Pilgrims' way from Porto to Santiago by bike

Day 1Arrival in Porto

Transfer from Porto airport to your hotel. There is no specific time; however, if you booked the option “Wine experiences” package, then you must arrive until 15h00.

Porto, a World Heritage City, has a historic centre with over 150 listed monuments. Hiking alongside the Douro River is sufficient to make you aware of what this beautiful, lively city has to offer visitors: the Bolsa Palace housing the Stock Exchange, the monumental Clérigos church and tower and the Cathedral are just some of the highlights

Day 2Porto – Barcelos | 69 km

The stage start on quiet cycle path along the cost, through a sea bird reserve, along dunes and across fishing villages, before inland and following the medieval Portuguese route to Santiago. Whether you are religious or not, following the medieval Portuguese route to Santiago de Compostela is a special experience. Barcelos, on the River Cavado, is known for its pottery industry, and is also of religious importance. You should visit the 13th century Mother Church. Every hour on the hour, you will hear the pealing of the church bells of the many parishes for which the city is famous.

Day 3Barcelos – Ponte de Lima | 34 km

The second stage of this itinerary is relatively short and takes in Ponte de Lima, Portugal’s oldest village, famous for its Roman arch bridge. Your host for the night will give you a warm welcome, and the next day, at breakfast, you’ll spread the best honey on your toast.
Today, this is the original Camino de Compostela. So you may have to walk alongside the bike in places.

Day 4Ponte de Lima – Valença | 35 km

Leaving Ponte de Lima, you will enter a magical landscape of mountains, forest and valleys. A land of flowers and silence. Valença, the fortified town you will spend the night in, rises from the banks of the River Minho, on the Spanish border. An awe-inspiring location, partly due to the 17th century double-moated fortifications that surround it, it offers breath-taking views over the River Minho and the cathedral town of Tui, in Spain.

Day 5Valença – Pontevedra | 54 km

After crossing the border to Spain over the bridge built by Eiffel in 1885, you will cycle northwards along the valley of the River Louro, through thick pine forests and enjoy the magical landscapes of the valleys of Galicia. At Redondela, as you cycle further north towards Vilaboa, you will have captivating views of an Atlantic waterway where the ocean streams inland. You are back to the land of fishermen. Pontevedra, picturesquely located on the River Lerez, deserves some time spent in the well-preserved ancient city centre. Be sure to visit the farmers’ market and buy some of the delicious local cheese for tomorrow.

Day 6Pontevedra – Padrón | 40 km

Today you leave the Atlantic Ocean, travelling inland through majestic forests and across the picturesque Valley of the River Gandra to Caldas de Reis, a nice little town and a welcoming place for a coffee or lunch stop. The approximately 15 kilometres ride to Padrón takes you past the church of Santa Maria de Carracedo, again through a fascinating landscape, gently cycling with views of the banks of the River Valga. Legend has it that Saint James often preached in the mountains above Padrón, at a place called Santiaguino del Monte. Another legend is that the saint, striking a rock with his staff, released a spring of fresh water that still flows to this day.

Day 7Padrón – Santiago de Compostela | 25 km

The last stage is a little exciting for most people, as today you will indeed reach Santiago de Compostela. As you arrive in Compostela, you will sense the thrill in the air that all pilgrims feel as they approach the medieval sanctuary to Saint James. Clearly, that this is one of Christianity’s greatest holy cities, a beautiful destination for so many people throughout the ages. By all means, do visit the cathedral. It is a place of history, devotion and hope. A lovely town in which to end your biking journey.

Day 8Transfer from Santiago to Porto

Shared transfer at 11h00 from the hotel in Santiago de Compostela to Porto Airport.

The little extra with RandoVélo

• “Wine experiences” package featuring 2 wine tastings and visits including :

. 1 wine tasting on the arrival day at Porto*
. 1 wine tasting in a local wine estate – in Ponte de Lima
*this is only available for clients arriving soon this day, because the last possible visit to the cellars is at 17h45 – subject to availability.

• Special Wine & Dine package with 2 dinners – Barcelos & Santiago de Compostela – including :

. 1 Dinner in a typical Portuguese restaurant with traditional food & wine – in Barcelos
. 1 Special dinner at a typical Spanish restaurant, three courses menu & wines – in Santiago de Compostela