7 Day Legendary Santiago Trail on Horseback: Portuguese Way Along the Coast in Spain
Pilgrimage of Santiago and Horse Riding in Spain
Welcome to our this Legendary Trail to Santiago on horseback (Portuguese Way along the coast) stating from Vigo. This package includes Welcome to Galicia package with nice dinner, wine tour and nice lunch the next day before we transfer you to the starting point.
Key information
- Rider's weight limit: 120 kg / 265 lbs
- Horse heigh range: 1.5 - 1.7 meters
- Tack type: English tack
- Horse breed: Mix of Hispano-Arab, Spanish Purebred and Lusitanian and crosses.
Meet the instructors
Read more
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
- 6 nights accommodation
Skill level
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Styles
Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (US$ 284 per person)
Accommodation
You will stay in a premium hotel in Vigo for one night. During the pilgrimage, you will stay at comfortable and pleasant pilgrim accommodations.
Program
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 Your 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 Portuguese Way along the coast or Camino Portugues costa
The Portuguese Coastal Way, or Camino Portugués Costa, is a remarkable pilgrimage route that extends along the scenic coastline of Portugal and Spain, leading pilgrims to the revered destination of Santiago de Compostela. This alternative path to the traditional Camino Portugués offers a unique journey, blending the tranquility of coastal landscapes with the cultural richness of historic towns and fishing villages.
Pilgrims embark on a spiritual adventure, traversing sandy beaches, charming boardwalks, and picturesque seaside towns, all while absorbing the fresh sea breeze. Notable highlights include the iconic towns of Porto and Vila do Conde, each contributing to the cultural tapestry of the pilgrimage. The Portuguese Coastal Way offers a distinct and refreshing experience for those seeking a combination of spiritual introspection and the coastal beauty of the Iberian Peninsula on their way to Santiago de Compostela.
Riding between 25-35 km for 6-7 hours a day, so you need to be an intermediate, advance level and aged: 16 to 70 years old to handle that. Horses are 1.5 - 1.7 meters in height are a mix of Hispano-Arab, Spanish Purebred and Lusitanian and crosses.
Itinerary:
Day 1
- Arrival to Vigo
- Dinner and wine tour in Vigo
Day 2
- Delicious typical Galician lunch
- Transfer from Vigo to the starting point
- Reception / accommodation / dinner
Day 3: Pontevedra to Redondela
Embark on your equestrian pilgrimage from Vigo, following the Camino Portugués Coastal Route. Traverse the coastal landscapes and charming villages as you head to Redondela. Enjoy the picturesque views of the sea, and make a stop at the Chapel of San Roque for a moment of reflection.
Day 4: Pontevedra to Combarro
Embark on a scenic ride to Combarro, a coastal town known for its traditional Galician horreos (granaries) lining the shoreline. Enjoy the seaside atmosphere, and take in the unique charm of this picturesque village.
Day 5: Combarro to Sanxenxo
Ride along the coast towards Sanxenxo, a popular coastal resort with beautiful beaches. Explore the town's lively atmosphere and relax by the sea. Consider a detour to the island of La Toja for its thermal baths and unique landscapes.
Day 6: Sanxenxo to Santiago de Compostela
On your final day, journey towards the revered destination of Santiago de Compostela. Ride through woodlands and rolling hills, savoring the anticipation of reaching the Cathedral. Upon arrival, celebrate your equestrian pilgrimage, absorbing the spiritual energy that permeates this historic city. Take time to explore the cathedral and reflect on the rewarding journey you've undertaken along the coastal route of the Camino de Santiago.
Day 7
- 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
Daily program
- 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
Included excursions
- Vigo city culinary and wine tour
Instructors
Thomas La Dolce Vita Connoiseur
Embark on an extraordinary odyssey with La Dolce Vita Maestro. In a world of opulence and refinement, where each occasion is a masterpiece in its own right, allow him to introduce you to the luminary orchestrating the enchantment, the curator of life's grandest pleasures, and the custodian of your most cherished memories. With over a decade of expertise in the realm of high-profile events, La Dolce Vita Maestro stands as a beacon of excellence. This journey has spanned the vibrant Sicily, Galicia and Marbella in Spain, Rome, Athens, Santori, Paris, Dubai, and Rio de Janeiro.
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
The coastal stretch of the Camino de Santiago, beginning in Vigo, unveils a captivating journey along the Atlantic shores, offering pilgrims a unique blend of maritime beauty and cultural richness. Starting in the port city of Vigo, the route leads through a diverse tapestry of landscapes, from rugged cliffs to sandy beaches, providing a refreshing contrast to the inland routes.
As pilgrims traverse the coastal path, they encounter quaint fishing villages, charming boardwalks, and historic landmarks that speak to the region's maritime heritage. The aroma of the sea accompanies riders on horseback as they venture through the Galician countryside, creating a sensory experience that is both invigorating and spiritually enriching.
The coastal Camino de Santiago from Vigo offers a distinctive pilgrimage, where the rhythmic sound of the waves becomes a companion on the path to Santiago de Compostela.
Food
The package includes all meals during the route as well as a wine tour on arrival.
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)
What's included
- Transfer from the Vigo Airport / bus / train station
- Transfer to the Santiago Airport / bus / train station
- 1 night accommodation in a premium hotel in Vigo
- Welcome to Galicia package with nice dinner, wine tour, and nice lunch
- 5 nights accommodation (in a double shared room in comfortable and pleasant pilgrim accommodations)
- All meals during the route
- Guides and ground staff to take care of horses
- Luggage transfer between accommodations & support vehicle
- Horses, equipment, saddle bags
- Waterproof clothing (if necessary)
- Third-party liability insurance
What's not included
- Airfare
- Alcoholic drinks
How to get there
Recommended Airports
Vigo–Peinador Airport
7 km
Transfer included
Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport
111 km
Transfer available for additional US$ 284 per person
Arrival by airplane
Please book your flight to arrive at Vigo–Peinador Airport (VGO). Transfer from the Vigo airport / bus / train station is included. Please note that the departure will be from Santiago de Compostela airport or train or bus station. Drop off is included in the price.
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.