Walking the Atlantic Coast and Lima Valley

Walking the Atlantic Coast and Lima Valley

Day 1 Arrive to Esposende

Arrive at the seaside village of Esposende. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the small fishing port, watch the colourful boats, or stroll the seemingly endless sandy beaches. Please inquire about scheduled shared transfers or private transfers from the Porto Airport.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Esposende
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 Seaside Bluffs and Vinho Verde Vineyards

Today you’ll start your walking adventure by leaving Esposende along the beachside trail. Your path will wind inland for your first look at the beautiful Vinho Verde vineyards.

You’ll pass a tall lighthouse and follow the wooden walkway to Belinho beach. This is a great spot for birdwatching from the observation tower. Then, follow your trail along the Neiva River, where you’ll be picked up and driven to the rural family home where you’ll be welcomed for the night.
Overnight Location: Guesthouse in Chafé
Distance: Short option: 2 hours, 10.4 km, 12m of ascent and 12m of descent
Long option: 4 hours, 17.6 km, 13m of ascent and 7m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Trek the Coast to Viana do Castelo

This morning, you’ll continue hiking north along the rugged coastline, crossing in and out of pine and eucalyptus woods. When you reach Cabedelo Beach, you’ll want to stop and watch the surfers and kitesurfers dancing across the water.

When you resume your walk, you’ll cross the bridge across the Lima river into Viana do Castelo. This ancient city was a port during the Roman Empire and was built up by wealthy merchants who made their fortunes sailing to the Indies and the Americas. Explore the medieval city center, which has been frozen in time and represents architecture through the ages.

Make the steep climb up the steep Santa Luzia Hill, or take the cable car for a more leisurely trip. Either way, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view from the top.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Viana do Castelo
Distance: 2 hours, 10.5 km, 42m of ascent and 44m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Fishing Villages and Historic Forts

Bright and early, you’ll take the train to the fishing village of Vila Praia de Ancora. A 17th-century military fort overlooks this bustling port at the mouth of the Ancora River.

Your path will lead you along beaches and through pine forests until you pass another ancient fortress. You’ll pass by the historic Montedor Lighthouse as well as picturesque windmills on your way back to Viana.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Viana do Castelo
Distance: Short option: 4 hours, 14.7 km, 45m of ascent and 36m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Ponte de Lima and the Lagoas Protected Area

After breakfast, you’ll take an included transfer into the Lagoas Protected Area. Here you’ll explore the 350 hectares of park, home to over 500 species of different plants and animals. Look for deer, otters, Iberian toads, water lizards, and falcons, to name a few!

Your trail will follow the Lima riverside, where you’ll be able to view the landscapes from the International Gardens Festival. Finally, you’ll arrive in Ponte de Lima, which is the oldest town in Portugal. Explore the medieval streets, shops, and cafes before heading to the outskirts of town for the night.
Overnight Location: Guest House in Ponte de Lima
Distance: Short option: 3 hours, 11.8 km, 64m of ascent and 23m of descent
Long option: 4 hours, 15.1 km, 64m of ascent and 44m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Wine Estate Walking

Today you’ll be walking through the serene countryside, full of pastures, maize fields, and vineyards. You’ll visit the church of Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte, which is perched atop a hill with stunning views over the valley.

At the end of the day, relax by the pool or enjoy a glass of Vinho Verde at your accommodations.
Overnight Location: Guest House in Ponte de Lima
Distance: 4 hours, 14.2 km, 377m of ascent and 356m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 Walk the Famous Camino de Santiago

Today you’ll be following the path of the famous pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela along the Camino de Santiago. Pilgrims have been trekking this route for ages, believing that they will be forgiven of their sins upon arrival at Santiago de Compostela.

Take in the scenic pathways through the farmlands and back along the Lima riverbanks. Celebrate your final evening by indulging in the local cuisine and wines!
Overnight Location: Guest House in Ponte de Lima
Distance: 4 hours, 14.9 km, 116m of ascent and 111m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Departure day

This morning, your tour concludes after breakfast.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast