Portuguese Coastal Camino - Viana do Castelo to Santiago

Make your own way to Viana do Castelo and check in to the first hotel. Viana do Castelo is a beautiful city located in the Minho region in North Portugal. With an appealing medieval centre, the 5th Century Cathedral and the Basilica of Santa Lucia, and beaches just outside the city there is plenty to see this afternoon.

The walk today is gentle as you continue along the coast, surrounded by lush vegetation and golden beaches. Your destination for today is the small but charming town of Praia de Ancora. This afternoon you can take the opportunity to swim in the Atlantic ocean. Overnight Praia de Ancora. Distance 19km/11.8mi, ascent/descent approx +-20m/65ft

Leaving Vila Praia de Ancora you'll continue to the beach at Moledo. You then leave the coast slightly, walking through forest and back to a boardwalk before reaching Caminha, the last town before crossing into Spain - which you do by ferry. Continue on foot either inland or along the coast until you reach A Guarda, today's destination. Distance 15km/9.3mi, ascent/descent approx +-40m/131ft Ferry tickets to be purchased locally, allow approx EUR6 per person, takes 10 minutes to cross, hourly departures in the main season.

A more undulating stage, meandering along the coast between the ocean and O'Rosal's prized vineyards. Leaving A Guardia the trail takes you around the peninsula, with opportunities to stop for a coffee or lunch and enjoy the scenery before continuing to the lovely small village of Oia with its Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Oia, a former Cistercian monastery. Overnight in Oia or further along the way in Viladesuso, dependent on availability. Distance 13km/8mi or 18km/11.3mi, ascent/descent approx +-80m/263ft

The walk today is a feast for the senses. For the first 10km the route takes you along a coastal footpath away from the main road. You then continue along picturesque coastline, walking along the boardwalk, all while enjoying stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. On a clear day you should be able to see the Cies islands, which belong to the Atlantic Islands National Maritime and Terrestrial Park. Overnight in Baiona. Distance 18km/11.3mi or 13km/8mi, ascent/descent approx +-45m/148ft

From Baiona you will walk alongside sandy beaches for most of the day, with plenty of opportunities to take a break at a seaside cafe along the way. It's a long stage with some slopes. Pass the Roman Villa of Toralla in the neighbourhood of Oia, and continue to the historic centre of Vigo, located near the mouth of the nearby Vigo Estuary and sheltered by the Cíes Islands. Overnight in Vigo. We recommend exploring the narrow streets to discover historical buildings of the old town. Distance 26km/16.3mi, ascent/descent approx +-60m/197ft

The route as you leave Vigo is mainly uphill and will reward you with spectacular views of the city and harbour. Continue to Redondela, where you will join the main Portuguese Camino route, and on to Arcade. Overnight Arcade. Distance 23km/14.4mi, ascent/descent approx +-140m/460ft