Coastal Portuguese Way from A Guarda
The Galician stretch of the Coastal Way starting in A Guarda, opposite the Minho estuary. Cliffs, seaside monasteries, the Vigo estuary, and historic towns all the way to Santiago.
Route description
Coastal Portuguese Way from A Guarda
The Coastal Portuguese Way from A Guarda allows pilgrims to travel along the entire southwestern coastline of Galicia while taking in breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Starting from the picturesque fishing village of A Guarda and the iconic Monastery of Santa María de Oia, the route continues past historic Baiona, the city of Vigo, and the Redondela inlet.
From Redondela it joins the traditional Portuguese Way, passing monumental Pontevedra, the thermal spa town of Caldas de Reis, and the Jacobean cradle of Padrón to complete the distance required for the Compostela certificate.
Highlights
- Castro de Santa Trega and the fishing harbour of A Guarda
- Monastery of Santa María de Oia facing ocean breakers
- Monterreal Fortress and Baiona marina
- Panoramic views of the Cíes Islands and Vigo estuary
- Old quarter and Basilica of Santa María in Pontevedra
- Thermal mineral springs in Caldas de Reis
- Plaza del Obradoiro and Cathedral of Santiago
Technical Sheet
Day by day planning
Recommended Stages
A Guarda → Oia
Spectacular stretch right next to the sea. You pass the Monastery of Santa María de Oia, literally facing the ocean.
Oia → Baiona
Follow the coast with continuous views of the Atlantic. Arrival in lively, historic Baiona.
Baiona → Vigo
Varied stage featuring coast, woodland trails, and urban sections. Arrival in Vigo.
Vigo → Redondela
Ups and downs with views of the estuary. In Redondela you join the inland Portuguese Way.
Redondela → Pontevedra
Forests, ancient stone paths, and a great pilgrim atmosphere. Arrival in Pontevedra.
Pontevedra → Caldas de Reis
Comfortable and green stage. End in Caldas de Reis, famous for its thermal waters.
Caldas de Reis → Padrón
Relaxed stretch through villages and woods. Arrival in Padrón.
Padrón → Santiago de Compostela
Final stage to Santiago de Compostela, culminating at the Cathedral.
Get Inspired
Route Gallery
