Route Overview

Where is the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route?

The Camino Portuguese Coastal Route begins in vibrant Porto, one of the world’s friendliest cities, where maritime charm and riverside beauty set the tone for an unforgettable adventure. The trail then heads north on the outskirts of the city from Mataosinhos to Vila do Conde and onwards to Viana do Castelo. As you head further north to Caminha, the trail diverges into a choice of two routes. You can continue your journey along the Coastal Route via Vigo, crossing into Spain by ferry across the mouth of the river Minho or you can continue along the Central Route via Valenca and Tui. Both trails meet again at Redondela where you continue north through the notable pilgrim river crossings at Ponte Sampaio, the famous 11 arch bridge of Ponte de Burgo at Pontevedra, Caldas de Reis famed for its hot springs and Padrón, reputed to be the site where the body of Saint James’ first landed in Spain. The route then heads to Santiago de Compostela (Saint James of the Field of Stars), believed to be the burial site of Saint James the apostle.

Why should you walk the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route?

People choose to walk the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) for a myriad of reasons and are not solely inspired by religious belief. Some pilgrims indeed find that to be their primary motivation as a means to ‘atone for their sins’, or as an act of devotion toward Saint James. Some walk the Camino because they are at a turning point in their life or as an opportunity to combine exploring new paths while looking inwards to find a sense of spirit and self-growth. And then some just simply walk it for the physical challenge or sense of adventure. You can be a believer, an atheist or everyone in between to walk a Camino. Many non-Christians are attracted to walking Caminos because of the centuries of tradition and communal effort tread into the very paths with every step  along the route. It is something special to feel part of a walk that transcends time and reaches back into the collective hopes of people centuries past. The Camino can be a challenge, but Hillwalk Tours offer itineraries under three categories: Gentle, Moderate and Challenging. The path winds through cliffs, mountains and estuaries on mostly flat, manageable terrain that can be walked in any season. If you book with us, you know you will have the option to tailor your trip to your physical ability.

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) also gives you the opportunity to pass through some of Portugal and Spain’s most beautiful scenery. These picturesque landscapes include the glorious Atlantic coastline along the Costa Verde in Portugal for both route options and then if you choose the trail via Vigo some further coastal towns on the Spanish like A Guarda and Baiona as well as the Cíes Islands. The route via Tui will see you follow the historic Minho River passing through some famously important towns there as well such as Valenca with its star shaped 17th century fort with the famed Eiffel inspired International Bridge and its ancient cathedral. As you follow the tranquil river route the path winds through lush valleys and historic towns, each with its own special character and Camino spirit. Heading north from here both trail rejoin at Redondela before you cross some famous bridges which have been traversed for centuries and worn to a shine from the footfall of millions of pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. The Coastal Route gained prominence in the 15th century due to the growing importance of the coastal towns in the advent of the Age of Discovery when Spain and Portugal colonised overseas territories.

As the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is growing in popularity you are sure to experience the Camaraderie when you meet other pilgrims from all around the world. The friendly atmosphere helps create lasting memories as you walk together in the footsteps of Pilgrims that have done so for centuries even if you do not share the same language. Another reason to walk the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is to experience the unique mix of cultures as you cross from Portugal into Spain. Thereafter, experiencing Galicia is a delight in itself, with it’s delicious food and wine, and it’s proud unique regional culture.

 

When is the best time to walk the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route)?

It is important to note that although this Camino is in Portugal and Spain, the Galicia region can be actually quite rainy. It doesn’t get it’s beautiful, lush green hills from nowhere! For that reason, the most popular time to walk the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is between March and October when the weather is generally warmer and dryer.

If crowds are an issue for you then you may want to avoid the peak season. This occurs during the summer months so if you want a quieter path, then you could walk during the shoulder seasons of March-May or September-October.

Although these seasons may be wetter and cooler, they are arguably a more beautiful time to walk the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), with a bright blanket of wildflowers blooming in the spring and the changing colours of the leaves in autumn.

How long does it take to hike the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route)?

The entire Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is almost 264km in length and can be completed within 2-3 weeks. This depends on your pace, your level of fitness, and what activities and attractions you may like to visit along the way.

At Hillwalk Tours, we understand that not everyone may have 2-3 weeks to complete the entire trail, which is why we focus on and offer walking tours from the last 240km of the trail.

In order to obtain their Compostela, the official Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage Certificate, pilgrims must complete at least the last 100km of the Camino. Our walking tours offer a choice of starting points, difficulties and route lengths on the last 160 km of the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route). Statistics from the Pilgrims Office state that 4% of walkers begin their Camino from O Cebreiro (160 km) while 25% of pilgrims start their journey to Santiago de Compostela in Sarria (114 km).

In addition we also offer Gentle, Moderate and Challenging tour grading levels depending on the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. Within these levels, you can choose between 4 to 13-day hiking tours to complete the full trail or part of it. All you have to decide is how many kilometres/miles you would like to walk per day and we’ll take care of the rest!

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Tour Route

Types of Trails

Choosing the right hiking tour for you can be, at times, tricky. It is always important to consider your own physical capability and comfort levels.

For example, at Hillwalk Tours, we have grouped each trail route we offer into three categories depending on personal preference and fitness levels. These are – Gentle, Moderate, and Challenging. Each of these categories, depending on the destination, will include anything from 4 to 13-day itineraries, with customers given the option to add rest days where they see fit.

Our Gentle hikes are perfectly suited for those who would consider themselves as a part-time hiker. This would be for those enjoy taking photos and meeting locals while taking in the spectacular scenery. Our Moderate hikes will suit people who are used to regular exercise and appreciate the opportunity of covering plenty of ground each day without going beyond their limits. Finally, our Challenging hikes are for hikers who look to set off early in the morning and not stop until they have reached their destination.

With regards to our Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) trail, we offer Gentle and Moderate hikes. Each of these hiking categories cover the following average hiking distance and time each day:

Gentle: 10-14km or 6-9 miles and between 3-5 hours per day

Moderate: 17-20km or 11-12 miles and between 5-7 hours per day

Hillwalk Tours Guide Notes

If you decide to walk the trail with Hillwalk Tours, you will receive a detailed walking pack once you have fully booked your hiking holiday. This walking pack will include detailed Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and unique route notes and walking directions written and constantly updated by our route development team. By personally walking each trail and creating our own detailed route notes, it allows us to provide more itineraries, route options and alternatives than what you will typically find across generic guidebooks. It also includes GPS tracks on a smartphone app meaning you will never have to worry about getting lost.

Alternatively, several off-the-shelf guidebooks covering the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) can be found.

Starting and Finishing Point

The pilgrim trail starts in the bustling and vibrant city of Porto and ends at Santiago de Compostela, said to be the final resting place of Saint James. Santiago de Compostela is a city dating back as far as the middle ages with many examples of Baroque and Gothic architecture. Aside from the iconic and beautiful Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, there are many noteworthy churches, monasteries and places to explore.

Public transport is readily available at all points on the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route). The route is well serviced by bus and train. It is common for pilgrims to hop on a bus or train for sections of the trail. In areas where there is no bus or train service, taxis should be readily available.

Sample Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Itineraries

The following are examples of Hillwalk Tours Gentle and Moderate itineraries of hiking the popular Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route).

Gentle 14-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Vila Praia de Âncora

Day 2: Vila Praia de Âncora – A Guarda incl. ferry to Spain (8-10 Miles / 13-16 Km)

Day 3: A Guarda – Oia (8 Miles / 13 Km)

Day 4: Oia – Baiona (11 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 5: Baiona – Priegue (8 Miles / 13 Km)

Day 6: Priegue – Vigo (9.5 Miles / 15 Km)

Day 7: Vigo – Redondela (8.5 Miles / 14 Km)

Day 8: Redondela – Santa Marta (Vilaboa) (9.5 Miles / 15.5 Km)

Day 9: Santa Marta (Vilaboa) – San Amaro (9 Miles / 15 Km)

Day 10: San Amaro – Caldas de Reis (8 Miles / 12.5 Km)

Day 11: Caldas de Reis – San Miguel de Valga (7.5 Miles / 12 Km)

Day 12: San Miguel de Valga – A Picaraña (10 Miles / 16 Km)

Day 13: A Picaraña – Santiago de Compostela (10 Miles / 16 Km)

Day 14: Departure from Santiago de Compostela

 

Moderate 8-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Baiona

Day 2: Baiona-Ramallosa – Vigo (15 Miles / 24 Km)

Day 3: Vigo – Arcade (13.5 Miles / 22 Km)

Day 4: Arcade – Pontevedra (8.5 Miles / 14 Km)

Day 5: Pontevedra – Caldas de Reis (13.5 Miles / 22 Km)

Day 6: Caldas de Reis – Padrón (12 Miles / 19 Km 4-6 Hrs)

Day 7: Padrón – Santiago de Compostela (16 Miles / 26 Km)

Day 8: Departure from Santiago de Compostela

 

Currency and Expenses

The currency used along the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), as in the rest of Spain and Portugal, is the Euro (€).

The cost of food, drinks, and activities while walking the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) can vary depending on factors such as location, time of year, and personal preferences.

Dining out along the Camino offers a range of options, from budget-friendly pilgrim menus to more upscale dining experiences. A typical pilgrim menu, which includes a starter, main course, dessert, and often wine or water, generally costs between €10 and €15. Mid-range restaurant meals can range from €15 to €30 per person, excluding drinks. If you opt for finer dining, prices will be higher. Beverages such as a glass of wine or a beer usually cost between €2 and €5, though prices may be slightly higher in larger cities or popular tourist areas.

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) offers a variety of experiences, including visiting historic cathedrals, exploring medieval villages, and taking part in cultural activities. Some attractions, like churches and museums, may have small entrance fees, while others operate on donations. Costs for these activities can vary, and prices may be slightly higher in peak season, which typically runs from April to October, compared to the quieter winter months.

Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Accommodation and Services

Hotels and Guesthouses

There are numerous hotels and guesthouses available along the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), especially in larger towns and cities such as Porto, Vigo, Valenca, Tui, Caldas de Reis and Santiago de Compostela. These establishments provide comfortable rooms, dining facilities and various amenities for pilgrims looking for a more private and restful stay.

Albergues (Pilgrim Hostels)

Albergues are the most common type of accommodation along Camino trails, catering specifically to pilgrims. They range from municipal albergues, which are budget-friendly and often operate on a donation basis, to private albergues that offer additional facilities. Albergues typically provide dormitory-style sleeping arrangements, shared bathrooms, and communal areas. Some also offer home-cooked meals or kitchen facilities for self-catering.

Bed & Breakfasts (Casas Rurales)

Casas rurales (rural guesthouses) and B&Bs offer a cozy and comfortable lodging experience, often in charming traditional buildings. These accommodations typically include breakfast and sometimes offer additional meals, providing a welcoming atmosphere with personalized hospitality.

Camping and Glamping

Camping is less common along the Camino trails, as most pilgrims stay in albergues or other lodgings. However, there are some campsites available along the route, particularly near larger towns. Glamping options, such as furnished tents and eco-lodges, are also becoming more popular for those seeking a unique and comfortable outdoor experience.

Airbnb and Self-Catering

Airbnb offers a range of accommodations along the Caminos, from private rooms in local homes to entire apartments or countryside retreats. Self-catering accommodations, including holiday rentals and hostels with kitchen facilities, allow pilgrims more flexibility in meal preparation and overall experience.

Shops and Grocery Stores

Towns and villages along the Camino trails have grocery stores, bakeries, and small markets where you can buy food, snacks, and other essentials. While larger towns have supermarkets, smaller villages may only have limited supplies, so it’s advisable to plan ahead and carry snacks and water between longer stretches.

ATMs

ATMs are available in most towns along the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), particularly in larger stops like Port, Vigo, Valenca, Tui, Pontevedra and Santiago de Compostela. However, in smaller villages, access to cash machines may be limited. To avoid issues, it’s recommended to withdraw sufficient cash in larger towns and carry some with you for places that may not accept cards. Some larger shops and establishments may offer cashback services, but availability can vary.

Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Trail Etiquette

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and deep cultural significance. Local communities along the route take great pride in preserving their heritage and protecting the natural environment. Respecting the trail and practicing responsible tourism are essential for ensuring the Camino remains a special experience for all who walk it.

Pilgrims are encouraged to follow proper trail etiquette and embrace the principles of the Leave No Trace organization. This includes avoiding littering and carrying out all waste, such as food wrappers and non-biodegradable items, until they can be properly disposed of in designated bins. By being mindful of their impact, walkers contribute to maintaining the beauty of the Camino and ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Additionally, pilgrims should respect local customs, keep noise levels down, and be considerate of fellow walkers. Sharing the path harmoniously and treating accommodations, villages, and natural spaces with care helps sustain the welcoming spirit of the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route).

Hillwalk Tours Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Map

Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Terrain

Waymarking

Being an old walking trail, the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is a well waymarked path. The official symbol of the Camino De Santiago is the scallop shell and is used to indicate that you are on the right path. There are also yellow arrows you will find painted on walls and roads along the way, particularly at locations the path is not as clear.

If you are ever in doubt, you can also check the Hillwalk Tours turn by turn directions and route notes including GPS coordinates on your smartphone app provided in your walking pack. We also supply all you need to know about local information and history as you pass, along with trail alternatives and other activities.

Difficulty

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is considered to be a gentle to moderate hike. The trail can be difficult at times, but as stated earlier in this article, the trail can be taken at two different levels of walking to suit your needs. We personally walk the trails and create these custom itineraries to suit all walkers.

Sights & Attractions

Santiago De Compostela

The final destination of all the Camino de Santiago routes offers more than just the famous cathedral, with its shrine to St. James. Explore the squares and narrow streets of Santiago’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful urban areas.

Porto

Porto, officially called the Ancient, Very Noble, Ever Loyal and Undefeated City, has a long and rich history. It is Portugal’s second-largest city after Lisbon and is closely tied to the River Douro. One of Europe’s oldest cities, Porto’s historic centre was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, along with the Monastery of Serra do Pilar. The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, reflects the city’s strong tradition of trade and ambition. It has 2 levels with a metro line and pedestrians on top and traffic and cyclists for the lower level.

Redondela & the Ría de Vigo

Arriving in Redondela brings one of the most striking visual moments of the route, as towering stone viaducts frame views across the Ría de Vigo. The contrast between sweeping estuary landscapes and the town’s historic core creates a memorable pause as the Camino begins to turn inland.

Thermal Springs of Caldas de Reis

Long associated with rest and renewal, Caldas de Reis has welcomed pilgrims for centuries. Riverside paths, shaded streets and naturally heated spring waters offer a restorative midpoint on the journey, making it a place where walkers naturally slow down and recharge.

Padrón

The town of Padrón has deep roots in Camino legend and is believed to be the place where the body of Saint James first arrived in Galicia. It is marked today by the ancient Pedrón, a stone that his boat was tied to. It can be seen at the parish church of Santiago de Padrón.

Wildlife

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) has it’s own set of habitats containing flora and fauna unique to that area.  Along the coastal sections, you may spot various seabirds including gulls, cormorants, and occasionally gannets. The Atlantic waters are home to dolphins and occasionally whales, though sightings are not guaranteed. The inland sections support typical Galician wildlife including foxes, rabbits, and various small mammals. Birdwatchers may spot birds of prey such as kestrels and buzzards. Lizards are a common site on the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), particularly in the summer months.

It is important for pilgrims to respect these animals and their habitats, and to avoid disturbing them and their nesting sites.

Flora along the route includes Galician oak forests, eucalyptus plantations, coastal scrubland, and the distinctive vegetation of the Atlantic coast including heather, gorse, and various wildflowers that bloom throughout spring and summer. Grapevines, cacti, and ferns are commonly spotted along the route.

History of the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route)

This story begins in Jerusalem, with King Herod of Judea sentencing Saint James the Apostle to be beheaded. After this beheading, the saints remains were sent off on a magical boat made of stone, with no sail, along with his disciples to the ‘the End of the Earth’ (which Galicia was referred to at this time, as Europeans had not yet discovered the Americas). He was buried here for some time, with little attention given to his grave.

One night, there was an apparition. The night sky filled with a glowing cluster of stars, which pointed to the small tomb. This led to the discovery that the Apostle was laid to rest here. A shrine was then erected and a cathedral built in his honor, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

In the years following this, pilgrims started to come from all over the world to pay their respects and pray at Saint James’ final resting place. With that, the Camino de Santiago was born.

The Camino Portuguese developed as a pilgrimage route from the Middle Ages linking Lisbon, Porto and coastal settlements with Santiago de Compostela. Kings, queens, monks and ordinary pilgrims travelled north seeking faith, healing or adventure. It’s reputation was also cemented by seafaring pilgrims arriving at Atlantic ports who then continued north on foot to Santiago. In the late 20th century associations in Portugal and Galicia began restoring the old paths, waymarking routes, and reconnecting forgotten segments of the trail. The route was officially recognised as a Camino in 2016 and by 2017 it had been fully waymarked and signposted. Since then, its growth has been remarkable. In 2024, nearly 75,000 pilgrims walked the route, with over 22,000 starting their journey in Porto. Today it ranks as the third most popular Camino route in the world, and numbers continue to rise sharply year on year.

 

Did you know?

Originally, once pilgrims had completed the walk, they would bring back a scallop shell from the Atlantic Ocean as a memento from the Camino. This is why today the symbol for the Camino is still a scallop shell. Nowadays, when Christian pilgrims arrive they are given a ‘Compostela’, a stamped official document written in Latin to prove they have walked the Camino. Non-Christian pilgrims also receive a certificate. The requirement for the Compostela is that you walk 100km, or cycle 200km of the Camino.

Fishing Culture

The fishing villages along the coast feel largely unchanged by time. There are casas de mar, small stone houses by the sea dating back 200 years and so the significance of Portugal’s fishing culture is immediately felt. Portugal is the country of bacalhau (salt cod) and sardinhas (sardines), its preserved fish tradition stretches back 1,800 years to Roman times, when fish tanks were hewn directly into the granite rock along this very coastline.

The People and Local Customs

The people along the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) are known for their warmth and hospitality. It is customary to greet fellow pilgrims with a friendly “Buen Camino,” fostering a sense of camaraderie among walkers. Portuguese hospitality is known as saudade culture which is warm and unhurried and therefore perfectly suited to a Camino adventure. Villagers are accustomed to pilgrims passing through and will often greet walkers with a nod, a smile, or an offer of directions. Locals in towns and villages along the route are generally welcoming and supportive of pilgrims, often offering assistance, directions, or words of encouragement. Engaging in casual conversations and showing appreciation for local culture and traditions is always well received.

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) has a deep cultural and historical significance and many of the towns along the route maintain long-standing traditions. Festivals, religious celebrations, and local gatherings are common, providing opportunities to experience regional music, dance, and cuisine. Many cafés and albergues encourage communal dining, reinforcing the social spirit of all Camino trails. Taking the time to appreciate and respect these traditions enhances the journey, making it not just a physical trek but a rich cultural experience.

Music and Song

One of the most evocative local traditions is the Cantares do Mar, where fishermen sing traditional songs related to the sea, work and coastal life — melodies passed down through generations that reflect the harshness of ocean life and the hope of a safe return. In towns such as Viana do Castelo and A Guarda, it is common to hear maritime fados in Portugal and cantigas de taberna in Galicia sung spontaneously, creating an authentic and emotional atmosphere for pilgrims passing through.

Festivals

The Mordomia Parade in Viana do Castelo is one of the most iconic events on the route, celebrated as part of the Pilgrimage of Nossa Senhora da Agonia in mid-August. Hundreds of women known as mordomas walk the streets in traditional regional costume, wearing impressive gold jewellery, necklaces, earrings and lockets.

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Pop Culture

Film and TV

The Way 

While this 2010 film starring Martin Sheen focuses primarily on the Camino Frances, it touches on the continuation to the coast and the symbolic importance of reaching the ocean. Sheen played a father whose son had died while on the Camino Frances decided to bring his ashes with him on the journey, ultimately deciding to scatter them at the coast. The film’s themes of completion and transformation resonate strongly with the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) experience.

O Apóstolo

‘O Apóstolo’ is a 2012 Spanish stop-motion, fantasy-horror film about an escaped convict who returns to a small village (along the Camino) to find the ill-gotten gains he stashed there. Along the way he encounters some sinister spirits.

I’ll Push You

Released in 2016, this documentary follows the story of two friends as they follow the entire Camino de Santiago. The catch – one of them is wheelchair bound. This is an inspirational film about love, compassion and friendship which is to be found on all Camino trails.

Saint-Jacques… La Mecque

In this 2005 French comedy, three siblings who don’t get along must complete a pilgrimage together in order to receive their inheritance.

Books

Steps Out of Time – One Woman’s Journey on the Camino by Katherine B. Soper

A highly evocative reflection on the authors spiritual journey as she walks the Camino de Santiago. The book offers insights and inspiration for readers interested in pilgrimage and spiritual growth.

The Pilgrimage – Paulo Coelho

The book is a memoir of the author’s pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago, and it is interspersed with teachings and wisdom from various spiritual traditions. Some say you must read both this and it’s companion novel ‘The Alchemist’ to fully comprehend either book.

Food and Drink

Pastéis del Nata

Pastel de Nata is a traditional Portuguese egg custard tart pastry with a flaky crust and creamy filling, often sprinkled with cinnamon or powdered sugar. Its origins trace back to the 18th century in Lisbon, where it remains a beloved dessert enjoyed throughout Portugal and beyond.

Bacalhau (Dried Cod)

Bacalhau is salted, dried cod and it occupies a unique and almost sacred place in Portuguese culture. It is far beyond simply being a popular dish. It is arguably the most important ingredient in the entire Portuguese culinary tradition and can be found everywhere. You are likely to smell it before you see it. Before eating, it must be soaked in cold water for 24–48 hours to rehydrate and remove the excess salt. The result is a firm, flavourful fish with a distinctive taste quite unlike fresh cod.

Vinho Verde

Despite its name meaning “green wine,” Vinho Verde is not actually green. The name refers to the wine being young as it is harvested and bottled early to preserve its fresh, lively character. It is typically light, slightly sparkling, low in alcohol (often just 8–11%), and crisp with a bright acidity. It can be white, red or rosé, though the white is by far the most celebrated and widely drunk.

Tempranillo

Known for wine that “doesn’t give you a hangover”, Spain is home to several delicious wines particularly in the La Rioja region. Typically, Tempranillo has notes of dark fruit such as cherry and plum as well as notes of tobacco, leather and vanilla.

Rioja

From the La Rioja vineyards, this wine builds on a base of the aforementioned Tempranillo and has notes of dark berries, dark cherries, and a high acidity.

Polbo á Feira / Pulpo a la Gallega

A traditional Galician octopus based dish that’s absolutely delicious and is a must try!

Tetilla Cheese

A soft, cow’s milk, cheese closely associated with Galicia.

Seafood

Seafood is so popular in Galicia they even celebrate it with a festival – Festa do Marisco (Seafood Festival). This was established in 1963 and declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest in the 1980s.

Is the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Vegan Friendly

The vegan diet has become more and more popular throughout Europe in recent years, and you will find that there are plenty of vegan options available in most eateries. Each of the accommodation we work with at Hillwalk Tours have given us their guarantee that vegan breakfasts will be catered for once they have been informed. That being said, some of the more rural locations of the trail may have limited options so we advise bringing certain items such as plant-based milk, nut butters or protein powders if you so choose.

In addition, the following apps show restaurants which offer vegetarian and/or vegan opions:

• Happy Cow (€0.99)
• Vanilla Bean (free)

Other Pilgrim Trails

There are various other pilgrim trails available to you once you have completed the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route). Here are some other pilgrim trails we offer and which form the larger Camino de Santiago walking route network:

• The Camino Portugués (Traditional Route)
• The Camino Frances
• The Camino Primitivo
• The Kerry Camino
• St Kevin’s Way & Glendalough

Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Tips and FAQs

Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Image Gallery

Hillwalk Tours

About Us

Hillwalk Tours is an award-winning walking tour operator which specialise in self-guided walking holidays in Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, Portugal and along a number of Camino trails in Spain. Our goal is to create happy experiences for all of our customers, suppliers & staff.

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Leave No Trace

We like to walk in nature and since you are reading this – we believe you do too! It is important to ensure that our impact on the environment is limited so that hikers can enjoy the same view after us. The rule applies: when you leave, make sure that nature looks the same as when you arrived or simply put “leave no trace.” As more and more people take to the great outdoors, our collective mark on the environment increases.

What does this mean in reality? Of course, do not leave any rubbish or waste behind. Do not collect stones, flowers, or other “souvenirs”. Don’t carve your name on a tree or break branches… I think you get the drift. It is imperative for walkers to play their part in making sure litter, damage to vegetation and all forms of pollution are limited.

Noise can also be a form of pollution. Whoever walks through a forest talking and laughing loudly, for example, ruins the peace and quiet of other walkers, who can no longer hear the birds. The same goes for cell phones that suddenly start ringing. Keep the volume down and respect your surroundings. Ultimately, the point is to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy walking through nature. So that applies to you, but also to those who tread the path after you.

Hillwalk Tours proudly supports sustainable tourism and loves the countryside as it is – wild, peaceful and clean. We are proud to support the “Leave No Trace” initiative that aims to preserve the natural beauty of each nations countryside where we offer hiking holidays. We try to create happy experiences for our accommodation too, and the restaurants, shops and taxi companies that serve our walkers. These are often small businesses located in isolated areas that have been left behind by urban migration and a lack of investment in rural regions. Their warm hospitality and friendly welcomes epitomise the magic of a Hillwalk Tour and we’re dedicated to helping keep these rural communities alive.

The Benefits of Hiking

In recent years, walking and hiking outdoors has been widely reported to have numerous physical and mental health benefits. The following are examples of some of these benefits:

Improve strength and fitness

• Weight loss
• Muscle gain
• Improve metabolism
• Improve digestion
• Better quality sleep
• Increase in Vitamin D
• Improve discipline
• Sense of achievement
• Living in the present moment

Hiking Equipment List

For a more in-depth list of recommended hiking equipment list, click here.

Make A Booking

Are you ready for your Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) adventure? Get started by simply filling out the booking form below!