The Coastal Portuguese Way follows the Atlantic shoreline north from Porto to Santiago de Compostela, offering pilgrims an alternative to the inland Central route. Ocean breezes, fishing villages, and coastal promenades characterize this seaside pilgrimage that gained official recognition in 2016.
📜 History & Significance
While less ancient than the Central route, the Coastal variant gained prominence during Portugal's Age of Discovery in the 15th century, when maritime communities developed their own traditions of pilgrimage to Santiago. The route was officially recognized by the Cathedral of Santiago in 2016, allowing pilgrims who walk it to receive the Compostela certificate.
The coastal path reflects Portugal's deep connection to the sea, passing through communities where fishing and pilgrimage have long been intertwined.
🥾 Route Overview
The Coastal route covers 274 km from Porto to Santiago de Compostela in 12-15 days. The terrain is generally flatter than the Central route, with fewer elevation changes and a more manageable profile for first-time pilgrims.
From Porto, the route hugs the Atlantic coast through Póvoa de Varzim and Viana do Castelo to Caminha at the mouth of the Minho River. After crossing into Spain at A Guarda, pilgrims continue through Baiona and Vigo before rejoining the Central route at Redondela for the final stages to Santiago.
☩ Key Pilgrimage Sites
Viana do Castelo - A beautiful coastal city with the Sanctuary of Santa Luzia overlooking the town from Monte de Santa Luzia.
Caminha - Medieval fortress town at the Minho estuary, with a remarkable Gothic parish church.
Baiona - Where the caravel Pinta first brought news of Columbus's discovery of America in 1493; home to a former Monterreal fortress.
Redondela - Where the Coastal and Central routes converge, known for its viaducts and the Festa do Mar.
📚 Further Reading
Curated resources to help you research and plan your pilgrimage on the Camino Portugués Coastal.
