Atlantic Route Walking Holiday

Introduction
Minho Portugal
The northwest coast of Portugal is known as the Costa Verde or Green Coast thanks to the abundance of vegetation that backs onto it and the not-so-distant mountains of the Minho countryside. As you head north from Porto on this 8-day self-guided coastal walk, you’ll experience the ever-changing coastal landscape of wide sandy beaches, rocky coves, pebble beaches, pleasant seaside towns and fishing villages. You’ll also spend time in the small historical city of Viana do Castelo and end up in the charming town of Caminha at the very top of Portugal, just across the river from Spain.

While much of the route hugs the coast, you’ll head inland at times to walk through fields, forests and villages to get a deeper insight into the lifestyle of rural Portuguese communities and small-scale farming practices. You’ll also spend time in the small historical city of Viana do Castelo and end up in the charming town of Caminha at the very top of Portugal, just across the river from Spain.

With relatively short, leisurely walking days, you’ll have plenty of time and energy to explore the towns and villages you stay in and to take breaks en route for a swim or to spend time on the beach.
Make the most of the ample opportunities to sample the freshest catch of the day and other delicious Portuguese fares from the Minho region.

Accomodation

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

Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1: Hotel in Porto
Night 2: Hotel in Apúlia
Night 3: Hotel in Esposende
Night 4: Hotel in Castelo de Neiva
Night 5: Hotel in Viana do Castelo
Night 6: Hotel in Vila Praia de Âncora
Night 7: Hotel in Caminha

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.

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 Porto 
Discover the lovely city of Porto after checking into your hotel.
Meals included: none
Overnight in 4* hotel in Porto

Day 2: Walk from Póvoa de Varzim to Apúlia
Follow the boardwalks alongside sandy beaches and between sand dunes and windmills. Then leave the coast to walk through market gardens and woodland on the approach to the village of Apúlia with its fishing boats and huts. If in luck, you may catch the seaweed collectors at work. Relax on the beach and try some of the tastiest octopus around.
Hiking about 14 km (elevation: + 106 m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in 3* hotel in Apulia

Day 3: Walk from Apúlia to Esposende
Walk through the outskirts of Fão before walking alongside and across the Cávado Estuary as you approach the low-rise resort town of Esposende. Your hotel is a short distance from the small historical centre with attractive squares and churches. If you’re feeling energetic, you could hire a bike or try your hand at SUP or even kitesurfing.
Hiking about 8 km (elevation: + 49 m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in 3* hotel in Esposende

Day 4: Walk from Esposende to Castelo de Neiva
Today’s walk offers varied scenery as you pass through small villages and smallholdings and a stretch of pebbly beaches before heading inland to cross the Neiva River. Spend the afternoon discovering the historical features and tree-filled grounds of the gorgeous historical country house where you’ll be spending the night. Relax by the pool if weather permits.
Hiking about 13 km (elevation: + 82 m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in country hotel in Castelo de Neiva

Day 5: Walk from Castelo de Neiva to Viana do Castelo
Return to the coast then walk through a pleasant section of pine forest on the way to Viana do Castelo. Your journey ends with spectacular views from the long Eiffel bridge. This lovely historical city has much to offer, including the Santa Luzia Basilica, the Costume Museum, Gil Eannes hospital ship and the beautiful Church of Mercy.
Hiking about 14 km (elevation: + 71 m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in 4* hotel in Castelo de Neiva

Day 6: Walk from Viana do Castelo to Vila Praia de Âncora
Stroll through the beautiful historical centre of Viana do Castelo then follow the coast and its stone windmills. Head inland through patches of forest and fields. Cross the wide sandy expanse of beach to end your journey in Vila Praia de Âncora. Local fishermen ensure a regular supply of fresh fish and seafood so relax and indulge yourself.
Hiking about 19.5 km (elevation: + 116 m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in 4* hotel in Vila Praia de Âncora

Day 7: Walk from Vila Praia de Âncora to Caminha
It’s a short, pleasant coastal walk from the seaside resort town of Vila Praia de Âncora to Moledo beach along the new pedestrian path (ecovia). Walk through a beautiful pine forest to the mouth of the River Minho and on to the riverside town of Caminha with plenty of time to stop for a swim along the way. Visit Caminha’s medieval clock tower and Gothic parish church or simply relax in the beautiful main square around a 16th century fountain.
Hiking about 9.5 km (elevation: + 42 m)
Meals included: Breakfast
Overnight in 4* hotel in Caminha

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 Atlantic Route Walking Holiday

Dates Note:

Other Info
Meeting: Porto
Airport: Porto Airport
Transfer: Porto airport or city center

Climate:
                                                Esposende area