The Portuguese Way - The Green Way The 2 in 1 Trip 10 Days / 9 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…
Cycling the Portuguese Way
From Porto, Portugal to Santiago de Compostela, Spain Days 1-3 Porto - Arcos 41 km days (25 miles)
Arrival at Porto airport and transfer to your lodge. Enjoy a day in Porto, 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 4-5 Arcos - Valença do Minho 51km days (32 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 6 Valença do Minho - Redondela, Spain
Crossing the Rio Minho, we say goodbye to Portugal and enter Spain. You’ll spend most of the day riding in the quiet Spanish countryside, discovering the peacefulness of rural Galicia.
Cycling the Portuguese Way Day 7 Redondela - Caldas de Reis 45 km day (28 miles)
Great day awaits, passing the occasional beach makes this a perfect blend of coastal and rural cycling. Traversing the city of Pontevedra and its impressive sanctuaries, we finish today’s ride at the legendary hot springs of Caldas de Reis. Perfect to soothe the muscles!
Days 8-9 Caldas de Reis - Santiago 44km day (27 miles)
As you get closer to Santiago, you start cycling through more and more Eucalyptus treed forests. The aroma is simply delightful. Passing the village of Padron, where the boat carrying St-James’ remains landed. A few more hills for the final miles into Santiago. Take a full day to enjoy the fulfillment of reaching your destination and advantage of the city’s sites!
Day 10 Airport transfer
Depending on your return flight, you can either enjoy more time meandering through the streets of Santiago or head straight back to Santiago airport.
2015 PRICING - Per person, based on double occupancy, in Euros. Mix of 3 & 4 star hotels -1,425€ (approximately 1,995$ CAD/US) Solo traveler supplement - 450€ (approximately 630$ CAD or US) Budget Private Room -1,195€ (approximately 1,675$ CAD/US) Solo traveler supplement - 350€ (approximately 490$ 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.
POUSADA VALENÇA DO MINHO
Located in the old quarters of the city, it is a gorgeous historical building, renovated into a luxury hotel.
CALDAS DE REIS - TORRES DO RIO
Lovely B&B home offering large, peaceful grounds only a few kilometers from the village center.
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;
- 9 nights in En suite Private room & Bathroom - Luggage transfers (1 bag per person, 20 kilo limit) - Bicycle rental for duration of trip with pannier pack - Airport Transfer from Porto Airport to Hotel - Airport Transfer from Santiago Hotel to Santiago Airport - All breakfasts (3-4 Star package only) - 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
Rayo Active Travel Inc, 113 Tuscany Way NW, Calgary, AB, T3L 2A4
www.rayotravel.com