The Portuguese Way

The Central Way, the main route, extends for 118 km and can be completed in about six days, connecting Tui to Santiago de Compostela. The route from Tui is the most traditional itinerary, characterized by rural landscapes, medieval villages, and ancient paths, including roads from the Roman era. Located on the banks of the Minho River, which marks the border between Spain and Portugal, Tui is worth visiting before starting the journey, to immerse yourself in its historical atmosphere and admire its cultural heritage. In addition to the Cathedral, other historical buildings worth visiting include the Capela de San Telmo and the Convento de Santa Clara. Along the way, travelers pass through charming towns such as O Porriño, Pontevedra, and Padrón, offering a journey through nature and culture.

The Portuguese Coastal Way, from A Guarda to Santiago, stretches for 202 km over nine stages. Starting from the Atlantic coast, the route winds through the beauties of the Galician coastline and inland areas, passing through fascinating places like Baiona and Vigo, before merging with the Central Way at Redondela. This route is characterized by a great variety of landscapes and an interesting fusion of maritime culture and Jacobean tradition. Another famous starting point is the city of Vigo, located about 102 km (63 miles) from Santiago. Although part of the Coastal Way, from Vigo only one stage is covered before joining the Central Way at Redondela, meaning that opportunities to admire coastal landscapes are rather limited.

The Spiritual Variant is an alternative to the traditional route of the Portuguese Way, both central and coastal. This detour allows pilgrims to experience a more intimate and spiritual journey and is also known as Ruta Traslatio or Maritime Route, evoking the tradition that the body of Saint James was transported by sea to Padrón. For those who prefer to walk this section, the route continues through Carril and Vilagarcía de Arousa, two characteristic fishing villages. Upon reaching Pontecesures, it merges with the final stage of the Portuguese Central Way. The total length of this route is about 73 km, passing through the O Salnés region, an area rich in natural beauty, ancient churches, picturesque villages, and renowned gastronomy.

Many pilgrims choose to embark on the Spiritual Variant after completing a few stages of the Portuguese Central Way from Tui or the Coastal Way from Vigo.