Bike Tour: St. James Way

From €1760 From €1670 per person

6 NIGHTS / 7 DAYS

St. James Way: discover the charm of a bike adventure along the “Caminho português”. Explore ancient trails and natural wonders!

Santiago cathedral from a distance, overlooking city rooftops over blue sky with a few clouds

The Portuguese Way is an important road that connects Portugal with Spain. It is the ideal route for anyone who wants to experience the Portuguese and Galician cultures.

Keep in mind that you don’t have to complete the entire St. James Way. You can choose any intermediate point along the route and complete as many stages or kilometers as you like. Upon covering 100 kilometers or more, you will be awarded the Compostela certificate upon your arrival at the Cathedral of Santiago.

DURATION: 6 nights / 7 days

LEVEL: Intermediate/Hard

SUITABLE FOR: bikers in good health, trained, and adaptable to different road surfaces.

TYPE OF TRIP: gravel / MTB bike trip with luggage transport, self-guided; overnight stays in guesthouses or 3/4* hotels.

RECOMMENDED PERIOD: April to December.

PRIVATE TOUR – Available every day. Price per person, with a minimum of 2 participants.

PROGRAM IN SHORT

Day 1: Arrival in Porto and bike fitting.
Day 2: Stage 1: Porto – Esposende (65 km – 270 m)
Day 3: Stage 2: Esposende – Ponte de Lima (55 km – 420 m)
Day 4: Stage 3: Ponte de Lima – Valença/Tui (36 km – 630 m)
Day 5: Stage 4: Valença/Tui – Pontevedra (60 km – 670 m)
Day 6: Stage 5: Pontevedra – Santiago de Compostela (65 km – 900 m)
Day 7: The farewell day

HIGHLIGHTS:

Above all, ride historic paths through northern Portugal and Galicia, including Porto, Esposende, Ponte de Lima, Valença/Tui, Pontevedra, and Santiago de Compostela.
During the journey, admire rolling hills, rivers, forests, and charming villages along the way.
Additionally, enjoy cultural landmarks and local cuisine in historic towns.
The tour provides both an adrenaline-filled cycling experience and the opportunity to immerse yourself in centuries-old Portuguese and Galician culture.

Port iron bridge on a clear day

INCLUDED

6 overnight stays with breakfast
One-way and drop-off of the bicycles
Road book with map, route description, and GPS tracks (self-guided option)
Daily transport of personal luggage up to a maximum of 20 kg per participant
Assistance from qualified staff and 24/7 telephone support with our office team

NOT INCLUDED:

Flights
Meals not mentioned in the detailed itinerary
Optional visits and activities, and extra services due to force majeure
Everything not listed under “Included”

EXTRA

Bike rental: MTB – €90, Gravel – €140, E-bike – €180
Single room supplement
Option to extend the stay or add other activities

Contact us to receive a personalized quote.

Explore our cycling programs and find the perfect one for you: click here to learn more!

Group of people on MTB pedaling down a road through the trees

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Tour Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Porto

Arrival in Porto, bike setup and Checking in the hotel. Overnight stay in Porto

Day 2: Stage 1: Porto - Esposende (65 km / 270 m)

We begin this fascinating pilgrimage from the majestic Porto Cathedral, a historic and spiritual landmark. From here, we follow the course of the Porto stream towards the Atlantic, admiring the mouth of the Douro River. Along the coast, the path takes us through picturesque seaside resorts such as Matosinhos, Leça da Palmeira, and Angeiras. Golden beaches and cool sea breezes accompany us on this part of the route. We then arrive in Vila do Conde, a town rich in history and charm. We visit the imposing Santa Clara Convent, the majestic São João Fortress, and the lively old town. We stroll along the waterfront and admire the harbor, breathing in the seafaring atmosphere. We leave the ocean and head inland, passing through traditional villages and immersing ourselves in nature. We reach the imposing Monastero de Rates, a jewel of Romanesque architecture, and admire its tower and church dedicated to St. Peter. Returning to the coast, we encounter the beautiful beaches of Aver-o-mar and Apúlia, characterized by their iconic windmills. We enter the North Coast Natural Park, an oasis of dunes, pine forests and pristine beaches. We finally arrive in Esposende, a seaside resort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. We walk along the Cávado River and reach the São João Batista lighthouse and fortress, two landmarks of the town. Esposende is our arrival point for today.

Day 3: Stage 2: Esposende - Ponte de Lima (55km / 420m)

We leave the picturesque coast of Esposende and head inland, taking the Central Route to Santiago. Following the valley of the Cávado River, we immerse ourselves in a landscape characterized by vineyards and lush forests, witnesses to a long agricultural tradition. After a route that alternates between dirt roads and trails, we reach the lively town of Barcelos, famous for its rooster. We explore the historic center, admire the church of Nossa Senhora do Terço and visit the archaeological museum. We resume our walk, still following the Central Route to Santiago. The route takes us through small rural villages, where time seems to stand still. We walk on cobblestone paths and paved roads, passing through forests and cultivated fields. We reach the church of Tamel and, after crossing the Tábuas bridge over the Neiva River, we arrive at Vitorino dos Piães. From here, we begin a gentle climb that takes us to the Ecovia along Rio Lima. After a short walk along this pleasant bike path, we finally arrive in Ponte de Lima, the oldest city in Portugal. Its historic center, with its characteristic granite houses and cobblestone streets, welcomes us with a unique atmosphere. Ponte de Lima is famous for its Roman bridge, which we will cross the next day, and for its green wine. We explore the narrow streets of the center, admire the church of Santo Antonio de Frades, and stop at one of the many bars or restaurants to enjoy local specialties.

Day 4: Stage 3: Ponte de Lima - Valença/Tui (36km / 630m)

Crossing its centuries-old Roman bridge over the Lima River is a defining moment on the Portuguese Road to Santiago. For us, this is the queen stage of the Portuguese Way to Santiago. After all, before us lies the legendary climb to the Serra da Labruja, with the famous Cruz dos Franceses. In just over 4 kilometers you will have to overcome an elevation gain of 300 meters: not a piece of cake, but if you take the climb slowly, you will be able to overcome this challenge better. The next day's stage is longer again, so it might be worth exploring the beautiful border town of Valença do Minho already today. It is a largely flat route between your lodging and the city center, so you will be able to leave directly for the next stage the following morning. Be sure to visit the imposing Forte de Valença, the Capela de São Sebastião, the Military Chapel of Bom Jesus, the Paços do Concelho, the Igreja Matriz de Santo Estêvão, and the Church of Santa Maria dos Anjos. To end the day on the Portuguese Way on a high note, there is nothing better than watching the sunset from one of the strongholds of Forte de Valença, with superb views of the Minho River and the Spanish town of Tui. With a rich historical past and well-preserved medieval architecture, it offers visitors an authentic and evocative experience. Walking through the narrow streets of the historic center, one feels catapulted back in time. The imposing Cathedral of Santa Maria, with its spires soaring skyward, dominates the city and invites you to discover its hidden treasures. As you climb the tower, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view encompassing the Minho River and the surrounding hills. The ancient medieval walls that surround the historic center tell stories of sieges and conquests, while the Chapel of São Remo, dedicated to the patron saint of sailors, offers a peaceful retreat and a privileged view of the river.

Day 5: Stage 4: Valença/Tui - Pontevedra (60km / 670m)

We begin the fourth stage from Spain, in Tui, a town rich in history and art. After admiring the cathedral and historic center, we follow the route that will take us through forests, rivers and small villages. We will cross the San Telmo Bridge, an icon of the place, and reach O Porriño, an industrial town with a past linked to the Camino de Santiago. We will continue our walk, passing through hilly landscapes and forests, until we reach Redondela, a port city with a lively atmosphere. From Redondela, the route will take us along the coast, offering breathtaking views of the Ria de Vigo. We will cross the Rande Bridge, an impressive feat of engineering, and reach Arcade, an ancient village with a medieval bridge. From here, you will head inland, passing through rural landscapes and quaint villages. Pontevedra will welcome you with its medieval old town, lively squares and historic buildings. Don't miss a visit to the church of Santa María la Mayor and the sanctuary of the Virxe Peregrina.

Day 6: Stage 5: Pontevedra - Santiago de Compostela (65km / 900m)

Your final stage will begin in Pontevedra, a city rich in history and art. You will leave the historic center and head to A Xunqueira de Alba, a vast wetland area of great ecological value. You will pass through small villages and reach Caldas de Reis, famous for its thermal waters. From here, the route will take you to Padrón, where according to legend the body of Santiago arrived by boat. This legendary town, the arrival site of the boat that carried Santiago's remains, will welcome you with its authentic atmosphere. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, admire Santiago's church and taste the famous “pimientos de Padrón,” small peppers with an intense flavor. From Padrón to Santiago, the route continues through increasingly picturesque landscapes. You will pass through verdant valleys, centuries-old forests and small villages that seem suspended in time. The air is filled with the scent of moist earth and the sound of the wind in the trees. Cross the Sar River and follow the signs to Iria Flavia. From here, continue along the main route, passing through A Angueira de Suso, O Faramello and Teo. As we get closer to our destination, the excitement grows. We will feel the presence of other pilgrims, with whom we can share a smile or exchange a few words. The arrival in Santiago de Compostela will be an unforgettable experience, a moment of deep emotion and gratitude. Arrive in Santiago de Compostela through the neighborhood of Santa Marta de Baixo or Conxo. Upon arriving in Santiago, you will stand before the majestic cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. The thrill of reaching it will be indescribable. You will be able to visit the crypt, where the tomb of the Apostle James is located, and admire the works of art that adorn the cathedral.