You will be met at Porto airport and transferred to your first hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore this vibrant, historic city from which the country and famous wine is named. Porto is Portugal’s second-largest city after Lisbon and is a delightful place to explore on foot. Head for the old town, built on the hills overlooking the Douro River and explore the narrow atmospheric streets. Then nip across the river to Vila Nova de Gaia to visit some of the famous Port wine cellars and perhaps indulge in a bit of tasting.

Your journey towards Santiago de Compostela begins today, along the Portuguese Atlantic Way. You depart from the Sé (a UNESCO-protected area of the city) and cross Porto’s older quarters, including the remains of its medieval town. From there you then head north to Matosinhos and across the Leça River, before following the river’s course towards the towns of Vila do Conde and Póvoa do Varzim. Between the 15th-17th centuries, many European nations set out to discover unknown parts of the world, during what became known as the Age of Discovery – an age where these towns played an important role in the building of the Portuguese ships, destined for those mysterious lands. You’ll stop for the night in Esposende, a bustling little town at the mouth of the Cávado River.

The cycle route leads you northwards up the quiet, scenic coastline. Suddenly you find yourself starring down at the Lima River and the town of Viana do Castelo beyond. We recommend taking a break to explore the medieval heart of the town which has been a significant stop on the pilgrimage route for centuries. A few more kilometers of cycling up the peaceful coastline brings you to the lovely town of Caminha on the southern bank of the Minho River. The river is the natural border between Portugal and Spain so be sure enjoy a typical Portuguese meal in one of the many traditional restaurants before turning in for the night as tomorrow you cross the river into Spain.

A ferry transports you across the Minho River to the town of A Guarda in the Galicia region of Spain. Marvellous sea views accompany your ride up the coast to picturesque Oia. Here the imposingly-beautiful Cistercian Monastery of Santa Maria la Real is a must-see, with its 18th century Baroque facade. Leaving Oia, the terrain has more of an incline, as you follow the cliffs towards Cape Sillero along the old medieval road. Your destination today is the historical port of Vigo. A pleasant seafront path leads you into the heart of the city via some pleasant parks and gardens. In the evening take a stroll around the fabulous Marina and the beautiful old quarter.

The route leads you out of the city into the countryside once more. At Rendondela you leave the coast behind and head inland, crossing several rivers on ancient medieval bridges. Your legs will feel it a bit today as you’ll encounter more hills than you’ve seen so far on the journey. Now you begin to encounter more pilgrims as your route merges with other long distance routes all headed for Santiago. The historical town of Pontevedra (old bridge) gained its name from the impressive Roman bridge that spans the river, yet its historical centre and old quarter is more medieval in style. After checking into your hotel, head for Praza de Leña, a lively square at the heart of the town.

Shortly after leaving Pontevedra you cycle through a beautiful wetland region where you can admire many different bird species. You’ll then follow a charming old pilgrims’ path into the woods, passing small rivers and water-mills – this section really does feel like you have stepped back in time to a calmer more peaceful age. Your destination today is the pleasant old town of Padrón, a charming little place with winding flag stoned narrow streets.

On the final few kilometers to Santiago you will be surrounded by tired but ecstatic pilgrims who, like you are approaching their goal. At Milladoiro, you catch your first glimpse of the stunning cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, within which the tomb of the Apostle St. James is located. On reaching your goal, the afternoon will be free to explore this fascinating city. Our top tip is to take time to explore the interesting and unique pedestrianised plazas that surround the cathedral. We also highly recommend chatting to some of the pilgrims about their journeys as some will have walked across Europe to get here and their stories are often astonishing and entertaining. You will spend the night in this magical city.

After breakfast it is time to head for home or your next adventure.