Cycling the Portuguese Camino de Santiago
8 days | from 990€
Cycle the Portuguese Camino de Santiago follows the ancient pilgrim route from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. Experience the natural beauty of northern Portugal and Spain.
Pedal along the stunning Atlantic coastline at a leisurely pace, along a route forged by ancient pilgrims, from the historic city of Porto to the majestic Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Northern Spain.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you cycle the Portuguese Coastal Way to Santiago at a pace that allows for rest and exploration time in the places you encounter. Along the way, you’ll discover a mix of sandy beaches, quaint villages, historical towns and cities and verdant countryside. You’ll also have ample opportunities to sample the local vinho verde and Albariño wines and both Minho and Galician cuisine.
Begin your journey in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Porto and make your way along the coast to the charming historical town of Vila do Conde. From here, you’ll continue via coast and countryside to the coastal town of Esposende. Then head inland to ride along peaceful country lanes through a string of villages and across the Lima River to the picturesque city of Viana do Castelo. Hug the coast between Viana and the medieval town of Caminha at the very tip of Portugal. A short, scenic ferry ride will carry you across the River Minho to the fishing town of A Guarda in Spain.
From there, a stunning stretch of rugged coastline will lead you to Baiona, a delightful seaside town rich in history and renowned for its tapas bars. Continue your ride between rolling countryside and sandy beaches to reach the vibrant city of Vigo. As you approach Redondela, where the coastal and central Camino paths converge, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Ria do Vigo and its floating mussel farms.
Pause for a taste of fresh oysters in Arcade before following ancient stone paths and back roads through forests and villages to reach the captivating city of Pontevedra, known for its fascinating squares and architecture. Your next stop is Caldas de Reis, where you can experience the soothing warmth of its thermal waters. Make your way to the charming town of Padrón, where, according to legend, St. James was laid to rest. Indulge in the famous Padrón peppers before cycling the final stretch to the iconic Santiago de Compostela cathedral.
SUGGESTED ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Porto
A member of our team will meet you at the hotel, where you’ll receive a personal welcome briefing and all the necessary documentation. They will also ensure your bike is correctly set up for you.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Day 2: Cycle from Porto to Vila do Conde
Distance: 35 km (21.7 miles)
Elevation (gain/loss):
Set off from Porto to begin your Portuguese Coastal Camino by bike along the Atlantic coast using wooden boardwalks and quiet secondary roads. You’ll encounter a range of beautiful beaches, nature reserves and fishing villages on your way to the charming town of Vila do Conde, famous for its shipbuilding history and bobbin lace making.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Cycle from Vila do Conde to Esposende
Distance: 25 km (15.5 miles)
Elevation (gain/loss):
Cycle through residential areas to the expansive beach at the coastal town of Póvoa de Varzim. Continue cycling beside the sea before heading inland through cultivated fields, sections of woodland and typical villages to Fão. Cross the wetlands of the Cávado Estuary to reach the pleasant town of Esposende and its beaches.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Cycle from Esposende to Viana do Castelo
Distance: 24 km (14.9 miles)
Elevation (gain/loss):
Today you’ll head inland to cycle through a series of villages, countryside and patches of woodland with rivers and mountain views. The approach to the fascinating and beautiful city of Viana do Castelo across the iron bridge over the River Lima offers stunning views along the Lima Valley and across the Arga Mountains.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Cycle from Viana to A Guarda
Distance: 34 km (21.1 miles)
Elevation (gain/loss):
After crossing the city, follow the ocean north from Viana, passing coastal windmills and small fortresses, including the one at the town of Vila Praia de Âncora, where the river runs across the sandy beach. When you reach Moledo beach, you’ll head inland to pass an ancient pine forest and make your way into the medieval centre of Caminha. Cross the River Minho, the natural border with Spain, by ferry or boat then continue to the fishing town of A Guarda.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Cycle from A Guarda to Baiona
Distance: 31 km (19.3 miles)
Elevation (gain/loss):
Start with a spectacular section of rugged coastline that takes you to the small but attractive village of Oia, dominated by a 12th century monastery. Your journey continues along the coast past small fields, occasional houses and villages to reach the pretty resort town of Baiona, full of characterful buildings and a plethora of tapas bars.
Accommodation: 2/3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Cycle from Baiona to Vigo
Distance: 26 km (16.2 miles)
Elevation (gain/loss):
After bustling Baiona, you’ll stay close to the coast until you reach Patos After a few kilometres inland, you’ll hit the ocean again at the mouth of the Ria de Vigo. Keep following the shore until it’s time to make your way to the outskirts of vibrant Vigo.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8: Cycle from Vigo to Pontevedra
Distance: 34 km (21.2 miles)
Elevation (gain/loss):
Pedal through the lively streets of Vigo to quickly leave the bustling urban landscape behind. Ride through charming villages and tranquil forests, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and local culture. You’ll also be treated to sweeping views of floating mussel farms, the Cíes Islands, and the city and port of Vigo.
Enjoy the thrill of a steep descent into Redondela, known for its two viaducts over the town. Take a moment to savour plump, fresh oysters in the riverside town of Arcade before heading into the forest and rural lanes that lead you to Pontevedra. Choose one of the many atmospheric squares to relax in with a refreshing drink.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Cycle from Pontevedra to Padron
Distance: 41 km (25.5 miles)
Elevation (gain/loss):
The ride to Padron takes you through quiet and attractive countryside. Take a moment to enjoy the hot springs and cafés in the centre of Caldas de Reis then climb gradually through a series of tiny villages and a delightful patch of forest. Once you arrive in Padrón, you can explore the town and its deep connection to Saint James through its monuments and Camino motifs.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10: Cycle from Padron to Santiago
Distance: 25 km (15.5 miles)
Elevation (gain/loss):
The last stage of your Coastal Camino leads you through several typical Galician hamlets, with traditional cottages and rustic barns. The impressive sanctuary of Nossa Señora da Escravitude is a marked contrast to these simple structures. Perhaps the loveliest section is the peaceful forest trail before Milladoiro, where you’ll catch your first glimpse of Santiago and the towering cathedral spires in the distance.
From there, descend into the valley to cross the River Sar, before making one last ascent that brings you into the heart of Santiago’s city centre. Navigate the winding medieval streets, arriving at the impressive cathedral square to mark the end of your journey.
Accommodation: 3-star hotel
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11: Departure
After breakfast, prepare for your onward journey. If you have time, explore the old city of Santiago de Compostela before you leave.
End of our services.
Meals: Breakfast
Like what you see but it’s not quite a perfect fit?
Simply get in touch to tell us what you’re looking for. We’re happy to make changes to create your ideal holiday.
For more itinerary suggestions, please consult our specialist Portuguese Camino de Santiago site: www.waytosantiago.com
Map
Easy Cycling The Portuguese Coastal Camino
GENERAL CONDITIONS
Duration: 10 nights | 9 cycling days
Tour type: Self-guided
Nº of people: From 2
Cycling grade: Easy to Moderate
Total cycling distance: 259 km | 161 miles
Region: Minho and Galicia
Highlights: Leisurely pace, historical cities, ancient pilgrim trails, coastal trails, gorgeous and varied beaches, rivers, valleys, iconic bridges, beautiful churches, chapels and roadside shrines, forests, farmland, authentic villages, rural lifestyles, regional cuisine, spa town, comfortable accommodations close to Camino trail, amazing seafood, great local wines.
Available: From 1st March to 31st October
Price per person
Low season: March, April, May and October
> In double room occupancy: 1.280 euros
> Single room supplement: 450 euros
Mid season: June and September
> In double room occupancy: 1.340 euros
> Single room supplement: 480 euros
High season: July and August
> In double room occupancy: 1.470 euros
> Single room supplement: 520 euros
What’s included?
- 10 Nights of accommodation with breakfast included;
- 9 days bike rental (MTB TREK Marlin 6 with 29” wheels + panniers + helmet);
- Luggage transfer between accommodations (1 bag per person – maximum 15 kg/bag);
- Roadbook with tips, maps and detailed information on the way (in English);
- Pilgrim Kit: Credencial (passport) and Vieira (shell);
- Journey documentation;
- In-person welcome briefing;
- 24/7 Emergency support.
What’s not included?
- Transfers from and to Porto airport; Lunches and dinners; Insurance; Tourist taxes; Personal equipment; Other personal expenses; All items not mentioned in the “Included”.
Important notes:
- The Coastal Camino de Santiago by bicycle programme generally uses the same route that pilgrims follow on foot and there is no specific cycle route. The route is a combination of rural paths (asphalt, cobblestones or dirt), forest trails (dirt or gravel, uneven and sometimes rocky), secondary roads and some main roads (both on asphalt).
- Along the journey, you may sometimes encounter some steep climbs and descents, so good advanced physical preparation is necessary in order to do this trip.
- Clients must have experience with mountain bikes and basic bicycle repair knowledge, especially how to change a tire as punctures may occur during the Camino.
Optional extra services:
- Upgrade to E-bike TREK Powerfly 4 625 (or similar): 250 euros/E-bike
- Extra nights in Porto (3-star hotel): On request.
- Extra nights in Santiago (3-star hotel): On request.
- Upgrade for 4-star and 5-star hotels and Paradores: On request.
- Transfer from hotel to airport in Santiago de Compostela: 55 euros for up to 3 people; 80 euros for 4 to 7 people.
- Transfer from Santiago de Compostela to Porto city/airport: 360 euros for up to 3 people; 420 euros for 4 to 7 people.
- Transfer from hotel to airport in Porto: 50 euros for up to 3 people; 80 euros for 4 to 7 people.
OUR BIKES
Because we’ve carefully created this programme ourselves, we selected the most appropriated bikes for this route. Each bike has a full service between trips, replacing any parts as needed. Plus, we always ensure the brake pads are changed, delivering the bike as new to our guests.
All our bikes are high-quality Trek bikes, chosen for reliability and performance. We have different sizes and use the Trek size guide to pick the best one for you. When you book a cycling holiday with us, we’ll ask for your height so we can reserve your bike.
We also have some e-bikes in our fleet, which can help give you a boost on the hills, that we offer as an optional upgrade.
MTB: Trek Marlin 6
This 29-inch hardtail mountain bike (27.5-inch for smaller sizes) is the standard bike for most of our cycling holidays. The geometry and front suspension make it a comfortable ride and it’s perfect for off-road trails. The medium width tyres roll well on asphalt, gravel, and cobbles.
Electric MTB: Trek PowerFly 4 – 625
This 29-inch hardtail e-mountain bike (27.5-inch for smaller sizes) has all the features of our regular mountain bike, plus a battery for extra power. It’s great for riding with a stronger partner or if you want to cover longer distances. The design makes it perfect for gravel, cobbles, and steep paths. We use this bike on our Camino Portuguese tours and offer it as an option on other tours for those who prefer to ride an electric mountain bike.
Electric hybrid bike: Trek Allant+ 7
This 27.5-inch electric bike was named the Dutch e-bike of the year in 2020. The faster rolling tyres, more upright design, and front suspension, make it comfortable on smooth surfaces. It’s perfect for longer distances on roads, and the electric motor means you can still enjoy the ride when the hills get steeper.
What’s provided with our bikes?
Relax and enjoy your cycling holiday, knowing we’ve got everything covered for you:
- Rear pannier rack and bag
- Bottle cage and brand new Portugal Green Walks water bottle
- Helmet
- Adjustable phone mount on the handlebars
- Bell
- Bike lock
- Battery charger (where applicable)
- Small repair kit per group. This includes spare inner tubes (Schrader valve), tyre levers, bike pump, chain oil, chain link, disposable gloves, and multi-tool.
DIGITAL DETAILED ITINERARY
Click on the button below to download the itinerary with day-by-day details, highlights, prices and the respective general conditions.
