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.

Meals:  Nil

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

Meals:  B,D

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.

Meals:  B,D

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

Meals:  B,D

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

Meals:  B,D

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

Meals:  B,D

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

Meals:  B,D

You start the day by walking over the beautiful old bridge at Ponte Sampaio. From here there’s a steep uphill stretch following ancient stone paths before the path descends to the provincial capital of Pontevedra. There are some interesting sites to be explored in Pontevedra including the Santuario da Peregrin chapel and the Convento de San Francisco. The Medieval town centre is a maze of cobbled laneways with tapas bars and cafes. Overnight in Pontevedra. Distance 12km/7.5mi, ascent/descent approx +-140m/460ft

Meals:  B,D

Most of today's stage is through woodland and countryside along gentle river valleys, allowing you to enjoy the serenity of the Galician rural landscapes. Closer to Caldas de Reis the route crosses the N550 and follows this road for short sections. Located between the Umia and Bermana rivers, the town of Caldas developed as a result of its thermal waters and continues to be a major health spa. The botanical gardens next to the river are lovely for some respite from the walk. Overnight in Caldas de Reis. Option to upgrade to a comfortable 4 star inn with pool or 3 star rural inn - supplement applies and must be requested when initially booking the trip. Note transfers are required for the rural inn option - additional cost applies. Distance 21km/13.2mi, ascent/descent approx +-120m/394ft

Meals:  B,D

This is a beautiful walk, first through the Bermana river valley then the path drops down into the Valga valley. You'll pass through fields, forests and small villages, and there are two short stages of main road: leaving Caldas and entering Padron. Padron town is lovely, set on the banks of the Sar and Ulla rivers. The "Pedron" stone (a St James relic) is under the altar at Igrexa de Santiago (church). Overnight in Padron. Distance 19km/12mi, ascent/descent approx +-130m/427ft

Meals:  B,D

The final day takes you on a gradual climb through pine, oak and eucalyptus woods, then approaching Santiago the route follows some sections of main road. Highlights include the Colegiata de Iria Flavia, which was the first cathedral in Galicia, and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Escravitude along the way. Arrive in the historic city of Santiago. Overnight in Santiago. 25km/15.6mi, ascent approx +220m/722ft

Meals:  B

Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast. If you'd like to stay an extra night in Santiago please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B