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Ireland: land of contrasts! Rough and spectacular at some points, idyllic and peaceful in other places. The Cliffs of Moher mark the beginning of your week along the green coast of Ireland. The walk along the coastline is one of the most spectacular trails in the world. Then things get more peaceful on the Aran Islands. The setting sun brings a dreamy atmosphere to this small village in the bay of Galway. From here you continue on the Great Western Way where you experience Ireland at its best. Boggy landscapes, green hills and the Fjord of Killary Harbour as final destination of your hiking week in Ireland.

Scotland’s oldest long distance hiking trail leads you into the raw world of the highlands. In olden times this was barren land, inhabited only by a few merchants and shepherds. Battles were fought here and robbers and gangs of thieves used the seclusion as a refuge. Today, this region is still largely untouched and is extremely varied. The paths scroll in seclusion along the shore of Loch Lomond, only to offer views of the surrounding peaks a few kilometres further on. The West Highland Way is one of the most popular hiking routes in Europe today and attracts travellers from all over the world.

Before you begin your Portuguese Coastal Way to Santiago, pay a visit to the 12thcentury Porto Cathedral and take time to explore the city. Transfer to Matosinhos and walk alongside the ocean towards the pretty old town of Vila do Conde, with a lace making tradition and strong naval history. The coastal towns of Povoa da Varzim, Esposende and Vila Praia de Ancora offer particularly fresh seafood. Viana do Castelo gives you the chance to explore its medieval history and detour to visit Santa Luzia basilica for magnificent views. Then weave your way through the Portuguese countryside and back to the Atlantic Portuguese coast near Caminha, just across the river from Spain.A scenic ferry ride takes you to A Guarda for a beautiful stretch of unspoiled coastline towards the attractive town of Baiona and its tapas bars. Between Vigo and Redondela, you’ll be able to see the Ria de Vigo lagoon, dotted with the Cies islands and floating mussel farms. Meet fellow pilgrims as you merge with the Portuguese Central Way of St. James in Redondela. Take time to enjoy Pontevedra’s charming historical center and relax in one of its attractive squares. More forests, fields, rivers, villages and valleys lie between here and the spa town of Caldas de Reis. Explore Padron, its peppers and its links to the St. James before the final journey to Santiago de Compostela.