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Please leave your luggage in the hotel reception each morning (by 9am at the latest) so that it can be transferred to your next hotel. Make sure that your luggage is clearly labelled with the nametag provided. In case of any issues with the luggage transfer, please contact Pedro on (+351) 916 582 978.
Your bike fitting is scheduled for FECHA at 9am at Hotel Wine and Books. In case of any issues, please contact Pedro on (+351) 916 582 978.
Call the Bike Spain Tours office on +34 915 590 653, or out of office hours call +34 677 356 586. We will get you where you need to be and get you the help you need.
In order to prove your status as a pilgrim (and be awarded your Compostela pilgrim certificate once you arrive in Santiago), you will need to obtain a credencial (pilgrim passport) at the start of your journey. In Porto, you can get your credencial from the Albergue de Peregrinos Porto (open daily 2:30pm – 8pm) or from Porto Cathedral (open daily 9am – 6:30pm). The credencial costs 2€, payable in cash.
Once you have your credencial, make sure that you get it stamped at least twice per day as you travel to Santiago. You can receive stamps in hotels, restaurants, churches, bars, cafés and many other places that you might visit along the way; we recommend that you try to get as many stamps as possible to turn your credencial into a unique souvenir of your trip!
In Portugal, you’ll probably find that mealtimes are similar to what you’re used to at home: lunch is between 12pm – 3pm and dinner from 7pm onwards.
However, this all changes when you cross the border! Spaniards follow a very particular routine in terms of their daily meals, and this is often strictly enforced by restaurant opening hours, especially in small towns!
You can expect restaurants to be open for lunch from approximately 1:30pm – 4pm. Many places will offer a menú del día: a set menu with 2/3 options for each course, usually including a drink, bread and dessert or coffee. Remember that lunch is the main meal of the day in Spain.
Dinnertime in Spain is any time from 8pm onwards. Dinner in Spain is typically a lighter meal.
Cycling the Portuguese Camino is not only a spiritual and cultural journey but also a culinary adventure! Here’s a list of food and drinks to try along the way:
Porto
Carb-load before your Camino with a traditional francesinha: Porto’s famous sandwich made with layers of cured meats, steak, melted cheese, and a rich beer-based sauce. Our favourite place in Porto for a francesinha is Brasão Coliseu.
Portuguese cuisine is famous for its cod. One of the standout dishes is bacalhau à brás: a classic recipe of shredded cod with eggs, onions, and thin potato fries.
Citizens of Porto are nicknamed tripeiros because of their love of dishes made from tripe and offal! If you’re feeling brave, try tripas à moda do Porto: a traditional tripe stew with beans and sausage.
Although pastéis de nata are traditionally linked with the Belem district of Lisbon, these delicious custard tarts are enjoyed all over Portugal! Enjoy one or two with a cup of coffee for breakfast or a mid-morning snack.
Of course, you can’t leave Porto without trying some of the city’s famous port wine! Take a tour at one of the wineries in Vila Nova de Gaia, or ask for vinho do porto at one of the city’s many bars. Port wine is a sweet dessert wine, and the three main types are ruby, tawny and white.
Northern Portugal
As you continue up the coast, you’ll frequently come across beachfront restaurants and bars grilling fish fresh from the ocean. A popular option is sardinhas assadas: grilled sardines on a spit.
North of Porto, you’ll enter the vinho verde wine region. Pair this light, refreshing, slightly sparkling white wine with arroz do tamboril: a delicious dish made with rice and monkfish.
Crossing into Spain
The river Minho, which marks the border between Portugal and Spain, is famous for sável (shad), frequently served with rice.
As you cycle along the Spanish coast, you’ll spot artificial rockpools used to store captured crustaceans popular in local cuisine: bogavante (lobsters), buey de mar (brown crab) and centollo (spider crab).
Galicia is also very famous for pulpo a la gallega: “Galician-style” octopus, boiled and seasoned with paprika, olive oil, and sea salt.
Vigo and the Rías Baixas
In Vigo, the local speciality is chocos en su tinta: cuttlefish cooked in its own ink, served with rice or even in an empanada (similar to a Cornish pasty!). Just after Vigo, you’ll pass through the small town of Arcade, famous for ostras: oysters fresh from the Vigo estuary.
North of Vigo and towards Pontevedra, you’ll enter the Rías Baixas wine region, where you can try albariño wine: a delicious light white popular all over Spain.
The small town of Padrón is of course famous for pimientos de padrón: small green peppers that are usually served grilled and with plenty of salt. But be warned: “algunos pican, otros no” (some are spicy, some are not!)
Santiago de Compostela
Santiago de Compostela is a culinary gem! We highly recommend a tapas crawl to sample as much of the local cuisine as possible. The seafood is of course a highlight, although traditional Galician pork dishes such as raxó and zorza are also very popular. Round off your culinary adventure with a slice of tarta de Santiago: an almond cake dusted with icing sugar in the shape of the cross of St James.
Click here for our packing suggestions for a self-guided bike tour.
Click here for our recommendations for cycling safely and legally in Spain.
Click here for our recommendations on what to do if you experience mechanical issues with your bike during your tour.
Day 1: Porto
Arrival day
Accommodation: Hotel Wine and Books
Hotel services: Restaurant, rooftop bar, gym, spa, swimming pool, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
Welcome to the Camino, and the start of an amazing tour!
Once you’ve checked into your accommodation, you will need to obtain your credencial (pilgrim passport) from the Albergue de Peregrinos Porto (open daily 2:30pm – 8pm) or from Porto Cathedral (open daily 9am – 6:30pm). The credencial costs 2€, payable in cash. You will need to get this stamped twice a day at hotels, restaurants and anywhere else you might visit in order to be awarded your certificate of pilgrimage once you arrive in Santiago!
Click here for our Google Maps recommendations in Porto!
The city of Porto, built along the hillsides overlooking the mouth of the Douro river, is an outstanding urban landscape with a 2,000-year history. The historic centre, Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take the funicular up to the Batalha (old town) and explore the narrow streets and colourful buildings. Don’t miss the Sé, Porto’s fortress-like hilltop Cathedral (open daily 9am – 6:30pm).
Hop over the river to Vila Nova de Gaia and visit one of the myriad of port wine cellars to discover the secrets of the regional vintage. Popular options include Sandeman’s, Taylor’s and Cockburn’s.
Pay a visit to Livraria Lello, widely considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful bookstores (open daily 9am – 7:30pm), or climb the 225 steps of the nearby Clérigos tower (open daily 9am – 7pm) for fabulous views over the city.
Estação de São Bento: Porto’s train station is so much more than a transport hub! This former convent combines a Belle Epoque facade with an iconic interior decorated with 20,000 painted tiles.
Take a walk (or a tram) up to Foz de Douro, and enjoy an afternoon on the beach! This seaside district is full of fabulous restaurants serving up the freshest grilled seafood: try Restaurante Pedro Lemos for a Michelin star option (open Tues – Thu 7pm – 11pm and Fri and Sat 12:30pm – 3pm/7pm – 11pm) or Casa Vasco (open Tue – Sun 12:30pm – 3:30pm/7pm – 10:30pm).
Watch one of Europe’s most spectacular sunsets from one of Porto’s many miradouros (viewpoints). Popular options include Miradouro das Virtudes, Jardim do Morro and the Luis I bridge.
Set in the hilltop old town, Patio 44 serves up high-quality traditional Portuguese cuisine (open Tue – Sat 7pm – 11pm).
Visit Brasão Coliseu (open daily 12pm – 3pm/7pm – 11:30pm) to try a traditional Porto francesinha: an enormous sandwich made with a variety of meats and melted cheese!
Local favourite Restaurante Roma (open Mon – Sat 12pm – 3pm/7pm – 10pm) is a down-to-earth option where the daily menu is determined by the catch of the day.
Family-run Casa Expresso (open Mon – Sat 8:30am – 10:30pm) serves timeless Portuguese fare in a no-frills setting.
Porto classic Adega São Nicolau serves up delicious fresh seafood in the colourful riverfront district (open Mon – Sat 12pm – 1:30pm, prior reservation recommended).
Treat yourself to a special dinner at one of Porto’s seven Michelin star restaurants.
Day 2: Porto – Vila do Conde
Route: 40.1 km/24.9 miles
Elevation: +293m/+961 ft
Accommodation: Villa C Boutique Hotel
Hotel services: Restaurant, gym, spa, swimming pool, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
The Camino begins!
After checking out of the hotel, please leave your luggage with reception for later collection. Your luggage will be picked up each day from 9am onwards, please make sure to leave it with reception by 9am at the latest.
9:30am: Our local contact from Oporto Specialized Bikes will meet you at your hotel for your bike fitting and welcome briefing. In case of any issues, please contact Pedro on (+351) 916 582 978.
From Porto, you’ll following the Douro River westward out of the city centre. The well-paved cycling path along the river offers stunning views of the water and Porto’s historic cityscape. As you reach Foz do Douro, the landscape opens up to the Atlantic, and you’ll be riding alongside golden beaches, elegant villas, and cafés where you can grab a morning espresso.
You’ll likely see many pilgrims travelling to Santiago on foot walking along the wooden boulevards built across the beaches; please note that these are pedestrian-only! The cycling route runs along the road parallel to the beach, where you’ll often find a designated bike lane.
Crossing the bridge over the Leça River, you’ll arrive in Matosinhos, known for its thriving fishing industry and fantastic seafood restaurants. If you’re in the mood for a quick bite, grab brunch at Negra Café (open daily from 9am) or A Badalhoca (open Mon – Sat from 9am).
From Matosinhos, the route continues north along the coast, following a mix of dedicated bike paths and well-maintained seaside roads. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for a swim among the way, at the many beaches or at Piscina das Marés (open daily in summer 9am – 7pm): the seawater swimming pool designed by famous Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira.
Arriving into Praia de Angeiras, you’ll find a small, traditional fishing village where you can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants, such as Restaurante Tasquinha das Marés (open Mon – Sat 12pm – 3pm) or Restaurante O Diogo (open Tue – Sun 12pm – 3:30pm).
Be aware that as you exit the town of Praia de Angeiras, you’ll encounter a stretch of 5km/3 miles of cobblestones, very typical of traditional Portuguese towns built for horses and carriages rather than bikes!
Continuing through Carrapata and Gião, you’ll ride along quiet rural roads, surrounded by green pastures and rolling hills. This stretch is peaceful and ideal for enjoying the sights and sounds of northern Portugal’s countryside.
As you reach Madalena, the landscape becomes even more picturesque, with small chapels, old water mills, and beautiful fields stretching to the horizon. The final part of the ride descends towards the River Ave and into Vila do Conde.
Bike shops
Matosinhos: Bike Zone Porto. Tel (+351) 226 098 411. Open Mon – Sat 10am–1pm/2:30pm-7:30pm
Vila do Conde: Biciadus Bike Store. Tel (+351) 936 179 624. Open Mon – Fri 10am–12:30pm/2:30pm-6pm
Click here for our Google maps recommendations in Vila do Conde!
Vila do Conde is a pretty town built during the Portuguese Golden Age, or the ‘age of discovery’, when mariners set sail for sub-Saharan Africa and India for the first time. The town is a favourite with daytripping locals, who are attracted to its beautiful beaches, excellent food and relaxed ambience.
The skyline is dominated by the imposing Monastery of Santa Clara, as well as the aqueduct that was built in the 18th century to bring water to the monastery and of which nearly 1000 arches still remain.
Learn about local history with a visit to Vila do Conde’s very own City Museum and the Lace Museum (both open Tue – Sun, 10am – 6pm).
Discover Portugal’s seafaring history aboard Nau Quinhentista, a full-sized replica of a 16th century Portuguese merchant ship, and at the Museum of Naval Construction (both open Tue – Sun, 10am – 6pm)
Enjoy fabulous ocean views from the clifftop Forte de São João Baptista and the nearby Capela de Nossa Senhora da Guia.
Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach!
For dinner, we recommend Restaurante o Cangalho (open Tue – Sat 8pm – 11pm) or Os Eusébios to replace some of those calories with a traditional francesinha (open Tue – Sun 7pm – 11pm).
Day 3: Vila do Conde – Viana do Castelo
Route: 52.1 km/32.4 miles
Elevation: +330m/+1083 ft
Accommodation: Hotel Melo Alvim
Hotel services: Restaurant, swimming pool, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
Today’s route follows the beautiful cycling path northward along the coast. The well-maintained route takes you past sandy beaches and the fishing port, offering picturesque views of the Atlantic. At Póvoa de Varzim, you’ll turn inland to continue heading northwards. For an early coffee and cake stop, we recommend Cakes Folheta (open daily from 8am).
From here, the route continues north through Navais and Estela, where the landscape transitions into peaceful coastal dunes and agricultural fields.
As you continue towards Fão, the route follows a mix of coastal paths and quiet backroads, passing by scenic sand dunes and pine forests before crossing the Cávado River via the historic Ponte de Fão into Esposende.
Esposende is a charming seaside town with a relaxed atmosphere. Here, you can visit the Forte de São João Baptista or make a lunch stop at Agua Pé (12pm -3pm), a cozy restaurant known for its fresh seafood. Follow the cycle path along the estuary before turning inland to cycle through beautiful countryside, with small farms, vineyards, and traditional stone houses dotting the landscape. The roads here are well-paved, and traffic is minimal, making for a smooth and peaceful ride.
Approaching Estrada and Castelo do Neiva, the route turns slightly inland, where you’ll encounter rolling hills and a mix of quiet village roads. Finally, you’ll cross the 19th century bridge, designed by famous French architect Gustav Eiffel, over the River Lima into Viana do Castelo.
Bike shops
Esposende: Propedal. Tel (+351) 253 966 831. Open Mon – Sat 9:30am–12:30pm/2:30pm–6:30pm
Viana do Castelo: Stressoff. Tel (+351) 258 110 445. Open Mon – Fri 9:30am–12:30pm/2pm–7pm, Sat 9:30am-1pm
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Viana do Castelo.
The picturesque town of Viana do Castelo is overlooked by the hilltop Basilica del Sagrado Corazón, which was inspired by the Sacre Coeur in Paris.
Take the funicular up Monte de Santa Lucía to visit the Santuario del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús (open daily 9am – 5pm), and enjoy spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Learn a bit about local history with a visit to the interesting Gil Eannes museum (open daily 9:30am – 6pm), set aboard a former hospital ship.
Enjoy a coffee or a stroll around Praça de la Republica, the heart of the city’s hitoric centre and home to many of its most important monuments.
Sweet-toothed visitors will love the Fábrica do Chocolate (open daily 10am – 6pm), a chocolate museum housed within a quirky hotel of the same name, which also boasts a chocotherapy spa!
Your hotel has its own excellent craft beer bar and restaurant; however, if you would like to explore the town further, we recommend popular local option Casa Primavera-Taberna Soares (open Wed – Sat and Mon 5pm – 10pm) or Tasquinha da Linda (open Mon – Sat 7:15pm – 10:30pm).
Day 4: Viana do Castelo – Baiona
Route: 60.4 km/37.5 miles
Elevation: +526m/1727 ft
Accommodation: Parador de Baiona
Hotel services: Restaurant, bar, swimming pool, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
Today you’ll enjoy fabulous views as you continue to follow the coastline north, the Atlantic stretching endlessly to your left. This section follows smooth asphalt roads with some dedicated cycle paths, making for an easy and pleasant ride.
The pretty fishing village of Vila Praia de Âncora is a great place to take a break. You’ll enjoy a ride along the seafront boulevard, which borders the town’s beach, fininishing at the star-shaped Lagarteira fort, which has protected the town from sea attacks since the mid 17th century. If you fancy a bite to eat, we recommend Casa dos Caracois (open Thu – Tue 11am – 3pm), which specialises in snails, or coffee and a pastel de nata at one of the beachfront cafés.
As you leave Vila Praia de Âncora, the ride becomes even more scenic, passing through Moledo, a charming village with a beautiful beach and a backdrop of rolling green hills. The terrain here is mostly flat, and the roads are in good condition, making for a smooth and relaxing ride.
Your next stop is the medieval border town of Caminha, whose rich historic heritage includes its medieval fortress, cobbled streets, and bustling town square. Don’t miss the rude gargoyle at the church of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, a symbol of the historic enmity between Portugal and Spain! For a final lunch in Portugal with lovely views over the estuary, we recommend Restaurante Muralha de Caminha (open Thu – Tue from 12pm).
In Caminha, you’ll take a boat across the River Miño to begin the Spanish portion of your journey! The boat service is run by Xacobeo Transfer, with hourly departures between 7:30am and 5:30pm from Puerto Sporting Club Caminhense. Tickets cost 8€, payable locally in cash or online. If purchasing online, make sure to select the bike rate, and the correct journey option: Caminha (Portugal) to A Pasaxe – Camposancos (A Guarda – España).
Remember that Spain and Portugal are in different time zones, so the time will jump forward by an hour when you cross the border!
Your camino continues across the border towards the charming fishing village of A Guarda, where we recommend a brief stop to admire the colourful fishermen’s houses and the Plaza do Reló, the heart of the medieval old town.
OPTIONAL: Those interested in history (and/or spectacular ocean views!) might consider cycling up Monte de Santa Tegra to visit the fortified celtic town at the top of the hill, which dates back to the 4th century BC (this diversion entails an additional: 7km/+350m).
From A Guarda, you’ll follow a coastal cycle path along one of the wilder portions of Spain’s Atlantic coast. Shortly after leaving the town, you’ll spot some traditional cetáreas: rockpools once used to store captured crustaceans before transporting them to be sold.
Along the way, you’ll pass by the beautiful beachfront Monastery de Santa María de Oia, which dates back to the 12th century. If you need a snack, the nearby Casa Henriqueta (open Tue – Sat, 11:30am – 4pm) is a great spot!
After Oia, the terrain starts to roll more noticeably. The road offers expansive sea views, and on clear days, you might even spot the Cíes Islands in the distance. The smooth asphalt and light traffic make this stretch a joy to ride.
Further on, we recommend a photo stop at the beautiful Vello de Silleiro lighthouse, which overlooks a hidden gem: the seaglass beach!
The final section into Baiona features a thrilling descent, with stunning views of the bay and the Parador de Baiona.
Bike shops
Caminha: myBike. Tel (+351) 962 798 310. Open Mon – Fri 9:30am–1:30pm/5pm–8pm
A Guarda: Insitu Ciclismo. Tel (+34) 605 663 595. Open Mon – Fri 9:30am–1:30pm/4:30pm–8:30pm Sat 10am – 2pm
Baiona: El Reciclista. Tel (+34) 623 043 705. Open Mon – Fri 10am–2pm/4pm–7:30pm
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Baiona.
Once in Baiona, you can spend some time exploring the city’s atmospheric historic centre and quaint fishing port. The town’s most important historic building is the Castelo de Monterreal, a medieval fortress that still retains the cannons once used to defend the town from pirates, and which offers fabulous views over the bay from the parapet. Nowadays, it is a luxury hotel; your hotel, in fact!
Take a stroll around the seafront old town, exploring the corridor-like streets full of traditional palaces, built by Galicians who made their fortune in the New World centuries ago.
Baiona was, in fact, the first port in Europe to hear the news of the discovery of America, when La Pinta arrived there on 1st March 1492. A replica of this famous ship can still be visited in the port today (open daily 10:30am – 1pm/4:30pm – 7pm) as well as a sculpture dedicated to the historic encounter between the two worlds.
If your legs are up to it, we recommend the short hike up to the 17m tall sculpture of the Virxe da Roca, where you can ascend the spiral stairs and admire the views from the boat in the virgin’s right hand (open daily 11am – 2pm/4pm – 9pm).
You can also spend some time relaxing on the beach after your cycle ride.
Your hotel has its own excellent in-house restaurant with spectacular views over the bay and the Cíes Islands. Don’t miss the sight of the sun setting into the Atlantic Ocean!
If you would like to explore the town further, we recommend the seafront Taberna Mendoza (open for dinner Mon – Sat).
Day 5: Baiona – Pontevedra
Route: 66.8 km/41.5 miles
Elevation: +905m/2968 ft
Accommodation: Parador de Pontevedra
Hotel services: Restaurant, bar, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
Today, the Camino takes you around the bay of Baiona, heading north along the PO-552 coastal road, which is well-paved and relatively quiet in the morning. The first few kilometers take you across a Romanesque bridge into A Ramallosa, a small but picturesque town.
As you enter Nigrán, the coastline opens up, revealing sweeping views of a long, golden beach. There’s a dedicated cycle lane in some sections, making for a relaxed ride.
Leaving Nigrán, you take a quiet inland detour, climbing gently through forest-lined roads and rolling farmland. This section offers a mix of asphalt and smooth secondary roads, with light traffic and a peaceful atmosphere.
In Oia, you’ll pass traditional Galician stone houses and vineyards. The landscape here becomes hilly, with glimpses of the Ría de Vigo appearing between the trees.
As you descend toward Vigo, the road widens and merges into PO-325, leading you along the spectacular Vigo coastline. The views over the Cíes Islands and Vigo Bay are incredible, and the dedicated bike lanes make this urban section much more enjoyable.
If you fancy an early lunch, just before Vigo you’ll find the beachfront La Hacienda de Machado (open Thu – Tue 1pm – 4pm), a Brazilian-style restaurant serving up unlimited skewers of different types of meat.
It’s well worth stopping in Vigo itself to admire the many sculptures that decorate the city, including one dedicated to Jules Verne’s 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and to enjoy the city’s fantastic tapas culture. Some of our favourites are Taberna A Pedra (open 12pm – 4pm Wed – Sun), O Portón, situated on the famous fishermen’s street (open 12pm – 4pm Wed – Sun), Detapaencepa (open daily 12:30 – 4pm) and Tapas Areal (open daily 1:30pm – 4:30pm).
As you exit Vigo, you have a choice between three routes:
a) Road bike route via PO-323
The fastest and most direct route over smooth asphalt roads. Expect some traffic.
b) Vía verde (greenway) cycle path
Historic railway line converted into a traffic-free cycle path with a smooth, well-maintained surface. Very scenic route through nature, slightly longer and more meandering than the road route.
c) Senda das Augas trail
For those looking for a challenge: this is a stunning traffic-free trail that follows a historic water channel through forests and hills, with spectacular views over the Vigo estuary. Involves some steep climbing, and certain sections involve cycling over rough surfaces. Not recommended for road bikes, or after heavy rain.
Whichever option you choose, you’ll end up in the pretty town of Redondela, known locally as the villa de los viaductos due to the two imposing railway bridges constructed towards the end of the 19th century. Your next stop is Arcade, famous for the oysters that are cultivated in the Vigo esturary, which you can try at one of the town’s many marisquerías. The road surface is in great condition, and the rolling terrain makes for a smooth ride.
From Arcade, the ride takes you inland through A Canicouva, where the landscape shifts to dense forests and ancient stone pathways. The roads are quiet but hilly, offering a mix of short climbs and fast descents. This section is one of the most peaceful parts of the ride, with lush green valleys and stone villages making for a picturesque experience.
The final stretch leads you into the historic city of Pontevedra, one of Galicia’s most bike-friendly cities. The old town is almost entirely pedestrianized, making it a pleasure to explore by bike.
Bike shops
Vigo: Galibici. Tel (+34) 886 908 123. Open Mon – Fri 10am–2pm/4:30pm–8:30pm, Sat 10am-2pm
Vigo: Xtrembike. Tel (+34) 886 116 131. Open Mon – Fri 9:30am–1:30pm/4:30pm–8:30pm, Sat 10am-1:30pm
Redondela: Hobbybike. Tel (+34) 630229438. Open Mon – Fri 10am–1:30pm/4:30pm–8:30pm, 10am – 1:30pm
Pontevedra: El Puerto Bike Workshop. Open Mon-Fri 9:30pm–1pm/5pm–8:30pm
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Pontevedra.
Top of your list should be the Santuario de la Virgen Peregrina, dedicated to the patroness of the Portuguese Camino and featuring a unique floor in the shape of the scallop shell of St James.
Pontevedra’s well-preserved old town is considered second only to that of Santiago de Compostela, and it’s well worth taking some time to explore its winding streets.
The 16th century Real Basílica de Santa María la Mayor is a spectacular combination of late Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
Those interested in learning a little more about local history and culture can visit the Museo Provincial de Pontevedra (open Tue – Sat 10am – 9pm and Sun 11am – 2pm).
Pontevedra is the capital of the Rías Baixas albariño wine region, so we highly recommend trying some of this light Galician white wine.
Your hotel has its own excellent restaurant, specialising in fresh seafood from the Rías Baixas. If you would like to explore the city a little more, we recommend a tapas crawl around the old quarter to try the local seafood.
For the best pulpo in the city, we recommend Casa Fidel O’Pulpeiro (open Tue – Sat 8pm – 12am). If you are looking for a sit-down meal we suggest Loaira Xantar (open Wed – Mon, 7:30pm – 11pm) or Trasmallo Restaurante (open Thu, Fri, Sat and Mon, 8pm – 11pm), both recommended by the Michelin guide, or Eirado da Leña*, Pontevedra’s Michelin Star spot (open Tue – Sat 9am – 11pm, prior reservation required).
Day 6: Pontevedra – Santiago de Compostela
Route: 65.3 km/40.6 miles
Elecation: +986m/+3234 ft
Accommodation: Parador de Santiago de Compostela
Hotel services: Restaurant, bar, laundry
Meals included: Breakfast
The Camino today takes you out of Pontevedra, across the Puente del Burgo bridge over the Lérez river and into rolling countryside with gentle climbs.
Next. the road takes you deeper into Galicia’s forested countryside, passing through a number of tiny hamlets. Here, the path follows small streams and shaded trails, making for a tranquil ride. We recommend a stop in the spa town of Caldas de Reis, situated at the confluence of the rivers Bermaña and Umia, and well-known for its geothermal hot springs.
OPTIONAL: In Caldas de Ries, you can take a short detour to visit a beautiful waterfall, where you can still see some traditional Galician muiños (windmills).
Once in Caldas de Reis, we recommend a snack stop at taberna O Muiño (open Tue – Sun, 1pm – 3:30pm) , which has been serving up fish from the nearby river Umia since 1947. Trout and lamprey, often served in empanadas (pies) are among the traditional local specialties.
Leaving Caldas de Reis, the road gently ascends, offering panoramic views of green valleys. The countryside here is dotted with vineyards and small farms.
You’ll continue north along quiet forest paths towards the town of Padrón, famous for the small green peppers of the same name. We highly recommend that you make a quick stop in one of the two main squares – Praza das Traviesas and Praza de Macías – to try a tapa of freshly fried and salted peppers, but remember the saying: “Padrón peppers, some are hot, and others are not!” If you’re still hungry, add a tapa of pulpo: the famous Galician octopus.
In Padrón, you can also visit the church of Santiago (open Wed – Mon 10am – 9pm), which houses the pedrón: a block of granite that was once part of a Roman temple to Neptune and which is said to have served as mooring for the boat that carried the remains of Saint James from the Holy Land to Galicia.
From Padrón, the route becomes more demanding, with a series of small but steep hills through Iria Flavia, Porta dos Mariños, and Os Muíños. This section offers a mix of forests, rivers, and farmlands, with some of the day’s most stunning rural landscapes.
The final kilometers take you through O Milladoiro, A Rocha Vella, and finally into Santiago. The road gently climbs, leading you into the historic city center. The official end-point of the Camino in Santiago de Compostela is the Cathedral, located in Plaza del Obradoiro.
Once you arrive at your hotel, please leave your bikes with reception for later collection.
Bike shops
Caldas de Reis: García Bicis. Tel (+34) 610 927 109. Open Mon-Sat 9am–1:30pm/4pm–9pm
Pontecesures: Beruca Bikes. Tel (+34) 644 596 532. Open Mon-Fri 10am–1:30pm/4:30pm–8:30pm, Sat 10am–1:30pm
Padrón: AdeMario Bike Service. Tel (+34) 659 231 910. Open Mon-Fri 9:30am–1:30pm/4pm–8pm
O Milladoiro: Millabikes. Tel (+34) 981 940 131. Mon-Fri 10am–2pm/4:30pm–8pm
We recommend taking a break in the plaza front of the cathedral to celebrate your achievement and soak up the amazing atmosphere. There is something indescribably human about the sight of hundreds of daily pilgrims arriving into the plaza, just as countless others have done over the centuries.
Inside the Cathedral, pilgrims traditionally embrace the statue of St James and visit his tomb. If you’d like to carry out this ritual, you can enter the Cathedral via Porta de Acibechería in Plaza da Inmaculada (daily from 8:30am – 9pm).
When you’re ready, you can visit the Pilgrim’s Office at Rúa das Carretas, 33 (open daily 10am – 6pm), where you can obtain the Compostela: the document certifying you as an official pilgrim! You can also request the Certificate of Distance, which reflects the start point of your pilgrimage, the number of kilometres travelled and the start and finish dates. This Certificate costs 3€, payable in cash at the Pilgrim Office.
Pilgrim’s Mass takes place in the Cathedral daily at 7:30am, 9:30am, 12:00pm and 7:30pm. At the beginning of the Pilgrim’s Mass, a list of the number of pilgrims who have been received in the Pilgrims’ Office in the last 24 hours is read out. Where they have travelled from and where they began their pilgrimage is also read out at the beginning of the service. If you’re lucky, you might even see the Botafumeiro, the enormous censer filled with incense and swung over the heads of mass attendees to counteract the smell of recently-arrived pilgrims!
Click here for our Google Maps list of recommendations in Santiago de Compostela.
Santiago de Compostela was, without a doubt, the most important city in Christian medieval Spain. It’s world-renowned for its cultural and religious significance, and each year thousands of travellers come to visit.
Santiago Cathedral: The end of your pilgrimage and top of your tourist list is Santiago’s magnificent cathedral, which dates back to the 11th century and is one of the few catedrals in the world built over the tomb of an apostle. We highly recommend the cathedral rooftop tour (available daily from 10am – 8pm, reservation recommended). You’ll climb up the cathedral tower and out onto the roof for a once-in-a-lifetime angel’s eye view of Santiago, as well as a unique perspective of the stunning cathedral.
Take a stroll in Alameda Park for fabulous views of the cathedral and the rest of Santiago’s UNESCO World Heritage Site old town. Don’t forget to take a picture with the statue of As Marías, two elderly sisters who used to go for a walk in the park every day at 2pm, dressed in their finery, regardless of civil war, dictatorship or inclement weather!
For more insight into the history of the Camino, don’t miss the Pilgrimage Museum (open Tue – Fri 9:30am – 8:30pm, Sat 11am – 7:30pm and Sundays 10:15am – 2:45pm)
Also well worth a visit is the Museum of the Galician People (open Tue – Sat 11am – 6pm and Sun 11am – 2pm), which explores the unique culture and history of this little corner of Spain. The museum is housed in a former Dominican convent, set in beautiful grounds that are now a public park.
Mercado La Galiciana: This gastromarket is just a couple of years old, and it’s the perfect place to enjoy both local and foreign food. There is an amazing range of eateries, and the place itself is beautifully designed (open Sun – Thu 12pm – 12am and Fri/Sat 12pm – 1am)
For a more traditional experience, visit Mercado de Abastos (open Mon – Sat, 11:30am – 5pm). This historic market is extremely popular with locals, and contains a range of restaurants, traditional market stalls, and even a fishmonger that will cook your purchases for you while you wait!
Santiago de Compostela also has a fantastic tapas culture. You will receive one free tapa per drink purchased, so we recommend that you stick with small glasses of albariño wine! Some of our favourites are Bar La Tita (enormous portions of tortilla) Petiscos do Cordeal (seafood), Benboa (seafood), Viñoteca Ventosela (cheese and charcuterie), Raices Gallegas (traditional Galician dishes including zorza and raxo) and Orella (pig’s ear). We also recommend a visit to Bar Orense, which serves wine in a traditional Galician cunca (bowl)!
Day 7: Santiago de Compostela
Departure day
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, our tour will come to an end.
We hope you had a great time on your pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela.
If you need any help with your onward plans, please feel free to contact our Bike Spain Tours team!
Hotel Wine and Books
In Porto’s most fashionable area, the Wine & Books Porto celebrates the city’s cultural heritage while being incredibly contemporary. The classic yet modern interiors have a discreet luxury and provide timelessness to the atmosphere.
Relax at the hotel’s elegant spa, enjoy breathtaking views over Porto from the roopftop bar, or visit the hotel restaurant, Tasca da Memória for a modern take on traditional Portuguese cuisine.
Villa C Boutique Hotel
Villa C Boutique Hotel is located on the south bank of the River Ave, in Azurara. This 4-star property features a luxury spa and rooms with a balcony.
This boutique hotel features a restaurant, a bar, a spa, a gym and conference rooms making it the perfect spot for business and leisure. In addition, the hotel features a lobby market, a grocery store and an outdoor lounge.
Hotel Casa Melo Alvim
Casa Melo Alvim hotel is located in the historic centre of Viana do Castelo.
It is the oldest urban manor house in the town, having been built in 1509 in the Manueline style. This manor house has been carefully restored, and transformed into a comfortable and welcoming 4 star hotel.
Guests can enjoy a luxury breakfast in the cozy bar with live piano music. A Baroque-style staircase leads to the upper floors and the library.
Parador de Baiona
To the south of the Rías Baixas, protected by the sea and with views over the beautiful Bay of Baiona, is the peninsula of Monterreal. There, we find the Parador de Baiona: a historical castle with spectacular views of the ocean.
A mix between a medieval castle and a Galician stately home, the Parador offers regal and elegant rooms, carefully decorated to will take you back in time to another age. Outstanding features include the majestic stone stairway in the reception area and a huge garden, equipped with a large swimming pool, from where you can view the entire bay.
Parador de Pontevedra
You will be welcomed by a stately carved stone staircase.The building is decorated with beautiful antiques and classic furniture.
The Parador, once the residence of the counts of Maceda, is located in the old quarter of the magnificent city of Pontevedra. It combines regal, noble and stately styles with charming rural elements. The surrounding area invites you to visit coves and beaches, and to enjoy fine seafood and excellent wine.
Parador de Santiago – Hostal Reis Catolicos
The Parador de Santiago is a blend of history, art and tradition. It’s a dream accommodation for pilgrims and the perfect place to end your Camino bike tour from Porto.
The hotel is located in Obradoiro Square near the cathedral, creating an area of spectacular beauty in one of the most visited provincial capitals in the world. A stay at this Parador means a visit to a truly unique and exclusive location.
