Portuguese Way: spiritual variant

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.

• How many days does it take to do the Portuguese Way?

  The Portuguese Camino de Santiago is one of the longest routes of the Camino de Santiago, with about 620 km generally divided into 27 stages. Therefore, divided like this, it takes 27 days to complete the Portuguese Camino de Santiago on foot. Each stage would be the distance you travel in one day, from the starting location to the end of the walk, where you will spend the night. The stages can vary in distance and difficulty, and it is important to note that they can be adjusted according to your pace and physical condition. Some pilgrims choose to divide certain long or difficult stages, or lengthen those that are shorter or easier to walk. It all depends on having a place to sleep.

• Where does the Portuguese Way begin?

  The Portuguese Camino de Santiago begins in the city of Lisbon, the capital of Portugal.

• What are the stages of the Portuguese Way?

  Throughout its approximately 620 kilometers, the Portuguese Way is divided into the following 27 stages:

  Lisboa - Alpriate (21,7 km)

  Alpriate - Vila Franca de Xira (18,8 km)

  Vila Franca de Xira - Azambuja (20 km)

  Azambuja - Santarém (33 km)

  Santarém - Golegã (30,7 km)

  Golegã - Tomar (31,3 km)

  Tomar - Alvaiázere (31,7 km)

  Alvaiázere - Alvorge (22,7 km)

  Alvorge - Cernache (26,1 km)

  Cernache - Coimbra (11,3 km)

  Coimbra - Sernadelo (24,8 km)

  Sernadelo - Águeda (23,5 km)

  Águeda - Albergaria-a-Velha (15,8 km)

  Albergaria-a-Velha - São João da Madeira (28,8 km)

  São João da Madeira - Grijó (19 km)

  Grijó - Oporto (15,1 km)

  Oporto - Vilarinho (26,5 km)

  Vilarinho - Barcelos (27,3 km)

  Barcelos - Ponte de Lima (34,5 km)

  Ponte de Lima - Rubiães (17,4 km)

  Rubiães - Tui (19,1 km)

  Tui - O Porriño (18,7 km)

  O Porriño - Arcade (23 km)

  Arcade - Pontevedra (12 km)

  Pontevedra - Caldas de Reis (21 km)

  Caldas de Reis - Padrón (18,6 km)

  Padrón - Santiago de Compostela (24,3 km)

  This division can be modified, depending on the preferences and possibilities of each person, always taking into account having a place to spend the night.

• 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.

• How difficult is the Portuguese Way?

  The Portuguese Way, although it is one of the longest routes, with 27 stages and 620 kilometers from Lisbon, is not considered very difficult. Of all of them, there are two stages considered difficult, due to their distance and relief: stage 20 between Ponte de Lima and Rubiães, and stage 19 between Barcelos - Ponte de Lima.

• What is the Spiritual Variant of the Portuguese Way?

  It is an alternative route of the Portuguese Way that combines land and sea through the Rías Baixas: about 106 km from Pontevedra via the Armenteira monastery and Vilanova de Arousa, with a boat crossing of the Ría de Arousa —the Traslatio— to Padrón, through vineyards and monasteries.

• Is it worth doing the Spiritual Variant of the Camino de Santiago?

  Yes, if you're looking for something different from the standard Portuguese Way: it's the only variant with a maritime stretch (the boat crossing of the Ría de Arousa), plus monasteries, Albariño vineyards and quieter Rías Baixas landscapes.

• Where does the Spiritual Variant begin?

  In Pontevedra, from where the route diverts from the standard Portuguese Way towards the Armenteira monastery and Vilanova de Arousa, the boarding point for the boat crossing to Padrón.

• What does the boat crossing (Traslatio) on the Spiritual Variant involve?

  It is a boat crossing of the Ría de Arousa from Vilanova de Arousa to Pontecesures or Padrón, symbolically recreating the sea transfer of the remains of the Apostle James. It is the only maritime stretch of the entire Camino de Santiago.

• Does the Spiritual Variant from Pontevedra qualify you for the Compostela?

  Yes. The Spiritual Variant covers about 106 km from Pontevedra to Santiago, above the minimum of 100 km on foot that the Pilgrim's Office requires to obtain the Compostela.