This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable cycling adventure from Porto to Santiago on the Portuguese Coastal Camino. This self-guided tour takes you through the stunning landscapes of Portugal and Spain, offering a unique blend of cultural exploration and physical challenge. Cycle along the Atlantic coast, through charming fishing villages, and across scenic estuaries, all while following the historic Camino route. Enjoy the tranquility of a quieter pilgrimage path, culminating in the awe-inspiring arrival at Santiago de Compostela, home to its iconic cathedral. With mountain bike rental, luggage transfer, and comfortable accommodations in 3-4 star hotels and farmhouse B&Bs, this tour ensures a seamless experience. Delight in local cuisine with included breakfasts and dinners, and navigate with ease using a digital information pack. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or seeking a new adventure, this journey promises breathtaking views and enriching experiences. ...more ...less
Highlights
Cycling from Portugal into Spain
Exploring towns and villages along the ocean's and estuaries' shores
Arriving into Santiago with its historic cathedral and impressive architecture
Enjoying a quieter pilgrimage route
Cycling through the historic town of Viana do Castelo
Passing through the fishing village of Praia de Ancora
Pedaling through chestnut groves, pine, and eucalyptus forests
Reaching the charming old town of Santiago de Compostela
Set on the banks of the Douro River, Porto’s historical centre was declared a World Heritage site in 1996 and in the 12th Century it was in Porto that the country took its name and became an independent nation. Its maritime legacies and importance as a New World trading port have shaped its rich heritage. After checking in to your hotel, take the time to explore the city with its many cultural sites including the impressive cathedral and port wine lodges. Overnight in Porto. ...more ...less
Day 2
:
Cycle to Esposende (52-62km/32.5-39mi)
Location: Porto, Esposende
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning you go to the bike shop to collect your bike.There are two Coastal Camino routes from Porto, la Costa (original route, approx 3km inland) and Senda Litoral (which follows the coast). On the original route, after leaving Porto you will cycle along quiet country roads, passing a mixture of churches and historic sites. You will continue to head north along the coast crossing the Coastal Natural Park and the Cavado river in the direction to Esposende, an old fishing village located on the estuary of the River Cavado. On the Senda Litoral, you'll cycle through fishing villages and towns, and alongside promenades lined with bars and forests, with great views of the Atlantic Ocean.Ascent/descent: +438m/-520m If you prefer to spend more time in Porto today and/or avoid the largely urban cycle to Esposende, it is possible to have an afternoon transfer from Porto to Esposende. An additional cost applies and needs to be pre-booked (speak to our staff for details, including price). In this case the bikes (of similar models to those shown) will be available at the accommodation in Esposende and you do not meet the bike technician. You will still qualify for a Compostela Certificate on arrival into Santiago as you will have ridden just over 200km from Esposende to Santiago, which is the minimum requirement for cyclists.
Day 3
:
Continue along the coast to Praia de Ancora (40km/25mi)
Location: Viana do Castelo, Praia de Ancora
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Continue cycling along the Atlantic coastline today passing through the villages of Marinhas, Belinho, Neiva and Darque until you reach the historic town of Viana do Castelo. Later you will pass farms before continuing to the fishing village of Praia de Ancora.Ascent/descent: +477m/-509m
Day 4
:
Short cycle, then ferry at Caminha in Spain, continue by bike to Baiona (48km/30mi)
Location: Caminha, Baiona
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning a short 10km cycle along the coast will bring you to the ferry terminal. From here you take the ferry at Caminha in Spain, across the river Miño. The cost of the ferry is not included (around EUR6 + bike extra). Continue by bike to Baiona.Ascent/descent: +477m/-509m
Day 5
:
Join the traditional Camino and cycle to Pontevedra (66km/41.3mi)
Location: O Porriño, Arcade, Pontevedra
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you will join the traditional Camino. It is the toughest day of the trip. You cycle towards O Porriño, and then later in the day a short climb leads up to the chapel of Santiaguiño de Antas. Continue through pine forests en route to the fishing village of Arcade. Enjoy stunning views over the Bay of Vigo as you pedal towards the historic city of Pontevedra, where you stay tonight. In Pontevedra there are some interesting sites to be explored including the Santuario da Peregrin chapel and the Convento de San Francisco. Its medieval town centre is a maze of cobbled laneways with tapas bars and cafes.Ascent/descent: +1018m/-1009m
Day 6
:
To Padron (40km/25mi)
Location: Padron
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you will pedal through chestnut groves, pine and eucalyptus forest. You will pass through the hamlet of Tivo and the village of Caldas de Reis, before crossing the River Umia and gradually climbing to the village of Santa Marina. Your destination for today is Padron, where the body of Saint James is said to have first landed, when it was brought to Santiago.Ascent/descent: +463m/-487m
Day 7
:
On to Santiago (26km/16mi)
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation:
Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The final day takes you again through pine, oak and eucalyptus wood before climbing up to reach Santiago. You will pass a number of small villages en route, before spotting the spires of Santiago’s Cathedral in the distance. If you time your arrival well you will be able to attend the midday Pilgrim’s Mass in Santiago, a very special experience. This afternoon you are free to discover the many interesting sites of Santiago’s charming old town at leisure.Ascent/descent: +436m/-193m
Day 8
:
Trip concludes Santiago de Compostela
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast
Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast.
Not what you're looking for?
People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:
GRADE 3 - with daily cycling distances from 24 to 66km / 15 to 41mi over diverse terrain – from relatively flat to hilly. There will be some dirt roads as well as the occasional rocky path used during this tour. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. It is considered suitable for cyclists with a good to high level of fitness and some technical skills (for the Baiona-Pontevedra stage). Minor roads with reduced traffic are customary on this trip and we recommend that you familiarise yourself with road cycling in light traffic in order to participate. *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list. CYCLING THE CAMINO - All Camino cycling routes have some demanding parts requiring some technical skills and physical preparation. Some have signposted detours for cyclists but in the main cyclists continue along the Camino, having to get off bikes to avoid obstacles and walkers. The Portuguese 'Central' route is more demanding than the Portuguese Coastal route and in Spain - mainly due to signposting (it's not as well prepared for cyclists as in Spain) and the terrain is more marked.
During the cycle day you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone and water. A small daypack which can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.
Mode of Transport
Travel includes mountain bike rental with helmet, handlebar bag, panniers, water bottle, repair kit, lock, and pump. Luggage transfer is provided, and a ferry ride on day 3 is included.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights in a combination of 3-4 star hotels and farmhouse B&Bs on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities.
Check out our Q&As
What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 7 nights in a combination of 3-4 star hotels and farmhouse B&Bs on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities.
What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour includes 7 breakfasts and 5 dinners. Breakfasts are usually continental, including breads, cheese, ham, tea, coffee, and juices. Dinners consist of 3 courses, typically starting with a salad, followed by a chicken, red meat, fish, or pasta dish, and finishing with a dessert of fruit or cakes.
...more ...less
Is luggage transfer provided during the cycling tour?
Yes, luggage transfer is provided with a maximum of 1 piece weighing up to 20kg. A supplement applies for excess luggage.
What cycling equipment is included in the tour?
The tour includes mountain bike rental with a helmet, handlebar bag, panniers, water bottle, repair kit, lock, and pump. Bike options such as trekking bikes, premium MTB, electric MTB, or e-trekking bikes are available on request for a supplement.
Is there a guide provided during the cycling tour?
No, this is a self-guided cycling holiday, so a guide is not included.
What should I carry during the cycling day?
During the cycling day, you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone, and water. A small daypack that can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.
What is the difficulty level of the cycling tour?
The tour is graded as level 3, with daily cycling distances ranging from 24 to 66km over diverse terrain, including relatively flat to hilly areas. It is suitable for cyclists with a good to high level of fitness and some technical skills, especially for the Baiona-Pontevedra stage.
Are there any specific recommendations for cycling the Camino route?
All Camino cycling routes have some demanding parts requiring technical skills and physical preparation. Some routes have signposted detours for cyclists, but cyclists mainly continue along the Camino, sometimes needing to get off bikes to avoid obstacles and walkers. The Portuguese 'Central' route is more demanding than the Portuguese Coastal route, particularly in Spain, due to signposting and terrain.
How fit do I have to be?
Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.
What happens if something goes wrong?
On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.
I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?
Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.
show more
Reviews from travellers on this tour
Robin W.(Shoreham-by-Sea, UK)
Portuguese Coastal Camino Cycle - Porto to Santiago
6 Jan 2023
Good information provided and hotels perfect with bike storage. Good bikes provided. GPX file available for the route. We thoroughly enjoyed this trip (Sept 2022).
L. Vickers(New Plymouth, Australia)
Portuguese Coastal Camino Cycle - Porto to Santiago
6 Jun 2023
A very enjoyable trip. The bike shop people, where we picked up our bikes were excellent. One day our bags arrived late otherwise everything went like clockwork.
Debbie Forbush(Saint George)
Portuguese Coastal Camino Cycle - Porto to Santiago
20 Oct 2021
We loved the trip. Accommodations were good. Bikes were excellent. Trail in Portugal not well marked and difficult. Trail in Spain very well marked and enjoyable. Scenery along the coast of Portugal and Spain breathtaking.
N. Hargas(Chestermere, Canada)
Portuguese Coastal Camino Cycle - Porto to Santiago
10 Oct 2023
The hotels, bike rentals, and information we received made the trip smooth and easy to navigate.
A. Teasdale(Exeter, United Kingdom)
Portuguese Coastal Camino Cycle - Porto to Santiago
10 Oct 2024
Great ride but not easy! Cobbles in Portugal quite hard going and weaving around walkers tricky on some trails. Lovely accommodation and great meals.
R. Nicholson(Saint George, United States)
Portuguese Coastal Camino Cycle - Porto to Santiago
16 Oct 2024
Cycling the Portuguese Camino was a grand adventure. We had two plus days of rain out of the six days but was still very enjoyable.
R. Matheson(Vernon, Canada)
Portuguese Coastal Camino Cycle - Porto to Santiago
23 Oct 2024
Overall, a great adventure. Luggage transfer was flawless. Breakfast was good as well. Accommodation provided was fine with the only issue being wet gear and no service to clean or dry. Outside facilities were limited and often involved at least a few hours waiting to use the washer/dryer. Not the best when you have been soaked for days. Porto bike rental was outstanding. Took the time to show me the use of all aspects of the e-bike as I had never used one for my training for the Camino. Portuguese marking of the route needs to be upgraded; substandard and easy to get off track. I believe the Littoral route is easy for walkers to follow and wooden platforms and paths are well designed for walkers. I had to carry my bike up stairs. The Coastal route needs signage in a big way. Google maps is helpful, but often takes a route that is not marked or may take you in a meandering way. Washed out areas and a tree or two that fell on the route were minor obstacles. Galicia, Spain was much better marked by the famous clamshell. The ferry from Portugal to Spain is not working, so some travellers were somewhat panicked as booking online was going nowhere. This has nothing to do with them but the water taxi in a speedboat in the fog to a vacant beach with no one around is a memory I will always remember! Roads and paths into Santiago well laid out and marked. The directions to the office for certification were spot on. The Vigo to Pontevedra section is challenging; some sections you have to walk your bike up as the rocks are too big to navigate and washed out the gravel and dirt. Not a problem but requires significant effort. I am 69 and fit and enjoyed the social aspect of chatting with those along the way.
...more ...less
A. Iny(Ottawa, Canada)
Portuguese Coastal Camino Cycle - Porto to Santiago
13 Sep 2022
Interesting way to do the Camino, by bike. The hotels were nice and clean and the food was generally pretty good. It was well organized.
A. Sayer(Hawera, Australia)
Portuguese Coastal Camino Cycle - Porto to Santiago
25 Sep 2024
Portuguese Way with UTracks is a great way to cycle this part of the Camino. High quality e-bike, panniers with lots of space, great accommodation.
Eliane Markowitz(Rishon LeZion, Israel)
Portuguese Coastal Camino Cycle - Porto to Santiago
27 Jun 2024
Great experience. The trip could be planned better in terms of dividing the daily biking better. Besides the accommodations were very nice. The luggage always arrived on time. Great time.
UTracks requires a minimum deposit of
250 GBPper person
or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Portuguese Coastal Camino Cycle - Porto to Santiago
8 Days Starting in Porto, Portugal and ending in Santiago de Compostela, Spain
Visiting:
Porto, Esposende, Viana do Castelo, Praia de Ancora, Caminha, Baiona, O Porriño, Arcade, Pontevedra, Padron, Santiago de Compostela
...more ...less
[{"title":"Day 1: Arrive Porto","name":"Porto","description":"Set on the banks of the Douro River, Porto’s historical centre was declared a World Heritage site in 1996 and in the 12th Century it was in Porto that the country took its name and became an independent nation. Its maritime legacies and importance as a New World trading port have shaped its rich heritage. After checking in to your hotel, take the time to explore the city with its many cultural sites including the impressive cathedral and port wine lodges. Overnight in Porto.","lat":"41.157944","lng":"-8.629105"},{"title":"Day 2: Cycle to Esposende (52-62km/32.5-39mi)","name":"Porto","description":"This morning you go to the bike shop to collect your bike.There are two Coastal Camino routes from Porto, la Costa (original route, approx 3km inland) and Senda Litoral (which follows the coast). On the original route, after leaving Porto you will cycle along quiet country roads, passing a mixture of churches and historic sites. You will continue to head north along the coast crossing the Coastal Natural Park and the Cavado river in the direction to Esposende, an old fishing village located on the estuary of the River Cavado. On the Senda Litoral, you'll cycle through fishing villages and towns, and alongside promenades lined with bars and forests, with great views of the Atlantic Ocean.Ascent/descent: +438m/-520m If you prefer to spend more time in Porto today and/or avoid the largely urban cycle to Esposende, it is possible to have an afternoon transfer from Porto to Esposende. An additional cost applies and needs to be pre-booked (speak to our staff for details, including price). In this case the bikes (of similar models to those shown) will be available at the accommodation in Esposende and you do not meet the bike technician. You will still qualify for a Compostela Certificate on arrival into Santiago as you will have ridden just over 200km from Esposende to Santiago, which is the minimum requirement for cyclists.","lat":"41.157944","lng":"-8.629105"},{"title":"Day 2: Cycle to Esposende (52-62km/32.5-39mi)","name":"Esposende","description":"This morning you go to the bike shop to collect your bike.There are two Coastal Camino routes from Porto, la Costa (original route, approx 3km inland) and Senda Litoral (which follows the coast). On the original route, after leaving Porto you will cycle along quiet country roads, passing a mixture of churches and historic sites. You will continue to head north along the coast crossing the Coastal Natural Park and the Cavado river in the direction to Esposende, an old fishing village located on the estuary of the River Cavado. On the Senda Litoral, you'll cycle through fishing villages and towns, and alongside promenades lined with bars and forests, with great views of the Atlantic Ocean.Ascent/descent: +438m/-520m If you prefer to spend more time in Porto today and/or avoid the largely urban cycle to Esposende, it is possible to have an afternoon transfer from Porto to Esposende. An additional cost applies and needs to be pre-booked (speak to our staff for details, including price). In this case the bikes (of similar models to those shown) will be available at the accommodation in Esposende and you do not meet the bike technician. You will still qualify for a Compostela Certificate on arrival into Santiago as you will have ridden just over 200km from Esposende to Santiago, which is the minimum requirement for cyclists.","lat":"41.532351","lng":"-8.78308"},{"title":"Day 3: Continue along the coast to Praia de Ancora (40km/25mi)","name":"Viana do Castelo","description":"Continue cycling along the Atlantic coastline today passing through the villages of Marinhas, Belinho, Neiva and Darque until you reach the historic town of Viana do Castelo. Later you will pass farms before continuing to the fishing village of Praia de Ancora.Ascent/descent: +477m/-509m","lat":"41.691828","lng":"-8.83441"},{"title":"Day 3: Continue along the coast to Praia de Ancora (40km/25mi)","name":"Praia de Ancora","description":"Continue cycling along the Atlantic coastline today passing through the villages of Marinhas, Belinho, Neiva and Darque until you reach the historic town of Viana do Castelo. Later you will pass farms before continuing to the fishing village of Praia de Ancora.Ascent/descent: +477m/-509m","lat":"41.82077","lng":"-8.852816"},{"title":"Day 4: Short cycle, then ferry at Caminha in Spain, continue by bike to Baiona (48km/30mi)","name":"Caminha","description":"This morning a short 10km cycle along the coast will bring you to the ferry terminal. From here you take the ferry at Caminha in Spain, across the river Miño. The cost of the ferry is not included (around EUR6 + bike extra). Continue by bike to Baiona.Ascent/descent: +477m/-509m","lat":"41.873208","lng":"-8.837845"},{"title":"Day 4: Short cycle, then ferry at Caminha in Spain, continue by bike to Baiona (48km/30mi)","name":"Baiona","description":"This morning a short 10km cycle along the coast will bring you to the ferry terminal. From here you take the ferry at Caminha in Spain, across the river Miño. The cost of the ferry is not included (around EUR6 + bike extra). Continue by bike to Baiona.Ascent/descent: +477m/-509m","lat":"42.120153","lng":"-8.852367"},{"title":"Day 5: Join the traditional Camino and cycle to Pontevedra (66km/41.3mi)","name":"O Porriño","description":"Today you will join the traditional Camino. It is the toughest day of the trip. You cycle towards O Porriño, and then later in the day a short climb leads up to the chapel of Santiaguiño de Antas. Continue through pine forests en route to the fishing village of Arcade. Enjoy stunning views over the Bay of Vigo as you pedal towards the historic city of Pontevedra, where you stay tonight. In Pontevedra there are some interesting sites to be explored including the Santuario da Peregrin chapel and the Convento de San Francisco. Its medieval town centre is a maze of cobbled laneways with tapas bars and cafes.Ascent/descent: +1018m/-1009m","lat":"42.161161","lng":"-8.619232"},{"title":"Day 5: Join the traditional Camino and cycle to Pontevedra (66km/41.3mi)","name":"Arcade","description":"Today you will join the traditional Camino. It is the toughest day of the trip. You cycle towards O Porriño, and then later in the day a short climb leads up to the chapel of Santiaguiño de Antas. Continue through pine forests en route to the fishing village of Arcade. Enjoy stunning views over the Bay of Vigo as you pedal towards the historic city of Pontevedra, where you stay tonight. In Pontevedra there are some interesting sites to be explored including the Santuario da Peregrin chapel and the Convento de San Francisco. Its medieval town centre is a maze of cobbled laneways with tapas bars and cafes.Ascent/descent: +1018m/-1009m","lat":"42.340784","lng":"-8.604871"},{"title":"Day 5: Join the traditional Camino and cycle to Pontevedra (66km/41.3mi)","name":"Pontevedra","description":"Today you will join the traditional Camino. It is the toughest day of the trip. You cycle towards O Porriño, and then later in the day a short climb leads up to the chapel of Santiaguiño de Antas. Continue through pine forests en route to the fishing village of Arcade. Enjoy stunning views over the Bay of Vigo as you pedal towards the historic city of Pontevedra, where you stay tonight. In Pontevedra there are some interesting sites to be explored including the Santuario da Peregrin chapel and the Convento de San Francisco. Its medieval town centre is a maze of cobbled laneways with tapas bars and cafes.Ascent/descent: +1018m/-1009m","lat":"42.429885","lng":"-8.64462"},{"title":"Day 6: To Padron (40km/25mi)","name":"Padron","description":"Today you will pedal through chestnut groves, pine and eucalyptus forest. You will pass through the hamlet of Tivo and the village of Caldas de Reis, before crossing the River Umia and gradually climbing to the village of Santa Marina. Your destination for today is Padron, where the body of Saint James is said to have first landed, when it was brought to Santiago.Ascent/descent: +463m/-487m","lat":"42.738117","lng":"-8.660773"},{"title":"Day 7: On to Santiago (26km/16mi)","name":"Santiago de Compostela","description":"The final day takes you again through pine, oak and eucalyptus wood before climbing up to reach Santiago. You will pass a number of small villages en route, before spotting the spires of Santiago’s Cathedral in the distance. If you time your arrival well you will be able to attend the midday Pilgrim’s Mass in Santiago, a very special experience. This afternoon you are free to discover the many interesting sites of Santiago’s charming old town at leisure.Ascent/descent: +436m/-193m","lat":"42.876861","lng":"-8.544173"},{"title":"Day 8: Trip concludes Santiago de Compostela","name":"Santiago de Compostela","description":"Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast.","lat":"42.876861","lng":"-8.544173"}]
Request Your Discount
Add your email below and we'll send you a discount code.
