Coastal Route – Baiona
The Caminho Portugués Coastal Route begins in Porto, Portugal, and stretches 251 km to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. This popular pilgrimage route offers a mix of coastal views, historical towns, and beautiful rural landscapes. Pilgrims walk through iconic cities like Porto, Vila do Conde, and Pontevedra, experiencing rich cultural history and stunning natural beauty. Along the way, there are opportunities to choose between coastal paths and more traditional routes, culminating in the iconic Santiago de Compostela. Key stops include ancient churches, scenic beaches, and charming villages like Baiona, Pontevedra, and Padrón.
Day 1: Porto to Vila do Conde
Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Porto, known for its riverside charm and historical architecture. After visiting the Porto Cathedral, you’ll embark on the Camino path, which leads you through the city streets and along the riverbanks. You’ll pass the iconic Ponte de Dom Luís I and begin to explore the more rural parts of the route. The first day brings you to Vila do Conde, a town famous for its maritime history and beautiful beaches. You’ll get a glimpse of the coastline and experience the warmth of Portuguese hospitality in this charming seaside town.
Day 2: Vila do Conde to Esposende
The path continues along the beautiful coastline, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. As you walk through Póvoa de Varzim, a bustling fishing town, you’ll get a sense of the local culture and maritime heritage. The route then leads you to Esposende, a peaceful town located on the shores of the Cávado River. Take time to explore the local area, which is known for its sandy beaches and relaxing atmosphere, a perfect place to unwind after a day’s walk.
Day 3: Esposende to Viana do Castelo
Today’s walk takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the route. You’ll follow the coastline and pass through lush green fields, with occasional views of the ocean. The highlight of the day is Viana do Castelo, a city steeped in history and known for its beautiful old town and the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia. You can take a detour to visit the sanctuary, where panoramic views of the region await you. Viana do Castelo’s historical charm and welcoming atmosphere make it a wonderful stop on your journey.
Day 4: Viana do Castelo to Caminha
Leaving Viana do Castelo behind, you’ll head towards the border town of Caminha. This stage is relatively short but very scenic. The route takes you through coastal villages, beautiful farmlands, and peaceful forests. Upon reaching Caminha, a quiet town located near the mouth of the Minho River, you’ll enjoy its charming cobbled streets and historical buildings. A highlight of this day is the short ferry ride across the river to Spain, marking your first step into Galicia.
Day 5: Caminha to Baiona
The Camino continues along the coast, with spectacular views of cliffs and the Atlantic. You’ll pass through small villages and beaches, soaking in the natural beauty of the area. One of the highlights of this stage is reaching Baiona, a historic town that boasts a rich maritime past. Baiona is where news of Columbus’ discovery of the Americas first arrived in Europe, and you can visit the Replica of the Pinta, one of Columbus’ ships. The town’s medieval atmosphere and coastal beauty make it an unforgettable stop.
Day 6: Baiona to Vigo
Today, you’ll walk inland, taking a route that offers views of the Ría de Vigo and beautiful rural landscapes. The path takes you through small towns and forests before finally reaching Vigo, the largest city on this section of the Camino Portugués. In Vigo, you’ll encounter a lively port town known for its maritime industry and historic sites. The city offers a nice mix of modern attractions and traditional charm, and you’ll likely enjoy strolling through the local parks or along the scenic waterfront.
Day 7: Vigo to Pontevedra
From Vigo, the Camino takes you through peaceful countryside, with small villages and rolling hills. The walk is relatively easy, and you’ll encounter fewer crowds as you make your way towards Pontevedra. The city is known for its well-preserved medieval center and its beautiful squares. Take time to explore the charming streets, visit the Church of the Pilgrim Virgin, and admire the elegant architecture. Pontevedra is a lovely place to take a rest and soak in the local atmosphere.
Day 8: Pontevedra to Combarro
Today’s stage is shorter, allowing you to take your time and enjoy the surroundings. The route follows the coast of the Ría de Pontevedra, leading you through peaceful forests and rural villages. Combarro is a small fishing village with a unique charm, known for its traditional stone houses and hórreos (granaries). The village offers stunning views of the ria and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere after your walk.
Day 9: Combarro to Armenteira
The Camino today takes you through beautiful forests and hills, providing a serene and peaceful experience. The path leads you to the Monasterio de Armenteira, a historic monastery set in a picturesque rural location. The monastery is an important pilgrimage site and offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for reflection and rest. The surrounding landscape, with its lush greenery and rolling hills, adds to the beauty of this stage, making it one of the more serene parts of the journey.
Day 10: Armenteira to Vilanova de Arousa
Today’s walk is one of the longer stretches, but the route is rich in natural beauty. You’ll pass through small villages and scenic farmland, eventually reaching the town of Vilanova de Arousa. The town is located on the shores of the Ría de Arousa, and it’s known for its seafood and coastal charm. Vilanova de Arousa is also the birthplace of the renowned Spanish author Ramón María del Valle-Inclán. After a long day of walking, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this lovely coastal town.
Day 11: Vilanova de Arousa to Padron
Today’s route continues along the coast, offering a relaxing walk with beautiful views of the ria. You’ll pass through small villages, fields, and forests, eventually reaching Padron, a town famous for its Padrón peppers. Padron is an important stop on the Camino, with its historical connections to Saint James. You can visit the Church of Santiago, where tradition holds that Saint James’ body was brought ashore. Padron’s historical significance and peaceful setting make it a wonderful place to reflect on your journey.
Day 12: Padron to Santiago de Compostela
The final stretch of the Camino brings you into Santiago de Compostela, the ultimate destination for pilgrims. The route takes you through rural landscapes, small villages, and scenic paths, before arriving at the outskirts of the city. As you approach Santiago, the excitement builds as you finally see the spires of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela rising in the distance. The city’s historic center is full of charm, with its medieval streets, squares, and landmarks. Upon reaching the cathedral, you can celebrate your arrival and reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just completed.
