Kat Davis - The Camino Portugues: From Lisbon and Porto to Santiago--Central, Coastal and Spiritual Caminos

Painting of St James on the ceiling of Igreja de Santiago, Castelo do Neiva (Coastal Camino Stage 3)

Starting in Portugals capital, Lisbon, and ending in Santiago de Compostela in Spain, the 621km Portuguese Camino Caminho Portugus in Portuguese and Camino Portugus in Spanish has attracted pilgrims for many centuries. Count Henrique and Dona Teresa, the parents of Portugals first king, visited the Apostles tomb in 1097 (they later ordered an inn to be built for pilgrims, the poor and the sick in Albergaria-a-Velha on the Central Camino); Queen (later Saint) Isabel undertook the journey in 1325 and 1335; while Jrme Mnzer (1494, a doctor from Nuremberg) and Giovanni Battista Confalonieri (1594, an Italian priest) wrote accounts so detailed that modern-day hikers will recognise shared experiences. There have been countless other voyagers, both the faithful and the intrepid, across the years.

The Camino follows Roman roads and crosses ancient bridges; it passes through villages, farmland and forests (and provides memorable Atlantic views on the Coastal Camino). Along the way there are four sites that are now designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tomars magnificent Knights Templar castle, Coimbra University (one of Europes oldest), and the old towns of Porto and Santiago. Conmbriga Roman site with its exceptional mosaics is also a must-see. Walkers with time to spare might take a scenic river cruise down the Douro in Porto before continuing north and into the Minho region. Theres a wonderful albergue (hostel) in Ponte de Lima, Portugals oldest village, and before leaving Portugal theres a chance to marvel at Valenas ancient fort with panoramic views of medieval Tui over the River Minho in Spain.

The Coastal Camino passes through historic shipbuilding and fishing ports, important during Portugals Age of Discoveries. On this route, hikers can enjoy fresh seafood and experience an Atlantic sunset from Mt Santa Luzia above Viana do Castelo, one of the best views of the Camino.

On the approach to Santiago, many people visit the Roman altar stone believed to be that which the boat carrying the body of St James moored up against in Padrn. Then its a case of catching your breath and reflecting on your journey as you enter the old town of Santiago de Compostela, finishing at the steps of the magnificent cathedral in Praza do Obradoiro.

The list of cultural highlights is extensive, but often its encounters with other people that make the longest-lasting memories; the Portuguese are friendly, genuine and kind-hearted so dont be surprised if youre invited for coffee and a pastel de nata (sweet pastry) soon after being introduced!