of your Portuguese Camino at the Cathedral.

Transfer to Povoa de Santa Iria de Azoia (at 8.30am, 20mins) where your walk commences. Initially walking through industrial outskirts and modern suburban developments, the last 4km from Alhandra to Vila Franca is riverside and pleasant. Once a Crusader town, Vila Franca is known today for breeding fighting bulls (its Festa do Colete, ‘running of the bulls’, is held in early July). Nearby is a large wetland reserve, home to vast flocks of migrating fowl. Overnight in Vila Franca de Xira. Distance 16km/10mi, ascent/descent approx 130m/427ft (It is possible to walk from Lisbon however the day is very long, approx 9-10hours. Lisbon-Santa Iria is 20km/13km).

Continue along the river, through flat agricultural land – and a couple of industrial zones – to Azambuja, gateway to the fertile floodplains of the Tagus. Azambuja was home to one of Portugal's most famous female matadors, Ana Maria, and its 'running of the bulls' festival is held in May. Overnight in Azambuja. Distance 20km/12.5mi, ascent/descent approx 75m/246ft

Today’s walk follows farm tracks through ‘the market garden of Portugal’, the rich floodplains of the Tagus. Here you’ll find fruit, vegetables and vineyards. Walk via riverside villages before the short steep ascent to Santarem. Once an administrative centre of the Romans, the town was settled by the Moors and considered unassailable until its recapture by the Portuguese in 1149. The beautiful main square is surrounded by churches, and don’t miss the ceramic tiled Igeja de Marvila and the view from Portas do Sol. Overnight in Santarem. Distance 33km/20.5mi, ascent 247m/810ft, descent 148m/485ft

Today’s walk continues on rural tracks and lanes through vineyards, cornfields and villages along the Tagus. If the weather is dry, consider leaving the new path to visit the town of Azinhaga, birthplace of Portugal’s 1998 Nobel Prize winning writer, Jose Saramago. At Golega, the 16th century Parish Church has a beautiful Manueline (Portuguese Gothic) gate and its museum owns a collection of sculptures by Martins Correia. Nearby is the Paul do Boquilobo Nature Reserve, the marsh habitat and breeding ground of several species of water fowl (April to June). Golega’s famous horse fair is held in early November. Overnight in Golega. Distance 33km/20.5mi, ascent 264m/866ft, descent 347m/1138ft

Walk along the Tagus via the abandoned Quinta da Cardiga with its Manueline portal and 16th and 17th tiles. The countryside changes from alluvial plains to undulating hills as you head away from the river. Continue through woodlands and several villages then follow the Nabao river to historic Tomar. In the late 12th century, Tomar’s castle was the headquarters of the Portuguese Templars and the town remains an archetype of Templar layout and architecture. Don’t miss the richly embellished Charola or Round Church in the Convent of Christ. Lots to see and a great feel make Tomar an ideal town for a rest day (must be requested at time of booking). Overnight in Tomar. Distance 30km/18.8m, ascent 588m/1929ft, descent 562m/1844ft

This stage has diverse landscapes. It crosses pastures with holm oaks, olive trees and some pines, interspersed with areas of orchards and fruit trees. There are constant ascents and descents and the walk is peaceful despite being long and mostly on paved roads. Overnight in Alvaiazere. Distance 32km/20mi, ascent 960m/3150ft, descent 700m/2296ft

An easier walk today, this stage has beautiful stretches among olive and holm oak trees, but with rocky paths and paved tracks. There are many little hamlets en route and the mid-way town of Ansiao has a Saturday farmers' market. Cross the 17th bridge leaving Ansiao before heading along forest track through pines and eucalypts, where sap is collected in the traditional method. Continue to the attractive town of Alvorge for your overnight stay. Distance 23km/14mi, ascent 663m/2175ft, descent 681m/2234ft

Today's walk takes you through a variety of landscapes and across undulating terrain, mostly through farmlands on unpaved paths. You pass the Roman ruins at Conimbriga where you can stop and discover the many mosaics before continuing to the town of Condeixa a Nova where you stay tonight. Distance 22km/14mi, ascent 370m/1214ft, descent 558m/1830ft

Today you continue along paved roads and through small hamlets. It's more urban than previous days. The trail is undulating around the town of Palheira. Along the way, Cruz dos Mourocos has remnants of a Roman aqueduct and the town of Santa Clara has a dramatic and somewhat macabre story: Dona Ines de Castro secretly wed Pedro, son of King Alfonso IV, and was tragically murdered by the King as he feared her Spanish heritage. On his father’s death and subsequent coronation, Pedro exhumed Dona Ines' corpse, crowned it and forced courtiers to pay homage and kiss her decaying hand, in revenge. Cross the Mondego River to Coimbra, a thriving university town with many historic buildings. Overnight in Coimbra. Distance 16km/10mi, ascent 380m/1247ft, descent 460m/1509ft If you have time, we recommend adding an extra night in Coimbra (must be requested at the time of booking).

The trail today has gentle ascents and descents, following river valleys and irrigation channels along a mix of asphalt and Roman roads. Passing through the villages of Trouxemil, Sargento-Mor, Santa Luzia and Mala. arrive in Mealhada, once a major Roman crossroads. It is now best known for leitão da bairrada, suckling pig. Pigs from the surrounding Barraida region are acorn fed and considered the best in Portugal. Mealhada is also well known for its wine. Overnight in Mealhada. Distance 23km/14.4mi, ascent 450m/1476ft, descent 430m/1410ft

Today the path is gently undulating along the Certima river valley. It is mostly along roads with pockets of vineyards and woodland tracks. You'll pass through the town of Avelas de Caminho with its pretty Manueline featured Quinta de Grimpa. Continue to Agueda after crossing the river and the old bridge Ponte Velha. Overnight in Agueda. Distance 26km/16.2mi, ascent 510m/1673ft, descent 550m/1805ft

The path is quite flat except for a small ascent into Albergaria. Most of the stage is paved, passing through small villages such as Mourisca do Vouga, Pedaçães and Lamas do Vouga. Walk along the original Via Romana XVI and across the restored bridge Marnel towards Albergaria, founded in 1120 to provide refuge to pilgrims on the Camino. This afternoon (4pm) transfer back to Agueda for your overnight stay. Distance 16km/10mi, ascent 320m/1050ft, descent 220m/722ft

After breakfast, transfer to Albergaria to re-commence your walk. The terrain is undulating, taking you through through pine and eucalypt forests and local villages. Between Albergaria a Velha and Albergaria a Nova, follow dirt paths passing through eucalyptus forests and later the Via Férrea do Vouga railway line is crossed on several occasions, requiring care. Oliveira has an old centre, the Matriz de Sao Miguel church and a row of fine houses dating from the 1800s, built by prosperous emigrants returning from Brazil. On the 2nd Sunday in August, festivities honouring Our Lady of La Salette are very popular. Overnight in Oliveira de Azemeis. Distance 20km/12.5mi, ascent 470m/1542ft, descent 370m/1214ft

Today’s walking is over rolling hills and through more urban areas including the town of Sao Joao da Madeira. The route is almost entirely on roads today as a result. Follow a section of the original Roman Via XVI via Arrifana to Malaposta. If you’d like to visit the historic town of Santa Maria de Feira, this can usually be arranged with the hotel staff (payable locally). It has an immaculately maintained castle and in early August hosts the Viagem medieval festival, with re-enactments, markets and entertainment. Overnight in Malaposta. Distance 16km/10mi, ascent 455m/1493ft, descent 370m/1214ft

Leaving Malaposta on the original cobbled Roman road, the path leads to Grijo. Its 13th century monastery Mosteiro San Salvador, first consecrated in 1235, has long been an important stop along the Camino. Continue to Porto, crossing the Puente del Rey Don Luís I bridge over the Douro River. Its maritime legacies and importance as a New World trading port shaped it into a proud city, with an impressive cathedral and port wine lodges. After checking in to your hotel, take the time to explore the city with its many cultural sites. Overnight in Porto. Distance 27km/16.8mi, ascent 530m/1738ft, descent 775m/2542ft Time permitting, we highly recommend adding a day or two in Porto - there is a lot to see and do (must be requested at time of booking).

From Porto there are two coastal paths - the original Coastal route which is approx 3km inland and the 'Senda Litoral' which hugs the coast. Both options are well waymarked with signs of the Camino de Santiago. The night stops are the same, the difference is walking through a rural environment or following the coastline. We suggest taking the 'Senda Litoral' as it offers impressive views over the Atlantic Ocean. Today you take the metro train to Matosinhos to avoid the urban sprawl of Porto. From the station you set out on foot across the lifting bridge Ponte Movel to start your walk. Following the shell signs, the route takes you along the coast, past seaside villages such as Leca da Palmeira, Labruge and Vila do Conde, before arriving at Povoa do Varzim. Home to an old town, the Cividade de Terrosso Fort, more than 3000 years old, and an ancient aqueduct, there is a scenic working harbour and seaside cafes and bars. Overnight in Povoa do Varzim. Distance 27km/16.8mi, ascent/descent approx +-70m/230ft *It is possible to walk from Porto, in which case this is a long day - 40km/25mi.

A fairly easy walk on the Senda Litoral as you take the esplanade to the Chapel of San Andres before continuing into Litoral Norte Natural Park a protected natural area consisting of diverse habitats of imposing sand dunes, wetlands and estuaries, and home to many different wildlife habitats. You will reach Fao on the southern side of the Cavadoy river. Cross the iron bridge over the river before arriving in the city of Esposende. Overnight Esposende. Distance 20km/12.5mi, ascent/descent approx +-30m/98ft

Continuing north on the Senda Litoral and via the town of Marinhas, the trail meanders along the coast offering the opportunity to savour the authentic local gastronomy. At the port of Cabedelo, cross the Eiffel Bridge to arrive at Viana do Castelo. Viana do Castelo is a beautiful city located in the Minho region in northern Portugal with an appealing medieval centre, a 5th Century Cathedral and the Basilica of Santa Luzia which offers great views. Distance 26km/16.2mi, ascent/descent approx +-40m/131ft

The walk today is gentle as you continue along the coast, surrounded by lush vegetation and golden beaches. Your destination for today is the small but charming town of Praia de Ancora. This afternoon you can take the opportunity to swim in the Atlantic ocean. Overnight Praia de Ancora. Distance 19km/11.8mi, ascent/descent approx +-20m/65ft

Leaving Vila Praia de Ancora you'll continue to the beach at Moledo. You then leave the coast slightly, walking through forest and back to a boardwalk before reaching Caminha, the last town before crossing into Spain - which you do by ferry. Continue on foot either inland or along the coast until you reach A Guarda, today's destination. Distance 15km/9.3mi, ascent/descent approx +-40m/131ft Ferry tickets to be purchased locally, allow approx EUR6 per person, takes 10 minutes to cross, hourly departures in the main season.

A more undulating stage, meandering along the coast between the ocean and O'Rosal's prized vineyards. Leaving A Guardia the trail takes you around the peninsula, with opportunities to stop for a coffee or lunch and enjoy the scenery before continuing to the lovely small village of Oia with its Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Oia, a former Cistercian monastery. Overnight in Oia or further along the way in Viladesuso, dependent on availability. Distance 13km/8mi or 18km/11.3mi, ascent/descent approx +-80m/263ft

The walk today is a feast for the senses. For the first 10km the route takes you along a coastal footpath away from the main road. You then continue along picturesque coastline, walking along the boardwalk, all while enjoying stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day you should be able to see the Cies islands, which belong to the Atlantic Islands National Maritime and Terrestrial Park. Overnight in Baiona. Distance 18km/11.3mi or 13km/8mi, ascent/descent approx +-45m/148ft

From Baiona you will walk alongside sandy beaches for most of the day, with plenty of opportunities to take a break at a seaside cafe along the way. It's a long stage with some slopes. Pass the Roman Villa of Toralla in the neighbourhood of Oia, and continue to the historic centre of Vigo, located near the mouth of the nearby Vigo Estuary and sheltered by the Cíes Islands. Overnight in Vigo. We recommend exploring the narrow streets to discover historical buildings of the old town. Distance 26km/16.3mi, ascent/descent approx +-60m/197ft

The route as you leave Vigo is mainly uphill and will reward you with spectacular views as you enter the Senda da Auga (water trail). Continue to Redondela, where you will join the main Portuguese Camino route, and on to the small town of Arcade, which is known for its oysters. Overnight in Arcade. Distance 23km/14.4mi, ascent/descent approx +-140m/460ft

You start the day by walking over the beautiful old bridge at Ponte Sampaio. From here there’s a steep uphill stretch following ancient stone paths before the path descends to the provincial capital of Pontevedra. There are some interesting sites to be explored in Pontevedra including the Santuario da Peregrin chapel and the Convento de San Francisco. The Medieval town centre is a maze of cobbled laneways with tapas bars and cafes. Overnight in Pontevedra. Distance 12km/7.5mi, ascent/descent approx +-140m/460ft

Most of today's stage is through woodland and countryside along gentle river valleys, allowing you to enjoy the serenity of the Galician rural landscapes. Closer to Caldas de Reis the route crosses the N550 and follows this road for short sections. Located between the Umia and Bermana rivers, the town of Caldas developed as a result of its thermal waters and continues to be a major health spa. The botanical gardens next to the river are lovely for some respite from the walk. Overnight in Caldas de Reis. Option to upgrade to a comfortable 4 star inn with pool or 3 star rural inn - supplement applies and must be requested when initially booking the trip. Note transfers are required for the rural inn option - additional cost applies. Distance 21km/13.2mi, ascent/descent approx +-120m/394ft

This is a beautiful walk, first through the Bermana river valley then the path drops into the Valga valley. You'll pass through fields, forests and small villages, and there are two short stages of main road: leaving Caldas and entering Padron. Padron town is lovely, set on the banks of the Sar and Ulla rivers. The "Pedron" stone (a St James relic) is under the altar at Igrexa de Santiago (church). Overnight in Lestrove/Padron. Distance 19km/12mi, ascent/descent approx +-130m/427ft

The final day takes you on a gradual climb through pine, oak and eucalyptus woods, then approaching Santiago the route follows some sections of main road. Highlights include the Colegiata de Iria Flavia, which was the first cathedral in Galicia, and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Escravitude along the way. Arrive in the historic city of Santiago. Overnight in Santiago. 25km/15.6mi, ascent approx +220m/722ft

Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. We can assist with booking an extra night or two if you’d like to stay longer in Santiago - please ask for our rates.