Camino Portugués: Stage 4 & 5: Porto to Santiago

Your journey begins in Porto, a charming cultural metropolis in northern Portugal. Take a stroll through the historic streets, visit the famous port wine cellars, and explore the numerous museums. Be sure to spend at least one day here, savouring the special atmosphere.

The first stage of your hiking trip will see you leave Porto and follow the Portuguese Way of St James northwards. This route mostly follows flat paths through the city's suburbs and offers your first glimpse of rural Portugal. En route, you will pass small chapels and traditional stone houses, and observe the region's vibrant everyday life. Today's destination is the village of Vilar do Pinheiro, where the stage ends. From there, you will be transferred to the quiet village of Arcos, where you will spend the night. Use the evening to relax and prepare for the upcoming hiking days.

Ascent: 203m (666ft)/Descent: 196m (643ft)

In the morning, you will be transferred back to Vilar do Pinheiro, where today's hiking stage begins. The trail will lead you through gently rolling terrain, past small farmsteads, fields, and orchards. Time and again, you will catch glimpses of the simple rural life of northern Portugal. Following quiet paths, you will approach the village of Arcos, surrounded by vast harvest fields. Here, you can fully enjoy the rural idyll. You will spend another night in Arcos and end the day in a relaxed atmosphere.

Ascent: 201m (659f)/Descent: 232m (761ft)

Today's stage will take you through green valleys and rolling hills, passing small hamlets and traditional farms along the way. Follow the shady paths and conquer a few minor ascents and descents, all the while enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Step by step, you will approach the charming town of Barcelos. After crossing an impressive medieval bridge, you will finally arrive in the town, which is renowned for its roosters and pottery. A visit to the historic centre, with its colourful markets, churches and squares, is definitely worthwhile. Finish off the day with a stroll through the old town or in one of the cosy cafés.

Ascent: 179m (587ft)/Descent: 198m (650ft)

Gentle hills and lush greenery accompany you on your way through rural northern Portugal. Passing lovingly tended gardens and small Baroque chapels, you will climb a few gentle slopes towards Balugães – a quiet place typical of the region. Here you can feel the serenity of Portuguese country life. The route continues through wide fields and small hamlets towards the picturesque Lima River Valley. Finally, you reach Ponte de Lima, Portugal's oldest small town, whose medieval bridge and charming old town bring history to life. A stroll along the riverbank or through the cobbled streets rounds off the day in style.

Ascent: 414m (1,358ft)/Descent: 446m (1,463ft)

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you will leave Ponte de Lima and set off towards Pecene. The initial section of the route is a steady uphill climb to Portela Grande, where you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding hilly landscape. You then walk a short distance along the historic Roman road, which dates back to ancient times. The path winds through green valleys and past vineyards and fields. Beautiful views of rural northern Portugal open up again and again. Finally, you reach the peaceful village of Pecene, where you can unwind and bring the day to a close.

Ascent: 502m (1,647ft)/Descent: 252m (827ft)

Today's stage will take you through increasingly hilly countryside towards the Spanish border. En route, you will pass the well-preserved fortress of Valença, which looms large above the River Minho. After walking through the historic streets for a short while, you will cross the so-called 'international bridge' – and with it, the border into Spain. On the Galician side, the charming town of Tui welcomes you with its impressive old town. The Cathedral of Santa María is particularly worth seeing, as it watches over the town like a fortress. It is a great place to experience the essence of Galicia for the first time.

Ascent: 135m (443ft)/Descent: 334m (1,096ft)

After leaving Tui, the route follows the peaceful Luoro River valley, winding through gentle, shaded forest paths. The route is mostly flat, offering relaxed hiking conditions. As you walk, you can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the Galician countryside. Your destination is the lively town of O Porriño, which you will reach after a pleasant day's walk. Upon arrival, a comfortable transfer will take you back to Tui. This gives you the chance to unwind at the end of the day and prepare for the next stage.

Ascent: 44m (144ft)/Descent: 66m(217ft)

After spending the night in Tui, we will transfer you back to your starting point in O Porriño. First, the hike takes you to Monte Cornedo, where you will be rewarded with magnificent views of the sea and the picturesque Ría de Vigo. You will then climb to Alto da Lamba, which also boasts impressive vistas. After descending, you will reach the charming town of Arcade, which is idyllically situated on the Ría de Vigo. Take the time to enjoy the tranquillity and maritime charm of this place. A varied day full of nature and impressive panoramas awaits you.

Ascent: 384m (1,260ft)/Descent: 407m (1,335ft)

Begin the day by climbing the ancient stone road of the Verea Vella da Canicouva past small fields and into a forest area. Explore the 13th century Church of Santa Marta with its panoramic views over the Bay of Vigo before arriving in Pontevedra. This bustling city has a wonderful atmosphere and some great restaurants offering fine Galician cuisine.

Ascent: 162m (532ft)/Descent: 143m (469ft)

Today, you will hike further into the green heart of Galicia, enjoying the tranquillity far from the coast. Your route will take you through meadows and fields, alongside small streams and past quaint villages, offering views of the varied landscape. Your destination today is Caldas de Reis, one of the oldest and most famous spa towns in Galicia. The Romans even used the thermal springs, which reach temperatures of up to 49 degrees, to relax. To this day, the town invites pilgrims and visitors alike to unwind and recharge in its healing waters.

Ascent: 131m (430ft)/Descent: 131m (430ft)

Say goodbye to Caldas de Reis and continue your hike through the varied landscape of the Galician countryside. Your route will take you to the area of Monte Castelo, characterised by deep forests, clear streams and old mills. Cross the river that separates the provinces of Pontevedra and A Coruña over a bridge. Your destination is Padrón, a town steeped in history and culture. Famous Galician writers such as Camilo José Cela and Rosalía de Castro worked here, and their legacy is still evident in the town today.

Ascent: 149m (489ft)/Descent: 166m (545ft)

As you approach Santiago de Compostela, the paths gradually become busier. Finally, you will reach the impressive cathedral, a destination for countless pilgrims from all over the world. Take a moment to savour receiving your well-earned pilgrim's certificate.

We recommend staying an extra night to explore the historic old town at your leisure. Attending the Pilgrims' Mass is also an unforgettable experience. Please contact us if you would like to extend your stay or book an excursion.

Ascent: 380m (1,247ft)/Descent: 130m (427ft)

It's time to say goodbye to Santiago de Compostela and your unforgettable walking tour. Before setting off on your journey home or onwards, enjoy another hearty breakfast at your accommodation. You could then stroll through the alleyways of the old town or treat yourself to a coffee in one of the lively squares. If you wish, you can extend your stay by an extra night and experience the city more intensely. Excursions to the surrounding area are also possible and would make a wonderful addition to your pilgrimage. Please do not hesitate to contact us.