Portuguese Way in short stages

Frequently Asked Questions

• How busy is the Portuguese Way?

  The Portuguese Way has become increasingly popular in recent years, positioning itself as the second most traveled route after the French Way. Although it does not reach the same level of traffic as the French route, it is still a busy option, especially from Porto or Tui. At these points, you will find a constant flow of pilgrims, especially during the high season (spring and summer). One of the reasons for its growing popularity is that it is an accessible route with less physically demanding stages. In addition, it offers excellent infrastructure for pilgrims, with numerous hostels, hotels and services at each stage.

• Which Camino is easier, the Portuguese or the French?

  If you are wondering which route is easier between the Portuguese Way and the French Way, the answer depends on several factors. However, in general, the Portuguese Way is considered more accessible for most pilgrims. The Portuguese Way has flatter and gentler terrain, especially on its most popular stretch from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. The stages are less demanding and the climate is more moderate, an ideal option for those looking for a less physically challenging route. On the other hand, the French Way, although more famous and with a highly developed infrastructure, presents stages with greater unevenness, especially in the first sections that cross the Pyrenees and some mountainous areas in the provinces of León and Galicia. Although it is an incredibly popular route full of history, the physical effort is greater, so it requires better physical preparation.

• What are the most beautiful stages of the Portuguese Way?

  Some stages of the Portuguese Way stand out for their natural beauty, historical richness and cultural significance. Below, I present a selection of the most beautiful stages of the Portuguese Way:

  • Tui - O Porriño

  The first stage in Galicia. You leave Tui, with its fortress cathedral and its views over the Miño River, and the Camino takes you through lush forests and riverside paths in the As Gándaras e río Louro natural area.

  • Pontevedra - Caldas de Reis

  One of the most beautiful stages of the Portuguese Way, this section combines the best of Galician nature. You will pass ancient stone bridges, green valleys and crystal clear rivers. Furthermore, upon arrival in Caldas de Reis you are rewarded with its natural hot springs, perfect for relaxing your muscles after a day of walking.

  • Valença do Minho - Tui

  Although this stage can be considered part of the border between Portugal and Spain, it offers spectacular views along the Miño River. Valença do Minho, with its impressive fortress, is a place of great beauty and historical value. Crossing the International Bridge to Tui is an experience that many pilgrims describe as magical.

  • Redondela - Pontevedra

  This stage takes you through lush eucalyptus forests and green fields, offering a charming contrast to the small villages you will find along the way. In addition, Pontevedra is one of the most beautiful cities in Galicia, with a well-preserved historic center and a vibrant cultural life.

  • Caldas de Reis - Padrón

  Known for its tranquility and natural beauty, this stage takes you through the greenest landscapes of the Portuguese Way. The journey between Caldas de Reis and Padrón is a delight for the senses, with numerous streams and old mills that line the road. Padrón is famous for being the place where, according to tradition, the boat that transported the remains of the Apostle Santiago arrived.

  • Padrón - Santiago de Compostela

  The last stage of the Camino Portugues is one of the most exciting and moving. As you approach Santiago de Compostela, the landscape becomes increasingly spectacular. The Galician hills accompany you throughout the journey, culminating in the majestic Cathedral of Santiago, where many pilgrims complete their trip with a mix of emotions. Among all of them, choosing the most beautiful stage can be subjective and very personal, since it depends on the tastes and preferences of each pilgrim. However, one of the most valued stages and that is frequently highlighted for its natural, scenic and historical beauty is the one that goes from Pontevedra to Caldas de Reis. Among the reasons why it is considered the most beautiful, we highlight:

  • Natural Landscapes: This stage crosses lush Galician forests, trails surrounded by vineyards and agricultural fields. The tranquility and greenery of the surroundings provide a comforting experience deeply connected to nature.
  • Medieval Rivers and Bridges: Along the way, pilgrims cross crystalline rivers on ancient stone bridges, such as the famous Lérez River Bridge, which adds a historical and picturesque touch to the journey.
  • Galician Villages: The route passes through small villages that preserve the traditional Galician essence, where pilgrims can enjoy the local hospitality and the rich gastronomy of the region.
  • Hot Springs in Caldas de Reis: The stage ends in Caldas de Reis, known for its natural hot springs, which have attracted visitors since Roman times. It is the perfect place to relax after a day of walking.

• Does the Portuguese Way from Tui entitle you to the Compostela?

  Yes. From Tui to Santiago it is between 115 and 119 km depending on how the stages are split (115 km in 5 stages, 118 km in 6 and 119 km in short stages), more than the 100 km minimum on foot that the Pilgrim's Office requires for the Compostela. Tui is the equivalent of Sarria on the Portuguese Way: the most popular starting point that meets the requirement.

• What can you do on the short stage from Caldas de Reis to Carracedo?

  It is only 6 km, so you have almost the whole day. We recommend the riverside walk to the Fervenza de Segade, a waterfall with natural pools next to the ruins of an old small power station. You can also finish exploring Caldas de Reis before heading up the Bermaña valley, among oak woods and stone crosses, to Santa Mariña de Carracedo.

• What is there to see in O Porriño on the Portuguese Way from Tui?

  O Porriño is the home town of the architect Antonio Palacios. Look out for its Town Hall, from 1924, the Red de San Luis bandstand, the Cristo fountain and the Farmacia Palacios, designed in 1912 for his brother. Along the way, from the A Ribeira woods, you will see the pink granite quarries that made the area famous, a granite exported as far as Japan or the United States.

• What is the Portuguese Way in short stages and who is it for?

  It is the same Portuguese Way from Tui to Santiago, but split into 11 stages over 119 km: none is longer than 15 km and several are between 6 and 9 km. It is ideal if it is your first time, if you prefer to walk at a relaxed pace or if you want time every afternoon to get to know each town calmly. It includes 12 nights' accommodation, the pilgrim credential, documentation and travel insurance.

• Are there any dangerous sections on the Portuguese Way from Tui?

  It is not dangerous, but some sections need care. Between Pontevedra and Caldas de Reis the Way runs alongside roads, with many junctions and level crossings. On reaching San Amaro you cross a rustic footbridge to a level crossing without barriers, and there is another one on the Padrón–Rúa de Francos stage. Take extra care at these points.

• What is the Castro Lupario you pass before reaching Santiago?

  It is the mythical place where, according to legend, Queen Lupa lived, who received and deceived the Apostle's disciples when they reached Galicia. It is near Rúa de Francos, the end of the penultimate stage of your Portuguese Way in short stages. That section has some small climbs at the end, but the day is short: 14 km from Padrón.

• What is the longest stage of the Portuguese Way in short stages?

  There are two of 15 km: O Porriño–Redondela and Rúa de Francos–Santiago. The first has the toughest climb of the day, up to the chapel of Santiaguiño in Mos, but rewards you with outstanding views of the Vigo estuary, the Cíes Islands, the island of San Simón and the Rande bridge. The other is the arrival at the Obradoiro, and the excitement makes it fly by. The shortest is Caldas de Reis–Carracedo, just 6 km.