Spain & Portugal: Coastal Camino de Santiago

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

A VBT representative will greet you at the airport to start your first day in Santiago de Compostela off right. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.

After an included breakfast this morning, meet your VBT local guide in the hotel lobby. Please ensure you have checked out of the hotel and be dressed in your cycling clothes and ready for biking (or if you prefer to change into cycling clothes in a restroom at the start of the warm-up ride, please put them in your carry-on luggage for easy access). You will travel to the warm-up ride immediately after your morning’s tour in Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Your discoveries of this fascinating city begin immediately, as your VBT local guide explains the historic significance of the Parador de Santiago de Compostela, also known as the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, during a brief tour of the complex. This remarkable property, opened in 1499 on Obradoiro Square to serve the pilgrims coming to Santiago along the Way of St. James, boasts a rich heritage and long history. Next, follow your guide to the revered Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, burial site of the apostle James and the destination of countless pilgrims still today. After time to take in its ornate façade and sweeping plaza, you learn more about the pilgrimage as you journey to the town of Padrón, where the bones of St. James are said to have first arrived in Spain by boat.

You meet your VBT trip leaders in Padrón for introductions and a safety and bike-fitting session. Your warm-up ride follows the banks of the Ulla River, occasionally overlapping with the Portuguese Way of St. James. On your way, you may see little boats, typically used by pilgrims (weather permitting) for a downriver float on the Ulla into the sweeping seascapes of the Ría de Arousa—the largest of Galicia’s estuaries and producer of some of Europe’s best seafood. After an included lunch in Padrón, you will be shuttled aboard a private coach to the port town of Cambados and its charming parador, a stately 17th-century Galician manor house and your home for the next two nights.

This evening, gather for a welcome cocktail and reception, followed by a dinner featuring a tasting menu with some of the parador’s local Galician specialties.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Warm-up — 23 km (14 miles)

What to Expect:

The warm-up ride will give you the opportunity to become familiar with your bike as you ride country roads with little traffic. The ride is fairly level, mostly through lovely forests and farmlands and following the banks of the Ulla River.

Cumulative Distance Range: 23 km (14 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, if weather permits, experience local seafaring traditions firsthand as you sail with Captain Isidro on his beautifully preserved, historic boat Chasula. You’ll also learn how the sea is valued and how seafood is collected in this culture with our guide from the association of the “Sea Woman.”

Afterward, set out on your bike to cycle along the waterfront of Cambados and the Camino de Santiago, and pause along the shore of the sea to enjoy a picnic lunch. Your route traces the gently rolling coastal vineyards and velvety pine groves of the Rías Baixas, the name given to the four pristine estuaries along Galicia’s Atlantic coast. (It is pronounced “Ree-ass By-Shass.”) This stunning region, which you traverse along the wine road known as the Ruta do Viño Rías Baixas, is renowned for its white wine grapes introduced here in the 12th century by Cistercian monks. Following narrow country lanes, you arrive at the causeway connecting Spain’s mainland to the island of A Illa de Arousa. Cross over, then circumnavigate the island on picturesque bike paths and typical small-town streets, perhaps spotting some of the herons that reside on this island municipality in the middle of the Ría de Arousa, the largest estuary in Galicia.

This evening, you may walk through the neighboring historic district, a spectacular cluster of mansions that has been declared a Site of Cultural Interest by the Spanish government. Perhaps pause at one of the traditional cafés for a glass of local wine such as a refreshing glass of albariño, known locally as the “wine of the sea” for the coastal vineyards that produce it and for its compatibility with seafood. After, enjoy dinner on your own at one of the numerous restaurants in the Old Town; your trip leaders will give you recommendations.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Cambados to Arousa island — 26 km (16 miles)

Afternoon: Arousa island to Cambados — 9 km (5 miles) OR Miradoiros loop PLUS — 18 km (11 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride is easy with most of the cycling on quaint country roads and bike paths. You might experience some heavier traffic on the island of A Illa de Arousa and in Cambados at the beginning and end of your afternoon ride. You cross the causeway bridge on a pedestrian/cycle path; during the summer months there could be heavier bike traffic and more pedestrians. As always, the VBT support vehicle will be readily available if you prefer to shuttle across the causeway to the island. Those with additional energy can ride a longer, moderate loop when coming back from the island.

Cumulative Distance Range: 26 – 44 km (16 – 26 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

The flower of Galicia is the camellia, and today’s route is a testament to its revered status. You begin with a spin along part of the Ruta de la Camelia, a beautiful ride connecting various historic gardens. Even though you will not see camellias in bloom due to the month of your visit, you are sure to find the botanic gardens impressive any time of year.

You cycle out of Cambados via neighboring hills and vineyards, following narrow country lanes to the vineyards and gardens of the 18th-century Pazo de Rubianes (Palace of Rubianes). This grand villa boasts a splendid example of Galicia’s horticultural beauty. Savor a sumptuous lunch and tasting of the estate’s unique regional albariño wine before a guided walk through its impressive botanical gardens—a lavish display of century-old camellias, magnolias, and more than 800 other floral species.

Later, you shuttle (approximately one hour) to Baiona, scenically set on Vigo Bay. This pretty port town is known as Villa de la Arribada, meaning “port of entry,” as it was the first in Europe to learn of the discovery of America when Columbus’ ship the Pinta arrived on its shores after its overseas voyage. Here, you’ll check into your next parador, located within a beautiful 14th-century fortress on the peninsula of Montereal, opposite the Vigo estuary. Enjoy sweeping sea views throughout your stay.

This evening, savor a leisurely dinner in the parador’s dining room.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Parador to Vineyards — 26 km (16 miles) | Vineyards to Pazo de Rubianes — 17 km (10 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride includes some elevation gain, leading you into the foothills and vineyards surrounding Cambados and providing a great workout. Most of the cycling is on country roads with some occasional traffic. The ride from the vineyards to Pazo de Rubianes has additional elevation gains. Guests may opt to shuttle to Pazo de Rubianes from the vineyards.

Cumulative Distance Range: 26 – 43 km (16 – 26 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, cycle directly from the parador. This morning’s route traces the coast, often following the Portuguese Coastal Camino de Santiago and passing pilgrims on their spiritual journey. You steer off the main bike route into the shade of the forested foothills, where spectacular seaside views unfold as you ride. Descend back to the coast and the small seaside village of Oia, with its historic Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Oia. This 12th-century treasure has been a monastery, a palace, and a school—and was even a jail during the tumultuous Spanish Civil War. You will stop at a nearby restaurant for a delicious, included lunch overlooking the sea, before cycling or shuttling back to the parador.

Spend time exploring the sites of Baiona, stroll the parador’s historic fortress grounds, or take a dip in the large swimming pool.

In the evening, you may walk to the medieval town center of Baiona for your dinner at leisure.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Baiona to Oia — 20 km (12 miles) | Baiona to Oia PLUS — 20 km (12 miles)

Afternoon: Oia to Baiona — 20 km (12 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride features gently rolling hills with scenic sea views. Most of the cycling is on the Portuguese Coastal Way of St. James, which follows a main roadway. You may be sharing the Camino de Santiago with pilgrims; the path can become crowded in the summer months. Your ride will also follow narrow hillside roads with little traffic if you decide for more challenging morning option. The afternoon return ride could have coastal headwinds. The VBT support vehicle will be available for anyone wishing to shuttle back to the parador.

Today may offer an additional independent ride for experienced cyclists. Ask your trip leader for details.

Cumulative Distance Range: 20 – 40 km (12 – 24 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, you bid farewell to Spain as you cycle the Portuguese Coastal Way of St. James into Portugal.  This morning, enjoy the scenic short shuttle to Oia to begin biking as you follow the spiritual Camino again past amazing coastal vistas.

Arriving at Spain and Portugal’s natural border, the Minho River, you will discover southernmost part of Galicia. Shortly after, you enter Portugal bicycling over the Friendship Bridge.  The village of Vila Nova de Cerveira will welcome you onto Portuguese soil, where you can find choices for lunch on your own. Then you continue your journey on a scenic bike route with river and ocean views to Ȃncora. Here, our private coach will shuttle you to your seaside accommodations, located outside the Portuguese town of Viana do Castelo.

After getting acquainted with the hotel’s amenities, you may take a short stroll to the beach and delight in a stunning sunset with ocean views, before an included dinner at your leisure in the hotel’s restaurant.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Oia to Vila Nova de Cerveira — 32 km (20 miles)

Afternoon: Vila Nova de Cerveira to Ȃncora — 21 km (13 miles)

What to Expect:

Most of today’s cycling is on the Portuguese Coastal Way of St. James along a designated path next to the main road to Portugal. You may be sharing the Camino de Santiago with pilgrims; the path can become crowded in the summer months.  After you pass the town of A Guarda, you will cycle on a side road with some short sections of rolling hills, till you cross the river Minho bridge into Portugal, leaving Spain. The afternoon ride follows the river flow and designated bike paths all the way to Ȃncora. Here, our private coach will wait for you.

Today may offer an additional independent ride for experienced cyclists. Ask your trip leader for details.

Cumulative Distance Range: 21 – 53 km (13 – 32 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After a lavish breakfast buffet, take a short journey to the heart of Lima Valley to cycle through lush vineyards and quaint Portuguese villages. Then follow the river to Ponte de Lima, the oldest chartered town in Portugal. Enjoy the stroll in this pretty riverside town, named for the long medieval bridge that spans the Lima River, before you board our private coach to a bucolic farming landscape draped with hillside vineyards and dotted with beautiful manor houses known as paços, small country palaces that once served as rest stops for kings during their travels through the countryside. Like royalty of old, you, too, will use one as a rest stop—the Paço de Calheiros, owned and operated by the family of Count Calheiros since medieval times. The present-day family home was built in the 17th century. Its stalwart structures and three-foot granite wall have stood the test of time. You may stroll the grounds and admire breathtaking views of the Lima Valley. If the day is clear, you might also glimpse the Atlantic Ocean. Get to know your host, Count Calheiros, over a lunch accompanied by vinho verde wines harvested from his vineyards. After this reinvigorating respite, shuttle back to your hotel.

This evening, join your entire group for a sunset cocktail. Learn about the hotel’s unique philosophy that embraces the active lifestyle of its guests, from surfers and paddleboarders to cyclists and yogis. Tonight, enjoy an included festive farewell dinner and sample some regional culinary delights.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Nogueira to Ponte de Lima — 27 km (16 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride includes some elevation gain with longer inclines and offers a variety of bike paths, narrow rural roads with limited traffic, and country roads with varied levels of traffic. While following the river to Ponte de Lima, you spend the last couple of miles on easy flat terrain.

Cumulative Distance Range: 27 km (16 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy a fresh Portuguese breakfast before you’ll say so long, farewell to your trip leaders and take a short bus ride into Porto, arriving at approximately 10:30 a.m., for a guided walking tour of Portugal’s cultural capital.

Your hotel—the Pestana Porto A Brasileira—is located in the heart of Porto, a short walk from the riverbanks of the Douro River and the historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The remainder of the day is yours to make your own discoveries. Your room may not be ready until 3:00 p.m., but your luggage awaits your arrival at the hotel.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After an included breakfast this morning, transportation to the Porto airport will be provided (an approximately 30- to-45-minute drive, depending on traffic) for your departing flight.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Your tour starts at the Parador de Santiago de Compostela, also known as the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Your VBT local guide will meet you in the lobby with a VBT sign.

Your discoveries of this fascinating city begin immediately, as your VBT local guide explains the historic significance of the Parador de Santiago de Compostela, also known as the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, during a brief tour of the complex. This remarkable property, opened in 1499 on Obradoiro Square to serve the pilgrims coming to Santiago along the Way of St. James, boasts a rich heritage and long history. Next, follow your guide to the revered Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, burial site of the apostle James and the destination of countless pilgrims still today. After time to take in its ornate façade and sweeping plaza, you learn more about the pilgrimage as you journey to the town of Padrón, where the bones of St. James are said to have first arrived in Spain by boat.

You meet your VBT trip leaders in Padrón for introductions and a safety and bike-fitting session. Your warm-up ride follows the banks of the Ulla River, occasionally overlapping with the Portuguese Way of St. James. On your way, you may see little boats, typically used by pilgrims (weather permitting) for a downriver float on the Ulla into the sweeping seascapes of the Ría de Arousa—the largest of Galicia’s estuaries and producer of some of Europe’s best seafood. After an included lunch in Padrón, you will be shuttled aboard a private coach to the port town of Cambados and its charming parador, a stately 17th-century Galician manor house and your home for the next two nights.

This evening, gather for a welcome cocktail and reception, followed by a dinner featuring a menu with some of the parador’s local Galician specialties.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Warm-up — 22 km (13 miles)

What to Expect:

The warm-up ride will give you the opportunity to become familiar with your bike as you ride country roads with little traffic. The ride is fairly level, mostly through lovely forests and farmlands and following the banks of the Ulla River.

Cumulative Distance Range: 22 km (13 miles)

Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner

This morning, if weather permits, experience local seafaring traditions firsthand as you sail with Captain Isidro on his beautifully preserved, historic boat Chasula. You’ll also learn how the sea is valued and how seafood is collected in this culture with our guide from the association of the “Sea Woman.”

Afterward, set out on your bike to cycle along the waterfront of Cambados and the Camino de Santiago, and pause along the shore of the sea to enjoy a picnic lunch. Your route traces the gently rolling coastal vineyards and velvety pine groves of the Rías Baixas, the name given to the four pristine estuaries along Galicia’s Atlantic coast. (It is pronounced “Ree-ass By-Shass.”) This stunning region, which you traverse along the wine road known as the Ruta do Viño Rías Baixas, is renowned for its white wine grapes introduced here in the 12th century by Cistercian monks. Following narrow country lanes, you arrive at the causeway connecting Spain’s mainland to the island of A Illa de Arousa. Cross over, then circumnavigate the island on picturesque bike paths and typical small-town streets, perhaps spotting some of the herons that reside on this island municipality in the middle of the Ría de Arousa, the largest estuary in Galicia.

This evening, you may walk through the neighboring historic district, a spectacular cluster of mansions that has been declared a Site of Cultural Interest by the Spanish government. Perhaps pause at one of the traditional cafés for a glass of local wine such as a refreshing glass of albariño, known locally as the “wine of the sea” for the coastal vineyards that produce it and for its compatibility with seafood. After, enjoy dinner on your own at one of the numerous restaurants in the Old Town; your trip leaders will give you recommendations.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Cambados to Arousa island — 26 km (16 miles)

Afternoon: Arousa island to Cambados — 9 km (5 miles) OR Miradoiros loop PLUS — 18 km (11 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride is easy with most of the cycling on quaint country roads and bike paths. You might experience some heavier traffic on the island of A Illa de Arousa and in Cambados at the beginning and end of your afternoon ride. You cross the causeway bridge on a pedestrian/cycle path; during the summer months there could be heavier bike traffic and more pedestrians. As always, the VBT support vehicle will be readily available if you prefer to shuttle across the causeway to the island. Those with additional energy can ride a longer, moderate loop when coming back from the island.

Cumulative Distance Range: 26 – 44 km (16 – 26 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

The flower of Galicia is the camellia, and today’s route is a testament to its revered status. You begin with a spin along part of the Ruta de la Camelia, a beautiful ride connecting various historic gardens. Even though you will not see camellias in bloom due to the month of your visit, you are sure to find the botanic gardens impressive any time of year.

You cycle out of Cambados via neighboring hills and vineyards, following narrow country lanes to the vineyards and gardens of the 18th-century Pazo de Rubianes (Palace of Rubianes). This grand villa boasts a splendid example of Galicia’s horticultural beauty. Savor a sumptuous lunch and tasting of the estate’s unique regional albariño wine before a guided walk through its impressive botanical gardens—a lavish display of century-old camellias, magnolias, and more than 800 other floral species.

Later, you shuttle (approximately one hour) to Baiona, scenically set on Vigo Bay. This pretty port town is known as Villa de la Arribada, meaning “port of entry,” as it was the first in Europe to learn of the discovery of America when Columbus’ ship the Pinta arrived on its shores after its overseas voyage. Here, you’ll check into your next parador, located within a beautiful 14th-century fortress on the peninsula of Montereal, opposite the Vigo estuary. Enjoy sweeping sea views throughout your stay.

This evening, savor a leisurely dinner in the parador’s dining room.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Parador to Vineyards — 26 km (16 miles) | Vineyards to Pazo de Rubianes — 17 km (10 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride includes some elevation gain, leading you into the foothills and vineyards surrounding Cambados and providing a great workout. Most of the cycling is on country roads with some occasional traffic. The ride from the vineyards to Pazo de Rubianes has additional elevation gains. Guests may opt to shuttle to Pazo de Rubianes from the vineyards.

Cumulative Distance Range: 26 – 43 km (16 – 26 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, cycle directly from the parador. This morning’s route traces the coast, often following the Portuguese Coastal Camino de Santiago and passing pilgrims on their spiritual journey. You steer off the main bike route into the shade of the forested foothills, where spectacular seaside views unfold as you ride. Descend back to the coast and the small seaside village of Oia, with its historic Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Oia. This 12th-century treasure has been a monastery, a palace, and a school—and was even a jail during the tumultuous Spanish Civil War. You will stop at a nearby restaurant for a delicious, included lunch overlooking the sea, before cycling or shuttling back to the parador.

Spend time exploring the sites of Baiona, stroll the parador’s historic fortress grounds, or take a dip in the large swimming pool.

In the evening, you may walk to the medieval town center of Baiona for your dinner at leisure.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Baiona to Oia — 20 km (12 miles) | Baiona to Oia PLUS — 20 km (12 miles)

Afternoon: Oia to Baiona — 20 km (12 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride features gently rolling hills with scenic sea views. Most of the cycling is on the Portuguese Coastal Way of St. James, which follows a main roadway. You may be sharing the Camino de Santiago with pilgrims; the path can become crowded in the summer months. Your ride will also follow narrow hillside roads with little traffic if you decide for more challenging morning option. The afternoon return ride could have coastal headwinds. The VBT support vehicle will be available for anyone wishing to shuttle back to the parador.

Today may offer an additional independent ride for experienced cyclists. Ask your trip leader for details.

Cumulative Distance Range: 20 – 40 km (12 – 24 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, you bid farewell to Spain as you cycle the Portuguese Coastal Way of St. James into Portugal.  This morning, enjoy the scenic short shuttle to Oia to begin biking as you follow the spiritual Camino again past amazing coastal vistas.

Arriving at Spain and Portugal’s natural border, the Minho River, you will discover southernmost part of Galicia. Shortly after, you enter Portugal bicycling over the Friendship Bridge.  The village of Vila Nova de Cerveira will welcome you onto Portuguese soil, where you can find choices for lunch on your own. Then you continue your journey on a scenic bike route with river and ocean views to Ȃncora. Here, our private coach will shuttle you to your seaside accommodations, located outside the Portuguese town of Viana do Castelo.

After getting acquainted with the hotel’s amenities, you may take a short stroll to the beach and delight in a stunning sunset with ocean views, before an included dinner at your leisure in the hotel’s restaurant.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Oia to Vila Nova de Cerveira — 32 km (20 miles)

Afternoon: Vila Nova de Cerveira to Ȃncora — 21 km (13 miles)

What to Expect:

Most of today’s cycling is on the Portuguese Coastal Way of St. James along a designated path next to the main road to Portugal. You may be sharing the Camino de Santiago with pilgrims; the path can become crowded in the summer months.  After you pass the town of A Guarda, you will cycle on a side road with some short sections of rolling hills, till you cross the river Minho bridge into Portugal, leaving Spain. The afternoon ride follows the river flow and designated bike paths all the way to Ȃncora. Here, our private coach will wait for you.

Today may offer an additional independent ride for experienced cyclists. Ask your trip leader for details.

Cumulative Distance Range: 21 – 53 km (13 – 32 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After a lavish breakfast buffet, take a short journey to the heart of Lima Valley to cycle through lush vineyards and quaint Portuguese villages. Then follow the river to Ponte de Lima, the oldest chartered town in Portugal. Enjoy the stroll in this pretty riverside town, named for the long medieval bridge that spans the Lima River, before you board our private coach to a bucolic farming landscape draped with hillside vineyards and dotted with beautiful manor houses known as paços, small country palaces that once served as rest stops for kings during their travels through the countryside. Like royalty of old, you, too, will use one as a rest stop—the Paço de Calheiros, owned and operated by the family of Count Calheiros since medieval times. The present-day family home was built in the 17th century. Its stalwart structures and three-foot granite wall have stood the test of time. You may stroll the grounds and admire breathtaking views of the Lima Valley. If the day is clear, you might also glimpse the Atlantic Ocean. Get to know your host, Count Calheiros, over a lunch accompanied by vinho verde wines harvested from his vineyards. After this reinvigorating respite, shuttle back to your hotel.

This evening, join your entire group for a sunset cocktail. Learn about the hotel’s unique philosophy that embraces the active lifestyle of its guests, from surfers and paddleboarders to cyclists and yogis. Tonight, enjoy an included festive farewell dinner and sample some regional culinary delights.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Nogueira to Ponte de Lima — 27 km (16 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride includes some elevation gain with longer inclines and offers a variety of bike paths, narrow rural roads with limited traffic, and country roads with varied levels of traffic. While following the river to Ponte de Lima, you spend the last couple of miles on easy flat terrain.

Cumulative Distance Range: 27 km (16 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy a fresh Portuguese breakfast before you’ll say so long, farewell to your trip leaders and take a short bus ride into Porto, the hub of Portugal’s wine production and a cultural capital dripping with authentic charm. Your tour concludes at approximately 10:30 a.m. at Parque das Camelias. Taxis are available to take you to central Porto hotels, the Porto train station, or the Porto airport (approximately 30-45 minutes depending upon traffic).

Important: Flight departures from Porto prior to 1:00 p.m. are not recommended. If you depart earlier, you are responsible for your own transportation arrangements from the Feelviana Sport Hotel to Porto’s airport (approximately 45-60 minutes).

Included Meals: Breakfast