Embrace the Galician Charm with a Portuguese Twist. This section of the Camino Portugues meanders from Oia to the esteemed Santiago de Compostela. This favoured pilgrimage trail is sought after for its numerous benefits, ranging from cultural immersion to the natural beauty surrounding it. We invite you to explore these benefits and consider why the Camino Portugues from Oia could be an enriching experience for your own pilgrimage story.
Day By Day Itinerary
Day 1 | Arrival in Oia | Staying at Casa Puertas or Faro Silleiro Hotel .
We meet on the first day at 3:00 pm at our hotel lobby in Oia. Our guides will greet you and provide a briefing on your tour. We will meet again in the evening for an Albariño before enjoying a delicious welcome dinner.
Day 2 | Oia – Baiona | 17 km / 10.5 mi
Leave Oia and continue alongside beaches and cliffs, between cultivated fields, enjoying the waves beating on the rocks. Before reaching “As Mariñas”, you get to the top of “Cape Silleiro”; this path crosses the road again and rises up, circles around the top of Silleiro, where there is the chapel of “Virgen de Cela”, entering “As Cadeiras” before continuing along a track towards “O Ponte”. Follow road PO-2203 to cross under the highway and enter “Baiona,” where you will finish this stage.
At the end of the day’s walk, unwind with our exclusive private group speedboat trip to the Cíes Islands, a Camino highlight. Zip from Baiona across scenic Baiona Bay to these “Caribbean of Europe” gems in the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park. Discover crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and rich marine biodiversity. Enjoy serene walks, swims in pristine bays, or relaxing sea views in this UNESCO biosphere reserve candidate, with limited visitors for true tranquility.
Transport to Hotel – Staying at Faro Silleiro Hotel, Hotel Pazo de Mendoza, or Parador Nacional Baiona.
Day 3 | Baiona – Vigo | 26 km / 16.1 mi
Start this stage from the church of “Santa Maria”, and continue parallel to the beautiful town harbour. The route approaches the river Miñor, which you cross over a beautiful stone bridge that brings you to “A Ramallosa” and Nigran.
After crossing “As Nogueiras,” begin a gentle climb up “Mount San Roman” and continue to admire the wonderful view of “Islas Cies” as you climb to “Castro Alto da Medoña”. Enter the city of Vigo by crossing the city Park (Park Castrelos) and following the “Lagares” river until reaching the “Avenida de Madrid” where this stage ends.
Transport to Hotel – staying at VILLA 1880 Boutique.
Day 4 | Vigo – Redondela | 17 km / 10.5 mi
This 17 km stage from Vigo to Redondela meanders through Galicia’s enchanting countryside, with tranquil rural landscapes and fragrant eucalyptus forests. A key highlight is Ponte Sampaio, a historic stone bridge where Napoleon’s troops were defeated in 1809, rich with regional history. For those prepared to start their day early, an optional speedboat trip to San Simón Island in the Ría de Vigo is available, offering breathtaking views of the estuary and a chance to explore the island’s serene beauty, historic ruins, and cultural significance as a former monastery and quarantine site. After the walk or boat trip, enjoy transport to your hotel.
Two nights in Pontevedra, staying at Parador de Pontevedra or VILLA 1880 Boutique.
Day 5 | Redondela – Pontevedra | 20 km / 12.4 mi
This 20 km stage from Redondela to Pontevedra guides you through Galicia’s scenic countryside, with peaceful rural landscapes and fragrant eucalyptus forests. A highlight is arriving in Pontevedra, a historic city known for its charming old town and the iconic Igrexa da Virxe Peregrina, a baroque church shaped like a scallop shell, symbolizing the Camino. After the walk, enjoy a free evening in Pontevedra to explore local restaurants and wine bars, savoring authentic Galician cuisine and regional wines.
Two nights in Pontevedra, staying at Parador de Pontevedra or VILLA 1880 Boutique or Aldea Calma
Day 6 | Pontevedra – Caldas de Reis | 21 km / 13 mi
Traversing through quaint rural villages and picturesque towns, this 21-kilometre stage leads to the stunning Caldas de Reis. En route, a short 400-meter detour, which is well-marked, takes you to the cascading waterfalls of the Ria Baroa Natural Park, an enchanting interlude well worth the visit. As the stage concludes, you’re greeted by the renowned hot springs of Caldas de Reis, a soothing reward for the day’s journey. This town is not just about its thermal waters; it’s a treasure trove of historical and cultural sites, including ancient churches, bridges, and lush gardens.
Transport to Hotel – Staying at Torre Do Rio or Novavila Design Wine Hotel
Day 7 | Caldas de Reis – Padron | 18.5 km / 11.5 mi
This 18.5 km stage from Caldas de Reis to Padrón winds through the scenic Camino Portugués, featuring lush woodlands, charming villages, and gentle rural paths that make the moderate trek visually spectacular. Arriving in Padrón, a historic Camino highlight, explore the Santiago Church, tied to St. James’s legendary arrival, or visit the Museum of Padrón for a dive into local heritage. Savor the iconic pimientos de Padrón, fried green peppers with a mix of mild and spicy surprises, paired with local wines. For an enriching addition, opt for a guided trip to Cambados, the heart of Albariño wine country, just 30 km away. We’ll provide car transport to Cambados, where you can stroll medieval streets, tour historic pazos (manor houses), and enjoy wine tastings at renowned bodegas. After your day, relax with transport back to your hotel.
Transport to Hotel – Staying at Casas Alexandre or Novavila Design Wine Hotel
Day 8 | Padron – Santiago | 25 km / 15.2 mi
The final 25 km stage from Padrón to Santiago is the most ambitious leg of the Camino Portugués from Oia, leading to the sacred resting place of the Apostle James. Along the way, visit the Sanctuary of A Escravitude, known for its sacred fountain and peaceful ambiance, ideal for reflection. As Santiago nears, the majestic Cathedral of Santiago appears on the horizon, spurring you onward with a sense of triumph. This longer stretch is filled with anticipation and accomplishment. To celebrate your journey’s end, join your fellow pilgrims for a special end-of-tour group dinner at a Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant in Santiago, savoring exquisite Galician cuisine and fine wines in an elegant setting, perfect for sharing stories and toasting your pilgrimage. Transport to your hotel follows.
Transport to the Hotel. Staying at Hotel A Quinta da Agua
Lodging
Every lodging on the Santiago Way becomes part of your journey’s tapestry. We’ve meticulously chosen each place you’ll rest, ensuring a memorable and heartwarming experience. As we traverse the route, you’ll be hosted by the renowned National Paradores and enchanting Galician estates, nestled in idyllic rural spots bathed in serenity and lush landscapes. Beyond just a place to sleep, these accommodations immerse you in the local culture and ambience. Every room boasts its own en-suite bathroom, and the hospitality you’ll encounter is genuinely heartwarming. With their exceptional service and personal touch, the proprietors will make you feel as if you’ve arrived home.
Meals
Your culinary journey on the Santiago Way is as integral to the walk itself as it is. Each morning, we present a breakfast spread to energize your day; lunches are prepared picnics, allowing you to savor artisanal delights during your trek. And come evening, sit down to dinners that capture the soul of local, awaiting flavours. We’ve got you covered if you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or require specific dietary accommodations, such as gluten-free options. Just let us know beforehand, and we’ll ensure that your meals resonate with your dietary needs.
Walking
Embark on the Santiago Way at your own rhythm. Strategically positioned checkpoints will greet you as you go, where our backup vehicle is stationed, stocked with refreshments, fruits, and water to refuel. They’re also there to ensure everything runs smoothly. Our team is ready to provide assistance for any unforeseen issues, whether it’s addressing discomfort or attending to the occasional blister. If you choose to pause your journey at any time, our support vehicle will be available to assist you. Fear not about straying off course – the iconic yellow arrows guide you throughout. Remember, on the Camino, fellow pilgrims are always around. Once the day’s trek is done and we’ve all refuelled with lunch, we’ll retreat to our lodgings. There, indulge in a refreshing shower and sink into a well-earned evening of relaxation.
Before & After
Before: Your journey begins in the coastal town of Oia; the landing point for most international flights is Lisbon, Portugal, or Madrid, Spain.
After: Your expedition concludes in the historic city of Santiago de Compostela around 3:00 pm on the final day; please note that transportation to Lisbon, Madrid, or alternative destinations isn’t provided. However, we’re here to guide you on your onward journey and assist with any extended hotel stays.
Trip Insurance
For your ease and our mutual assurance, our package includes insurance. This ensures that should any unforeseen physical mishaps occur during your journey, you’re well-attended to within Spain. Please reach out if you’d like a detailed breakdown of the coverage benefits.
Chauffeur / Guide
Your dedicated Chauffeur / Guide is always on standby, ensuring your Camino journey is smooth and stress-free. More than just a driver, they are experienced Camino experts who meet you at designated stops, ready to assist whenever needed. Along the way, your Chauffeur / Guide shares insights about the Camino, offers encouragement, and ensures you travel comfortably and confidently throughout your journey.
Always Connected
To give you complete peace of mind, we provide each pilgrim with an AirTag, ensuring we can always stay connected along the way. Whether you’re enjoying the trail at your own pace or taking an unexpected detour, our team knows where you are, giving you the freedom to walk with confidence. Your journey is yours to embrace, while we take care of the details.
Camino Companions
Tours Include
- Private support vehicle
- English-speaking guide assistance
- All transfers
- All meals (B’fast, Lunch & Dinner) + Drinks & Snacks
- Carefully selected luxury accommodation
- Physiotherapist on call
- Informational program and route map
- Travel insurance for the entire tour
- Photos of your Camino Trip
- Farewell Dinner
- Pilgrims’ Mass with Botafumeiro ceremony (pending availability)
- Guided visit in Santiago de Compostela, including the Cathedral’s majestic Portico of Glory
- Camino de Santiago Certificate
- The Camino Companions Special Care