Caminho da Costa
In short: Caminho da Costa: from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. Length: around 270 km from Porto, duration: about 2 weeks. Best time: April to October.
Overview
From Porto the coastal route follows the Atlantic via Viana do Castelo and Caminha, where a short boat ride takes you across the border river Minho into Spain. It continues via Baiona and Vigo to Redondela, where it meets the main route.
Many sections run on wooden boardwalks. The route is flat and in summer much cooler than inland, though the wind off the sea can get strong.
If you would rather see the sea than forests, this is the best choice. It has become much more popular in recent years, so book ahead in summer.
Main stops: Porto, Vila do Conde, Esposende, Viana do Castelo, Caminha, A Guarda, Baiona, Vigo, Redondela.
North along the Atlantic
After Porto you walk for many kilometres on wooden boardwalks along the beaches. Viana do Castelo, with the Basilica of Santa Luzia on the hill, is the most beautiful town in the Portuguese part. In Caminha you cross the Minho in a small boat.
In Spain the route continues along the sea via Baiona to Vigo. After Vigo it moves into the hills and meets the main route in Redondela.
What to plan for
The ferry across the Minho doesn't run in all weather or at all hours. Check the times the day before. Sunscreen matters more here than inland, as there is hardly any shade on the boardwalks.
Planning your stages
How long you need depends on your daily distance. The table works this out for 270 kilometres, with one rest day a week.
| Per day | Walking days | With rest days |
|---|---|---|
| 15 km | 18 | 21 |
| 20 km | 14 | 16 |
| 25 km | 11 | 12 |
Who is this route for?
This route suits a first pilgrimage well. You need no mountain experience, normal basic fitness and broken-in shoes are enough.
What does the route cost?
With an albergue or simple guesthouse and one hot meal, 40 to 50 euros a day is usually enough. Over about 16 days that comes to roughly 650 to 800 euros, plus travel and gear. This is a guide figure.
You can find more routes under Pilgrimage routes in Europe, Pilgrimage in Portugal, sorted by religion under Christian pilgrimage routes.
Frequently asked questions
How long is Caminho da Costa?
around 270 km from Porto, about 2 weeks.
When is the best time to walk Caminho da Costa?
April to October.
Is Caminho da Costa suitable for beginners?
This route suits a first pilgrimage well. You need no mountain experience, normal basic fitness and broken-in shoes are enough.
What does Caminho da Costa cost?
Budget about 40 to 50 euros a day, so 650 to 800 euros for about 16 days, without travel and gear.
