The Portuguese Way along the coast is a 15-day route that runs along the entire north coast of Portugal overlooking the Atlantic. It is a very pleasant trail due to its sections, close to the sea, and in general very affordable as we will find difficulties or bumps on the route. It also has the advantage of having a much milder climate than the northern routes and the traditional Camino Francés. In many places along the route, the sunsets are impressive.
The Camino Portugués is the most famous and popular route for pilgrims from all over the world after the Camino Francés. In this option we present its slightly less well-known variant: The Portuguese Way along the coast. We will follow the Atlantic coast from Porto and cross majestic landscapes until we reach Galicia and cross the Miño River by ferry with Xacobeo Transfer, which goes from the Caminha Rowing Club, 50 meters away from the old Ferry, to the ferry station in A Guarda. It can be booked in advance through its website or by calling +34 613011226. It is also possible to do it with Taxi Boats.
The Royal Route.
As with other variants of this route, e.g. the central path or the variant via Caminha, we start in the city of Porto, whose historical center has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. On our first day it is worth exploring the cobbled streets of the center and especially the “Ribeira” area on the banks of the Duero River, where the famous sweet wine cellars are located.
On this Portuguese way along the coast from Porto we will visit beaches and areas of the Portuguese coast as well as beautiful fishing villages. The coastal stages are combined with others inland. We will also cross the magnificent Miño River, which acts as a natural border between Portugal and Spain.
The stretch in Galicia from Miño to Redondela of this Portuguese route along the coast of Porto is also known as the “Royal Route”.
In the seventh stage we reach Oia under the presidency of the spectacular Santa María Monastery, built on the coast in the 12th century.
In the town of Redondela, the “coastal path” joins the central Portuguese path.
¡Buen Camino!