The Portuguese Way is a hiking trip that links the town of Ponte de Lima to Santiago de Compostela along the beautiful and old Saint James path. Every day offers different scenery, with countryside views, towns, and cities rich in culture and filled with the Camino spirit. Churches, monuments, and old crosses will tell the history of this less trodden way until you arrive at Obradoiro Square by the Saint James Cathedral. This is the heart of Santiago de Compostela! You will experience the purity of this religious experience, joined by other pilgrims, and discover more of Portugal, Spain, and yourself!
INCLUSIONS & HIGHLIGHTS
- 9 Nights charming/superior accommodations
- Breakfast daily, 2 Dinners
- Religious architectural sites
- Natural landscapes and countryside sceneries
- Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Douro River
- Ancient architecture and atmosphere
- Charming hotel and delicious gastronomy
- Santiago de Compostela, the most famous pilgrim destination
- Luggage transfer from hotel to hotel
- Digital information booklet
- Camino passport stamps/certificate offered upon completion
- English-speaking guide throughout
- Airport transfers
- Women’s Travel Club tour host
ITINERARY
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Welcome to Porto!
Our guide will welcome you with one group transfer at either the Porto Airport or your Porto Hotel and drive you to Ponte de Lima.
This is a medieval town with narrow old streets, ramparts, and squares. The road of Ponte de Lima, which crosses the Lima River, used to be the only road north during the times of the Romans. Tomorrow, this will be your path as well! Today, take your time to enjoy yourself and relax.
Accommodations: Mercearia da Vila (Dinner)
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Hike from Ponte de Lima to Rubiaes
This day will start at the doorstep of your lodging and head north through an old Roman bridge.
These were the first steps of all Pilgrims since Roman times, meaning that you will also be a part of history! The route will take you to the highest point of the entire trip. As you cross the beautiful countryside of northern Portugal, delight your eyes with the landscape plains. As you move away from the big roads, you will instead hike on a small one that takes you to Rubiães, your first night resting stop!
Distance: 18km | Elevation Gain: +500m
Accommodations: Casa da Capela (Breakfast)
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Hike from Rubiaes to Tui
Take a deep breath and absorb your surroundings. Today will be slightly easier than yesterday, with your final stopping point in Spain. This route will take you through forests and agricultural fields on roads and dirt tracks. As you move on, notice the scenery! It is constantly changing and makes for a gorgeous trip, arriving at the town of Tui. The town provides a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the Galician region, including a charming historic quarter with narrow streets, squares, and traditional houses and buildings.
Distance: 16km | Elevation Gain: +200m
Accommodations: Parador de Tui (Breakfast)
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Hike from Tui to Porrino
On this day, you will hike along small fortresses, travel in medieval streets, and cross over ancient bridges.
You will pass through small old doorways that will make you feel like a pilgrim from the Middle Ages! The times have changed, but one thing is for sure: the landscape and the people’s pure lifestyle remain the same. On the way, enjoy the town of Tuy and spend some time in its center! The cathedral is must-see. Soon, you will arrive in Galiza, and after a beautiful walk along the river, you will find accommodation in Porriño.
Distance: 17km | Elevation Gain: +200m
Accommodations: Parador de Tui (Breakfast)
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Hike from Porrino to Redondela
The challenge for today will be heading towards Redondela, which still lies on the Saint James path along the national road.
There will be some uphill hiking today, but it will be greatly compensated with a stunning view of the horizon. Feel the breeze on your face and take some awesome photos of Redondela and Ria de Vigo. Before you arrive at the final town, the path will take you down to some rural villages with water streams and local spiritful people! You will be sleeping in town, but before you call it a day, enjoy the monuments in the center and have a beer as the sun goes down.
Distance: 18km | Elevation Gain: +300m
Accommodations: Pazo Torres Agrelo (Breakfast)
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Hike from Redondela to Pontevedra
Your adventure today will start in the beautiful town of Redondela, and it will be gorgeous!
You will see fjord-like scenery when you step inland through kilometers of forest areas that will take you to little and old Roman villages. All this while following the Camino spirit and atmosphere, where people are always friendly and hospitable. As you pass Arcade Village, you will go up a small hill that will take you to Pontevedra. It is a wonderful town full of history and superb terraces where you can have a delicious meal.
Distance: 21km | Elevation Gain: +600m
Accommodations: Parador Pontevedra (Breakfast)
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Hike from Pontevedra to Caldas de Reis
After your breakfast, and once you feel fully energized, you will start one of the longest days of the trip!
The experience will take you through old railways, rural paths, and a section of wetlands. This is a place of extreme biodiversity, with many different species calling it their home. The beauty of the natural landscape makes this place even more special. Explore this day with all your senses, step by step, as we head to Caldas dos Reis. Open yourself to the smells, tastes, sounds, and textures of nature! When you arrive in town, make sure to visit the waterfall and the watermill system of the Barrosa River before you check into your hotel.
Distance: 24km | Elevation Gain: +300m
Accommodations: Torre do Rio (Breakfast)
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Hike from Caldas de Reis to Padron
Your eighth day will begin with a nice walk along fertile agricultural fields blessed by their thermal waters.
As you head towards Valga, the path will take you through beautiful scenery by the river and a dark forest. As you head out of this forest, you will hike along little roads that will take you to Pontecesures, a place full of religious architecture. You will then cross the river and arrive in Padrón, your last stop before Santiago de Compostela. This town has beautiful gardens and monuments to appreciate. Look for typical food and delight yourself with a great dinner.
Distance: 22km | Elevation Gain: +200m
Accommodations: Pazo Lestrove (Breakfast)
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Hike from Padron to Santiago de Compostela
Today will be the last day of your adventure! Santiago is awaiting you and lies just 26 km ahead.
This day will be the longest but also the most significant, so make sure to keep a positive mindset. The path will leave the town of Padrón and head up north to the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria la Mayor, which was the episcopal center, before being transferred to Santiago de Compostela. Soon, you will be arriving on the outskirts of Santiago. During the afternoon, feel free to explore Santiago and its old quarter. There is so much to see here! Make sure to check out all the religious buildings and the new museum of the Galician people, which is filled with things to see. Later, you can enjoy a fantastic meal while listening to the sound of the pipes!
Distance: 26km | Elevation Gain: +500m
Accommodations: Virxe de Cerca (Breakfast, Dinner)
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Depart Santiago de Compostela
It is time to say good-bye to this amazing destination and fabulous new friends. Transfer to the airport as needed for your journey home.
(Breakfast)
**Prices are subject to change and availability. Space is limited, and activities and specific hotels are subject to change. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
IMPORTANT DETAILS & PRICING
Pre-Booking Only
Pre-book now to hold your spot. As soon as we have full details and pricing, we will let you know. At that time, you can decide if you would like to confirm this tour. If you do book you will save $100 off the tour as a thank you for showing us your interest.
Activity Level
High Activity
This is a hiking tour. You will be walking between 16 and 26 km per day.
Minimum: 8 members
Maximum: 16 members
Exclusions
- International Airfare
- Visa and passport handling fees
- Meals not listed in itinerary
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Gratuities on personal purchases
- Optional Activities
- Expenses of a Personal Nature
- Gratuities
- Early check-in and late check-out of hotel
Tour Host
Women’s Travel Club tours are hosted tours. Your tour host is in addition to local tour guides. Your Women’s Travel Club tour host is your tour concierge and there to make sure every part of the tour runs smoothly. Our trained hosts are seasoned travelers who are with you every step of your tour so that you only have to worry about enjoying yourself and having fun.
The Women’s Travel Club Tour Host for this tour is TBA.
Flight Information
The Women’s Travel Club recommends booking flexible or refundable air tickets when possible.
Arrive to Porto, Portugal, – Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO) at any time on or before the first day of the tour.
Depart from Santiago de Compostela-Santiago-Rosalia de Castro Airport (SCQ) anytime on the last day of the tour.
If you would like assistance booking international flights for your tour, please use the form below. The Women’s Travel Club Flight Desk will work with you to arrange the best options.
Our flight management fee is CAD 100.00 + HST per tour.
Flight Quote
Travel Insurance:
Out-of-country medical insurance is required. We strongly recommend that you obtain cancellation and interruption insurance to protect your investment.
Use this link to request an insurance quote.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Mercearia da Vila
Mercearia da Vila presents itself as an excellent choice for those exploring Ponte de Lima. With a romantic ambiance and various amenities, it enhances your overall experience.
The rooms at Mercearia da Vila are equipped with a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, and a desk, ensuring a comfortable stay. Easy access to the internet is facilitated by complimentary WiFi.
Furthermore, Mercearia da Vila provides breakfast, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your visit to Ponte de Lima.
Casa da Capela
The Chapel House is an ancient residence whose origins have faded into the shadows of numerous bygone years. Its name is derived from popular tradition, likely linked to the proximity of the Nossa Senhora do Alívio Chapel.
Meticulously preserved during the restoration and adaptation processes, with a focus on accentuating details and honoring the ambient light within, the Chapel House has been converted into a comfortable and inviting tourist accommodation. It caters to those seeking an overnight stay or a few days of repose in our charming village. Through a modest architectural approach, utilizing local materials and construction methods, we’ve achieved a harmonious design that seamlessly blends the rooms, ensuring optimum comfort for our guests.
Parador de Tui
Located on the border between Galicia and Portugal, in the heart of Tui and adjacent to the banks of the Miño River, you’ll find the Parador de Tui. This establishment authentically replicates the architecture of a traditional Galician manor, nestled in a scenic landscape of mountains and rivers. It serves as an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking to harmonize their love for the outdoors with activities like canoeing. The hotel boasts refined lounges, comfortable rooms, a spacious garden with a swimming pool, and a tennis court, providing an all-encompassing experience for its guests.
Pazo Torres Argelo
Situated in the heart of the Ría de Vigo, where the historic Battle of Rande unfolded, the Pazo is perched atop a hillside offering panoramic views of the entire estuary and San Simón cove.
Its advantageous location, just 15 km from both Vigo and Pontevedra, 6 km from Vigo airport, and in close proximity to four golf courses, makes the Pazo an ideal retreat for relaxation and enjoyment of the surrounding area.
Parador Pontevedra
Situated in the historical heart of the splendid city of Pontevedra, the Parador de Pontevedra occupies a 16th-century Renaissance palace once belonging to the Counts of Maceda. Welcoming you at its entrance is an impressive carved stone staircase that guides you to the inviting rooms within. Adorned with antiques and valuable classic furniture, the building also features a charming garden, providing a serene space to stroll or relax while savoring excellent local wines.
Torre do Rio
Spread across 10,000 square meters, our haven is meticulously designed to offer a space for disconnecting and unwinding. Just over 1 km from Caldas, a renowned thermal village steeped in tradition, our team is fully prepared to indulge you. Surrender to the intimate atmosphere and allocate the time you deserve, a luxury often elusive in the hustle of daily life.
Torre do Rio, a refurbished 18th-century textile complex nestled along the meandering Umia river, embodies the essence of Galician style in the heart of nature. Every aspect seems meticulously crafted to allow you to savor the tranquility and magic of the surroundings.
Nestled in the privileged area of Salnés, our tower, boasting three centuries of history, is distinguished for both its thermal and gastronomic offerings. Caldas, situated less than 1 km away, and Cuntis, within 10 km, boast natural water spas. Additionally, exploring the Roman bridges and the breathtaking Umia river waterfall, just a stone’s throw from our facilities, is a must.
Torre do Rio also enjoys proximity to other captivating towns and villages along the Ría de Arousa, including Vilagarcía, Santiago de Compostela, Pontevedra, Vigo, Isla de Arosa, Cambados, Sanxenxo, and O Grove.
Pazo Lestrove
Guests can relish an unforgettable stay, where they have the opportunity to indulge in the finest Galician gastronomy at the restaurants. The experience extends to personalized celebrations or business meetings held in exclusive event spaces. Hotel Pazo de Lestrove is a symbol of tradition, history, and open spaces.
The iconic 16th-century building, once a recreational mansion for the archbishops of Compostela, stands on a walled expanse of 50,000 square meters, encompassing forests and gardens.
Virxe de Cerca
The Hotel Virxe da Cerca offers a combination of location, comfort, and elegant simplicity for its guests. Situated just 400 meters from the Cathedral and facing the Santiago Food Market, it provides an unexpected haven of peace. The hotel seamlessly merges two buildings, each with two centuries of history, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the authentic atmosphere of Santiago de Compostela.
Visitors are encouraged to let themselves be surprised by the interior of the hotel.
**Occasionally, due to situations beyond our control, specific hotels may change. Any accommodation changes will be to a similar hotel.
FAQ's
Through our own clients and networking clubs we have realized a general desire for women to travel but they don’t always have a companion. We developed the Women’s Travel Club for these women to have a fun and safe group to travel with. We offer a wide range of destinations, so that there is something for everyone.
We have women of all ages, with the average being 45 to 65 years. However, we do have regular travelers anywhere from 30 years to over 80 years of age.
We do not include international flights in the price of our tours. Not including the cost of international flights in the cost of the tour allows members the flexibility to get the flight schedule, price and class of service that best suits them. The Women's Travel Club flight desk will be happy to help arrange your international flights.
Yes, we always negotiate the best possible single supplement rate for our trips. Single spots fill quickly and may be limited so we suggest you book early for a single spot.
Yes, each of our booking forms has an area for you to request to be matched with a roommate. We get some general information that will help us match you with a great new friend.
Portugal is a Schengen area country. Canadian and US citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area for up to 90 days. However, travel requirements may change at any time. Please visit your governments travel recommendations page. Canada - Canada Travel Recommendations & Information USA - USA Travel Recommendations & Information
Spain's weather in September is generally warm and pleasant, with countrywide temperatures averaging around 77-82°F (25-28°C) during the day and dropping to around 68-72°F (20-22°C) at night.
Oct 17 - Oct 28, 2024 
