Route Overview

Where is the Camino Portuguese Traditional Route?

The Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route) begins in Tui on the Spanish side of the majestic river Minho. From there you will be transferred to the Portuguese side of the border to either Rubiães (for your 9-Day Moderate Tour) or to Cossourado (São Bento da Porta Aberta) if you chose the 11-Day Gentle tour. From your start point you head north to follow quiet country lanes and forested trails that wind downhill through the Minho landscape to the famed river border crossing of Valenca and Tui. Valença has an impressive 17th-century fortress, with panoramic views over the River Minho and the historic Spanish town of Tui just across the water. Both have faced each other in turbulent times and there has been significant conflict across this watery border in the 12th, 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, hence the large fortification and the castellated walls found on old buildings even on Tui Cathedral which is over 900 years old. The iconic International Bridge now spans a more peaceful river Minho, it’s distinctive lattice design saw it attributed to Gustav Eiffel (in fact it is still erroneously known as the ‘Eiffel bridge’) but it was actually the work of Pelayo Mancebo y Ágreda, a Spanish engineer.

Continuing north to O Porriño you’ll pass through quiet country lanes, forests and ancient Roman Roads. The trail continues to Mos where you continue ascending passing small hamlets until you reach a scenic view of Redondela in the distance, a lively destination where the central and coastal Caminos converge. The Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route) is famed for its historic river crossings points and is cerlebrated by pilgrims as they walk across ancient bridges. These include Ponte Sampaio, the elegant 11-arch bridge of Ponte de Burgo at Pontevedra and the hot spring town of Caldas de Reis once frequented by Spanish nobility. Further on as you cross the river Ulla is Padrón, said to be where the body of Saint James first came ashore in Spain. The route ends at Santiago de Compostela which means “Saint James of the Field of Stars”, believed to be the burial place of the apostle Saint James.

Why should you walk the Camino Portuguese Traditional Route?

People walk the Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route) for many different reasons, religion is just one of them. Some pilgrims are motivated by faith, walking as an act of devotion to Saint James or to atone for their sins. Others come at a crossroads in life, seeking self-reflection and personal growth while exploring somewhere new. And some are simply drawn by the physical challenge or the spirit of adventure.

You don’t need to be religious to walk the Camino. Believers, atheists, and everyone in between are welcome. Many non-Christians are drawn to it by the weight of its history and the centuries of tradition and shared human effort worn into every path. There is something powerful about walking in the footsteps of countless people across the ages, connected by the same journey and the same hopes. The Camino can be demanding, but Hillwalk Tours offer itineraries across three categories, Gentle, Moderate, and Challenging so you can choose a trip that suits your fitness level.

Starting from the medieval streets of Tui, the Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route) takes you through forests, vineyards, medieval towns and rural villages where the Camino is still woven into daily life. It’s a route that rewards those who appreciate history and local culture, with a steady walking pace throughout and it’s also long enough to earn your Compostela at the end. Along the way you’ll cross ancient bridges, pass Roman ruins and stop at welcoming village cafés at every stage.

One of the standout points along the route is Redondela, known as the “Town of the Viaducts,” where you get sweeping panoramic views and where the Coastal Route and Traditional Route join together. From there, the path follows the Tomeza river into Pontevedra, a town with a beautifully preserved old town centre, before continuing to Caldas de Reis, known for its relaxing thermal baths.

As you near Santiago, quiet hamlets and open farmland guide you through Padrón, where Saint James’ body is said to have first arrived in Spain. The walking throughout is gentle, green and varied, with comfort and beauty in equal measure. It all builds to a memorable finish — arriving at the great Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, where pilgrims gather to celebrate the end of their journey. 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.

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

Although the Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route) passes through Portugal and Spain, Galicia and the surrounding region can be surprisingly rainy. The lush green hills are well watered throughout the year. For this reason, most people choose to walk the Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route) between March and October, when the weather tends to be warmer and drier.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, it’s worth steering clear of the summer peak season. Walking in the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to October means quieter paths and cooler temperatures with a higher chance of rain.

That said, many walkers consider these the most beautiful times to do the route. Spring brings a carpet of wildflowers, while autumn offers a rich display of changing colours of foliage, both well worth a little extra rain gear.

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

The entire Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route) stretches as far as Lisbon (620km) or Porto (244km) but Hillwalk Tours offers tours from Tui at 135km so you can be guaranteed your Compostela which requires you to walk 100km. Our walking tours offer a choice of starting points, difficulties and route lengths on the Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route). Statistics from the Pilgrims Office state that over 90,000 pilgrims walked the route in 2025 with Lisbon, Porto and Tui being the most frequent starting locations.

In addition we also offer Gentle and Moderate tour grading levels depending on the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. Within these levels, you can choose between 5 to 11 days 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 5 to 11-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, where available 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 (Traditional 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 (Traditional Route) can be found.

Starting and Finishing Point

This pilgrim trail starts in the town of Rubiães 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 (Traditional 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 (Traditional Route) Itineraries

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

Gentle 11-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Tui

Day 2: Cossourado (São Bento da Porta Aberta) – Tui (via Valença) (15 km or 9.5 miles)

Day 3: Tui – O Porriño (17 km or 10.5 miles)

Day 4: O Porriño – Redondela (16 km or 10 miles)

Day 5: Redondela – Santa Marta (Vilaboa) (15.5 km or 9.5 miles)

Day 6: Santa Marta (Vilaboa) – San Amaro (15 km or 9 miles)

Day 7: San Amaro – Caldas de Reis (12.5 km or 8 miles)

Day 8: Caldas de Reis – San Miguel de Valga (12 km or 7.5 miles)

Day 9: San Miguel de Valga – A Picaraña (16 km or 10 miles)

Day 10: A Picaraña – Santiago de Compostela (16 km or 10 miles)

Day 11: Departure from Santiago de Compostela

Moderate 9-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Tui

Day 2: Rubiães – Tui (via Valença) (20 km or 12.5 miles)

Day 3: Tui – O Porriño (17 km or 10.5 miles)

Day 4: O Porriño – Redondela (16 km or 10 miles)

Day 5: Redondela – Pontevedra (19.5 km or 12 miles)

Day 6: Pontevedra – Caldas de Reis (22 km or 13.5 miles)

Day 7: Caldas de Reis – Padrón (19 km or 12 miles)

Day 8: Padrón – Santiago de Compostela (26 km or 16 miles)

Day 9: Departure from Santiago de Compostela

 

Currency and Expenses

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

The cost of food, drinks, and activities while walking the Camino Portuguese (Traditional 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 (Traditional 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 (Traditional Route) Accommodation and Services

Hotels and Guesthouses

There are numerous hotels and guesthouses available along the Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route), especially in larger towns and cities such as Tui, Valenca, Pontevedra, 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 (Traditional Route), particularly in larger stops like Porto, 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 (Traditional Route) Trail Etiquette

The Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route) is known for its beautiful landscapes, fascinating history and deep cultural roots. The communities along the way take great pride in their heritage and in caring for the natural environment around them. To keep the Camino special for everyone who walks it, it’s important to respect the trail and travel responsibly.

Pilgrims are encouraged to follow proper trail etiquette and embrace the principles of the Leave No Trace organization. Don’t leave any rubbish behind. Carry everything with you — food wrappers, non-biodegradable items and any other waste — until you find a proper bin. Taking care of the trail helps keep the Camino beautiful and ensures it can be enjoyed by walkers for generations to come.

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 (Traditional Route).

Hillwalk Tours Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route) Map

Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route) Terrain

Waymarking

Being an officially recognised walking trail, the Camino Portuguese (Traditional 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 (Traditional Route) is considered to be a gentle to moderate hike. The trail can be difficult at times with some ascents 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 Saint 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.

Church of São Pedro de Rubiães

The Igreja Românica de Rubiães, or Church of São Pedro de Rubiães, was built in 1295 and is one of the best-preserved Romanesque churches along the Camino Portuguese. It features a single nave and a striking entrance with carved Romanesque arches, topped by a relief of the Pantocrator, Christ depicted as the all-powerful creator above the doorway. The church is a designated National Monument of Portugal and remains a popular stop for pilgrims walking the Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route).

The River Minho 

The Minho (Miño) holds a special place on the Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route), forming both a natural border and a cultural bridge between Portugal and Spain. Stretching for around 340 km from its source in northwest Spain to the Atlantic Ocean, it is one of the great rivers of the Iberian Peninsula.
Lined with vineyards, fishing villages and fortified towns, it has long sustained the communities along its shores. The fertile river valley is home to the vineyards that produce Vinho Verde, the crisp, light wine the region is famous for. Pilgrims cross the Minho at Tui-Valença, where a magnificent iron bridge inspired by Gustave Eiffel connects the two countries, marking the official start of the Spanish section of the Camino. Looking out over the river from either bank, with the fortified old towns of Tui and Valença facing each other across the water, it is hard not to feel the presence of history that this crossing carries.

Tui Cathedral

Tui has long been an important frontier town due to its location on the Minho River, separating Spain and Portugal. 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 and an underground crypt. Its imposing façade and the stunning views over the Minho River from its main tower make it a key landmark for pilgrims starting the Camino Portuguese.

Thermal Springs of Caldas de Reis

Long associated with rest and renewal, Caldas de Reis has welcomed pilgrims for centuries. The town’s name, meaning “Hot Springs of the Kings”, is said to reference the visits of Galician royalty who came to take the waters, among them King Ferdinand II of León in the 12th century.

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. The thermal waters, which emerge at around 43°C are rich in minerals and have been valued for their therapeutic properties since Roman times. Public fountains dotted around the town allow pilgrims to soak tired feet free of charge, a simple pleasure that has changed little over the centuries.

Sitting roughly halfway between Pontevedra and Santiago de Compostela, Caldas de Reis marks a natural pause on the final stretch of the route, offering walkers a chance to rest before the last push to the cathedral.

Ponte Sampaio, Arcade

Ponte Sampaio is a historic stone bridge that crosses the Verdugo River, connecting the towns of Arcade and Ponte Sampaio. Originally part of the Roman XIX Road, most of what you see today was built during the Middle Ages. It is held up by ten arches with pointed stone supports designed to break the flow of the water.The bridge is most famous for a major battle in June 1809 during the Spanish War of Independence. At this spot, Spanish forces successfully fought off Napoleon’s army ending the French occupation of Galicia.

Pontevedra and the Lérez River

Graceful bridges, arcaded streets and lively squares make Pontevedra, also known as “Old Bridge” or “The Good City”, one of the cultural highlights of the journey. The city has carefully preserved its historic centre, creating an enjoyable and walkable space.

At the heart of the old town lies the Praza da Ferrería, the main square flanked by the Church of San Francisco and the ornate Sanctuary of the Virgin Pilgrim (Santuario de la Peregrina), It is dedicated to the Virgin who, according to tradition, guided pilgrims from Bayona to Santiago de Compostela. This is an unusual church because it has a scallop-shaped floorplan and the motif is found throughout the building. Nearby, the striking ruins of the Church of Santo Domingo house an interesting archaeological museum. Pontevedra is also notable for being one of the few Spanish cities to have largely removed cars from its historic centre making it a genuinely pleasant place to explore.

Padrón

The town of Padrón is believed to be the place where the body of Saint James first arrived in Galicia. According to tradition, after his martyrdom in Jerusalem, the apostle’s disciples placed his body on a stone boat which miraculously guided itself to the shores of Galicia. The boat was tied to a large stone, known as the Pedrón, which can still be seen today beneath the altar of the parish church of Santiago de Padrón, embedded in the floor where it has rested for centuries.

Padrón is also famous throughout Spain for its small green peppers known as Pementos de Padrón are lightly fried in olive oil and sprinkled with sea salt. A beloved staple of Spanish cuisine, they are famously unpredictable, as the old saying goes: “some are hot, some are not.” For pilgrims passing through, trying a plate is something of an unofficial tradition and a very welcome reward after a long day on the trail.

Parque Natural Ría Barosa

This is a scenic natural park known for its cascading Barosa waterfalls and historic stone water mills nestled in lush forest. It is 600m from the Camino route to the waterfalls and there are a couple of bars on site for refreshments.

Wildlife

The Camino Portuguese (Traditional 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 (Traditional 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 (Traditional 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 Camino Portuguese (Traditional 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 2025, over 90,000 pilgrims walked the route. Today it ranks as the second 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.

Roman History

The Via Romana XIX, one of the major Roman roads in the northwest Iberian Peninsula, documented in a 3rd-century Roman route map. It connected Bracara Augusta (modern-day Braga, Portugal) to Asturica Augusta (Astorga, Spain), crossing through key settlements like Liminio (Valença) and Tude (Tui). This road played a vital role in trade, military movement, and communication across the Roman province of Gallaecia and its path roughly aligns with parts of the Camino Portuguese. Many of the famous river crossing on the Camino Portuguese are in fact the locations of much older Roman bridges and in some cases like in Caldas de Ris you can actually walk across a Roman bridge. During the Roman Empire Valenca was a border fortress, served by two official Roman roads.

The People and Local Customs

The people along the Camino Portuguese (Traditional 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 (Traditional 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

Northern Portugal and Galicia have a strong artistic identity shaped by music storytelling and craft. In Portugal the mournful tones of Fado reflect themes of longing, travel and homecoming, emotions that echo deeply along the Camino.

Festa da Mazá e da Sidra (The Apple and Cider Festival), Redondela

This is a lively, traditional food festival usually held on the first Sunday of October in Redondela, Galicia, celebrating local apple production. A key feature is its culinary focus, including a popular gastronomic competition that awards prizes for the best apple-based dishes and products as well as of course cider.

The Camino Portuguese (Traditional 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 (Traditional 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 (Traditional 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 (Traditional Route). Here are some other pilgrim trails we offer and which form the larger Camino de Santiago walking route network:

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

Camino Portuguese (Traditional Route) Tips and FAQs

Camino Portuguese (Traditional 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 (Traditional Route) adventure? Get started by simply filling out the booking form below!