Welcome to Santiago de Campostella Portugal! Everyone must meet our team in front of the cathedral at 3 PM.  Our guides will greet you and transfer you by coach 1 hour to Tui.

Arrive Tui, your first taste of Galician charm. This isn't just any starting point – it's a medieval town where history whispers from every corner. The 12th-century cathedral commands attention from Plaza de San Fernando, its weathered stones glowing golden in the afternoon light. Take time to wander the cobblestone streets, maybe stop for your first taste of Galician wine. You'll want to rest up – tomorrow, the real walking begins.

Check into our 4-star hotel, nestled in the heart of Tui’s medieval streets. After settling in, take a leisurely stroll through the cobbled lanes of the old quarter. As you approach the main plaza at sunset, the silhouette of the west-facing 12th-century Cathedral of Santa María de Tui will leave a lasting impression. If you have time, walk along the Miño River border or climb the ancient city walls for panoramic views of Spain and Portugal.

Overnight:  Parador de Tui                        Breakfast (B) , Dinner (D)

ABOUT TUI

Tui rests on the southern edge of Pontevedra, just across the wide, slow Mino River from Portugal. The Portuguese town of Valença sits on its hill opposite, the two towns facing each other like old friends—or rivals—across the valley. A nineteenth-century iron bridge links them, and for pilgrims on the Camino Portuguese, Tui is a gateway: over 100 kilometers from Santiago, just enough to qualify for the Compostela. With roots as a Roman settlement called Tude, Tui has seen Normans, Visigoths, Celts, and more pass through, and you can feel that layered history in the stones and narrow streets. The old town spills down toward the river with hidden courtyards, charming cafés and bars. The cathedral itself is impressive with its portico said to be the first of its kind in Iberia.

Today's walk is like a highlight reel of Galician landscapes. Starting from Tui's ancient port, you'll climb through the Camino da Barca, passing through the mysterious Tunel das Monxas. Yes, that uphill stretch to San Telmo Bridge is steep – but think of it as your pilgrim initiation. The path eventually levels out as you make your way to O Porriño, where a cold cerveza awaits

From Tui’s storied port, the Camino climbs into the old town via the Camino de Barca. Walk through the atmospheric Tunnel das Monxas, then up a steep stretch to the historic San Telmo Bridge. Pause here for photos; the bridge is a favorite among pilgrims. The path then levels out toward the town of O Porriño, known for its pink granite and lively local bakeries.   Portugal has the best pastries on the planet.  Don’t miss: The Chapel of San Telmo, and try an empanada at a café in O Porriño’s main square.

Overnight:  Hotel TBA.             B,D

The Louro Valley opens up before you today like a green canvas. It's an easier walk than yesterday, with the valley keeping you company to your east. The chapel of Santiaguino de Antas provides a perfect excuse for a mid-morning break – trust me, you'll want to linger here.  Today’s route is gentle, crossing the Louro Valley with rolling hills to the east. After a peaceful ascent, stop at the Chapel of Santiaguino de Antas—a perfect picnic spot surrounded by Galician countryside. The trail then dips into cool woodland filled with pine trees before descending into Redondela.

Overnight:  Rua do Medio Hotel           B, D

Redondela to Pontevedra (19.7 km) - Bridges and Battles

Redondela waves you onward, its twin 19th-century viaducts slicing the sky in a way you’ll remember long after you leave. Beneath their arches, the path threads toward Arcade, a sleepy riverside village made famous by its oysters. Before you reach it, you’ll cross the Romanesque Ponte Sampaio—the same bridge where Spanish defenders once turned back Napoleon’s troops. It’s a grand setting for a small victory; you might not be marching into battle, but every step feels like its own quiet conquest. This town as known as the "village of viaducts" from the 19th century.

From Arcade, the route tightens through a tangle of stone-lined lanes. Pontevedra rises ahead, a city that rewards tired legs with a puzzle of medieval streets and sudden plazas. Seek out the 13th-century Church of Santa María, its stones steeped in centuries of pilgrims’ hopes. And don’t miss the Capela da Peregrina, an architectural wink to the Camino itself—its scallop shell footprint echoing the symbol that’s guided you this far.

Overnight:  Parador Pontevedra Hotel                     B,D

Pontevedra to Caldas de Reis (21.2 km) - Forest and Fortune

The Camino leaves Pontevedra through chestnut groves and alongside the railway to postcard perfect villages. Passing through Ponte Cabras, look for the rectory of Santa María de Alba hidden among eucalyptus. In the woods of Lombo da Maceira, a statue of St James points your way. Don’t rush through Tibo—a charming hamlet with an old stone cross, village fountain, and a communal laundry. Arriving in Caldas de Reis, soak your feet in the hot spring fountains that have soothed travelers since Roman times.

Overnight: TBA            B, D

Caldas de Reis to Padrón (18.7 km) - Hot Springs and Holy Ground

Begin your day by crossing the River Umia on an old bridge, pausing at the thermal spring that made Caldas famous—locals swear the waters have healing powers. The path out of town is gentle, winding through small woods and climbing quietly through the hamlet of Santa Mariña. It’s the kind of morning walk that feels almost meditative, especially with the soft light filtering through the trees.

After you cross the river Fontenlo, the route drifts toward Padrón, a town steeped in legend. This is said to be where St. James’s body first touched Spanish soil, and you can visit the Pedrón stone beneath the altar of the Church of Santiago—a spot where, according to tradition, his boat was moored. Get a lively glimpse of daily life and maybe some fresh Padrón peppers. These little green peppers, fried and salted, make the perfect end-of-day celebration snack.  Don’t miss: The Pedrón stone, the bustling market (if it’s open), and a plate of Padrón peppers—the town’s signature treat.

Overnight: TBA             B, D

Padrón to Santiago de Compostela (24.7 km) - The Final Stretch

Your final day is both the longest and the most rewarding. You’ll pass through sleepy villages, winding your way up to the Baroque Sanctuary of A Esclavitude—its graceful silhouette marking how far you’ve come. To your left, the mysterious ruins of the Castro Lupario hillfort rise from the earth, keeping their secrets under brambles and moss. Keep your eyes open for the oldest wayside cross in Galicia, a silent sentinel that has watched centuries of pilgrims just like you.

Then comes the moment you've been waiting for: as you reach Agro dos Monteiros, the distant spires of Santiago’s cathedral break the horizon. Past the crumbling ruins of A Rocha Vella castle—a silent witness to the ages—you draw closer with each step. The city appears, not as a destination, but as a warm embrace after a long journey. Santiago de Compostela welcomes you like a long-lost friend. It's time to collect your Camino certificate of completion at the Pilgrims Office. Our past groups proudly framed theirs.

Overnight: Hotel Campostela de Santiago                 B, D

Santiago de Compostela - Your Journey's End 

Well done dear pilgrims!  After breakfast, we bid farewell. We provide one common group transfer to Santiago airport or shuttle buses run every 30 minutes.