
Accommodations offering top-tier comfort, distinctive character, and unique charm. Includes 5-star hotels, the finest rooms in 4-star hotels when 5-star options are unavailable, historic properties, and intimate boutique hotels with a refined atmosphere.
Selected
Comfortable and hand-picked accommodations in central locations, offering a mix of quality and local charm. Features 4-star hotels, 3-star hotels when 4-star options are unavailable, charming guesthouses, and small traditional accommodations that reflect local culture and hospitality.
Casual
Comfortable and practical accommodations for relaxed travelers. Includes 3-star hotels, 2-star hotels when 3-star options are unavailable, and small, simple lodgings that provide an essential but pleasant stay.
Glamping
A unique and stylish outdoor experience blending nature with comfort. Encompasses luxury tents, elegant bungalows, barrel bungalows, and treehouses, offering an adventurous yet refined retreat.
Overview
Prepare to travel the Atlantic coast from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, in Spain! Experience ocean landscapes and fishing ports that supply some of Europe's finest seafood. Recently approved by the Cathedral of Santiago as an official Camino de Santiago, although it might be the oldest of all pilgrimage routes to the sanctuary where, according to legend, the remains of St James lie at rest. The route takes in seaside villages, sandy beaches, estuaries, country lanes, vineyards and historic towns. Expect to savour seafood menus, fine wines and charming accommodation, including Spain's Paradores - luxury hotels in castles, stately homes and historic sites, renowned for their excellent hospitality and traditional cuisine. The Camino's history of devotion inspires awe, whether religious or not. As you approach Santiago de Compostela, you'll feel the excitement of entering one of the great holy cities of Christianity, following a path forged by centuries of faith and perseverance.
Itinerary & tour plan
Porto, a city rich in history and culture. With over 150 listed monuments, Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its unique mix of ancient architecture and modern appeal. Visit the iconic Luis I Bridge, the famous Port wine cellars, and the charming Ribeira district, one of Porto's oldest and most emblematic neighbourhoods, with its colourful buildings and cobbled streets along the Douro River. Be sure to try Porto's signature dish, Francesinha, a delicious sandwich topped with melted cheese and rich sauce.
Cycle along the breathtaking northern Portuguese coast, where rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and lush countryside unfold. Ride past the Roman Salines of Angeiras, an ancient site on Angeiras Beach, where you'll be amazed by the tanks once used to salt fish and make garum, a Roman delicacy. Pedal through the Litoral Norte Regional Protected Landscape, a 411-hectare haven of wetlands, dunes, and abundant birdlife- perfect for nature lovers. As you pass through coastal dunes, pine forests, and fields, the refreshing sea breeze energizes you, fuelling your excitement for the journey ahead. The day ends in Vila do Conde, a charming town with narrow streets, traditional houses, and scenic river views. Here, you can learn the art of rendas de bilros (bobbin lace) and taste the delicious toucinho do céu, a traditional conventual sweet.
Our team will be picking you up bright and early from your accommodation to take you to the starting point of the stage. In Galicia, your route continues along the Atlantic coast, beneath the Sierra de Argalo and Sierra de la Grova Mountain ranges, to Baiona, a port town famous for its fresh seafood. Take a stroll around the port or explore the impressive walls of the Monterreal Fort. Or relax with a drink and tapas at a waterfront café as you watch the sun set. Within the walls of the fort on the Monterreal peninsula, the Parador de Baiona is one of Spain's most unique hotels, a medieval fortress that combines historic architecture with modern luxury, offering spacious rooms with stunning sea views and breathtaking ocean vistas.
Cycle through the valley of the Louro River, surrounded by pine forests and the Galician hills. Heading north from Redondela to Vilaboa, take in the views of the Atlantic waterways where the sea meets the land. You'll pass through Arcade, a fishing village known as the oyster capital of Galicia. Continue on to Pontevedra and take the opportunity to visit the farmers' market where you can sample local cheeses. The Parador de Pontevedra, a 16th century palace in the city centre, combines history and luxury. With its gardens, sun terrace and elegant rooms, it's a great place to relax. End the day with fresh seafood and a glass of Albariño, the region's signature wine.
Set off on two wheels and pass the Burgo Bridge, a stunning 15-arch structure considered one of the most beautiful in the area. As you cycle, you’ll be surrounded by the lush vineyards of the Albariño region. The landscape offers a breathtaking panorama, where the green fields meet the blue waters of the Arousa estuary. This land, rich in culture and natural beauty, will captivate you at every turn. After a day of exploration, we've reserved a stay for you in a charming 17th century manor house - the Parador de Cambados. Trust us, you'll fall in love with the history and tranquillity of this incredible place.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Ría de Arousa, one of Galicia’s most captivating regions, renowned for its stunning beaches and deep connection to the sea. Wander through traditional fishing villages and savour the famous ‘mollusc of Carril’, a local delicacy that makes the area a gastronomic treasure. Explore the Carreirón Natural Park, a protected haven full of birdlife, perfect for nature lovers. If the inviting beaches call, take a dip in the soft white sands or enjoy a boat or kayak trip (not included).
On your way, you'll pass through Padrón, where the River Sar flows and where it is believed that the boat carrying the body of St James from Jerusalem docked. Arriving in Santiago de Compostela, you'll experience the same excitement that pilgrims have felt for centuries as they approach this medieval sanctuary of Saint James. Undoubtedly one of the most important and holy cities in Christianity, Santiago has been a popular destination for travellers throughout history. The magnificent cathedral, rich in history, faith and inspiration, is a must see.
At the end of your tour, we will arrange your transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule.
What is included?
· Transfers from/to Porto Airport
· Accommodation 7 nights BB, in double room
· Daily luggage transfer (one piece per person up to 23kg)
· Private middle transfers
· City taxes
· Standard touring bicycle with cargo rack, a pannier bike bag, a handlebar bag and a spare inner tub
· Per reservation: toolkit, first aid kit, puncture repair kit, pump, lock (one per two bikes)
· Daily post-ride messages
· Access to the Ride With GPS app on your smartphone
What is not included
· Flights
· Insurance
· Meals and wine tastings (optional)
· Guide and support vehicle (price on request)
· Helmet
· E-Bike supplement (optional)
· GPS with loaded tracks (optional)
· Mechanical bike interventions made on the bikes without Authentic Trails permission
Special Dates
A Arribada, Baiona, first weekend of March
- In Baiona, the first European city to learn of America's discovery, locals mark the event annually with parades, markets, crafts and cuisine.
- https://www.spain.info/pt_BR/agenda/festa-chegada-caravela-pinta/
Primavera Sound, Porto, 12th to 15th June 2025
- Since 2012, Primavera Sound has transformed Porto into a global music hub, featuring legends, rising stars and cutting-edge sounds. It's an unmissable event!
- https://www.primaverasound.com/pt/porto
Feast of St. John, Porto, 23rd to 24th June 2025
- Savour sardines, caldo verde, and port wine as the streets come alive with laughter, music, playful plastic hammers, fireworks, and balloons to celebrate St. John!
Saint James’ Festival, Santiago de Compostela, 25th July 2025
- The festival has it all: free concerts, the iconic Botafumeiro incense ceremony and a magnificent high mass celebrating Galician language and culture.
- https://www.spain.info/en/calendar/fiesta-santiago-apostol/
Craft Fair, Vila do Conde, 26th July to 10th August 2025
- A genuine showcase of Portuguese handicrafts, cuisine and music. Celebrating tradition for over four decades.
Fiesta del Albariño, Cambados, 30th July to 3rd August 2025
- Spain's largest wine festival attracts thousands of visitors with a fantastic programme of music, parades, exhibitions and, of course, Albariño tasting!
- https://xn--fiestadelalbario-lub.com/
Pilgrim Virgin Festival, Pontevedra, 9th August 2025
- Kick off the city's grand week with music, vibrant parades, fairs, and stunning fireworks in Plaza de España and Plaza de la Herrería—fun for all ages.
Pontevedra International Jazz & Blues Festival, Pontevedra, August
- A paradise for music lovers. Enjoy unforgettable performances by world-class artists and rising stars, blending the soulful sounds of jazz, blues, and funk into an electrifying experience.
Tour facts
- Porto, voted Best European City Destination, renowned for its charm, history, and vibrant culture.
- Past ancient salines, wetlands, dunes, and finish in Vila do Conde.
- Treat your taste buds to the finest seafood from the Atlantic coast.
- Follow the Portuguese Coastal Route, potentially one of the oldest Camino de Santiago paths.
- Romanesque, baroque and neoclassical architecture in medieval towns
- Part of the landscape will be marked by the extensive vineyards of the Albariño region, renowned for its wine.
- Stay at Paradores, Spain's luxury historic hotels in castles, stately homes and monuments.