5 Reasons to Walk the Camino de Santiago in 2025

The Camino de Santiago is a unique and life-changing experience for pilgrims from all over the world, at whatever stage of life the journey is made.

However, it does require some preparation (physical and mental, above all), which is why planning this pilgrimage in good time is ideal. And always with the support of Portugal Green Walks at every stage, of course!

So here are five reasons – among the many that exist – to get ready to take on the Camino de Santiago in 2025!

 

1 – Connecting with nature and culture

The Camino de Santiago crosses some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes in Spain and Portugal. From the Portuguese coastline (walking or cycling) to the green hills of Galicia, passing through picturesque villages and enchanting vineyards, the route offers a unique connection with nature. The Camino is also an open-air museum, full of churches, monasteries and historic bridges. Each stage of the route offers a new discovery, from Romanesque buildings to local traditions dating back centuries. You’ll learn to revisit how journeys were made in ancient times and get to know thousands of places you would never have thought of visiting.

2 – Physical and mental health benefits

Covering long distances has numerous benefits for physical health, such as strengthening muscles and improving cardiovascular endurance. Walking, cycling or running a distance of 20 to 25 kilometres per stage is an exercise that requires physical fitness in anyone. In addition, the Camino de Santiago is known for its mental health benefits, helping to reduce stress and promote mental clarity – a journey both external and internal. Doing the Camino in 2025 could be a way to reboot your mind and body.

3 – Meet lots of new people

It’s good for shy people to work on their social skills and great for extroverts, as the Camino de Santiago is full of people. Whether in towns, villages, cafés or along the way, it’s true to say that “you never walk the Way alone”. There are stories of friendships created during the walk that last a lifetime (and there are certainly cases of love affairs built along the way). The spirit of the Camino, with its sense of belonging to a community and a common goal, facilitates bonds between pilgrims.

4 – Explore new ways

We present to you the Luxury Coastal Camino, where you can experience the very best of the Coastal Camino route from Porto to Santiago, by treating yourself to luxury accommodations along the way. After a full day of walking beside the ocean and through forests, fields and villages, you can look forward to quality linens, a dreamily comfortable bed and all the expected comforts of a top-quality hotel.

Some of these lodgings are in Pousadas and Paradores, which are usually historical buildings such as palaces, fortresses and monasteries that have been converted into luxury hotels. Others are stylish, modern hotels in excellent locations, so you can dine onsite or walk to a nearby restaurant. 

5 – A religious moment for many pilgrims 

Not all pilgrims are religious people, but the Camino de Santiago has a strong historical connection with Christianity. Even agnostics and atheists who walk the Camino are not indifferent. Whether it’s the journey, the company or the feeling of mission accomplished, the arrival in Santiago de Compostela and the destinations along the way impress anyone. It’s a journey of self-awareness and self-discovery, of exploring your limits and goals. It’s natural to feel a variety of emotions due to the magic and passion that surround this path.

Book now for your trip next year and make the first deposit (25%) in January 2025, with flexible cancellation (free for up to 30 days).

Find out more about the Portuguese Camino de Santiago self-guided tours!

 

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