Portuguese Way Walking Tour 2015

The Portuguese Way - The Green Trail 2 Weeks - The 2 in 1 Trip 14 Days / 13 nights

Discover two distinct cultures and countries in this great 2 in 1 trip! Starting in the legendary Portuguese town of Porto, you’ll head straight North and discover the country’s unique Minho region, know for its ‘green’ wines. The second part of the trip is spent living the legendary Spanish culture.

Discover the world of tapas cañas and delicious seafood all while meandering thru peaceful rural villages…

The Portuguese Way - 2 Week Trip

From Porto, Portugal to Santiago de Compostela, Spain Days 1-3 Porto - Arcos 18 km days (11 miles)

Arrival at Porto airport and transfer to the city’s historical center, decreed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.

After enjoying a good Port, you’ll quickly discover Portugal’s serene countryside.

Passing the occasional historical site such as the Dom Zameiro bridge and the XIIth century monastery of Leca do Balio.

Days 4-6 Arcos - San Pedro Rubiaes 23km days (13 miles)

This stretch passes the impressive cities of Barcelos, where you’ll discover the origins of the country’s famous symbol, the rooster.

Later, you’ll pass Ponte de Lima. Founded in 1125, it is one of Portugal’s oldest cities and the site of an ancient Roman settlement. Its long stone bridge is further testament of their presence.

Day 7 San Pedro Rubiaes - Tui, Spain

One last day to enjoy the Portuguese countryside and culture. Crossing the Rio Minho at the end of the day, we say goodbye to Portugal and enter Spain. From here, the itinerary follows the stages of the 1 week trip.

The Portuguese Way - 2 Week Trip Days 8-10 Tui - Pontevedra 27 km days (17 miles)

Great days await, walking mostly in the quiet countryside, discovering the peacefulness of rural Galicia.

Passing the occasional beach makes this a perfect blend of coastal and rural walking. Stopping in Pontevedra allows to visit some the city’s impressive sanctuaries.

Days 11-13 Pontevedra - Santiago 20km days (12 miles)

This stretch passes impressive historical sites such as the Puente del Burgo, the hot springs of Caldas de Reis and the village of Padron where the boat carrying St-James’ remains landed. There is tons to see and do once in Compostela, on top of enjoying the fulfillment of reaching your destination!

Day 14 Airport transfer

Depending on your return flight, you can either enjoy more time meandering through the streets of Santiago or head straight back to either Santiago or Vigo airport.

2015 PRICING - Per person, based on double occupancy, in Euros.

Mix of 3 & 4 star hotels -1475€ (approximately 2,135$ CAD/US) Solo traveler supplement - 525€ (approximately 760$ CAD or US) Budget Private Room -1095€ (approximately 1,585$ CAD/US) Solo traveler supplement - 445€ (approximately 645$ CAD or US)

Some of our preferred Lodging PORTO - FREIXO PALACE HOTEL

An 18th century home transformed into a beautiful hotel.

A fine example of Portuguese Baroque Architecture.

PONTE DE LIMA - CASA ARRABALDE

Lovely renovated B&B home offering large, peaceful rooms in the heart of the historical center.

TUI - PARADOR

Located on the river banks, bordering with Portugal.

Ideally located on the edge of this historic town.

PONTEVEDRA - PARADOR

Located in the old quarters of the city, it is the count’s former home, renovated into a luxury hotel.

SANTIAGO - HOTEL ALTAIR

Modern rooms in an ancient home. Located on the edge of the historical center, where it is much quieter and tranquil.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Our preferred lodges have been carefully selected for their location, comfort, charm and consistent friendly service. They are subject to availability. Should one of our preferred lodges not be available, we will provide you with one of the same standard & price.

Booking Conditions OUR PRICES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING;

- 13 nights in En suite Private room & Bathroom - Luggage transfers (1 bag per person, 20 kilo limit) - Airport Transfer from Porto Airport to Hotel - Airport Transfer from Santiago Hotel to Santiago or Vigo Airport - All breakfasts - Access To 24 Hour Help Line" - Personalized Electronic Guidebook For Each Participant Which Includes: - Camino trail map with GPS locations of your lodges - Daily route notes, elevation profiles and itinerary overview - Informative notes and videos of sites of interest - Restaurant reviews and suggestions" - Essential services locator (banks, pharmacies, water, etc)" - Food menu translator" - Common Spanish & Portuguese phrasebook" - Tips for how to prepare & train for the Camino - First Aid & Emergency situation tips

OUR PRICES DO NOT INCLUDE;

- Personal Expenses - Meals outside of breakfast - Museum entrances and paid visits - Potential taxi services to shorten days - Travel Insurance

Our Services

PERSONALIZED ITINERARY

We tailor all of our trips specifically to your needs, ensuring you get the trip you want.

PERSONAL ‘GUIDE’

Our Electronic Guide offers you directions, tips and advice every step of your journey.

FREEDOM

Select when you want to stop, where and what to eat. Experience the Camino your Way.

LODGING VARIETY

Understanding your needs and expectations, our team scopes the best places for all budgets.

LUGGAGE TRANSFER

We ensure your bags are waiting for you at your destination at the end of your day’s walk.

TOP SERVICE

Our staff is here for you from start to finish.

Dedicated to make this is a trip of a lifetime.

Give yourself the best of both worlds: -Flexibility of traveling on your own -Security & Support of a guided trip

“Whether you hike the entire route or just the last stretch - it’s an experience that will stay with you forever.”

- Rick Steves, US Nationwide Columnist Rayo Active Travel Inc, 113 Tuscany Way NW, Calgary, AB, T3L 2A4 info@rayotravel.com