Route Overview

Where is the Costa Verde & Minho River Trails?

The Costa Verde & Minho River Trails are found in the far north of Portugal, beginning on the Atlantic coast and continuing inland along the River Minho on the Spanish border. This walking route starts in the elegant coastal city of Viana do Castelo, passes through seaside towns such as Vila Praia de Âncora and Caminha, and then follows peaceful riverside and countryside trails towards Valença, Rubiães and Tui. Along the way, walkers experience a beautiful mix of ocean scenery, green hills, traditional villages and historic frontier towns shaped by both Portuguese and Galician culture. The fact that this border region is clearly defined by river Minho makes for an interesting contrast between two distinct cultures. The border towns of Valenca and Tui bring this fully to life with a walk across the international bridge as you pass from Portugal into Spain. It is a wonderfully varied corner of Iberia, where the wild beauty of the coast meets the quiet charm of the river valleys and rural interior.

Why should you walk the Costa Verde & Minho River Trails?

People choose to walk the Costa Verde & Minho River Trails for the remarkable variety it offers, blending Atlantic coastal beauty with serene riverside paths and lush green countryside in one rewarding journey. This route reveals a quieter, more authentic side of northern Portugal, where traditional villages, historic market towns and genuine local hospitality create a warm and memorable walking experience each day. Along the way, walkers discover a rich cultural landscape shaped by centuries of history, with medieval fortifications, Roman bridges, old churches and ancient pilgrim paths adding depth and character to the scenery. With its gentle to moderate terrain, ever-changing views and strong sense of place, this trail is perfect for travelers who want a walking holiday that combines natural beauty, heritage and the simple pleasure of moving at a slower pace. The region’s lushness, river valleys and fertile countryside are part of its identity. The northwestern coast is cooler and wetter than much of southern Portugal, which helps explain the greener landscapes that walkers enjoy and the name itself Costa Verde (Green Coast).

 

 

When is the best time to walk the Costa Verde & Minho River Trails?

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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails 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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails 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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails?

The entire Costa Verde & Minho River Trails is almost 70km in length and can be completed within 2 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 offer a range of options with a 6-Day or 7-Day Gentle Tours and 5-Day or 6-Day Moderate Tours. 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.

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 where available Challenging. Each of these categories, depending on the destination, will include anything from 4 to 14-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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails 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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails can be found.

Starting and Finishing Point

The trail starts in Viana do Castelo and ends at Tui or Valenca. The border crossing of the International Bridge separates these two towns that face each other over the Minho River which makes for a fascinating finish to a trail with great variety.

Public transport is readily available along the Costa Verde & Minho River Trails. The route is well serviced by bus and train. It is common for hikers 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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails Itineraries

The following are examples of Hillwalk Tours Gentle and Moderate itineraries of hiking the popular Costa Verde & Minho River Trails.

Gentle 7-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Viana do Castelo

Day 2: Viana do Castelo – Convento de Cabanas (8 miles / 13 km)

Day 3: Convento de Cabanas – Caminha (9.5 miles / 15 km)

Day 4: Caminha – Vila Nova de Cerveira (8 miles / 13 km)

Day 5: Vila Nova de Cerveira – Valença (10 miles / 16 km)

Day 6: Cossourado (São Bento da Porta Aberta) – Valença (8 miles / 12.5 km)

Day 7: Departure from Valença

Moderate 6-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Viana do Castelo

Day 2: Viana do Castelo – Vila Praia de Âncora (12 miles / 19 km)

Day 3: Vila Praia de Âncora – Vila Nova de Cerveira (15 miles / 24 km)

Day 4: Vila Nova de Cerveira – Tui (12 miles / 19 km)

Day 5: Rubiães – Tui (via Valença) (12.5 miles / 20 km)

Day 6: Departure from Tui

 

Currency and Expenses

The currency used along the Costa Verde & Minho River Trails, as in the rest of Spain and Portugal, the Euro (€).

The cost of food, drinks, and activities while walking the Costa Verde & Minho River Trails can vary depending on factors such as location, time of year, and personal preferences.

Dining out along the trail offers a range of options, from budget-friendly menus to more upscale dining experiences. A typical 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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails offers a variety of experiences, including visiting historic cathedrals, exploring medieval villages, and taking part in cultural activities such as local festivals. 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.

Costa Verde & Minho River Trails Accommodation and Services

Hotels and Guesthouses

There are numerous hotels and guesthouses available along the Costa Verde & Minho River Trails, especially in larger towns and cities such as Viano do Castelo, Valenca and Tui. 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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails, particularly in larger stops like Viano do Castelo, Valenca and Tui. 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.

Costa Verde & Minho River Trails Etiquette

The Costa Verde & Minho River Trails 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.

Walkers 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 trail and ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Additionally, please 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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails.

Hillwalk Tours Costa Verde & Minho River Trails Map

Costa Verde & Minho River Trails Terrain

Waymarking

Many sections of our Costa Verde & Minho River Trails tour follow sections of the Camino Portuguese pilgrim routes. These routes are usually well waymarked with signs and yellow arrows, but in some places the markers can be difficult to spot.

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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails 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

The River Minho

The Minho (Miño) forms both a natural border and a cultural bridge between Portugal and Spain.
Lined with vineyards, fishing villages and fortified towns, it has long sustained the communities along its shores.

Viana do Castelo

Viana do Castelo has been inhabited since the Mesolithic era, with settlements on Mount Santa Luzia dating from the Iron Age and continuing through Roman occupation. Formally chartered in 1258 as Viana da Foz do Lima, the city grew around its port, which became a key link on Atlantic trade routes in the 15th and 16th centuries trading sugar with Brazil and cod fishing with Newfoundland and Greenland. Over time, this prosperity helped spur new churches, convents, coastal defenses and later major modern developments like the 19th-century railway (including the Eiffel-designed bridge) and a 20th-century shipbuilding industry at the port. Monte de Santa Luzia sanctuary is a church which dominates the skyline. It can be reached by a funicular and entrance is free. For a small fee you can climb to the very top of the dome for amazing views of the city and coast.

Caminha

Founded in Roman times, Caminha became a fortified medieval municipality by 1260. It sits at the point where the Minho River meets the Atlantic. The town is known for its historic centre, including the Clock Tower, while nearby Moledo Beach is one of the region’s best-known seaside spots. Historically protected by walls and a castle, it later thrived through shipbuilding and fishing during Portugal’s “Age of Discovery”. There are boat crossings from Caminha to A Guarda on the Spanish side, which adds to the frontier-town feel.

Valença do Minho Border Crossing

The fortified town of Valença crowns the River Minho, its star-shaped walls overlook the crossing into Spain. More than any other influence, proximity to the sea has defined life along the river. Fishing villages, watchtowers and small forts line the shoreline protecting communities from pirates and raiders during Portugal’s maritime heyday. The Minho River is a natural border between Spain and Portugal and many defensive structures can be seen in towns near or overlooking the river. Valenca and Tui face each other across the River Minho and form a cross-border “Eurocity,” linked by the International Bridge, which dates from 1895. The walk between Portugal and Spain is a highlight of the trail feeling both historic and surprisingly easy. The border here is more of a cultural meeting point than a barrier.

Tui Cathedral

Tui has long been an important frontier town due to its location on the Minho River, separating Spain and Portugal for hundreds of years. For this reason, Santa María de Tui Cathedral dating back to the 12th century, is both a religious and defensive structure. Featuring Romanesque and Gothic elements, it also has a stunning cloister, an underground crypt and an imposing façade with stunning views over the Minho River.

Peneda-Gerês National Park – A Day Excursion

Peneda-Gerês National Park is a highlight of any visit to the Costa Verde region and at just over an hour’s drive from Valença and Tui, it is easily reached as a full-day excursion. Portugal’s only national park is a breathtaking wilderness of granite peaks, ancient oak and laurel forests, waterfalls and clear mountain river beaches perfect for a cooling summer swim. The park is rich in history too, with sections of Roman road still walkable through the Mata de Albergaria forest and the ghostly ruins of Vilarinho da Furna, a village submerged when a dam was built in the 1970s, whose stone walls re-emerge dramatically during dry summers. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the chance to spot the park’s wild Garrano horses roaming freely on the hillsides, alongside golden eagles, otters, and red deer. Round off the day with a meal of locally reared Barrosã beef at one of the rustic village restaurants.

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 Minho–Coura estuary is a protected area of wetlands, mudflats, reedbeds and saltmarsh, which makes it especially good for birdwatching. You are likely to see herons, egrets, waders, plovers, sandpipers, terns and other migratory waterbirds. Portugal’s Atlantic coast is a major migration route for gannets, shearwaters, sandpipers, plovers, terns, harriers, swallows, pipits, warblers, thrushes and shrikes. 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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails, particularly in the summer months.

It is important for hikers 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 also commonly spotted along the route.

History of the Costa Verde and Minho River Trail

The walking trails of the Costa Verde and Minho River valley follow paths that have been trodden for over two thousand years, their foundations literally laid by Roman engineers whose ancient roads still underpin much of the route today. For centuries these tracks served traders, shepherds and pilgrims making their way north to Santiago de Compostela. Yet for much of the modern era the trails fell quiet, used only by local farmers and villagers as the great age of pilgrimage faded.

The transformation into the celebrated hiking destination it is today is a surprisingly recent story. From the late 20th century, associations in Portugal and Galicia began restoring the old paths, waymarking routes, researching historical documents, and reconnecting forgotten segments of the trail. Investment in infrastructure followed with boardwalks, riverside paths and signage gradually stitched together a coherent long-distance network that combined coastal walking with the inland Minho valley. Today the Costa Verde and Minho River trails form one of Portugal’s most rewarding and best-loved walking holidays, drawing thousands of visitors each year who come to experience rolling green hills and fertile river valleys, golden beaches and forested slopes, vineyard-clad landscapes and timeless villages all connected by paths whose history stretches back to the ancient world.

 

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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails 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 warm and unhurried and therefore perfectly suited to a relaxed walking adventure. Villagers are accustomed to hikers passing through and will often greet them 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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails 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. 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

 

Mordomia Parade

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.

Festival of San Telmo

The biggest event in Tui is the Festas Patronais de San Telmo, held in late April (roughly April 19–28). San Telmo is the patron saint of navigators, a pilgrim saint who died in Tui while walking the Camino and is venerated throughout Galicia. The Popular do Meixón Festival stands out, it’s a gastronomic festival around the prized eels of the Minho.

International Descent of the River Minho

This is a large canoeing event which sees up to more than 400 athletes compete to complete a 14 km course, starting in Salvaterra de Miño and finishing at the Tui International Bridge. It is held in late August every year.

IKFEM Festival Tui-Valença

The IKFEM Festival is a cross-border music and cultural festival that takes place on and around the international bridge connecting Tui and Valenca. It actively celebrates the differences between Galicia and northern Portugal and looks to fuse cultural ties. It takes place in mid July every year.

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 region around the Costa Verde & Minho River Trails.

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

Journey to Portugal by José Saramago

The Nobel Prize–winning author explores his homeland in what has been called a literary hybrid of cultural history, literary nonfiction, and travelogue. Forfeiting tourist guides and road maps, he scours the country with an observer’s eye, fascinated by the ancient myths and history of his people. He travels through the Minho and the north extensively.

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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails 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 Costa Verde & Minho River Trails. Here are some other pilgrim trails we offer and which form the larger Camino de Santiago walking route network:

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

Costa Verde & Minho River Trails Tips and FAQs

Costa Verde & Minho River Trails 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.

Fill out the form below with any questions you may have on the and we will get back to you promptly.

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Customer Reviews

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!