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Route:
Technical Characteristics:
Route Profile: Medium. Ideal for walkers who are fit enough to manage more hills and longer distances. Multi-day walks at this grade demand a degree of stamina and may involve an occasional steep climb.
Total Distance: 92.7 km
Travel Season: Departures March 1 – October 31, 2023
Accommodation:
Mix of charming guest houses, 3* and 4* hotels with private facilities.
We have designed this walking and cycling tour to help you explore the highlights of both coastal and inland Minho region. Few visitors get to fully appreciate this beautiful green landscape and the deeply ingrained and fascinating culture of the Costa Verde. The Flavours of the Camino and Costa Verde walking tour begins in the charming riverside town of Ponte de Lima and ends in the fascinating coastal city of Viana do Castelo. Be sure to arrive in enough time to roam its medieval center and make the journey to the hilltop basilica and Celtic settlement of Santa Luzia. Crossing the old Roman bridge of Ponte de Lima, you will follow in the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims in the direction of the holy city of Santiago de Compostela as you walk part of the ancient Way of Saint James. As well as glorious countryside, you’ll see plenty of shrines, chapels, ancient bridges and carved stone crosses. Once you reach the northern border of Portugal at the fortress town of Valenca do Minho, it’s time to head west. Follow the River Minho towards the coast, passing riverside towns such as Vila Nova de Cerveira to reach delightful Caminha. Enjoy the outstanding natural beauty of white sandy beaches and the colourful activity of small fishing towns as you make your way south along the Green Coasta coast to Viana do Castelo. Of course, you’ll have ample opportunity to taste crisp local wines and the freshest grilled fish and seafood throughout your journey.
Itineraries
Day 1
Arrival Ponte de Lima
Make your way to the pretty town of Ponte de Lima and check into your comfortable modern hotel. Meet a member of our team at your hotel reception and receive a full briefing so you’re all set for tomorrow. Use the rest of the day to enjoy Ponte de Lima’s atmospheric squares and restaurants. The small medieval center holds treasures such as a gothic parish church and fortified prison tower.
Day 2
Ponte de Lima – Cossourado 22 km + 562 m
Join the pilgrims as they make their way north along one of the most beautiful sections of the Portuguese Camino. The spectacular views from Labruja Mountain justify the challenge of walking uphill.
Day 3
Cossourado - Valença do Minho 12.8 km + 120 m
Today’s walk is easier and brings you to the fortress town of Valenca with time to explore the ramparts and squares in the historical center or even venture across the river into the Spanish town of Tui.
Day 4
Valença - Vila Nova de Cerveira 15.8 km + 107 m
Head down to the River Minho this morning and follow the boardwalk and country lanes all the way to the pretty little town of Vila Nova de Cerveria. See how many works of art you can spot dotted around the town center or simply relax with a tasty meal and a glass of vinho verde (Portuguese green wine).
Day 5
Vila Nova de Cerveira to Vila Praia de Âncora 22.7 km + 173 m
A walk through the sculpture filled park takes you out of Vila Nova de Cerveira, beside the tranquil waters of the River Minho. Head inland to walk through a village before returning to the waterfront as you approach the estuary. Cross the wetlands into the historical center of pretty Caminha. See bobbing fishing boats and neighbouring mountains as you walk along the river to the pine forest at the very tip of Portugal. Emerge at the wide sandy beach of Moledo then follow the coastal trail to the fishing town of Vila Praia de Ancora.
Day 6
Vila Praia de Âncora - Viana do Castelo 19.4 km + 132 m
Cross the sand dunes by the boardwalk to yet another ancient fortress. Today’s trail weaves between stunning stretches of coastline, attractive countryside and small villages to bring you back to the delights of Viana do Castelo.
Day 7
Free day in Viana do Castelo
You’ll have plenty of time to see what the city has to offer, such as the restored Gil Eannes hospital ship, the colourful Costume Museum, Decorative Arts Museum and the medieval architecture in Praca da Republica and surrounding streets. Try a freshly baked custard doughnut while you are here.
Day 8
Departure
End of our services. However, we recommend staying at least on more night in this attractive town before embarking on your onward journey.
Prices
Included:
- 7 nights of accommodation with breakfast
- Dinner on day 2
- Detailed route notes
- App with trail information for use on a smartphone
- Luggage transfer between accommodations from days 2 to 6 (1 bag per person – maximum 15 kg/bag)
- 24-hour emergency contact number (English-speaking)
Not Included:
- Meals except breakfast at the accommodation
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- All items not mentioned in “included”
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