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3 days 4 nights
Daily Tour
2 people
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The Spiritual Variant (Variante Espiritual) of the Camino de Santiago is an alternative route that runs parallel to the traditional Portuguese Way, offering us a more serene and contemplative journey.
Starting in Pontevedra, the path heads westward, following the coastal terrain, and then veers inland towards the heart of Galicia. This variant is renowned for its scenic beauty, as it crosses lush forests, small rural villages, and offers stunning views of the Rías Baixas coastline. The route avoids some of the more crowded areas of the main Camino and provides a more tranquil experience for those seeking a spiritual retreat.
Along the way, we encounter a mix of historical landmarks, churches, and monasteries, all of which contribute to the spiritual atmosphere of the route. We can even travel by boat, discovering the longest maritime-fluvial Via Crucis in the world.
IMPORTANT! The Spiritual Variant is not an official route recognized by the International Pilgrim’s Reception Office. Therefore, if your goal is to obtain the official pilgrimage certificate (the Compostela), you must begin your journey from Balugães or from Vila Praia de Âncora if you are taking the coastal route, in order to meet the requirement of walking 100 continuous kilometers, including the final stage to Santiago de Compostela.
| # | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Discount Single Use | 2 | 2 | €210,00 |
Pontevedra, the start of our stage, is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its lively squares and marks an important stop on the Camino Portugués. The city’s old town is a labyrinth of narrow streets, stone buildings, and historic landmarks. As we walk, we will encounter impressive stone arches, gothic windows, and historical sites that speak to the city's deep-rooted history.
One of Pontevedra's most iconic landmarks is the Church of the Pilgrim Virgin, dedicated to the patron saint of the region, Virgen Peregrina. Located in the heart of the Old Town, the church has a unique baroque-style facade, characterized by its scallop shell design—an emblem of Santiago de Compostela and the Camino de Santiago.
As its name suggests, Pontevedra (meaning "old bridge") is a city known for its historic bridges. One of the most important is the Puente del Burgo, a medieval stone bridge that spans the Lerez River. Originally built in the 13th century, it is an iconic structure that provides beautiful views of the river and the surrounding cityscape. The Ponte dos Tirantes is a more modern bridge that stands out for its striking design, adding a contemporary touch to the city’s historical backdrop.
Among the many plazas, Praza da Ferrería, Praza da Leña and Praza da Verdura stand out, with its lively cafes and beautiful buildings surrounding it. The entire old town is filled with tapas bars and restaurants where we can try the famous Galician food like pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus), empanada gallega (Galician pie), fresh fish, shellfish, and other maritime delights being featured in many dishes.
Pontevedra is also known for being a pedestrian-friendly city, which makes it ideal for us to rest, explore, and enjoy the local atmosphere.
The Spiritual Variant from Pontevedra to Armenteira provides a perfect combination of peace, spirituality, and natural beauty, making it a memorable experience for those seeking a more introspective way to complete the Camino Portugués.
From Pontevedra, we begin our journey through quiet streets, gradually leaving the urban environment behind. As we head out, the landscape becomes more rural, with gentle hills, wooded areas, and small hamlets.
Along the way, we have the opportunity to visit several historically and spiritually significant sites, including the village of Campañó, the Monastery of San Juan de Poio, and the picturesque town of Combarro.
Starting from Pontevedra, the route heads toward Campañó, a small rural village that marks the beginning of the Spiritual Variant. We can visit the church of San Pedro. Here, we can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and begin to immerse ourselves in the quiet beauty of the Galician countryside.
The next notable stop is the Monastery of San Juan de Poio, located just outside the town of Poio. This historic site dates back to the 6th century and was rebuilt in the 12th century in the Romanesque style. The monastery is an important spiritual stop along the Camino, where we can visit its church, admire the peaceful surroundings, and reflect in the tranquil gardens. The Monastery of San Juan de Poio also houses a museum that showcases the history of the monastic life and the Camino, adding depth to the pilgrimage experience.
After leaving Poio, the Spiritual Variant continues towards the charming village of Combarro, one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Galicia. Known for its well-preserved traditional Galician architecture, Combarro features picturesque narrow streets, stone houses, and the iconic horreos (traditional granaries), which dot the town’s landscape. We can take a break here, enjoying the views over the Ría de Pontevedra and soaking in the peaceful coastal atmosphere. The village also has a number of small churches and religious sites, which add to its spiritual character. It is important to stock up here before continuing the journey up to Armenteira.
Finally, the route leads to Armenteira, where we can visit the Monastery of Armenteira, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey set in a lush green valley. This peaceful and historical site is one of the highlights of the Spiritual Variant, offering us a moment of quiet reflection before the final stretch of our journey.
The stage from Armenteira to Vilanova de Arousa in the Spiritual Variant offers a blend of natural beauty, peace, and historical significance. It is a quiet and reflective walk through the Galician countryside, culminating in a coastal town with deep connections to the Camino’s spiritual legacy.
Right from the Monastery of Armenteira begins a 7 km route called Ruta de la Piedra y del Agua, "The Path of Stone and Water," one of the most beautiful in the region. Along the way, we will enjoy small waterfalls and restored traditional mills. The journey is marked by the sound of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the calming atmosphere of Galicia’s natural beauty.
The route gradually leads to the town of Vilanova de Arousa, a coastal town situated on the Ría de Arousa. This town, known for its charming harbor and maritime atmosphere, marks the end of the stage. Vilanova de Arousa holds a special place in the history of the Camino, as it is one of the locations associated with the final journey of the Apostle Saint James.
Vilanova de Arousa is known for its delicious seafood, particularly its oysters and other shellfish. The town has several seafood restaurants where we can enjoy freshly caught delicacies, making it a great spot for food lovers. The combination of fresh seafood and the coastal ambiance adds to the town’s charm.
The final stage leads us to the coastal town of Vilanova de Arousa, located in the estuary of the same name.
*(You can also walk the 28 km route from Vilanova de Arousa to Pontecesures instead of taking the boat. If this is your preference, get in touch with us, and we will help you with the organization).
The spiritual variant of the Camino de Santiago, particularly the stage from Vilanova de Arousa to Santiago de Compostela passing through Pontecesures by boat, is a remarkable part of the Camino that offers both a spiritual and unique journey. This stage, often referred to as the "Camino Marítimo", is part of the coastal route that pilgrims traditionally took by sea, making the journey not only a pilgrimage but also a symbolic voyage. This particular variant is most notable for its connection to the Saint James' legend, as it is believed that the apostle's body was brought to Compostela via the sea from Jaffa, and thus the sea journey is integral to the spiritual significance of this part of the route.
We embark on a boat ride that takes us from the harbor in Vilanova to Pontecesures, a small town located on the banks of the Ulla River. The boat ride itself is one of the most unique features of this variant, offering us the chance to reflect on our journey while navigating the waters that are steeped in history and legend.
The sea journey, which spans several kilometers, serves as a symbolic crossing, representing the transition from the physical world to the sacred, mirroring the spiritual journey that each pilgrim embarks upon. The waters of the Arousa estuary and the Ulla River are part of a long tradition, and the boat ride enhances the sense of connection with both the earth and the divine, fostering a deep sense of devotion and reverence.
Once the boat reaches Pontecesures, we continue our journey on foot towards Santiago de Compostela, following the well-trodden paths of the traditional Camino Portugués. The route from Pontecesures to Santiago passes through the towns of Padrón and A Escravitude before arriving at the majestic city of Santiago. The landscape along this stretch is lush and green, characteristic of Galicia, with rolling hills, forests, and small rural villages that provide a tranquil atmosphere for us as we make our way toward our final destination.
The last few kilometers into Santiago are emotional for many pilgrims. As we enter the historic center of Santiago, the narrow streets and stone buildings of the Old Town are a sight to behold. The Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, one of the most famous cathedrals in the world, stands proudly at the heart of the city, its towering façade offering a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment for all those who have walked the Camino.
We have reached our final destination!
Santiago de Compostela, the final destination of the Camino de Santiago, is a city steeped in history, culture, and spirituality. Known for its beautiful medieval architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and deep religious significance, it attracts pilgrims and tourists from around the world. It is highly recommended to spend one day here, at least, to discover this charming old town.
The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is the heart of the city and the focal point of the pilgrimage. This stunning Romanesque cathedral, with its awe-inspiring façade and intricate sculptures, is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Christianity. Pilgrims who have completed the Camino de Santiago often make their way to the cathedral to visit the tomb of Saint James, which is located in the crypt beneath the altar. The cathedral’s Portico de la Gloria, a masterpiece of medieval sculpture by Master Mateo, is a highlight. Inside, the soaring nave, the impressive Botafumeiro (a giant incense burner that swings during special occasions), and the intricate chapels offer a truly mesmerizing experience. It is a place of deep spiritual significance, but also a stunning architectural marvel.
The Plaza del Obradoiro is the grand square in front of the cathedral and one of the most iconic locations in Santiago de Compostela. This large square is framed by historic buildings, including the Pazo de Raxoi (a neoclassical palace that now serves as the town hall), the Colegio de San Xerome (which houses the University of Santiago), and the Hostal de los Reyes Católicos (a former royal hospital, now a luxury hotel). The plaza is often filled with pilgrims, tourists, and locals, creating a lively yet reflective atmosphere.
Santiago's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with narrow, cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares. The area is full of historical landmarks, including Plaza de Platerías, where we can admire the Platerías Gate of the cathedral, one of the oldest and most iconic entrances. Wander through the maze of alleys and discover hidden courtyards, quaint cafés, artisan shops, and traditional tapas bars. The Old Town is perfect for leisurely exploration, with its historical ambiance providing a glimpse into the city’s past as a major center for pilgrimage and learning.
For food lovers, the Mercado de Abastos is a must-see. Located just a short walk from the cathedral, this bustling market is one of the best places in Santiago to experience the region's culinary delights. Offering fresh produce, meats, seafood, cheeses, and Galician specialties like pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus), the market is a food lover’s paradise. It is also home to a variety of stalls where we can sample tapas or enjoy a meal at one of the market’s restaurants. The market’s lively atmosphere and abundance of local flavors make it a great place to experience the essence of Galician cuisine.
