The Portuguese Way is the latest trend. Actually, it is the second busiest Camino after the French Way. One out of five pilgrims made it to Santiago through the Portuguese Way. It is an attractive Camino because it offers several variations, but there are two of them that stand out. Both depart from Porto but through much of their stages pilgrims walk different itineraries. Shortly after leaving the city of Porto, pilgrims can choose between the Coastal or the Central version of the Portuguese Way. But, which one is better to choose? It depends…
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The Portuguese Central Way
The Central Way runs far enough away from the Atlantic coast. After leaving Porto without a lot of unevenness, the road reaches after 400 meters of altitude, with steep climbs and descents. This Camino takes you through a landscape of small villages, with a large rural imprint. It crosses the rivers Lima and Miño , right after crossing the Miño you will leave Portugal behind and welcome Galicia. Along the way, you can visit historical villages as Barcelos or Ponte de Lima in Portugal and Tui, already in Galicia. In the Galician section, the Camino ascends constantly through eucalyptus forests and vineyards. In Redondela is where the two variants of the Portuguese Way converge.
Central Portuguese Way: Ponte de Lima – Portugal
The Portuguese Coastal Way
If you are an Atlantic ocean lover, then choose the Coastal version. A Camino that essentially follows the coast awaits you, although sometimes it goes away a couple of kilometers from the coast into the interior. In many cases, you have the opportunity to get out of the way and follow the beautiful littoral path. The stages are quite flat on the Portuguese stretch and also on the Galician coast to Baiona. The good thing is that during summer you can take a swim on the beach. Sea-flavored towns and beautiful villas, such as Viana do Castelo or Baiona, are waiting for you.
Portuguese Coastal Way: Pilgrim enjoying the ocean
Redondela: convergence point
From Redondela, both Caminos come together and ascend and descend constantly until you reach Santiago de Compostela. Vineyards, green landscapes and hundreds of villages will accompany you. Take your time to enjoy the beautiful city of Pontevedra and the literary town of Padrón.
