Route Overview

Where is the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) located?

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) begins in vibrant Porto, one of the world’s most welcoming cities, where maritime charm and the beauty of the river landscape provide the backdrop for an unforgettable adventure. The route then heads north along the city’s outskirts, from Mataosinhos to Vila do Conde and on to Viana do Castelo. Continuing north towards Caminha, the route splits into two. You can continue your journey along the coastal route via Vigo and take a ferry across the Minho River estuary into Spain, or you can continue along the central route via Valença and Tui. Both routes meet again in Redondela, from where you continue north past the important pilgrim river crossings at Ponte Sampaio, the famous 11-arched bridge Ponte de Burgo near Pontevedra, Caldas de Reis, known for its hot springs, and Padrón, believed to be the place where the body of Saint James first landed in Spain. The route then leads to Santiago de Compostela (James of the Fields of Stars), considered the burial place of the Apostle James.

Why should you walk the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route)?

People choose to walk the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) for a variety of reasons, and not all are driven solely by religious beliefs. For some pilgrims, this is the primary motivation, to “atone for their sins” or as an act of veneration for Saint James. Others walk the Camino because they are at a turning point in their lives or because they see it as an opportunity to explore new paths while simultaneously looking inward to find spiritual fulfillment and personal growth. And some simply walk it for the physical challenge or the sense of adventure. You can be religious, atheist, or anything in between to walk a Camino. Many non-Christians are drawn to walking the Caminos because the centuries-old tradition and communal effort are ingrained in the paths themselves with every step along the route. There’s something special about feeling like you’re part of a journey that transcends time and reaches back to the collective hopes of people centuries ago. The Camino can be challenging, but Hillwalk Tours offers itineraries in three categories: Easy, Moderate, and Challenging. The trail winds through cliffs, mountains, and estuaries on mostly flat, easily walkable terrain that can be hiked year-round. When you book with us, you know you have the option to tailor your trip to your physical abilities.

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) also offers you the opportunity to traverse some of the most beautiful landscapes in Portugal and Spain. These picturesque landscapes include the magnificent Atlantic coast along the Costa Verde in Portugal for both route options; if you choose the route via Vigo, you’ll also pass through other coastal towns on the Spanish side, such as A Guarda and Baiona, as well as the Cíes Islands. On the route via Tui, you follow the historic Minho River, passing through several famous and important cities, including Valença with its 17th-century star-shaped fortress, the renowned 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 unique character and Camino spirit. From here, heading north, both routes converge again in Redondela before you cross some famous bridges that have been used for centuries and are smoothed by the footsteps of millions of pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. The coastal route gained importance in the 15th century, as coastal towns became increasingly significant with the beginning of the Age of Discovery, when Spain and Portugal colonized overseas territories.

As the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) grows in popularity, you’re sure to experience the camaraderie of meeting other pilgrims from around the world. The friendly atmosphere helps create lasting memories as you walk in the footsteps of pilgrims who have been doing so for centuries – even if you don’t speak the same language. Another reason to walk the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is the unique blend of cultures you’ll experience as you cross from Portugal into Spain. Afterward, experiencing Galicia, with its delicious food and wine and its proud, unique regional culture, is a delight in itself.

 

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

It’s important to note that while this Camino runs through Portugal and Spain, the Galicia region can be quite rainy. Its beautiful, lush green hills didn’t come about by chance! For this reason, the most popular time to hike the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is between March and October, when the weather is generally warmer and drier. If crowds are too much for you, you might want to avoid the peak season, which falls during the summer months. So, if you prefer a quieter trail, you could hike during the off-season, from March to May or September to October. While these seasons may be wetter and cooler, they are arguably the most beautiful time to hike the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), with a vibrant carpet of wildflowers in spring and the changing colors 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 264 km long and can be completed in 2–3 weeks. This depends on your pace, physical fitness, and the activities and sights you plan to visit along the way. At Hillwalk Tours, we understand that not everyone has 2–3 weeks to complete the entire route. That’s why we focus on the last 240 km of the trail and offer guided hikes within this section. To receive the Compostela, the official pilgrim certificate of the Camino de Santiago, pilgrims must complete at least the last 100 km of the Camino. Our hiking tours offer a variety of starting points, difficulty levels, and route lengths for the final 160 km of the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route). Statistics from the Pilgrim’s Office show that in 2025, nearly 90,000 pilgrims completed the route, with Porto and Tui being the most common starting points. Furthermore, we offer tours with difficulty levels of “easy” and “moderate,” depending on your preferred balance of physical challenge and comfort. Within these levels, you can choose between 4- to 13-day treks to complete the entire route or a portion of it. All you need to decide is how many kilometers/miles you want to walk each day, and we’ll take care of the rest!

---

Tour Route

Types of Trails

Choosing the right hiking tour can sometimes be tricky. It’s always important to consider your physical capabilities and well-being. At Hillwalk Tours, for example, we’ve categorized each of our hiking routes into three levels based on personal preferences and fitness. These are: “Gentle,” “Moderate,” and “Challenging.” Each of these categories includes 7- to 14-day itineraries, depending on the destination, and customers have the option to add rest days as needed. Our “Gentle” hikes are perfect for those who consider themselves casual hikers. These are designed for those who enjoy taking photos and meeting locals while taking in the spectacular scenery. Our “Moderate” hikes are suitable for people who are used to regular exercise and appreciate the opportunity to cover a lot of ground each day without pushing themselves too hard. Finally, our “Challenging” hikes are for hikers who want to set off early in the morning and not stop until they reach their destination. Our “Gentle” hikes are perfect for those who want to start early in the morning and hike continuously until they reach their destination. For our Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), we offer hikes of “easy” and “moderate” difficulty. The individual hiking categories include the following average daily distances and times: Easy: 10–14 km (6–9 miles) and 3–5 hours per day Moderate: 17–20 km (11–12 miles) and 5–7 hours per day

Hillwalk Tours Guide Notes

When you choose to hike with Hillwalk Tours, you’ll receive a detailed hiking package once your hiking vacation is fully booked. This package includes detailed Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and unique route notes and directions written and continuously updated by our route development team. Because we personally hike each trail and create our own detailed route notes, we can offer more routes, route options, and alternatives than you’d typically find in general guidebooks. GPS tracks are also included on a smartphone app, so you don’t have to worry about getting lost. Alternatively, several commercially available guidebooks covering the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) are available.

Starting and Finishing Point

The pilgrimage route begins in the vibrant city of Porto and ends in Santiago de Compostela, the supposed final resting place of Saint James. Santiago de Compostela is a city whose history stretches back to the Middle Ages and which boasts numerous examples of Baroque and Gothic architecture. Besides the famous and beautiful Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, there are many other churches, monasteries, and sights worth discovering. Public transportation is readily available at all stations along the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route). The route is well-served by bus and train. Pilgrims often use buses or trains for individual sections of the route. In areas without bus or train service, taxis are easy to find.

Sample Itineraries for the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route)

Below you will find examples of easy and moderate hiking routes from Hillwalk Tours on the popular Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route).

Gentle 14-Day / 13-Night

Day 1: Arrival in Vila Praia de Âncora

Day 2: Vila Praia de Âncora – A Guarda, including ferry to Spain (13–16 km)

Day 3: A Guarda – Oia (13 km)

Day 4: Oia – Baiona (18 km)

Day 5: Baiona – Priegue (13 km)

Day 6: Priegue – Vigo (15 km) Day 7: Vigo – Redondela (14 km)

Day 8: Redondela – Santa Marta (Vilaboa) (15.5 km)

Day 9: Santa Marta (Vilaboa) – San Amaro (15 km)

Day 10: San Amaro – Caldas de Reis (12.5 km)

Day 11: Caldas de Reis – San Miguel de Valga (12 km)

Day 12: San Miguel de Valga – A Picaraña (16 km)

Day 13: A Picaraña – Santiago de Compostela (16 km)

Day 14: Departure from Santiago de Compostela

 

Moderate 8-Day/ 7-Night

Day 1: Arrival in Bayonne

Day 2: Baiona-Ramallosa – Vigo (24 km)

Day 3: Vigo – Arcade (22 km)

Day 4: Arcade – Pontevedra (14 km)

Day 5: Pontevedra – Caldas de Reis (22 km)

Day 6: Caldas de Reis – Padrón (19 km)

Day 7: Padrón – Santiago de Compostela (26 km)

Day 8: Abreise von Santiago de Compostela

Currency and Expenses

The currency on the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), as in the rest of Spain and Portugal, is the Euro (€). The cost of food, drinks, and activities on the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) can vary depending on location, time of year, and personal preferences. Along the Camino, there is a wide selection of restaurants, from inexpensive pilgrim menus to fine dining. A typical pilgrim menu, including a starter, main course, dessert, and often wine or water, usually costs between €10 and €15. Meals in mid-range restaurants cost between €15 and €30 per person, not including drinks. Those wishing to dine more upscale will pay accordingly more. Drinks such as a glass of wine or a beer typically cost between €2 and €5, although prices may be slightly higher in larger cities or popular tourist areas. The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) offers a variety of experiences, including visits to historic cathedrals, exploration of medieval villages, and participation in cultural activities. Some attractions, such as churches and museums, charge a small entrance fee, while others are funded by donations. The costs for these activities can vary and may be slightly higher during the peak season, which generally runs from April to October, compared to the quieter winter months.

Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Accommodation and Services

Hotels and Guesthouses

Along the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) there are numerous hotels and guesthouses, especially in larger cities such as Porto, Vigo, Valencia, Tui, Caldas de Reis, and Santiago de Compostela. These accommodations offer comfortable rooms, dining options, and various amenities for pilgrims seeking a peaceful and restful stay.

Albergues (Pilgrim Hostels)

Albergues are the most common type of accommodation along the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), 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 Portuguese (Coastal Route), 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 Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), 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 Portuguese (Coastal Route) 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 can be found in most towns and cities along the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), especially in larger cities like Porto, Vigo, Valença, Tui, Pontevedra, and Santiago de Compostela. However, access to ATMs is limited in smaller villages. To avoid problems, it is advisable to withdraw sufficient cash in larger cities and carry some for places where card payments are not accepted. Some larger shops and establishments may offer cash withdrawals, but availability can vary.

Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Trail Etiquette

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and profound cultural significance. The local communities along the route take great pride in preserving their heritage and protecting the natural environment. Respectful treatment of the trail and responsible tourism are essential to ensuring the Camino remains a special experience for all who walk it. Pilgrimages are encouraged to adhere to the proper code of conduct on the trail and follow the principles of the “Leave No Trace” organization. This includes not littering and carrying all waste, such as food packaging and non-biodegradable items, until it can be properly disposed of in designated containers. By being mindful of their impact, pilgrims contribute to preserving the beauty of the Camino and ensuring its survival for future generations. Furthermore, pilgrims should respect local customs, keep noise levels down, and be considerate of other pilgrims. A harmonious shared use of the route and a mindful approach to accommodations, villages and natural spaces contribute to preserving the hospitable spirit of the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route).

Hillwalk Tours Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Map

Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Terrain

Waymarking

As it’s an ancient pilgrimage route, the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is well-marked. The official symbol of the Camino de Santiago is the scallop shell, which indicates that you’re on the right track. You’ll also find yellow arrows painted on walls and roads along the route, especially in areas where the path isn’t immediately obvious. If you ever have any doubts, you can also consult the detailed route descriptions and directions, including GPS coordinates, provided by Hillwalk Tours in your smartphone app, which is included in your hiking package. We also provide all the information you need about local history and information along the way, as well as alternative routes and other activities.

Difficulty

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) is considered an easy to moderate hike. While the trail can be challenging in places, as mentioned earlier in this article, it can be tackled at two different difficulty levels depending on your needs. We personally hike the routes and create these customized itineraries to suit all hikers.

Sights & Attractions

Santiago De Compostela

The final destination of all Camino routes offers more than just the famous cathedral with the shrine of St. James. Explore the squares and narrow streets of Santiago’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site considered one of the most beautiful urban areas in the world.

Porto

Porto, officially described as “the ancient, very noble, ever-faithful, and unconquered city,” boasts a long and rich history. It is Portugal’s second-largest city after Lisbon and is closely linked to the Douro River. As one of the oldest cities in Europe, Porto’s historic center, along with the Serra do Pilar Monastery, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. The iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, reflects the city’s strong trading tradition and ambition. It has two levels: the upper level carries the metro and pedestrians, while the lower level accommodates road traffic and cyclists.

Redondela and the Vigo Estuary

Arriving in Redondela offers one of the most impressive views on the route: imposing stone viaducts frame the vista across the Vigo Estuary. The contrast between the expansive landscape of the estuary and the historic town center creates an unforgettable break before the Camino de Santiago turns inland.

Caldas de Reis thermal springs

Caldas de Reis, a place of peace and relaxation since time immemorial, welcoming pilgrims for centuries. Riverside paths, shady streets and naturally heated spring water offer a restful break along the way, making it an ideal destination for hikers to unwind and recharge.

Padrón

The town of Padrón is deeply rooted in pilgrimage legend and is considered the place where the body of Saint James first arrived in Galicia. The old “Pedrón,” a stone to which his boat was moored, bears witness to this today. It can be seen in the parish church of Santiago de Padrón.

Wildlife

The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) boasts unique habitats with flora and fauna found nowhere else in the world. Along the coastal sections, you can observe various seabirds, including gulls, cormorants, and occasionally gannets. Dolphins and sometimes whales inhabit the Atlantic waters, though sightings cannot be guaranteed. Inland sections are home to typical Galician wildlife such as foxes, rabbits and various small mammals. Birdwatchers may spot birds of prey like kestrels and buzzards. Lizards are common along the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route), especially during the summer months. It is important that pilgrims respect these animals and their habitats, avoiding disturbing them and their nests. The flora along the route includes Galician oak forests, eucalyptus plantations, coastal scrub, and the characteristic vegetation of the Atlantic coast, including heather, gorse, and various wildflowers that bloom in spring and summer. Grapevines, cacti and ferns are frequently found along the route.

History of the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route)

This story begins in Jerusalem, where King Herod of Judea condemned the Apostle James to death by beheading. After this execution, the saint’s remains, along with those of his disciples, were transported on a magical, sail less stone boat to the “end of the world” (as Galicia was then called, since Europeans had not yet discovered America). There he was laid to rest for a time, his grave receiving little attention. One night, an apparition occurred. The night sky filled with a luminous cluster of stars, pointing towards the small tomb. This led to the discovery that the Apostle had found his final resting place there. Subsequently, a shrine was erected, and a cathedral, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, was built in his honor. In the following years, pilgrims from all over the world came to pay their respects and pray at the final resting place of Saint James. Thus, the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James) was born.

The Camino Portuguese developed in the Middle Ages as a pilgrimage route connecting Lisbon, Porto and the coastal settlements with Santiago de Compostela. Kings, queens, monks and ordinary pilgrims traveled north in search of faith, healing or adventure. Its reputation was also cemented by seafarers who arrived in the Atlantic ports and then continued north on foot to Santiago. In the late 20th century, associations in Portugal and Galicia began to restore the ancient paths, mark the routes and reconnect forgotten sections of the Way. The route was officially recognized as a Camino in 2016 and was fully marked and signposted by 2017. Since then, it has experienced remarkable growth. In 2024, nearly 75,000 pilgrims completed the route with over 22,000 starting their journey in Porto. Today, it ranks among the three most popular Camino routes worldwide, and the numbers continue to increase significantly each year.

Did you know?

Originally, pilgrims brought back a scallop shell from the Atlantic as a souvenir of their journey on the Camino de Santiago. This is why the scallop shell remains the symbol of the Camino today. Nowadays, Christian pilgrims receive a “Compostela” upon arrival, a stamped document written in Latin, confirming their pilgrimage on the Camino. Non-Christian pilgrims also receive a certificate. The Compostela is awarded upon completion of 100 km of the Camino or 200 km by bicycle.

Fishing Culture

The fishing villages along the coast seem untouched by time. There are “Casas de Mar,” small stone houses by the sea, some 200 years old and one immediately senses the importance of Portuguese fishing culture. Portugal is the land of bacalhau (salt cod) and sardinhas (sardines); its tradition of preserving fish dates back 1,800 years to Roman times, when fishponds were carved directly into the granite cliffs along this coast.

The People & Local Customs

The people along the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) are known for their warmth and hospitality. It’s customary to greet fellow pilgrims with a friendly “Buen Camino,” fostering a sense of community among the walkers. Portuguese hospitality is warm and relaxed, making it a perfect fit for a Camino de Santiago adventure. Villagers are accustomed to passing pilgrims and often greet walkers with a nod, a smile, or a signpost. Locals in the towns and villages along the route are generally welcoming and supportive of pilgrims, often offering assistance, directions, or words of encouragement. Casual conversation and showing appreciation for local culture and traditions are always appreciated. The Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) holds 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, dances, and cuisine. Many cafes and hostels encourage communal meals, thus strengthening the sense of community along all Camino routes. Taking the time to appreciate and respect these traditions enriches the journey, transforming it from a physical hike into a rich cultural experience.

Music and Song

One of the most impressive local traditions is the “Cantares do Mar,” where fishermen sing traditional songs about the sea, work, and life on the coast—melodies passed down through generations that reflect the hardships of life at sea and the hope for a safe return. In towns like Viana do Castelo and A Guarda, it is common to hear spontaneous singing of maritime fados in Portugal and cantigas de taberna in Galicia, creating an authentic and emotional atmosphere for passing pilgrims.

Festivals

The Mordomia parade in Viana do Castelo is one of the most famous events on the route and is celebrated in mid-August as part of the pilgrimage to Nossa Senhora da Agonia. Hundreds of women, known as “Mordomas,” parade through the streets in traditional regional costumes, wearing impressive gold jewelry, necklaces, earrings and medallions.

Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) in Pop Culture

Film and Television

The Way

Although this 2010 film starring Martin Sheen primarily focuses on the Camino Frances, it also explores the continuation of the pilgrimage to the coast and the symbolic significance of reaching the sea. Sheen plays a father whose son died on the Camino Frances and who decides to take his ashes with him on the journey, intending to scatter them on the shore. The film’s themes—completion and transformation—resonate strongly with the experience of the Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route).

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 de Santiago) to find his hidden savings. Along the way, he encounters some eerie ghosts.

I’ll Push You

This 2016 documentary tells the story of two friends who walk the entire Camino de Santiago. The catch: one of them is wheelchair-bound. This is an inspiring film about love, compassion and friendship.

Saint-Jacques… La Mecque

In this French comedy from 2005, three siblings who don’t get along must go on a pilgrimage together to save 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 custard tart with a flaky crust and a creamy filling, often sprinkled with cinnamon or powdered sugar. Its origins date back to 18th-century Lisbon, where it remains a popular dessert enjoyed throughout Portugal and beyond.

Bacalhau (dried cod)

Bacalhau is salted, dried cod and holds a unique, almost sacred place in Portuguese culture. It’s far more than just a popular dish; it’s arguably the most important ingredient in the entire Portuguese culinary tradition and can be found everywhere. You’ll probably smell it before you see it. Before eating, it must be soaked in cold water for 24–48 hours to rehydrate and remove excess salt. The result is a firm, aromatic fish with a distinctive flavor that differs significantly from that of fresh cod.

Vinho Verde

Although the name “Vinho Verde” means “green wine,” this wine isn’t actually green. The name refers to the wine’s youth, as it’s harvested and bottled early to preserve its fresh, vibrant character. It’s typically light, slightly sparkling, low in alcohol (often only 8–11%), and crisp with lively acidity. It comes in white, red, and rosé varieties, with the white being by far the most popular and widely consumed.

Tempranillo

Spain is known for its wines that don’t cause hangovers. The La Rioja region, in particular, boasts numerous delicious wines. Typical of Tempranillo are notes of dark fruits like cherry and plum, as well as hints of tobacco, leather, and vanilla.

Rioja

This wine from the vineyards of La Rioja is based on the aforementioned Tempranillo and is characterized by notes of dark berries, dark cherries and 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

Veganism has become increasingly popular across Europe in recent years, and you’ll find that most restaurants offer numerous vegan options. All the accommodations we work with at Hillwalk Tours have guaranteed that they will offer vegan breakfasts once informed. However, options may be limited in some of the more rural areas along the trail, so we recommend bringing certain items like plant-based milk, nut butter, or protein powder if you wish. Additionally, the following apps show restaurants that offer vegetarian and/or vegan dishes:

• 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:

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

Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Tips and FAQs

Camino Portuguese (Coastal Route) Image Gallery

Hillwalk Tours

Abput 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 the Camino de Santiago 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.

Follow us on our social media platforms

• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• TikTok
• LinkedIn
• Pinterest
• YouTube

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!