“Pilgrimage to Santiago for novice riders”
5 Day Legendary Trail to Santiago on Horseback (The Portuguese Way) Starting From Pontevedra, Spain
Pontevedra, Galicia, Spain
Slow-Paced Horse Riding Pilgrimage in Spain
Riding through these ancient paths not only connects travelers to the past but also infuses the present journey with a profound spiritual essence. As riders traverse the diverse landscapes, from rugged terrains to quaint villages, the symbiosis between horse and pilgrim amplifies the significance of the expedition. This meditative traverse unfolds as a transformative experience, offering moments for inner contemplation while embracing the spiritual heritage and camaraderie that have characterized this extraordinary pilgrimage for centuries.
Key information
- Rider's weight limit: 120 kg / 265 lbs
- Tack type: English tack
- Horse height range: 1.5 - 1.7 meters
- Horse breed: Mix of Hispano-Arab, Spanish Purebred and Lusitanian and crosses.
Meet the instructors
Jesús
Read more
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Highlights
- A spiritual journey of the Pilgrimage to Santiago, a soul-stirring experience
- Ride up to 25-35 km / 6-7 hours a day
- Immerse in the scenic routes and charming towns of Galicia
- Experience seamless logistics, ensuring an effortless and hassle-free pilgrimage
- Delight in the diverse local gastronomy along the route, savoring authentic flavors
- Culminate the pilgrimage by arriving on horseback in Santiago de Compostela
- Admire the distant towers of the Santiago Cathedral and step into Plaza do Obradoiro
- 4 nights accommodation
Skill level
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Styles
4 days with instruction in English
The organizer also speaks: French, German, Spanish
Group size: 4-16 participants
Airport transfer available:
Santiago de Compostela Airport (US$ 157 per person)
Santiago de Compostela Airport (US$ 157 per person)
Airport transfer available:
Vigo–Peinador Airport (US$ 157 per person)
Vigo–Peinador Airport (US$ 157 per person)
Airport transfer available:
Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (US$ 262 per person)
Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (US$ 262 per person)
Accommodation
You will stay in comfortable and pleasant pilgrim accommodations along the route on a shared occupancy basis.
Program
Riding Skills
You will be riding 25-35 kilometers for 4-5 hours a day, so you need to be able to handle that. Beginners with some experience and good endurance are welcome, as are intermediate—and advanced-level riders if you don't mind the slow pace.
Complete beginners cannot join, unfortunately.
About the Pilgrimage of Santiago
Embarking on the Pilgrimage of Santiago on horseback is a journey deeply steeped in history and spirituality, standing as one of the major routes of pilgrimage alongside Rome and Jerusalem. Originating in the 9th century, this revered trail converges on the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northwest Spain, where the relics of Saint James the Apostle are said to rest. Riding through these ancient paths not only connects travelers to the past but also infuses the present journey with a profound spiritual essence. As riders traverse the diverse landscapes, from rugged terrains to quaint villages, the symbiosis between horse and pilgrim amplifies the significance of the expedition. This meditative traverse unfolds as a transformative experience, offering moments for inner contemplation while embracing the spiritual heritage and camaraderie that have characterized this extraordinary pilgrimage for centuries.
Words from the Guide
"From my personal experience, one of the best experiences of my life, without a doubt. I completed the Camino de Santiago twice, and I always want to do it again. I walked both times, and for this third time, I would love to do it on horseback, and of course, share it with people who are passionate about nature. I highly recommend this experience, as reaching the Cathedral after several days of pilgrimage is very rewarding. I have high expectations for this trip because you try it once, and you always want to repeat it, and of course, each experience is unique. It cannot be fully described; it's something unique and magical that one has to live for themselves."
About the Portuguese Way or Camino Portugues
We refer to the Jacobean pilgrimage from Portugal, which presumably already existed in the High Medieval period. Bridges, rural chapels, sanctuaries, cruceiros (stone crosses), pazos (Galician manors), and historical cities unfold along a route that begins on the banks of the Miño River in the city of Tui, concluding at the Jacobean tomb.
The Portuguese Way in Galicia constitutes a route with notable monumental evidence, featuring strong cultural realities that extend beyond the architectural and the museum-like, signifying a privileged space for leisurely walks among friends.
Itinerary:
Day 1
- Transfer from the airport, train, bus station, or hotel in Santiago, Vigo, or the previously agreed point closest to the stage where you will start walking the Camino de Santiago on horseback.
- Reception
- Settle into your accommodation
- Dinner
Day 2: Pontevedra to Caldas de Reis
- Start your horseback journey towards Caldas de Reis, meandering through picturesque Galician landscapes.
- Experience the unique connection with your horse as you ride through forests and vineyards.
- Arrive in Caldas de Reis and settle into your accommodation.
- Relax and reflect on the day's ride.
Day 3: Caldas de Reis to Padrón
- Continue your equestrian pilgrimage, riding through serene paths leading to Padrón.
- Traverse the countryside, enjoying the tranquil beauty of the Galician region.
- Arrive in Padrón, settle into your accommodation, and unwind after a fulfilling day on horseback.
Day 4 Padrón to Milladoiro
Embark on a captivating day of horseback riding from the historic town of Padrón to the quaint destination of Milladoiro. Milladoiro, with its rustic charm and welcoming atmosphere, offers a peaceful respite before the final stretch.
Day 5
- 07:00 - 09:00 It will be possible to enter on horseback to the Plaza do Obradoiro (Santiago's Catherdal)
- Return to hotel / breakfast
- 12:00 Pilgrim’s Mass
- Departures
Sample schedule
- 08:00 Breakfast
- 09:00 Begin horseback riding
- 11:00 Short break for refreshments (drink/snack/coffee, etc.)
- 11:30 Continue on horseback
- 14:00 Lunch
- 16:00 Resume horseback riding
- 18:00 - 18:30 Approximate arrival
- Rest and free time
- 20:00 Dinner
Instructors
Jesús
Jesús will be assisting you on this trip. Avid rider, owner of over 30 horses....have been guiding horseback pilgrimages for over 10 years.
Location
Embarking on a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela starting from Pontevedra, pilgrims traverse the picturesque landscapes of Galicia, Spain, on the renowned Camino Portugués. Nestled in the heart of the Rías Baixas region, Pontevedra serves as a vital waypoint on this sacred journey. The town itself boasts a rich history with its well-preserved medieval center, characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares, and historic landmarks such as the Church of the Pilgrim Virgin.
As pilgrims set forth, they navigate through lush forests, gentle hills, and quaint villages, forging connections with fellow travelers and absorbing the spiritual energy that permeates the route. The Camino Portugués from Pontevedra unfolds a captivating narrative of Galicia's cultural heritage, offering glimpses of rural life, Romanesque architecture, and the serene beauty of the countryside.
Pontevedra's strategic location allows pilgrims to experience the tranquility of rural landscapes while still being immersed in the cultural richness of Galicia. As they continue on their pilgrimage, the journey unfolds a tapestry of natural beauty, historical significance, and spiritual introspection, ultimately leading pilgrims towards the revered destination of Santiago de Compostela.
Food
The package includes all meals during the route.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Water
- Coffee
- Tea
- Soda
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation
What's included
- 4 nights accommodation (in a double shared room in comfortable and pleasant pilgrims' accommodation)
- All meals during the route
- Guides and ground staff to take care of horses
- Luggage transfer between accommodations and support vehicle
- Horses, equipment, saddle bags
- Waterproof clothing (if necessary)
- Third-party liability insurance
- Transfer to the Santiago airport / bus / train station on last day
What's not included
- Alcoholic drinks
- Airfare
- Transfer from the Santiago / Vigo airport / bus / train station
How to get there
Recommended Airports
SCQ
Santiago de Compostela Airport
55 km
Transfer available for additional US$ 157 per person
VGO
Vigo–Peinador Airport
22 km
Transfer available for additional US$ 157 per person
OPO
Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport
132 km
Transfer available for additional US$ 262 per person
Arrival by airplane
Please book your flight to arrive at Vigo–Peinador Airport (VGO) or Santiago de Compostela (SCQ). Departure is from Santiago de Compostela airport or train or bus station. Drop off is included in the price.
Airport: Santiago de Compostela Airport
Airport transfer available:
Santiago de Compostela Airport (US$ 157 per person)
Additional charges may apply. You can request this in the next step.
Airport: Vigo–Peinador Airport
Airport transfer available:
Vigo–Peinador Airport (US$ 157 per person)
Additional charges may apply. You can request this in the next step.
Airport: Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport
Airport transfer available:
Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (US$ 262 per person)
Additional charges may apply. You can request this in the next step.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 50% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through BookHorseRidingHolidays.com. All major credit cards supported.
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