The Portuguese Camino - Porto to Viana do Castelo extension

Land Tour

4 days

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The Portuguese Camino - Porto to Viana do Castelo extension
  • About
  • Gallery
  • Itinerary
  • Location

$AUD 223 per day

Departure: Porto, Portugal

The Portuguese Coastal Route is one of the quieter Camino paths and it offers a wealth of history. From the lively city of Porto, set on the banks of the Douro River and famous for its port wine production, the journey north takes you along paths and boardwalks and through small seaside towns and fishing hamlets, largely following the coast. Throughout the journey there are ample reminders of past pilgrims and the route offers many insights into the religious significance of the Camino. Charming Viana do Castelo is your destination, located in stunning surroundings full of natural beauty.
About
3 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Breakfasts are usually continental inclusive of breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee & juices. Dinner will consist of 3 courses, usually starting with a salad, followed by a chicken, red meat, fish or pasta dish & finishing with a dessert of fruit or cakes.
3 nights in comfortable hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
Digital information pack with route notes, maps & GPX
Pilgrim Passport
Emergency hotline
Hightlights
Enjoying a quieter pilgrimage route, following in the footsteps of Celtic, Roman and Christian wayfarers
Mix of scenery from coastal sand dunes to forests
Experiencing culinary delights, including the local port varieties in Porto
Arriving in Viana do Castelo with its lovely old centre

Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Porto
Set on the banks of the Douro River, Porto’s historical centre was declared a World Heritage site in 1996 and in the 12th Century it was in Porto that the country took its name and became an independent nation. Its maritime legacies and importance as a new world trading port have shaped it into the proud city it has become, with its impressive cathedral and port wine lodges. After checking in to your hotel, take the time to explore the city with its many cultural sites. Overnight Porto.
We can assist with booking pre-tour accommodation on request - highly recommended as Porto has much to offer.
Day 2 - Metro train to Matosinhos, walk to Povoa do Varzim (7.5 hrs, 27km/16.8mi)
After breakfast, catch the metro train to Matosinhos avoiding the urban sprawl of Porto and cross the lifting bridge ponte movel to start your walk. The route takes you along the coast visiting seaside villages such as Leca da Palmeira, Labruge and Vila do Conde before arriving at Povoa do Varzim. This beautiful city is home to an old town, the Cividade de Terrosso Fort, more than 3000 years old as well as an ancient aquaduct. Overnight Povoa do Varzim
*It is possible to set out on foot from Porto, in which case this is a long day - 40km.
Day 3 - Walk to Fao or Esposende (4-5.5 hrs, 18 or 20km/11.25 or 12.5mi)
A fairly easy walk as you take the esplanade to the Chapel of San Andres before continuing into Litoral Norte Natural Park a protected natural area consisting of diverse habitats of imposing sand dunes, wetlands and estuaries, and home to many different wildlife habitats. You will reach Fao on the southern side of the Cavadoy river. Cross the iron bridge over the river before arriving in the city of Esposende. Overnight Fao or Esposende.
Day 4 - To Viana do Castelo (6hrs, 26km/7mi)
Continue along the coastal plains to the town of Marinhas, and Church of San Bartolome do Mar. Head inland briefly before returing to the coast following a forest path to the port of Cabedelo. Cross the Eiffel Bridge, arriving into Viana do Castelo where your tour ends. Continue to Baiona or Santiago, or we can assist with booking the night in Viana do Castelo - please ask for our rates.
Location

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