Camino Portugues is likely one of the non secular routes to Santiago de Compostela. The Camino Portugues is the second hottest Camino de Santiago after the French Method, about 19% of all pilgrims or 52 200 folks walked this Camino in 2019. The overall distance of the Camino from Porto to Santiago relies on the route you select; the Coastal Route – 280 km, the Central Route – 260 km. Another choice is to start out strolling from Lisbon then the entire distance to Santiago is about 630 km.
On this publish, we’ll focus on totally different route choices and the benefits and drawbacks or each route. Within the second a part of the publish, you’ll discover a detailed itinerary for the Central Route of the Portuguese Camino from Porto to Santiago de Compostela.
To make your Portuguese Camino planning simpler we created free downloadable PDF recordsdata:
The primary file incorporates detailed data on the strolling levels for the Central Route of the Portuguese Camino. The second file contains lodging alongside the route: private and non-private albergues, guesthouses, and accommodations. As of June 2021, most public (municipal) albergues are closed resulting from restrictions. If you happen to’re planning to stroll the Camino this season non-public albergues are the most affordable lodging choice.
The Portuguese Camino route overview
- Distance – 260 km (Central Route), 280 km (Coastal Route)
- Variety of days – 12-14 days
- Start line – Sé Cathedral, Porto, Portugal
- Ending level – Obradoiro Sq., Santiago de Compostela, Spain
- Strolling floor – asphalt, cobblestone, picket boardwalks
- Common price – 25-30 Euro pp. per day
- Lodging – albergues, accommodations, guesthouses
- Route marking – yellow shells and arrows
Completely different route choices of the Camino Portuguese
I understand how it’s while you wish to do a stroll and notice that there are a number of routes that finish on the identical locations. Which one to decide on? – was our query after we have been planning our Portuguese Camino stroll.
First, you might have two choices to start out the stroll in Lisbon or in Porto. We began in Lisbon there have been some issues that we actually favored and a few not that a lot on the route.
If you happen to begin the Camino in Lisbon then the entire distance to Santiago is 616km. It’s potential to do a detour and stroll via Fatima, it provides about 25km to the route. The primary problem we confronted there’s lack of infrastructure for pilgrims, typically it was tough to seek out lodging, as soon as in Caxarias, we have been provided to sleep in church storage on the ground as a result of all rooms within the city have been occupied.
I have to say the stroll from Lisbon is gorgeous however in the event you choose to have a cushty and simple stroll we’d recommend beginning in Porto. If you happen to really feel like strolling extra you are able to do one of many different Camino de Santiago routes e.g. Camino Primitivo, Camino Ingles, or stroll to Finisterre. If you happen to like a problem and like to go off the overwhelmed monitor then begin the Camino in Lisbon.
The Portuguese Camino from Porto – route choices
Second, resolve which route you wish to take from Porto; there are three totally different route choices;
Caminho Central (Central Route) – 260km from Porto to Santiago, goes inland all the way in which.
Caminho da Costa (Coastal Route) – 280km from Porto to Santiago, follows the coast (besides the primary day from Porto) until Redondela the place joins the Central Method.
Senda Litoral (Litoral Path) – distance is kind of the identical because the Coastal Route. From Porto, it follows the coast until Vila do Conde after goes the identical method because the Coastal Route with the principle distinction the Litoral actually sticks to the coast. It merges with the Central Route at Redondela.
Which path to observe from Porto?
The Central Route
Benefits; 1. it has a greater infrastructure; extra albergues, extra cities, extra eating places, and outlets. 2. If you happen to’re extra into historical past and structure you’ll benefit from the Central Route there are extra outdated cities and cities on the way in which. 3. It’s shorter (unsure if all people will take into account it as a bonus), you’ll want much less time to finish it. 4. It’s a greater choice to stroll in unhealthy climate situations e.g. robust wind, heavy rain. 5.
For many who are going to make use of a backpack shuttle service, it’s cheaper by 1 or 2 Euro per stage to switch backpacks on the Central Route.
Disadvantages; 1. That is the busiest route, 70% of pilgrims on the Camino Portuguese stroll this route. 2. The realm it goes via is extra developed and touristy.
The Coastal Route
Benefits; 1. Strolling alongside the coast is at all times a bonus (a minimum of we expect so). 2. Solely 30% of all pilgrims take this route. 3. Higher possibilities to see a extra genuine non-touristy a part of Portugal.
Disadvantages; 1. If it’s very windy and wet it’ll be an disagreeable path to stroll. 2. Much less infrastructure, I primarily consult with albergues although for us it was an issue solely as soon as in Vigo the place there aren’t any albergues solely accommodations/hostels.
If you happen to resolve to stroll this route examine our detailed publish The Portuguese Camino Coastal Route strolling levels.
The Litoral Method (Senda Litoral)
Initially most pilgrims depart Porto following this Route, it’s one of the best ways to stroll out of town and skip strolling alongside the busy freeway resulting in the airport. You’ll be able to learn in some guidebooks that it’s higher to skip the primary stage from Porto since you stroll via industrial areas, they consult with strolling out of town following the Central Camino or Coastal Route, not the Litoral. On the primary day no have to decide which method to decide on you can begin alongside the coast and see how a lot you prefer it.
All of the benefits and disadvantages are the identical as for the Coastal Route. Just one additional factor this route will not be marked very nicely (aside from the primary day) however it’s simple to stroll you simply go alongside the coast/seashore.
Obtain Camino Portuguese Strolling Routes map
A nice choice is to mix the Coastal route with rural areas and even add to this some mountain surroundings. Begin in Porto following the Coastal Route and proceed on it until Caminha (the top of the Portuguese half) from there stroll to Valença to get to the Central Route. Then take the Variante Espiritual, an optionally available route from Pontevedra that goes over the mountains and joins the Central route in Padrón. This manner you mix all potential routes of the Camino Portugues and stroll via areas with totally different surroundings; sea, fields, and mountains. Plus you skip the Spanish a part of the Coastal route that has a scarcity of albergues, notably in A Ramallosa and Vigo.
Journey insurance coverage for the Camino Portuguese
Strolling like every other out of doors exercise entails a threat of getting an damage or shedding among the gear. It’s at all times beneficial to have journey insurance coverage while you go away. The Portuguese Camino de Santiago will not be an exclusion. It’s not a excessive altitude wild hike via distant areas it’s nonetheless a bodily difficult expertise that entails a protracted strolling distance, carrying a heavy backpack, strolling asphalt, and cobblestone it’s not uncommon for pilgrims to get accidents from small blister issues to greater knee or shin splints points.
Be certain it is possible for you to to get medical help any time you want it. It’s fairly useful to have insurance coverage in case of a gear or machine break/loss you possibly can at all times declare it again. It makes the stroll much less anxious when you recognize you’re coated in case of any unpredictable emergencies.
Be aware! You probably have European Well being Insurance coverage Card you don’t want any additional medical insurance coverage for Spain.
The most effective months for strolling the Portuguese Camino
If you wish to skip crowds and have good climate Might and September might be your finest choices. If you happen to quite wish to stroll alone go low season, April and October are good months, you will be fortunate with the climate and there might be only a few folks. Winter months are not the very best it will get chilly and wet, some albergues are closed. June is the start of the excessive season for this Camino however it’s nonetheless not too busy but and already good and heat. July and August are the hottest and the hottest months, it’s vital to start out strolling early to skip the warmth of the day.
Lodging on the Camino route
Hostels for pilgrims on Caminos de Santiago are known as “albergues”.
Albergue is a type of hostel, don’t count on any luxurious, the one distinction solely pilgrims are allowed to keep right here.
To show you’re a pilgrim it’s good to present your Credential, you get a stamp at each albergue you keep.
There two varieties of albergues; municipal, run by the federal government, cheaper, can’t be booked forward, worth between 5-6 Euro pp. Non-public albergues – belong to an individual or firm, dearer, between 10-12 Euro pp, normally with higher amenities, will be booked upfront over the cellphone or on-line reserving companies.
Every albergue has dormitories with bunk beds, shared toilet/rest room, kitchen, some have washer and wi-fi.
Municipal albergues settle for solely money.
Mattress bugs downside – after finishing two Caminos we didn’t have bedbugs as soon as. It’s a bonus of strolling the Camino originally of the season, most albergues do “massive cleansing” earlier than the season begins. We noticed some pilgrims utilizing bedbug spray we’ve by no means tried it however appears like it really works.
Some folks asking if it’s price carrying a tent with I’d say “No“. You’ll be able to keep in albergues for 5-6 Euro most campsites will cost you an identical or much more for tenting (wild tenting is against the law in Spain), plus you need to carry a lot additional baggage; a tent, mattress, cooking stuff, and many others.
For extra particulars on lodging on the Camino, the professionals and cons of staying at albergues, suggestions, and many others. examine our detailed publish Albergues on the Camino de Santiago.
Sensible data for the Portuguese Method of St.James
For this Camino we used the Camino Portugues information guide by John Brierley, it incorporates all the mandatory data and maps, small, gentle, and simple to make use of.
Each pilgrim wants a Credential – a small guide along with your identify that will get stamped at each albergue you keep. The credential is a pilgrim’s ID. You should purchase it from the official Credential distribution workplace in your nation or in Se Cathedral in Porto.
For the final 100 km to Santiago de Compostela, you want two stamps a day with the intention to get the Compostela on the Pilgrim’s Workplace, we have been there in June 2019 and so they confirmed this data.
There’s an hour distinction between Portuguese (GMT+1) and Spanish time (GMT+2), Spain is one hour forward. While you cross to Spain don’t overlook to alter the time.
Each nations use the identical energy shops – Europlug. You may want an adapter.
Faucet water in Portugal is excellent, locals are happy with the water high quality. In Spain, to start with, we purchased bottled water however later have been advised that faucet water is okay right here as nicely. Although typically you possibly can style robust chlorine, attempt first if it’s not good then purchase bottled water.
We have been stunned how many individuals in Portugal communicate good English in comparison with Spain however there’s at all times any individual who can translate or clarify.
In Spain, many supermarkets and outlets are closed on Sundays, public holidays and within the afternoon.
In each nations, you possibly can purchase drugs with a prescription in English out of your physician again house even when it’s simply an e mail, not the unique.
Purchase native SIM card, each Portugal and Spain have comparable packages from Vodafone legitimate for 30 days; Portugal – 3Gb information, 300 minutes native cellphone calls, plus SMS – 15 Euro. Spain – 2Gb information, 200 minutes native cellphone calls, SMS – 15 Euro (after we ran out of knowledge we nonetheless might use it for FB and Twitter). Each labored nice, we used it loads for importing images and video, Whats-app, and many others. and it was greater than sufficient. Plus it’s very useful if you wish to cellphone and guide an albergue.
The route marking may be very good, it’s at all times simple to observe, there are yellow arrows each 100m or so.
Carry a pouch or a foldable backpack to hold valuables (cash, passport) with when leaving an albergue, normally, there aren’t any lockers.
Well being suggestions for strolling the Camino
Strolling the Camino is a bodily problem don’t push your self attempting to observe information guide or any individual’s itinerary, take your time, transfer your tempo.
If you happen to really feel very drained or unwell take a break day or a minimum of stroll shorter distances you wish to arrive in Santiago wholesome. We heard some tales of individuals pushing themselves for the entire Camino and as soon as they reached Santiago they bought terribly sick so maintain your self.
Many pilgrims on the Camino have issues with their toes, primarily blisters.
To stop blisters
- pack 2 or 3 pairs of merino wool socks, they’re the very best for mountain climbing.
- throughout the stroll each time your toes get moist from sweating take off a moist pair and placed on dry socks. You’ll be able to grasp moist socks out of your backpack to allow them to dry in the meantime.
- you recognize your toes and the place you normally get blisters, plaster these areas earlier than you get one.
Social life on the Portuguese route
You meet folks on a regular basis there are lots of pilgrims who stroll alone a few of them don’t really need the corporate however many might be blissful to seek out any individual to stroll with. Albergues have a very social vibe particularly within the night, folks cook dinner and eat collectively, make associates, give suggestions, present images, and many others.
There are folks from everywhere in the world; Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa you’ll have the ability to discover any individual who speaks your language, belongs to the identical age group, or have comparable pursuits. If you happen to can’t discover a strolling buddy go and stroll the Camino alone you’ll see what number of nice folks you’ll meet on the way in which.
Baggage supply service on the Camino Portuguese
If you wish to make your stroll simpler or have some again points and may’t carry a heavy bag day by day you should use a backpack supply service. There are a number of firms that may ship your backpack or suitcase for each stage between your lodging. Verify Pilbeo (the Central Route), Strategy to Santiago (each Central and Coastal Routes) and Correos (the Central Route from Tui) they do baggage switch on the Portuguese Camino. You should use the supply for all the route or for some levels. One stage prices 5 Euro per backpack.
It’s vital to keep in mind that normally it’s not allowed to ship baggage to public albergues on the Camino. These albergues can’t be booked upfront and so they gained’t preserve a mattress for you even when your backpack is delivered there. Non-public albergues and accommodations alongside the route haven’t any downside with baggage supply.
Portuguese Camino price
Portugal is a bit cheaper than Spain however generally costs in each nations are comparable. Lodging and purchasing will price roughly the identical. Public transport, particularly trains are cheaper in Portugal, e.g. a practice journey (regular practice, economic system class) from Lisbon to Porto, 310km, will price you from 25 Euro. In Spain, for a similar distance, you pay from 30 Euro.
Consuming out is cheaper in Portugal, a set menu in an area restaurant will price you 8 Euro when in Spain it’s from 10 Euro up. Our essential disappointment after we crossed to Spain was espresso, in Portugal, you pay 0,60 Euro for Americano, in Spain, it’s double, between 1-1,20 Euro. Most likely the one factor is dearer within the Portuguese half is backpack switch service, 2 Euro extra per stage than in Spain.
If you happen to keep at albergues and purchase meals in supermarkets your common Camino price might be between 15-20 Euro per individual per day. If you happen to keep at albergues and eat in a restaurant a minimum of as soon as a day, exit for a beer, or cease a few instances for espresso be able to spend between 25-30 Euro each day pp. If you happen to choose to remain in accommodations quite than albergues add to it 10-15 Euro pp.
Portugal
- Lodging – municipal albergues – 5-6 Euro per individual, non-public albergues – 10-12 Euro pp. Lodges from 15 Euro pp.
- Consuming out – Menu do Dia, a set lunch that features a starter, essential dish with sides, drink and occasional or dessert – from 7 Euro pp.
- Meals purchasing – 6-8 Euro pp per day
- A cup of espresso (Americano) – 0,60 Euro
- A beer in a bar – 1 Euro.
- Laundry – washing 2 Euro per load.
- Backpack supply service (optionally available) – 6-7 Euro per backpack per stage.
Spain
- Lodging – municipal albergues – 5-6 Euro per individual, non-public albergues – 10-12 Euro pp. Lodges from 20 Euro pp
- Consuming out – Menu del Dia; starter, essential dish, drink (normally home wine), espresso or dessert – 10 Euro.
- Meals purchasing – 6-8 Euro pp per day
- A cup of espresso (Americano) – 1-1,2 Euro
- A beer in a bar – 1-1,2 Euro
- Laundry – washing – 3 Euro per load, drying – 1,5-3 Euro per load.
- Backpack supply service (optionally available) – from 5 Euro relying on the stage and route you’re taking.
What to pack for the Camino?
Be certain to not pack an excessive amount of and convey solely crucial stuff. We’ve met many individuals who needed to rethink their backpack content material after the primary day on the Camino. You actually don’t want a lot and also you at all times can purchase something you want method there are outlets, supermarkets, and pharmacies alongside the way in which. If you happen to’re planning on utilizing baggage supply service then it doesn’t matter you possibly can pack as a lot as you need.
We’ve got an in depth publish Camino de Santiago packing listing the place you will discover our suggestions on what to pack for the Camino for women and men for various seasons.
Books to learn on the Camino
What will be higher than after a protracted day of strolling climb in mattress and skim your favourite guide!? We’d undoubtedly suggest selecting the one you’ll undoubtedly have time for studying. Listed here are our prime picks books for the Camino Portugues;
Helpful apps for strolling the Camino Portuguese
- Portuguese Method Premium. Value US$4, accessible for Android and Apple.
- Camino Help Pilgrim Santiago. Free obtain, accessible for Android and Apple.
- Buen Camino de Santiago. Free obtain, accessible for Android and Apple.
- Correctly + Camino Portugues; a Clever Pilgrim information. Value US$6, accessible for Android and Apple. We haven’t used it however I noticed many sad customers complaining in regards to the app, I’d suggest studying the opinions earlier than shopping for it.
The Central Route of the Portuguese Camino – strolling levels
Our essential tip for the Camino don’t underestimate it, you is perhaps a match individual however strolling lengthy hours within the warmth with a heavy backpack is totally different from working or coaching within the gymnasium. Begin slower, don’t stroll lengthy distances to start with and also you’ll be superb. Plus while you stroll too quick or too far you don’t have sufficient time to cease, take images, get pleasure from a cup of espresso with a wonderful view.
Porto, the start of the stroll
Porto is a tremendous metropolis I’d undoubtedly suggest to remain right here for a few days earlier than or after the Camino. Stroll round its slim cobblestone streets climbing up and down the hills, attempt well-known wine, take a ship journey alongside the Douro River and benefit from the native delicacies. Porto is certainly one of my favourite European cities for the reason that first time I got here right here.
Excursions and actions in Porto
You probably have a few additional days in Porto earlier than beginning the Camino stroll there are lots of actions and excursions you are able to do right here to discover town and its environment.
Locations to remain in Porto
There are a number of albergues/hostels within the metropolis together with one municipal albergue N.S. do Rosario de Vilar 7,5 Euro pp. We stayed at non-public Albergue de Peregrinos do Porto, for donations, a pleasant, clear, and really social place near the metro station. Amenities; hot water bathe, wi-fi, kitchen, washer. Positioned fairly removed from the cathedral, to get there you need to use the metro.
If you happen to quite choose to remain your first evening in a extra comfy place there are lots of choices in Porto for various budgets, however my recommendation is to remain strolling distance from the middle.
Day 1. Se Cathedral, Porto – Labruge, 23km
Se Cathedral – Foz do Douro – Matosinhos – Lavra – Labruge
As I discussed earlier than most individuals wha begin strolling from Porto no matter which route they stroll on the primary day following the Senda Litoral (Litoral Method) to get out of town. It means on the primary day as an alternative of following the Central Route that goes via the industrial space and outskirts of Porto following busy roads you stroll alongside the coast, previous seashores and small seaside villages. This manner is a bit longer than simply following the Central Route from Porto however is far nicer and exquisite. It is going to add about 7km to your complete distance, no worries our itinerary doesn’t have very lengthy strolling days. We actually loved this half, it felt extra like a seashore than a strolling vacation.
Some folks choose to take a tram to get from Se Cathedral to Foz do Douro the start of the promenade. We walked from the cathedral we went right down to the Douro river and adopted it. On the primary day more often than not you stroll on picket boardwalks which is a lot better than asphalt or cobblestones. There are various eating places and cafés on the way in which the place you possibly can get pleasure from breakfast or lunch with a sea view.
Labruge
We’d recommend stopping right here, and to not make your first day too lengthy like a information guide recommend to stroll 33km all the way in which to Vila do Conde. No have to punish your self and destroy your toes particularly in the event you stroll in mid-summer when it’s sizzling. The city itself is 1km inland from the coast. There’s a signal on the path pointing to the albergue.
- Municipal albergue – sure, for donation. Albergue Santiago Labruge – 3 rooms, 24 beds, kitchen, chilly water bathe, wi-fi.
- Non-public albergue – no
- Resort, visitor home – sure
- ATM – sure
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Locations to remain in Labruge
*Many individuals requested us about various lodging choices (non-public rooms with amenities) we determined so as to add lodging choices alongside the route which are accessible within the reserving system it is perhaps helpful for a few of you for planning the stroll.
Day 2. Labruge – Charges, 23km
Labruge – Vila Chã – Vila do Conde – Arcos – Charges
The primary a part of the day a wonderful stroll alongside the coast until Vila do Conde from the place you flip off the Coastal Route and observe a path that goes inland and joins with the Central Route at Arcos. Strolling by the ocean on the primary day offers you an concept in regards to the Coastal route and in the event you prefer it you possibly can stick with it as an alternative of going to the Central Method. Vila do Conde is a really good and exquisite city with charming slim cobblestone streets, the Cathedral, and the spectacular aqueduct de Santa Clara it’s on the way in which to Arcos.
Charges
A fantastic medieval city that grew across the monastery with attention-grabbing historic half; Monastery of Charges, the principle sq., a few church buildings and chapels, a clock tower.
- Municipal albergue – sure, for donation. Albergue de Peregrinos – 30 beds, sizzling water bathe, kitchen.
- Non-public albergue – no
- Resort, visitor home – sure
- ATM – no
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Day 3. Charges – Barcelos, 16km/Tamel, 25km
Charges – Pedra Furada – Pereira – Bacelinhos – Barcelos or Tamel (San Pedro de Fins)
After becoming a member of the Central Route you’ll begin seeing extra pilgrims on the Camino. You may make this present day brief, keep in Barcelos and do some sightseeing round or stroll 9km additional to Tamel to make your subsequent strolling day to Ponte de Lima shorter. It would sound higher to remain in Barcelos however be able to stroll the following day 34km all the way in which to Ponte de Lima as there are usually not many lodging choices earlier than.
Barcelos
Barcelos – a wonderful metropolis, initially a Roman settlement that expanded loads within the fifteenth century. There are some very attention-grabbing sights to see right here; Ponte de Barcelos – 14th-century bridge, Tower of Barcelos, a church of Senhor da Cruz, church Matriz de Barcelos. Town is well-known for its pottery it’s the house of well-known Galo de Barcelos (Rooster or Barcelos) or Portuguese Rooster – probably the most common symbols of Portugal.
- Municipal albergue – no
- Non-public albergue – sure, solely 26 beds, donation. Albergue de Barcelos – 3 rooms, kitchen (range, microwave, fridge), sizzling bathe, wi-fi.
- Resort, visitor home – sure
- ATM – sure
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Locations to remain in Barceloc
Tamel (San Pedro de Fins)
Be aware! there’s nothing right here besides an albergue convey meals with you. Albergue Casa da Recoleta, municipal, worth 5 Euro pp. Amenities; kitchen, sizzling bathe, wi-fi, 4 dormitories, 41 beds.
Day 4. Barcelos/Tamel – Ponte de Lima, 34km/25km
Barcelos/Tamel – Balugães/Cossourado – Vitorino dos Piães – Facha – Ponte de Lima
If you happen to begin in Barcelos and go all the way in which to Ponte de Lima it’ll be a protracted strolling day however you possibly can break up it into two and stroll to Vitorino dos Piães, 16km, there’s a non-public albergue and a few accommodations (examine beneath for reserving) or Facha, 23km, there are a few accommodations there (none is in reserving).
Ponte de Lima
A pleasant and comparatively small place evaluate to Barcelos although it has a protracted historical past, the oldest city in Portugal by the way in which, and a few attention-grabbing sights to see; Ponte Romano (The Roman bridge over the Lima river) that gave the identify to the city, Previous Chain Tower, Matriz church, Botanical backyard Paço do Marques, church of Santo Antonio da Torre Velha. There are various lodging choices within the city.
- Municipal albergue – sure, 5 Euro. Casa do Arnado – 60 beds, kitchen, wi-fi, opens late between 4-5pm.
- Non-public albergue – sure
- Resort, visitor home – sure
- ATM – sure
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Locations to remain in Ponte de Lima
Day 5. Ponte de Lima – Rubiães, 20km
A pleasant and brief day of strolling principally via the forest with a protracted uphill stretch that begins at 10km, from 100m to 400m over 4km, be sure that to have sufficient water with. There’s a café at Revolta earlier than the climb the place you possibly can have lunch and fill your water bottle.
Rubiães
A really small cozy city with numerous infrastructure for pilgrims.
- Municipal albergue – sure, 5 Euro. Escola – 34 beds, sizzling bathe, kitchen, wi-fi, opens at 1.30 pm.
- Non-public albergue – sure
- Resort, visitor home – sure
- ATM – no
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Store – sure
- Pharmacy – no
Locations to remain in Rubiães
Day 6. Rubiães – Valença/Tui, 20km
Rubiães – Cossourado – Pedreira – Valença – Tui
Right now it’s principally down-hill strolling within the first half of the day until the Roman bridge (Ponte Romano) after which fairly flat all the way in which to Valença/Tui there you possibly can resolve to remain the evening in Portugal (Valença) or to cross the bridge over the Minho river and keep in Spain (Tui). Crossing the river don’t overlook to change the time, Spain is 1 hour forward of Portugal. There is no such thing as a official border crossing, each nations are members of the EU.
In Valença/Tui you may see extra pilgrims than earlier than on the Camino. Many individuals begin strolling the Portuguese Camino from right here as a result of each cities are simply over 100 km from Santiago. The final 100 km is the required strolling minimal on the Camino for getting the Compostela.
Valença
Each cities have good infrastructure for pilgrims, many lodging choices, eating places, and many others. There are some attention-grabbing sights to see. Valença has lovely medieval fortress Fortaleza de Valença, the outdated city is situated behind the partitions. Each have cathedrals, church buildings, chapels, and museums.
- Municipal albergue – sure, 5 Euro. Sao Teotonio – 84 beds, 4 rooms, sizzling bathe, kitchen, opens at 1.30pm.
- Non-public albergue – no
- Resort, visitor home – sure
- ATM – sure
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Locations to remain in Valença
Tui
- Municipal albergue – sure, 6 Euro. Albergue de Peregrinos – 36 beds, sizzling bathe, opens at 1 pm.
- Non-public albergue – sure, many
- Resort, visitor home – sure
- ATM – sure
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Locations to remain in Tui
Day 7. Valença/Tui – Porriño, 19km
A brief and simple strolling with not many locations to cease for espresso or lunch, the primary place might be after 10km at Orbenlle, it’ll be a brief detour as the brand new various path turns proper simply earlier than it. We’d suggest to observe it, it goes left about 300m after a stone Camino signal that marks 106km to Santiago. The outdated route goes via Poligono Industrial (Industrial space), the brand new path fully skips it and goes via the forest. At about 3km earlier than the city there’s yet another break up, go left following the river the appropriate path goes alongside the street.
Porriño
A small industrial city with a pleasant historic heart.
- Municipal albergue – sure, 6 Euro. Albergue de Peregrinos – 50 beds, sizzling bathe, kitchen, opens at 1 pm.
- Non-public albergue – no
- Resort, pension – sure
- ATM – sure
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Locations to remain in Porriño
Day 8. Porriño – Redondela, 17km
Porriño – Torroso – Redondela
A brief day of strolling with a hill to climb, Conte Cornedo, about 200m however over greater than 5km. After that right down to Redondela. There are a few bars/eating places on the way in which the place you possibly can have lunch. At Redondela each Central and Coastal Routes be part of you may see barely extra pilgrims.
Redondela
- Municipal albergue – sure, 6 Euro. Casa de Torre – 44 beds, sizzling bathe, kitchen, washing and drying machine, opens at 1 pm.
- Non-public albergue – sure
- Resort, pension – sure
- ATM – sure
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Locations to remain in Redondela
Day 9. Redondela – Pontevedra, 20km
Redondela – Cesantes – Arcade – Pontevedra.
Some uphill however it’s over a protracted distance so the incline will not be a really steep climb. There are a number of bars on the way in which the place you possibly can refill water and have lunch. At the present time affords fairly a little bit of street strolling however the roads weren’t very busy. A few kilometers earlier than Pontevedra on the appropriate facet of the street there might be signal River Path, observe it, the gap is similar as strolling alongside the street and it’s nicer for strolling.
Pontevedra
A really good city with a wonderful historic heart, superb cathedral, cobblestone streets, church buildings, many bars, and eating places. A pleasant city for chilling and going out.
- Municipal albergue – sure, 6 Euro. La Virgen Peregrina – 56 beds, sizzling bathe, kitchen, washing and drying machine, opens at 1 pm.
- Non-public albergue – sure
- Resort, pension – sure
- ATM – sure
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Locations to remain in Pontevedra
Day 10. Pontevedra – Caldas de Reis, 23km
After Redondela the Camino splits once more you possibly can observe the principle path to Caldas de Reis or take Variante Espiritual (Religious Method) and go over the mountains to Armenteira. Verify for extra particulars and levels for the Religious Route. Each routes be part of once more in Padrón.
Caldas de Reis
A pleasant small city with sizzling springs, church buildings and outdated Roman ruins. You probably have an opportunity we’d recommend to go to one of many balnearios (spa facilities) and calm down within the springs, e.g. El Acuña or el Dávila.
- Municipal albergue – sure, 6 Euro. Posada Dona Urraca – 5o beds, sizzling bathe, wi-fi, opens at 1 pm.
- Non-public albergue – sure
- Resort, pension – sure
- ATM – sure
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Locations to remain in Caldas de Reis
Day 11. Caldas de Reis – Padrón, 20km
A pleasant and simple stroll previous a few smallish cities with a number of bars on the way in which. Some folks choose to stroll additional this present day with the intention to make the final day to Santiago shorter. There are various albergues and accommodations on the stretch between Padrón and Santiago it gained’t be tough to seek out lodging.
Padrón
Padrón will not be a giant however good city. The spotlight of the city is the attractive sq. in entrance of the cathedral with timber plated on either side of it, their branches forming nearly a tunnel above the sq..
- Municipal albergue – sure, 6 Euro. Albergue de Peregrinos – 46 beds, sizzling bathe, wi-fi, opens at 1 pm.
- Non-public albergue – sure
- Resort, pension – sure
- ATM – sure
- Restaurant, café – sure
- Grocery store – sure
- Pharmacy – sure
Locations to remain in Padrón
Day 12. Padrón to Santiago de Compostela, 25km
Some folks from our albergue began strolling that day at 5 am to have the ability to attend the Pilgrim’s Mass within the cathedral at 12 am. The primary a part of the day it’s flat principally via the forest, the second half has a few hills to beat, however all that is nothing in comparison with the thrill and happiness you expertise approaching the Cathedral. If it’s your first Camino you’ll see how thrilled you’ll be while you put down your backpack on the Obradoiro Sq. in entrance of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
We’d recommend reserving lodging upfront particularly within the months of July and August, the height season for the Camino. There are various albergues, hostels, accommodations, and residences in Santiago for any finances.
You probably have time and power you possibly can proceed strolling from Santiago de Compostela to Finisterre – a wonderful 3-4 day stroll with lovely forest and sea surroundings. If you happen to don’t have time to stroll to Finisterre you are able to do a day bus tour from Santiago to Finisterre and Muxía. There are various different superb issues to do in Santiago de Compostela to maintain you busy for a few days.
Lodging on the route
Santiago de Compostela, the top of the Portuguese Camino
Now it’s time to calm down after a few powerful strolling weeks and spoil your self staying in a pleasant place, you deserved it after sleeping in dozens of albergues with shared the whole lot! There are various choices in Santiago essentially the most tough is to decide on the appropriate one for you. Within the peak season, I’d suggest reserving your lodging in Santiago upfront the very best and essentially the most central locations is perhaps absolutely booked.
There’s one particular place within the metropolis for pilgrims – Hospedaria San Marín Pinário Seminario Mayor. The place has been internet hosting pilgrims for the reason that sixteenth century. These days it’s an costly lodge however they’ve particular finances rooms for pilgrims. These rooms are fairly small and modest however they’re non-public and have an connected toilet.
The situation of the place is superb, proper subsequent to the Cathedral. A single room prices 25 Euro, a double room 35 Euro. You need to guide it a minimum of a few weeks upfront. You are able to do it by way of e-mail. They reply rapidly. As an choice you possibly can keep in one of many renovated rooms, it’s dearer however extra comfy, these rooms will be booked on-line.
Locations to remain in Santiago
Excursions and actions in Santiago de Compostela
You probably have a few days earlier than your return flight you possibly can discover Santiago de Compostela and its environment, there are lots of excursions and actions within the metropolis.
Getting the Compostela in Santiago
Each pilgrim that walked 100km or extra to Santiago can get a Compostela – an accreditation of pilgrimage to the tomb of St. Jacob. Through the Pilgrim’s Mass, they point out within the prayer the pilgrims that arrived that day in Santiago and registered on the workplace for his or her Compostelas in response to their nation of origin e.g. 50 pilgrims from Spain, 30 pilgrims from the US, 10 from Australia, and many others.
To get the Compostela;
- go along with your Credential to the Pilgrim Workplace in Santiago.
- wait within the queue, it may possibly take something between 30min. and three hours relying on the variety of pilgrims.
On the Pilgrims’ Workplace you will get the Certificates of Distance as nicely it’s much like the Compostela paper however it contains extra particulars; the identify of the Camino you walked, when and the place you began and complete distance walked. The Certificates prices 3 Euro. You should purchase a Tubo (cardboard tube) to place your Credential and Certificates in to verify they gained’t tear or get soiled.
Botafumeiro ceremony within the Cathedral de Santiago
Sadly, it takes place solely on particular spiritual events, right here is the entire listing of the celebrations. Apparently, Botafumeiro is an costly ceremony and the cathedral can’t afford to do it day by day and even as soon as per week.
It’s potential to organize it for 400 Euro. It doesn’t matter how many individuals pay for it solely you or a bunch of fifty the ceremony will happen throughout the Pilgrim’s Mass and might be public. So in the event you’re 10 or extra folks it’s not that costly. You need to guide it beforehand for a particular day while you’re planning to be in Santiago.
I’ve seen Botafumeiro as soon as and it’s one thing to expertise particularly in the event you simply accomplished your pilgrimage! Necessary! No photograph or video footage is allowed throughout the Mass even in the event you pay for Botafumeiro you possibly can’t take images. To make a reserving write to botafumeiro@catedraldesantiago.es.
Portuguese Camino last ideas
It was our first Camino de Santiago although we’d finished many hikes earlier than the Camino is a very totally different expertise. It was our longest uninterrupted hike and we didn’t know what to anticipate. The wonderful thing about any Camino is that anyone can do it regardless of how match or unfit you’re, simply select your tempo and each day distance and also you’ll have the ability to attain Santiago, it’d take you one or three weeks however who cares!
Individuals stroll the Camino with totally different intentions and causes; for some, it’s a pilgrimage with a non secular background, some wish to have a while to suppose, some folks like us similar to mountain climbing, for others it’s an incredible and finances method to see a rustic and lots of of different causes.
Relating to our Camino alternative; to begin with, we didn’t wish to stroll a really crowded method so not the French Method; second, we began in mid-Might which is an effective time for strolling on this area it was already heat however not too sizzling. Third, the Portuguese route goes via the components of Spain and Portugal that we haven’t been to. We did like this stroll and it impressed us to do extra Caminos de Santiago within the nearest future. Buen Camino!