The Camino Portugués begins in Lisbon, Portugal and goes all the way to to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. This is approximately 620km or 387miles!
From my research I’ve found out that the Camino starts at the Church of Santiago, which is a little bit hidden in the backstreets. Most people assume that the start is the Cathedral of Lisbon - I know there is not much distance between them, but I do think it’s really important to start at the start!
My plan for when I get to Lisbon is to do a recce of the start, to ensure I know where it is!!! You also need to get your Pilgrim Passport. You need to collect stamps along your walk in order to be able to collect your certificate at the end of the walk. You need to collect 2 stamps per day!
The route is signposted and there are yellow arrows you can follow which show you the direction to follow. On the journey you are able to stay at guests houses/hostels which are known as albergues. With the walk you will also get to pass through towns so resupply will be very easy. This means I won’t need to carry my tent or multiple days worth of food at a time. Which in turn should make my backpack a little bit lighter!
I’m basically in no rush and really want to take my time and enjoy the experience, catch up with old friends, meet new ones, see the sights, be outside, spend time in nature, slow down and just enjoy the peace and quiet. There are a number of must see sites - which are on my list! Four UNESCO World Heritage areas: Knights Templar Castle in Tomar, Coimbra University, and the old towns of Porto and Santiago. Roman roads, Roman Ruins of Conimbriga, ancient bridges, iron-age settlements, Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Manueline and Baroque-style churches (as recommended by the Camino guidebook below!).
I am very much looking forward to sampling the amazing, Pastel de Nata - like mini egg custards - one of my favourite desserts! Apparently you can get them everywhere! I’ll keep you updated!
I will be daily vlogging the journey and sharing these videos on Youtube, I will also be sharing life on the Camino via Instagram and Instagram stories! You can follow me @toughgirlchallenges.
Bom Caminho!
Resources
Guidebook - The Camino PortuguesFrom Lisbon and Porto to Santiago - Central, Coastal and Spiritual Caminos.
The Portuguese Way (Camino Portugués) is a 620km long-distance route from Portugal's capital Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. This guide splits the route into 25 stages with two coastal options, and takes in historic and religious sites and stunning scenery. With information on preparation, planning and accommodation.
Seasons - April to October, although summer can be very hot especially in the south between Lisbon and Porto. Winter is usually wet with limited accommodation options so call ahead for reservations.
Centres - Lisbon, Tomar, Coimbra, Porto, Vila do Conde, Barcelos, Viana do Castelo, Ponte de Lima, Valenca, Tui, Pontevedra, Padron, Santiago de Compostela
Difficulty - Although a straightforward journey, at over 600km the Portugués Camino is a long walk requiring good general fitness. No specialist equipment is required
Must See - Four UNESCO World Heritage areas: Knights Templar Castle in Tomar, Coimbra University, and the old towns of Porto and Santiago. Roman roads, Roman Ruins of Conimbriga, ancient bridges, iron-age settlements, Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Manueline and Baroque-style churches.
Blogs
The Pilgrimage Traveler - Blog
Kat Davies Blog - Following the Arrow
You can also listen to Kat on the Tough Girl Podcast. Here is a link to her episode. Click here if you can’t see the link below.
My Camino walk is being sponsored by Cicerone! Cicerone is a family run publishing company which have been producing guide books for walkers, cyclists, trekker and mountaineers for over 50 years. There are over 320 guide books covering, the UK, Europe and Worldwide which are available in both hard copy and in e-books. Perfect for people who love to adventure and explore.