Portuguese Camino: Discover the Historic Route from Portugal to Santiago

Frequently asked questions about The Portuguese Way

• How many kilometers is the Portuguese Way along the Coast?

  The total kilometers of the Portuguese Way along the Coast are about 270 km from Porto, its beginning. It must be taken into account that this distance may vary depending on the possible variants or complementary and alternative paths that the pilgrim decides to take during the route.

• 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 is the shortest route to do the Camino de Santiago?

  If you're looking for the shortest Camino de Santiago route entirely on the Iberian Peninsula, the answer is the English Way. This route starts in Ferrol and spans approximately 113 kilometers to the Santiago Cathedral. It’s ideal for those who want to complete a full route in just a few days, as it can be done in about 5 or 6 stages. Another short alternative is the Finisterre and Muxía Way, which starts in Santiago de Compostela and leads to the famous Cape of Finisterre. This route is about 90 kilometers long and can be completed in just 3 or 4 days. If you also head to Muxía, you would need to add another 30 kilometers, which can be done in one or two stages, making a total of around 120 kilometers. Another short route is the Spiritual Variant of the Portuguese Way, which is about 100 kilometers from Pontevedra. It can be completed in four stages, one of them by boat if you wish. However, this is not an official route and does not qualify you for the Compostela by itself. Nevertheless, you can always walk the last 100 kilometers of any official long route and still earn your Compostela.

• What is the hardest stage of the Camino de Santiago?

  Determining the hardest stage of the Camino de Santiago is complicated, as it’s subjective and highly personal. However, here are 10 of the most talked-about stages due to their physical difficulty, with their challenging sections and climbs. Many consider these to be among the toughest stages of the Camino de Santiago.

  • Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port – Lepoeder Pass (French Way)

  The stage between Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and Roncesvalles features the legendary Lepoeder Pass. Over a distance of about 20 km, you climb from 150 m to around 1,450 m. This official section, known as the "Napoleon Route," is a tough but beautiful stretch that has an alternative via Valcarlos, which is shorter and less strenuous. Any pilgrim walking this stage between November and March must take the Valcarlos route due to extreme weather conditions and snow. Fines are imposed for non-compliance.

  • Cizur Menor – Alto del Perdón (French Way)

  Continuing along the French route, the stage between Pamplona and Puente La Reina includes one of the most famous climbs among pilgrims: the ascent to Alto del Perdón. Between Cizur Menor and this iconic point, known for its famous Camino sculpture, there are about 8.5 km where you ascend roughly 300 m.

  • Hospital – O Cebreiro (French Way)

  For some, this is the most demanding stage and one of the hardest on the Way. The stage between Villafranca del Bierzo and O Cebreiro is considered the "Queen Stage," as it has the highest ascent on the French route. After covering around 20 km, the final challenge is a steep climb of about 600 m over 8 km.

  • Boente – Arzúa (French Way)

  To finish off the French Way, we can’t forget the infamous “leg-breaker,” the stage between Melide and Arzúa. This section of the last 100 km of the French route is a constant up-and-down, where the legs, ankles, and knees take a beating. Though the gradients aren’t too steep, the final 8 km can be tough, especially for those starting from Palas de Rei.

  • Codesal – Alto da Portela Grande de Labruja (Portuguese Way)

  While the Portuguese Way is relatively flat and accessible for any pilgrim, it does have a notable climb. On the stage between Ponte de Lima and Rubiães, walkers face the ascent to Alto de A Portela Grande in Labruja. Over 4.2 km, you climb about 300 m through forests and beautiful scenery on a short but demanding stage.

  • Combarro – Armenteira (Spiritual Variant of the Portuguese Way)

  Still on the Portuguese Way, but taking the Spiritual Variant in its first stage from Pontevedra to Armenteira, pilgrims face another tough climb. After reaching the beautiful seaside town of Combarro, known for its traditional granaries, you ascend about 400 m over 7 km.

  • Pola de Allande – Puerto del Palo (Primitive Way)

  On the Primitive Way, the stage between Pola de Allande and La Mesa includes a challenging climb. The stage starts with a gradual ascent, from 525 m to nearly 1,200 m at Puerto del Palo over 8.4 km.

  • Augapesada – Trasmonte (Finisterre and Muxía Way)

  On the Finisterre and Muxía Way, the first stage between Santiago de Compostela and Negreira features an interesting climb. Starting at Augapesada, pilgrims face a moderately tough ascent of about 200 m over 2 km. Midway through the climb, you can refresh yourself at a fountain before descending to Pontemaceira, a beautiful reward on the Way to Finisterre.

  • Vao – As Travesas (English Way)

  On the English Way from Ferrol, the stage between Betanzos and Hospital de Bruma includes a brief but steep ascent between Vao and As Travesas. In about 1.5 km, you climb roughly 125 m to reach the highest point of the last 100 km on this route.

  • Oseira – Villarero (Sanabrian Way)

  Lastly, on the Sanabrian Way, the stage between Cea and A Laxe-Lalín, within the last 100 km from Ourense, includes a notable climb. This is a longer variant of the 11th stage, offering a challenging ascent starting from the Oseira Monastery, well worth the effort to visit. After exploring the monastery, you face a climb of 180 m over 2 km.

• What are the hardest stages of the Portuguese Way?

  In all the routes and stages of the Camino de Santiago there is a lot of beauty, nature and heritage. Of course, all this, between dozens of kilometers, with sections and stages that are easier to travel and others that are more complicated. The latter are characterized, above all, by having large slopes and, sometimes, accumulating many kilometers of ascent. Below we want to inform you of the most commented stages and climbs due to their physical demands on the Portuguese Way. Some of them, for many, are part of the hardest stages of the Camino de Santiago.

  • Codesal – Alto da Portela Grande de Labruja

  If the Portuguese Way is quite flat and accessible for any pilgrim, it is not exempt from some climbs. In Portugal, on stage number 20 between Ponte de Lima and Rubiães, walkers face the Alto de A Portela Grande in Labruja. In 4.2 km of distance you climb about 300 m between forests and beautiful landscapes in a short stage but with a demanding challenge.

  • Barcelos - Ponte de Lima

  This is one of the longest stages (34.5 km) of the Camino Portugues and without a doubt one of the hardest. The section between Barcelos and Ponte de Lima is famous for its length and steep slopes, especially near Portela. The unevenness and length of the stage make this journey a real challenge, even for the most experienced pilgrims.

• 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

  This stage marks the entrance to Galicia from Portugal, crossing the Tui International Bridge. Here, the Camino takes you through lush forests and quiet country lanes. The city of Tui, with its cathedral fortress, offers spectacular panoramic views of the Miño River and is a perfect place to start this beautiful stage.

  • 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.

• Can I do any route in a group?

  The organized group options we offer are:

  • The French Way from Sarria to Santiago in 5 stages.
  • Depending on the season, other routes such as the Way to Finisterre in a group from Santiago or the Portuguese Way from Tui in a group.

  Contact us if you want to know more.

• What Camino is recommended for cycling?

  On the Camino de Santiago there are many routes to explore, and some are more suitable for cyclists than others. Generally, the French Way is one of the most popular options for cyclists, but there are also other routes very suitable for cycling, such as the Portuguese Way.

  Remember that, if you want to obtain the Compostela, you must cycle at least the last 200 km of an official route leading to Santiago de Compostela. We propose the following:

  • French Way from Ponferrada, León, Burgos, Pamplona, or Roncesvalles.
  • Portuguese Way from Porto, either via the Interior or the Coast.

  Our team can advise you and help you choose the best option according to your level of experience and preferences. This way, you can make the most of your cycling journey along the Camino de Santiago!

• Which routes are most suitable for doing with dogs?

  Our experience tells us that the most suitable routes are the French Way from Sarria and the Portuguese Way from Tui. Over the years, we've found that along these sections, dogs are welcomed as another pilgrim, treated with care, and you'll also find a good network of services available for them: dog-friendly accommodations, transportation, veterinarians, etc.

• How many kilometers is the Camino de Santiago?

  As you know, there is no single Camino de Santiago, but a huge network of pilgrimage routes over vast distances. Therefore each route of the Camino de Santiago has a different mileage. In the peninsula, the longest Camino de Santiago is the Via de la Plata with 960 km, followed by the Camino del Norte with 833 km. The French Way is 763 km long and the Primitive Way 316 km long. The shortest Camino de Santiago is the English Way, which covers a distance of 122 km. In the case of the Portuguese Way, we must distinguish between the two variants. The Central Portuguese Way has 682 km and the Portuguese Way along the Coast 265 km.