Costa Verde Highlights

Introduction
Minho Portugal
Get a unique insight into the history, gastronomy and landscapes of this little-known but richly rewarding corner of Portugal.

We have designed this self-guided walking tour to help you explore the highlights (both coastal and inland) of the Minho region. Few visitors get to fully appreciate the beautiful green landscape sand deeply ingbrrained and fascinating culture of the Costa Verde.

This walking tour begins in the charming riverside town of Ponte de Lima and ends in the fascinating coastal city of Viana do Castelo. Be sure to arrive in time to roam its medieval centre and make the journey to the hilltop basilica and Celtic settlement of Santa Luzia.

Crossing the old Roman bridge of Ponte de Lima, you will follow in the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims in the direction of the holy city of Santiago de Compostela as you walk part of the ancient Way of Saint James. As well as glorious countryside, you’ll see plenty of shrines, chapels, ancient bridges and carved stone crosses.

Once you reach the northern border of Portugal at the fortress town of Valença do Minho, it’s time to head west. Follow the River Minho towards the coast, passing riverside towns such as Vila Nova de Cerveira to reach delightful Caminha.

Enjoy the outstanding natural beauty of white sandy beaches and the colourful activity of small fishing towns as you make your way south along the Green Coast to Viana do Castelo. Of course, you’ll have ample opportunity to taste crisp local wines and the freshest grilled fish and seafood throughout your journey.

Accomodation

Accommodations
Your package includes accommodation in 2 and 3* hotels along the way.

Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1: Hotel in Ponte de Lima
Night 2: Hotel in Cossourado
Night 3: Hotel in Valenca
Night 4: Hotel in Vila Nova de Cerveira
Night 5: Hotel in Vila Praia de Ancora
Night 6 & 7: Hotel in Viana do Castelo

Room Occupancy
Solo travelers will need to pay a single supplement fee.


Meals
All breakfasts are included. Lunches and Dinners need to be paid extra, except for dinner on day 2 and 4 (included).

Special diets and dietary restrictions:
We can cater to dietary requirements with advanced notice.

This trip includes and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Riding

Itinerary

Sample Itinerary - Subject to changes

Day 1: Arrival to Ponte de Lima
Make your way to the pretty town of Ponte de Lima and check into your comfortable modern hotel. Meet a member of our team at your hotel reception to receive a full briefing so you’re all set for tomorrow. Use the rest of the day to enjoy Ponte de Lima’s atmospheric squares and restaurants. The small medieval centre holds treasures such as a Gothic parish church and fortified prison tower.
Meals included: none
Overnight in 3* hotel in Ponte de Lima

Day 2: Ponte de Lima to Cossourado
Join the pilgrims as they make their way north along one of the most beautiful sections of the Portuguese Camino. The spectacular views from Labruja Mountain justify the challenge of walking uphill.
Hiking about 22 km (Elevation: + 583 m)
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight in Country House in Cossourado

Day 3: Cossourado to Valença do Minho
Today’s walk is easier and brings you to the fortress town of Valença with time to explore the ramparts and squares in the historical centre or even venture across the river into the Spanish town of Tui.
Hiking about 12.5 km (Elevation: + 150 m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in 3* hotel in Valença do Minho

Day 4: Valença to Vila Nova de Cerveira
Head down to the River Minho this morning and follow the boardwalk and country lanes all the way to the pretty little town of Vila Nova de Cerveira. See how many works of art you can spot dotted around the town centre or simply relax with a tasty meal and a glass of vinho verde (Portuguese green wine).
Your accommodation this evening is in a historical quinta with an outdoor pool.
Hiking about 16 km (Elevation: + 93 m)
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
Overnight in Country House in Vila Nova de Cerveira

Day 5: Vila Nova de Cerveira to Vila Praia de Âncora
A walk through the sculpture-filled park takes you out of Vila Nova de Cerveira, beside the tranquil waters of the River Minho. Head inland to walk through a village before returning to the waterfront as you approach the estuary. Cross the wetlands into the historical centre of pretty Caminha.
See bobbing fishing boats and neighbouring mountains as you walk along the river to the pine forest at the very tip of Portugal. Emerge at the wide sandy beach of Moledo then follow the coastal trail to the fishing town of Vila Praia de Âncora.
Hiking about 23 km (Elevation: + 130 m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in 4* hotel in Vila Praia de Âncora

Day 6: Vila Praia de Âncora to Viana do Castelo
Cross the sand dunes by boardwalk to yet another ancient fortress. Today’s trail weaves between stunning stretches of coastline, attractive countryside and small villages to bring you back to the delights of Viana do Castelo.
Hiking about 19 km (Elevation: + 126 m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in 3* hotel in Viana do Castelo

Day 7: Free day in Viana do Castelo
You’ll have plenty of time to see what the city has to offer, such as the restored Gil Eannes hospital ship, the colourful Costume Museum, Decorative Arts Museum and the Medieval architecture in Praça da República and surrounding streets. Try a freshly baked custard doughnut while you’re here.
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in 3* hotel in Viana do Castelo

Day 8: Departure
Check out of the hotel in time for your onward journey. End of our services.
Meals included: Breakfast

Rates and Dates for Costa Verde Highlights

Dates Note:

Other Info
Meeting: Ponte de Lima
Airport: Porto Airport
Transfer:

Climate:
                                                Valença area