Not sure where to start since everything about this experience was terrific!
I first started conversing with LLH in January to plan our Caminho adventure, and every step of the way they were excellent. They custom tailored an itinerary to meet our needs. And when we had to completely change dates after they already had everything booked, they could not have been more courteous and accommodating.
We were personally greeted by Daniel in Porto, who then drove us to our starting point in Baiona and provided a briefing of our itinerary. We were given a GPS device (which we didn’t need since their app worked perfectly) tee shirts, tote bags, water bottles and our Caminho passport books. Daniel assured us that on each day our bags would be transferred to the next location. I was honestly apprehensive at first, but my fears were unfounded as we had no issues whatsoever.
Each place booked for us was outstanding (we did the premium package). Accommodations were excellent, and food was outstanding. In short, absolutely everything was taken care of for us.
I recommend this outfitter highly. Daniel in particular was a pleasure to work with.
Portuguese Central Camino from Porto
Highlights
Explore the wild beauty of São Miguel Island on this 7-day Azores self-guided walking holiday, crafted for independent travelers who want the freedom to hike at their own pace – without sacrificing comfort, support, or authenticity.
Known as the “Green Island,” São Miguel is a dream destination for walking enthusiasts, offering a rich mix of volcanic landscapes, lush forests, crater lakes, hot springs, and dramatic coastlines. On this immersive Azores hiking trip, you’ll enjoy curated daily routes that take you to the island’s most iconic trails – from the rim of the Sete Cidades caldeira to the pristine shores of Lagoa do Fogo and the waterfalls of Nordeste.
This supported experience includes handpicked charm accommodations, private airport and trailhead transfers, luggage transport, a detailed routebook with walking notes, and GPS tracks through the Live Love Hike app. While you walk independently, you’ll have our local team behind the scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly.
Along the way, you’ll have the chance to soak in thermal pools—both inland at Terra Nostra Gardens and oceanside at Ferraria—visit geothermal fields in Furnas, and taste the island’s unique Cozido, a traditional stew cooked underground by volcanic heat.
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Day to day
Day 1 – Arrival in Porto
Arrive independently in Porto and settle into your hotel. Your Camino Starter Pack will be waiting for you upon arrival, including your Pilgrim Passport, premium luggage tags and everything you need to begin your journey. Spend the rest of the day exploring Porto's UNESCO-listed historic centre and preparing for the days ahead. Accommodation in Porto.
Day 2 – Porto – Vilarinho Approx. 27 km
Leave Porto behind and begin your Camino through parks, quiet streets and gradually more rural landscapes as you follow the historic Portuguese Central Camino towards the peaceful village of Vilarinho. Accommodation in Vilarinho.
Day 3 – Vilarinho – Barcelos Approx. 27 km
Continue through vineyards, farmland and traditional Portuguese villages before arriving in the historic town of Barcelos, famous for its medieval centre and the legendary Barcelos Rooster. Accommodation in Barcelos.
Day 4 – Barcelos – Ponte de Lima Approx. 34 km
One of the Camino's classic stages, crossing beautiful countryside and picturesque villages before reaching Portugal's oldest town. Accommodation in Ponte de Lima.
Day 5 – Ponte de Lima – Rubiães Approx. 18 km
Today's shorter stage includes the climb to Alto da Portela Grande before descending into the peaceful village of Rubiães. Accommodation in Rubiães.
Day 6 – Rubiães – Valença Approx. 20 km
Walk through the lush landscapes of northern Portugal before reaching the impressive fortified town of Valença, overlooking the River Minho. Accommodation in Valença.
Day 7 – Valença – O Porriño Approx. 20 km
Cross into Spain and continue through Galicia's peaceful countryside towards O Porriño. Accommodation in O Porriño.
Day 8 – O Porriño – Redondela
Approx. 16 km Today's stage rewards you with beautiful views over the Ría de Vigo before arriving in the lively town of Redondela. Accommodation in Redondela.
Day 9 – Redondela – Pontevedra Approx. 19 km
Walk through woodland, quiet villages and one of the most beautiful sections of the Camino before reaching elegant Pontevedra. Accommodation in Pontevedra.
Day 10 – Pontevedra – Caldas de Reis Approx. 22 km
A relaxing stage through forests, vineyards and rural Galicia towards the thermal town of Caldas de Reis. Accommodation in Caldas de Reis.
Day 11 – Caldas de Reis – Padrón Approx. 18 km
Continue through peaceful countryside towards historic Padrón, forever linked to the legend of Saint James. Accommodation in Padrón.
Day 12 – Padrón – Santiago de Compostela Approx. 25 km
Complete your Portuguese Camino as you arrive at the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Spend the afternoon exploring the UNESCO-listed old town, attend the Pilgrim's Mass or simply celebrate your achievement. Accommodation in Santiago de Compostela.
Day 13 – Departure
After breakfast, your Portuguese Camino from Porto comes to an end. If you'd like to extend your stay in Santiago or arrange a transfer back to Porto, our team will be happy to assist.
Map
Why We Designed This Journey For many pilgrims, the Portuguese Camino is about more than simply reaching Santiago – it's about experiencing the journey from the very beginning. We created the Portuguese Camino from Porto for travellers who want to walk the complete Portuguese Central Camino while enjoying the freedom of independent travel, supported by expert local knowledge and seamless logistics. By focusing on comfortable accommodation, reliable luggage transfers, intuitive navigation and responsive local support, we've created a journey that stays true to the spirit of the Camino while offering exceptional value and complete peace of mind. Who Is This Journey For? The Portuguese Camino from Porto is perfect for independent travellers who want to experience the complete Portuguese Central Camino at their own pace. Whether this is your first Camino or you've walked other pilgrimage routes before, this journey is designed for those who appreciate authentic travel, comfortable accommodation and the reassurance of having every logistical detail professionally organised. If you'd rather spend your days enjoying the walk than worrying about luggage, navigation or hotel bookings, this journey was designed for you. What Does the Walking Feel Like? The Portuguese Central Camino offers one of Europe's most rewarding long-distance walking experiences. Beginning in the vibrant city of Porto, the route gradually leaves urban life behind, passing through vineyards, rolling countryside, historic villages and peaceful forests before crossing into Galicia and continuing towards Santiago de Compostela. Daily walks range from approximately 18 to 34 kilometres and are best suited to walkers with a reasonable level of fitness. While there are several moderate climbs – particularly between Barcelos, Ponte de Lima and Rubiães -the route is well waymarked and technically straightforward, making it accessible to anyone accustomed to walking for several consecutive days. Every stage brings changing landscapes, welcoming local communities and the unique atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims to Santiago for centuries.
Tour options
Tour options
Tour prices
Group dates
Your group, your dates.
AT YOUR SERVICE
Our team is composed of Portuguese tour leaders and walking enthusiasts, in love with our country and proud to present the best landscapes, gastronomy, history, culture and experiences to anyone who chooses to hike in Portugal.
We are seasoned travelers and love the proximity and timeless feeling of exploring new turns, mountains, beaches and viewpoints on foot. Our passion is to share these feelings with you, so that you fall in love with Portugal as much as we are too.
Our team is composed of dedicated guides, making sure our guests’ walking holidays run smoothly and exceed their expectations.
After a great day outdoors, it's time to relax
We work with the best hotels and SPA's, to guarantee you full-access to great relaxing experiences and a good night's sleep after your hiking is done.
/ Access to the best SPAs;
/ Free time for sightseeing;
/ Experience adapted to your own pace and holiday style;
We strive to provide our guests with time to relax and immerse into the atmosphere, providing a balance between great activities and well deserved “me time” on your walking holidays Portugal!
WALKING HOLIDAYS FOR EVERY TYPE OF HIKER
While planning your holidays, our staff will contact you to ask for further details to better design a tour more suited to you. However, all our tours are built to adapt to groups with different hiking experience, having shorter and longer options. For "expert" hikers, we provide additional challenges. Or you are welsome to take a day off; we invite all our guests on our guided tours to simply hop into our vans if they want to enjoy a recovery day.
HIKER TYPES:
1 BEGINNER
/ I walk/hike on a regular basis, for fitness. I prefer rolling terrain but enjoy reaching my goals and enjoy an active lifestyle. I like to overcome some challenges, but mostly enjoy the landscapes and atmosphere, going out on hikes up to 2 or three hours.
You will get to hike at your own pace, in moderate distances and hop on our van if you so desire or challenge yourself when you feel comfortable! You’ll get to walk in a group with like-minded people and accompanied by our guides, discovering the best of Portugal
2 INTERMEDIATE
/ Hiking is a great part of my life, and I walk regularly. I am comfortable with hikes of 3 to 4 hours, or even more at a relatively strong pace. I like to be challenged and to surpass obstacles, so that I can explore more and discover the most beautiful places.
You will get to explore different riding experiences, from tougher climbs to walking along in great company. You’ll have time to enjoy the great landscapes, but also enjoy the descents and push yourself climbing those tough hills. You’ll enjoy the variety of terrain, and pushing a little harder to get off the beaten path.
3 EXPERT
/ I am an explorer by nature and understand I have to push myself to get to the top of the summit. I love to climb, hike and tackle big climbs to long, technical descents, especially the ones that allow me to push my limits and make long lasting memories. I love to spend the full day hiking.
You’ll get to hike the best Portuguese trails and push yourself as hard as you can, as at the end of the day, you know you’ll be able to rest and relax. Lead the pack and take on the special extra-challenges we have in store for you – try to keep up with our guides as you go for the extra mile just before your well deserved rest and massage at the hotel!
Walking holidays Portugal for all.
/ From 5 to 8 guests, 5% discount for guests;
/ From 9 to 12 guests, 7.5% discount for guests;
/ From 12 hikers to 20 guests, 10% discount for guests;