Camino de Santiago: the Scenic Portuguese Route

Today marks the real beginning of your journey. Leave Baiona and follow the coast across the Rías Baixas, passing through the beach town of Nigrán. Enjoy a walk along pristine beaches, with the magnificent Cíes Islands visible in the distance. Your destination is Vigo, Galicia's busiest city and most important harbor. If you wish, attend Mass at the Vigo Cathedral.

Take in the breathtaking views of Vigo Bay, the Atlantic Islands, the Morrazo Peninsula, and Rande Bridge as you walk on an unpaved path through lush woodlands. Your destination is Redondela, from where our driver will take you to your hotel in the heart of Pontevedra. Here, you may wish to visit the stunning Sanctuary of the Virgin Pilgrim and attend Mass.

After a short transfer back to Redondela, continue your journey uphill by the coast, offering stunning views over Vigo Bay. Cross the infamous Ponte Sampaio bridge, a site of Napoleon's Army's significant defeat during the War of Independence. The route then takes you mostly downhill, through peaceful oak forests and along the river to Pontevedra. Here, you have the option to attend Mass at the Saint Francisco Convent. In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culinary culture at one of the city's many restaurants.

Expect a beautiful walk today, through vineyards and alongside refreshing streams in the forests. Stop at the 12th Century Cistercian Monastery of Armenteira, founded by the knight Ero in 1168. Follow the relaxing 'Ruta da Pedra e da Agua', a forest path next to a water stream with over 30 medieval water mills. The destination today is Cambados, considered the capital of Albariño, one of the world's best white wines. Mass is available at the impressive Santa Mariña Dozo Church.

Start the day with a one-hour catamaran cruise on the Ulla River, following the journey of the legendary stone boat that carried the remains of St. James. See the remains of the Catoira towers, which once protected Santiago de Compostela from Viking attacks. Disembark on the outskirts of Padrón, famous for its 'pimientos', small, mild green peppers, usually served fried and salted. Only a few more miles to Santiago de Compostela! Celebrate the completion of your Camino de Santiago with a special dinner in a local restaurant in the old town. If you have walked all stages of the Camino, you will receive your Pilgrim Certificate.

Enjoy a full day to rest and discover Santiago after your Camino. Follow the Tour Director on a guided tour of the Santiago Cathedral and its squares, and attend the Pilgrim Mass in the Cathedral. In the afternoon, you can join your Tour Director for a more detailed tour of the old town, go shopping, explore on your own, or simply enjoy a well-deserved rest. Discover Santiago's culinary specialties on your own tonight, and soak in the special atmosphere of this historic town.