THE CENTENNIAL WAY TO SANTIAGO

Our Guide will welcome you at Porto Airport and drive to Ponte de Lima, a medieval town in where you might discover old streets, ramparts and squares. Ponte de Lima by the river with same name was from roman time the only way up to the north, tomorrow will be your way to. Today take your time and enjoy!

The day starts from the doorstep of your lodging and goes towards north by the old roman bridge. You must know that these are the first steps of all Pilgrims since roman times, you wont just walk but be part of the history. The way goes up to the highest point of the entire hiking program, cross the beautiful countryside of northern Portugal and delight your eyes with land- scape plans. Away from the big roads and thru little way you’ll get to Rubiães your first night stop.

After a great breakfast, you start up to the sanctuary of Rubiães a romanic arquitectonic site. Take a deep breath and from there the way will drop to- wards Valença do Minho, the day is shorter and easier than yesterday. From wooden areas to agricultural field, from surfaced to dirt tracks the scenery varies a lot and will offer you a gorgeous way to the border town of Valença do Minho. There is the last Portuguese fortress, from XVIII century, make sure you will explore the old town.

The challenge for today goes towards Redondela still the Saint James path, part following close to the national road. Up to the hill the hiking will be rewarding because at 250 meter high you can see the horizon, feel the wind and take some great photos over Redondela and Ria de Vigo. Until the town you way goes down the where you have opportunity to pass in some rural vilages full of streams and local spirit. You will sleep in the town, but before enjoy the monuments in the center or have a beer while the sun goes down.

Your adventure starts in the beautiful town of Redondela and will be just gorgeous until the end. Imagining from the ocean like fjord scenery, step inland in kilometers of wooden forested area and enter in old roman little villages. Al of this following the camino spirit and atmosphere where people are friendly and hospitable. Passing Arcade village and going up the small hill soon you arrive in Pontevedra, a wonderful town full of history and supeb Esplanades to a have a delicious meal.

After your breakfast feeling full energized you will start one of the longest day. The experience goes through old railways, rural paths and wetlands. Place of hundreds of species and biodiversity, you will be surrounded by some of the most beautiful and natural landscapes. Perfect to explore with all of your senses step by step you get closer to Caldas dos Reis, the final destination of the day. A few kilometers from Caldas de Reis there is the waterfall and the watermills system of Barrosa river, take a look before check in your hotel.

Your eighth day begins with nice walk along agriculture fields, in this fertile land with thermal waters. Toward Valga the path goes into a very scenic scenery by the river and dark forest. Out of this forest and along little roads you reach Pontecesures a place full of religious architecture. Crossing the river reach Padrón your last stop before Santiago de Compostela, this town is has beautiful gardens and monuments all around. Look for typical food and delight with great dinner.

Today is your last day of adventure! Santiago awaits you just 24km ahead. The day to reach Santiago de Compostela is probably the longest one, not about the kilometers but mindset. The path leaves the town of Padrón go- ing up north to the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria la Mayor, episcopal center before its transfer to Santiago de Compostela. Soon you reach the outskirts of Santiago. On the afternoon feel free to explore Santiago, the old quarter and the rest there is a lot to see.

Welcome to Santiago de Compostela! Today is dedicated to walk along the old town center. If you want to stamp your pilgrim passport is also the best time to do it and find the certificate. Santiago is well worth of a day, from the old part and the related religious buildings to the newly museum of the Galician people. Have some time to enjoy a good meal to the sound of the pipes.

Time to say goodbye! Our Guide will pick you up at Hotel according your schedule time. Take the best memories with you …TRANSFER TO PORTO | 2h30