Seafood and Paradores - Route to Santiago Medieval Treasures
Seafood and Paradores - Route to Santiago Medieval Treasures
8 Days Starting in Porto, Portugal and ending in Santiago de Compostela, Municipality of Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain
Visiting: Porto, Caminha, Baiona, Pontevedra, Cambados, Vilagarcía de Arousa, Santiago de Compostela
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ATSPRS
Group Type:
Private
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Group size:
1 - 10
Age range:
16-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, lactose free, Gluten free
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
About this tour In this tour we propose a unique adventure, immersing yourself in a region full of tradition, identity and history, always accompanied by breathtaking landscapes that will welcome you with open arms and remain in your memory. We've planned this tour so that, in short daily rides of around 40 kilometres, you can get to know the whole region, taking advantage of the best that each area has to offer - from the most typical folklore, goldsmith's art, vinho verde and gastronomy. Connecting the north of Portugal to Santiago de Compostela, you'll realise the connection between these two regions, separated by a border but united by their physical proximity and identity. This programme is based on unique gastronomic experiences, with fish and seafood from the Atlantic, as well as heritage, such as the selection of a series of Paradouros for your accommodation, allowing you to travel back in time during your tour. The route you'll take on this tour is one of the official paths, recently approved by the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, but considered by many to be one of the oldest paths used by those on pilgrimage to the chapel of the Holy Apostle, where his remains are laid to rest. The experiences we offer you on this tour have the Way of St James at the heart of their identity. More than a matter of religiosity, this route is characterised by challenges and difficulties, but for those who walk it out of devotion, they find the faith, peace and hope they so desperately seek along the way. When you arrive at Praza do Obradoiro, you'll see reflected in the majesty of the cathedral the feelings you've gathered along the way, as well as the emotions of all the pilgrims. Brochure available on request by e-mail
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Porto | Unesco World Heritage City, World-Famous For Port Wine
Location: Porto
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your adventure begins now, Porto welcomes you with open arms. Take the opportunity on your first day to get to know this city on the banks of the River Douro, with its unique flavours, monuments and people. In this city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can discover a large number of monuments, around 150 of which are classified, as well as the identity of a region and its people - the well-preserved typical neighbourhoods, some dating back to the medieval period, mark the image of a city which, besides culture, has an incredibly rich and inviting gastronomic heritage - for example, the emblematic Port wine, a true national flag. We invite you to wander around the city and let yourself get lost in its narrow streets as you continue down to the River Douro. Take the opportunity to cross over to Vila Nova de Gaia and visit one of the wineries where the region's famous wines are traditionally aged and stocked.
Day 2 : Porto To Caminha | Fishing And Historic Towns, Vineyards And Windmills
Location: Caminha
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your cycling adventure now begins, always with the Atlantic as your guide, heading towards the north of Portugal. Here, green is not only the name of the wine, fresh and inviting, it is also the predominant colour of the landscape, where cattle graze serenely, marking the time in this region. The towns and cities you pass through mark their time with the flavour of the tides, with very fresh fish and seafood that are a real delight for the palate, served in traditional places, always welcomed by the local people, who are a pleasure to receive. On the way you'll pass through Viana do Castelo, a city that traces its origins back to the founding of Portugal. Viana, overlooking the estuary of the River Lima that spreads out over the horizon, remains one of Portugal's most important harbours to this day. The region's wealth, evident in the palaces and stately homes, was due to the Age of Discovery, when merchants bought provisions for their ships here and, later, it was in Viana's shipyards that some of the vessels used for cod fishing in Newfoundland were built.
Stage 1
Difficulty level: Easy
Distance (Km): 48.1
Routes: Paved 99% | Trails 1%
Day 3 : Caminha To Baiona | Between The Unruly Atlantic Coast And The Mountain Foothills
Location: Baiona
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Now is the day to cross the border to Spain, and to do this you can choose one of three options:
Take a taxi-boat
Ride along the bridge “Ponte da Amizade” (approx. 15 km until the bridge)
Once over the border the scenery doesn't change, the Atlantic continues to lead the way, its beauty and cool breeze remaining the motto of this stage. In the company of the Sierras de Argalo and Grova, which keep the landscape green, you'll arrive in Baiona, the city that will be your destination for today's stage, which we're stopping at for you. In this harbour town with a rich heritage, especially its imposing walls, which guard the Monterreal Fort, fish and seafood continue to be a hit and attract lovers of Galicia's rich gastronomy. But if it's too early for dinner, you can relax on one of the terraces by the sea and enjoy some tapas and a chilled Galician wine. Ensuring that your adventure will be unforgettable, your stay for tonight will be spent at the Parador de Baiona, within the walls, this historic building which is part of the Spanish Paradores network, will guarantee you an unforgettable experience.
Stage 2
Difficulty level: Medium
Distance (Km): 37.4
Routes: Paved 90% | Trails 10%
Day 4 : Baiona To Pontevedra | Crossroads Of Medieval Caminos De Santiago Amidst Galician Waterways
Location: Pontevedra
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
For the third day of your experience in Galicia, the greenery of the north remains. On the first part of the route, the Vigo estuary and various coves set the tempo and pace. Passing through the fishing village of Arcade, Galicia's oyster capital. The second part of the route through the valley of the River Louro will take you inland, with a landscape of pine forests. Here you'll be joined by the many walkers on the Way of St James, who use the same route. With Pontevedra on the horizon, your stage today almost over, you can't miss this important Galician city, located on the banks of the undulating River Lerez. A visit to the local market will give you an insight into the life of the local population, and you won't be able to resist trying one of the local cheeses. Tonight will be spent at the Parador de Pontevedra, a 16th century palace that has been extraordinarily restored and retains its original features, guaranteed by the decoration with period works of art. The rooms are accessed via a magnificent granite staircase. You can also enjoy breathtaking views and a terrace where you can recover your energy. The Parador's restaurant, another highlight, specializes in rich seafood accompanied by refreshing and aromatic white albariño wine from the Rias Baixas
Stage 3
Difficulty level: Medium
Distance (Km): 32.5
Routes: Paved 70% | Trails 30%
Day 5 : Pontevedra To Cambados | Lush Green Landscapes, Sparkling Blue Estuaries And Albariño Vineyards
Location: Cambados
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Heading north, with the ocean as your compass, your stage today will be divided by landscapes that cross forests and streams, and by extensive vineyards. This is where the famous Albariño wine from the Rias Baixas is produced, recognized as one of the best in the world. As you head towards the Atlantic, the Ría de Arousa will mark the landscape with its green forests and blue waters. Continue on to its mouth, where you'll find Cambados - the capital of Albariño wine and your destination for today's journey. There are many reasons to get lost in Cambados. The fishing neighborhood of San Tomé, with its house façades decorated with scallop shells, is one of the region's ex-libris, combined with its rich gastronomy, where seafood is king, are just two examples. The authenticity of Cambados doesn't stop there, if you want to have an immersible experience, you can (on request) have a unique experience and go seafood fishing with a local family. Using artisanal techniques, you'll catch cockles and mussels by hand on the sandbanks. In keeping with the essence of the tour, the accommodation we have reserved for you today is the Parador de Cambados, known as Pazo, housed in a 17th century manor house. This Parador is located right on the sea and you can walk to one of the wineries to learn about the history and production of Albarño wine. Take some free time to relax by the hotel's swimming pool and enjoy the beautiful gardens, as well as the peaceful and charming atmosphere of the interior patio and terrace-cafeteria. At this stage you can enjoy the optional Wine Tasting package (includes a guided tour and wine tasting in an awardwinning traditional winery), as well as the optional "Wine & Dine" package - a seafood dinner in a popular local restaurant, accompanied by Albariño wine from the Rias Baixas wine region. The chef will delight you with new and modern ways of preparing a variety of seafood. Highlights include smoked local oysters, charcoal-grilled octopus, hake fillet with chili, steamed cockles with Albariño wine - it'll be a treat for your palate.
Stage 4
Difficulty level: Medium
Distance (Km): 30.2
Routes: Paved 85% | Trails 15%
Day 6 : Cambados To Carril | Rias Baixas Atlantic Islands National Park And Fishing Traditions
Location: Vilagarcía de Arousa
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
The penultimate day of your tour will be full of adventures. Continuing along the Atlantic, and in the company of seawater mills, you'll reach the island of Arousa, a small island with numerous fishing villages and surrounded by the Carreirón Natural Park, which is home to numerous bird communities. You can't leave Arousa without visiting the fishing port of O Xufre, the Punta Cabalo lighthouse (built in 1852) and the Con do Forno. Now head towards your destination for today's stage, the fishing village of Carril. Here, mussels are the most famous and it will be difficult to choose between the famous typical restaurants for cooking this bivalve. But there's plenty to do in Carril, apart from the inviting white sandy beaches for a swim, the nautical activities are also very tempting. You can choose between a kayak trip or a boat trip to the island of Cortegada (on request). This very small island is part of Galicia's Atlantic Islands National Park and is home to Europe's largest laurel forest, centenary trees (a truly rare experience), and it is possible to take a 2km guided tour of the island (on request). Another experience you can do in this region is a one-hour boat trip in the Arousa estuary, famous for the unusual wooden platforms used to grow mussels. With two daily departures at 12.30pm and 5pm between June and mid October, embarking at the port of Vilanova. As well as learning about this production technique, this tour includes a mussel tasting, accompanied by white wine on board. Whichever experience you choose, it's sure to be an unforgettable adventure. The icing on the cake, dolphins can often be spotted close to the coast
Stage 5
Difficulty level: Medium
Distance (Km): 39.2
Routes: Paved 73% | Trails 27%
Day 7 : Carril To Santiago De Compostela | Historical Unesco World Heritage City And Shrine To The Apostle Saint James
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This will be your last stage of the tour we have prepared for you, and it will be the culmination of the great adventure, completing the Camino de Santiago with your arrival at the Cathedral. Leaving the village of Carril behind, part of your route will be along the banks of the River Ulla, a wetland area that retains the landscape of the previous stages. However, the second half of the stage will take you through hills and forests, from Padrón (where, according to legend, the boat carrying Santiago's body arrived from Jerusalem) to your final destination. Saint James the Apostle, adopted by the Catholic kings as patron saint of Spain in the 15th century, saw his cult begin in the 9th century when Bishop Teodomiro officially recognized his remains and the pilgrimage to the Holy Apostle began. Compostela, where Santiago's relics lie and a small hermitage was built, quickly became a holy place of pilgrimage, along with Rome and Jerusalem. The importance of Santiago de Compostela is very evident and many pilgrims from all over the world, regardless of their motivation, make their way here every year for centuries. Some make the journey out of faith and return, fulfilling a promise, others do it to test their limits, or even as a life experience, but arriving at Praza Obradiro is always a remarkable moment of great emotion and renovation. Now that you've reached your destination, a visit to the cathedral is a must, the magnificence of the monument is overwhelming, pass through the Pórtico de la Gloria, the work of Master Mateus, whose construction began in the 12th century, this portico guards the entrance to the cathedral, the final destination of the righteous, presided over by the risen Christ. As well as visiting the Cathedral, a walk through the medieval streets and pavements of the center of Santiago will take you back in time, passing through the city's main squares such as Obradoiro, Quintana and O Toural, all of which are very lively and have many bars and restaurants where you can try some of the region's best cuisine. Another outstanding place is right next to the Cathedral, the pilgrims' hospice, founded in the 15th century by the Catholic Monarchs to support the growing number of pilgrims travelling to the city. Today it is one of the most luxurious and refined Paradors in Spain, with special emphasis on its imposing cloisters and elegant rooms. Its dining room is also a reference point; in addition to the space and decoration, the menus are a true ex-libris of the hotel.
Stage 6
Difficulty level: Medium
Distance (Km): 48.3
Routes: Paved 95% | Trails 5%
Day 8 : Transfer Out
Location: Santiago de Compostela
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transfer to Porto airport or city centre.
End of the program.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels listed below or similar NEYA Porto Hotel * * * *, Porto (Charm and both historical and modern environment, riverfront) Located in the privileged location of Porto’s ribeirinha area and 15 minutes away from the airport, NEYA Porto Hotel embraces the Douro River edge. Along with the stunning view, guests will find the perfect retreat to escape routine, enjoy family holidays, do business, or simply have a relaxed weekend. The hotel, which faces the Douro River, was a previously historical convent called the Madre Deus de Monchique convent. The building was refurbished while respecting the abbey’s original architecture and preserving historical artifacts. Among the 124 rooms, guests will find themed suites that reference icons of the Portuguese industry, such as the Bordallo Pinheiro Suite, the Delta Caffés suite, Amorim Cork suite, porcelain by Vista Alegre, along others aimed at surprising our guests. Hotel Porta do Sol * * * *, Caminha (Great riverfront location, complete and comfortable hotel, spa) The Porta do Sol Hotel & Spa is located in Caminha, a small, charming town facing the estuary of the River Minho, at 90 km from Porto airport by motorway. It was recently refurbished and offer superb views over the river mouth. Galicia is just across the river and the town centre is at 10 minutes walking distance. The beach is at 1 km from the hotel. The hotel has 92 double rooms, 3 family suites, a junior suite with a large balcony and four master suites with Jacuzzi. All rooms have a balcony and are equipped with wireless Internet and 32-inch LCD’s. It includes a restaurant with panoramic views over the river, a bar, a living room and a large outdoor swimming pool, another for children, a Jacuzzi, a tennis court, a garden area and a spacious sun deck. The spa area is approx. 1500 sq meters, including a water circuit, sauna, Turkish bath, Scottish shower and treatment rooms. Hotel Bahía Bayona * * *, Baiona (Spain) (Beach-front hotel, with stunning views of the surrounding nature) The Bahía Bayona hotel has a privileged location right in front of the beach and with great views of the ocean and natural landscape. The hotel has 89 rooms with a simple and modern decoration, all with private bath, Tv, heating and worktable. At the hotel restaurant guests may taste the local Galician gastronomy or relax at the terrace and garden. Or, Included in a three-night upgrade Parador package: Parador de Baiona, Baiona (Spain) (Unique seaside location, impressive historic setting, charming town) Situated within the walls of the fort on the Monterreal Peninsula, the Parador de Baiona is one of the most unique hotels of its kind in Spain. Midway between a medieval fortress and a magnificent stately home, it offers elegant, spacious guest rooms, some overlooking the sea. The building, sheltered by beautiful pine forests on two sides, commands an impressive view over the ocean. The Parador offers the best Galician cuisine in a unique spot with spectacular views over the bay and the Cíes Islands. Here you will be able to enjoy two restaurant spaces, the Torre del Príncipe and the Enxebre A Pinta restaurants. They both offer an exquisite traditional cuisine based on fish and seafood from the area, and Ternera Gallega I.G.P. meats, with exquisite flavour, presentation and attention to detail. Protected from the open sea by the wall of this former fortress, the Parador offer a seasonal outdoor pool and, with additional cost, a Sauna and Jacuzzi. Hotel Rías Bajas * * *, Pontevedra (Spain) (Modern hotel with a central location near the city’s main attractions) This modern hotel in the city centre of Pontevedra has 100 spacious rooms, with classical wooden furniture; all rooms have air conditioning, TV, mini bar, safe, hair dryer and wi-fi internet. Guests may enjoy the delightful ambience of the hotel restaurant that specializes in local gastronomy. Or, Included in a four-night upgrade Parador package: Parador de Pontevedra, Pontevedra (Spain) (Historic city centre location, magnificent palace with antiques, relaxing gardens) The Parador of Pontevedra is a 16th-century palace located in the historic heart of the magnificent city of Pontevedra. The original building has been masterfully renovated to retain its past glory. Built of robust, local stone, the palace is surrounded by pretty landscaped gardens and a large sun terrace. Climb the carved, stone staircase which leads to bedrooms with a noble ambience thanks to antique-style decor and rich fabrics. It is decorated with antiques and very valuable classic furniture, and combines regal, noble and stately styles with charming rural elements. At the restaurant enjoy the excellent Rias Baixas Albariño white wine, fresh and aromatic, and seafood such as pulpo a feira (octopus and potatoes dressed with olive oil and paprika), house empanada (savory pie), a selection of Galician cheeses, and grilled or baked scallops. You will not want to leave without enjoying a walk through the elegant old quarter of Pontevedra. Most of this well-preserved area has been pedestrianized. Visit Santa María la Mayor Basilica, a jewel of Gothic architecture, and La Virgen Peregrina Church, a chapel with a scallop-shaped floor plan and beautiful night lighting. Pazo a Capitana, Cambados (Spain) (Restored 15th century house and estate surrounded by vineyards) Surrounded by vineyards, this restored 15th century guest house and wine estate is located 200 metres from the historic centre of Cambados and the Ria de Arousa estuary. It offers coutryside style rooms with a free Wi-Fi, plasma TV, telephone and full private bathroom, extensive gardens with fruit trees, vineyards and a winery. The property serves breakfast and there is also a bar-cafeteria and lounge area. Outside, there is a spacious terrace, ponds and streams which flow down through an abandoned mine. Pazo a Capitana offers visits and tastings at its Albariño winery and it is set 5 minutes’ walk from the fishing port. The Fefiñáns Palace within the Plaza Fefiñáns Square is 750 metres away. Or, included in a three-night upgrade Parador package: Parador de Cambados, Cambados (Spain) (Charming historic building, seafront location, town Capital of Albariño wine) The Parador de Cambados is located in an elegant 17th century stately home, an ancestral manor house known as a Pazo. This hotel is a haven next to the sea where you can enjoy long rides or walks and breathe the fresh air. You can also walk from the Parador and visit one of the Albariño wineries. In warm weather, stroll in the hotel gardens, take a dip in the swimming pool or relax to the sound of water splashing in the stone fountain in the peaceful atmosphere of the delightful inner courtyard and terrace café. The interior of this Parador has a medieval and classic décor with stone columns, wooden ceilings and beams, as well as the gardens and an inviting seasonal swimming pool. The local cuisine entices the palate with exquisite cockle pie or fish and seafood such as sole and scallops. And of course, there is also pulpo a la gallega (octopus and potatoes dressed with olive oil and paprika) and desserts such as O Cebreiro cheese ice cream. From the restaurant, you can move out to the terrace and enjoy a glass of wine in a unique open-air setting, surrounded by traditional Galician carved stone mansions and accompanied by the scent of the sea air. Hotel Carril * * * *, Carril - Vilagarcía de Arousa (Spain) (Modern hotel with enchanting views of Ria de Arousa estuary) Situated along the waterfront promenade, this modern, 4-star hotel offers a range of facilities, each with enchanting views of Ria de Arousa estuary. The hotel is located in Carril, a charming typical seaside village offering fresh fish and seafood at a diversity of places from small taverns to fine-dining restaurants. The nearby fisherman quarter provides an immersion in the atmosphere of a typical fishing community, and at 1 km there is the centre of the town of Vilargarcia de Arousa. During your stay you can relax and soak up the sun out on the terrace, cooling off in the seasonal pool. There is also a sitting room where you can unwind in peace and quiet. Amongst the hotel’s facilities and services there is free internet access and the restaurant Placido serving traditional galician cuisine and some international dishes. Capitol Boutique Hotel * * *, Santiago de Compostela (Spain) (Modern hotel with contemporary design in the city centre) Capitol Boutique Hotel is a modern and well-located hotel just in the old city centre. At 500m walking distance from Santiago cathedral is the perfect place to stay and enjoy the city wherever it is to walk around and visit places or to shopping and buy one of the many recuerdos available in almost any store. The 19 rooms elegantly decorated all have private bathroom with hair dryer, air conditioning, safe, minibar and LCD TV and WiFi. Or, included in a three-night upgrade Parador package: Parador Hostal dos Reis Católicos, Santiago de Compostela (Spain) (Luxurious and historical building, considered the oldest hotel in the world) The Parador de Santiago, located in the 15th century building next to the Cathedral that housed the pilgrim’s hospice, is one of the most luxurious and beautiful hotels of its kind in Spain. Is known as the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, is a blend of history, art and tradition, the dream of pilgrims and emblem of Santiago. It is located on Obradoiro Square near the cathedral, creating an area of spectacular beauty in one of the most visited provincial capitals in the world. A stay at this Parador means a visit to a truly unique and exclusive location. Today, this hotel-museum, boasts four beautiful cloisters, elegant reception rooms, spectacular guest suites and a luxurious dining room that prides itself on the quality of its cuisine and the wines that accompany the menu.
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Meals
All hotels with breakfast included
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Transport
Luggage transfer daily Day 1 Hour: According to client’s flights From: Porto airport To: Hotel in Porto Day 2 Hour: 09h30 From: The Hotel in Porto To: Esposende (stage start) Day 4 Hour: 09h30 From: Hotel in Baiona To: Redondela (stage start) Day 8 Hour: 11h00 or according to the earliest departing flight – Spanish time From: Accommodation in Santiago de Compostela To: Porto airport
What's Not Included
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Fully Guided
On request
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Insurance
Not included
Accommodation
NEYA Porto Hotel * * * *, Porto
(Charm and both historical and modern environment, riverfront)
Located in the privileged location of Porto’s ribeirinha area and 15 minutes away from the airport, NEYA Porto Hotel embraces the Douro River edge. Along with the stunning view, guests will find the perfect retreat to escape routine, enjoy family holidays, do business, or simply have a relaxed weekend.
The hotel, which faces the Douro River, was a previously historical convent called the Madre Deus de Monchique convent. The building was refurbished while respecting the abbey’s original architecture and preserving historical artifacts.
Among the 124 rooms, guests will find themed suites that reference icons of the Portuguese industry, such as the Bordallo Pinheiro Suite, the Delta Caffés suite, Amorim Cork suite, porcelain by Vista Alegre, along others aimed at surprising our guests.
Hotel Porta do Sol * * * *, Caminha
(Great riverfront location, complete and comfortable hotel, spa)
The Porta do Sol Hotel & Spa is located in Caminha, a small, charming town facing the estuary of the River Minho, at 90 km from Porto airport by motorway. It was recently refurbished and offer superb views over the river mouth. Galicia is just across the river and the town centre is at 10 minutes walking distance. The beach is at 1 km from the hotel.
The hotel has 92 double rooms, 3 family suites, a junior suite with a large balcony and four master suites with Jacuzzi. All rooms have a balcony and are equipped with wireless Internet and 32-inch LCD’s. It includes a restaurant with panoramic views over the river, a bar, a living room and a large outdoor swimming pool, another for children, a Jacuzzi, a tennis court, a garden area and a spacious sun deck.
The spa area is approx 1500 sq meters, including a water circuit, sauna, Turkish bath, Scottish shower and treatment rooms.
Parador de Baiona, Baiona (Spain)
(Unique seaside location, impressive historic setting, charming town)
Situated within the walls of the fort on the Monterreal Peninsula, the Parador de Baiona is one of the most unique hotels of its kind in Spain. Midway between a medieval fortress and a magnificent stately home, it offers elegant, spacious guest rooms, some overlooking the sea. The building, sheltered by beautiful pine forests on two sides, commands an impressive view over the ocean. The Parador offers the best Galician cuisine in a unique spot with spectacular views over the bay and the Cíes Islands. Here you will be able to enjoy two restaurant spaces, the Torre del Príncipe and the Enxebre A Pinta restaurants. They both offer an exquisite traditional cuisine based on fish and seafood from the area, and Ternera Gallega I.G.P. meats, with exquisite flavour, presentation and attention to detail. Protected from the open sea by the wall of this former fortress, the Parador offer a seasonal outdoor pool and, with additional cost, a Sauna and Jacuzzi.
Parador de Pontevedra, Pontevedra (Spain)
(Historic city centre location, magnificent palace with antiques, relaxing gardens)
The Parador of Pontevedra is a 16th-century palace located in the historic heart of the magnificent city of Pontevedra. The original building has been masterfully renovated to retain its past glory. Built of robust, local stone, the palace is surrounded by pretty landscaped gardens and a large sun terrace. Climb the carved, stone staircase which leads to bedrooms with a noble ambience thanks to antique-style decor and rich fabrics. It is is decorated with antiques and very valuable classic furniture, and combines regal, noble and stately styles with charming rural elements. At the restaurant enjoy the excellent Rias Baixas Albariño white wine, fresh, aromatic and crispy, and seafood such as pulpo a feira (octopus and potatoes dressed with olive oil and paprika), house empanada (savory pie), a selection of Galician cheeses, and grilled or baked scallops.
You will not want to leave without enjoying a walk through the elegant old quarter of Pontevedra. Most of this well-preserved area has been pedestrianized. Visit Santa María la Mayor Basilica, a jewel of Gothic architecture, and La Virgen Peregrina Church, a chapel with a scallop-shaped floor plan and beautiful night lighting.
Parador de Cambados, Cambados (Spain)
(Charming historic building, seafront location, town Capital of Albariño wine)
The Parador de Cambados is located in an elegant 17th century stately home, an ancestral manor house known as a Pazo. This hotel is a haven next to the sea where you can enjoy long rides or walks and breathe the fresh air. You can also walk from the Parador and visit one of the Albariño wineries. In warm weather, stroll in the hotel gardens, take a dip in the swimming pool or relax to the sound of water splashing in the stone fountain in the peaceful atmosphere of the delightful inner courtyard and terrace café.
The interior of this Parador has a medieval and classic décor with stone columns, wooden ceilings and beams, as well as the gardens and an inviting seasonal swimming pool. The local cuisine entices the palate with exquisite cockle pie or fish and seafood such as sole and scallops. And of course, there is also pulpo a la gallega (octopus and potatoes dressed with olive oil and paprika) and desserts such as O Cebreiro cheese ice cream. From the restaurant, you can move out to the terrace and enjoy a glass of wine in a unique open-air setting, surrounded by traditional Galician carved stone mansions and accompanied by the scent of the sea air.
Hotel Carril * * * *, Carril - Vilagarcía de Arousa (Spain)
(Modern hotel with enchanting views of Ria de Arousa estuary)
Situated along the waterfront promenade, this modern, 4-star hotel offers a range of facilities, each with enchanting views of Ria de Arousa estuary. The hotel is located in Carril, a charming typical seaside village offering fresh fish and seafood at a diversity of places from small taverns to fine-dining restaurants. The nearby fisherman quarter provides an immersion in the atmosphere of a typical fishing community, and at 1 km there is the centre of the town of Vilargarcia de Arousa. During your stay you can relax and soak up the sun out on the terrace, cooling off in the seasonal pool. There is also a sitting room where you can unwind in peace and quiet. Amongst the hotel’s facilities and services there is free internet access and the restaurant Placido serving traditional galician cuisine and some international dishes.
Parador Hostal dos Reis Católicos, Santiago de Compostela (Spain)
(Luxurious and historical building, considered the oldest hotel in the world)
The Parador de Santiago, located in the 15th century building next to the Cathedral that housed the pilgrim’s hospice, is one of the most luxurious and beautiful hotels of its kind in Spain. Is known as the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, is a blend of history, art and tradition, the dream of pilgrims and emblem of Santiago. It is located on Obradoiro Square near the cathedral, creating an area of spectacular beauty in one of the most visited provincial capitals in the world. A stay at this Parador means a visit to a truly unique and exclusive location.
Today, this hotel-museum, boasts four beautiful cloisters, elegant reception rooms, spectacular guest suites and a luxurious dining room that prides itself on the quality of its cuisine and the wines that accompany the menu.
Mode of Transport
Day 1
Hour: According to client’s flights
From: Porto airport
To: Hotel in Porto
Day 2
Hour: 09h30
From: The Hotel in Porto
To: Chafé (stage start)
Day 4
Hour: 09h30
From: Hotel in Baiona
To: Madroa (stage start)
Day 8
Hour: 09h30 or according to the earliest
departing flight – Spanish time
From: Accommodation in Santiago de Compostela
To: Porto airport
Check out our Q&As
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
We recommend a 23kg suitcase per person.
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
You can find this and other information in the tour description.
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Yes.
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What currencies are required for this tour?
The currency in use is the Euro.
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
3 and 4 star accommodation.
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Porto airport transfers to the start and from the ending points of the programs in a car, van or minibus.
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Does the tour package includes bicycles and equipment?
Yes. The tour includes: Per person - Hybrid bicycle, cargo rack, pannier bike bag and helmet One for two bicycles - lock, handlebar bag Per group/reservation - Pre-paid mobile phone, toolkit, first aid kit, puncture repair kit, pump, and spare inner tube, GPS device loaded with the trails and route notes with detailed information
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Authentic Trails, a company that has been on the tourism market for almost 10 years, prepares itineraries and accompanies tourists in Portugal.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If you change the date, you will have to pay a fee of 100€.
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What kind of bicycles do you have available?
We have standard touring bicycles that are included in the package price, and e-bikes for a surcharge and subject to availability. Both types exist with low frame and are subject to availability.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Individual tours receive vouchers for hotels and everything included (e.g. dinners, tastings), as well as access to our app where you can find the stages and points of interest. Group tours don't receive anything as they have a guide who helps with everything.
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Why should I do a bike tour?
A bike tour provides a unique and exciting way to experience the country
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
As the start date is the same, the companions will all be those doing the same tour
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
No, but in special seasons and incentive tours we promote solidarity campaigns, support for the homeless.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Sunday - Sunday
Nov 24, 2024 - Dec 01, 2024Monday - Monday
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Dec 20, 2024 - Dec 27, 2024Saturday - Saturday
Dec 21, 2024 - Dec 28, 2024Sunday - Sunday
Dec 22, 2024 - Dec 29, 2024Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Authentic Trails allows you to make 2 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 30 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Authentic Trails allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform authentic trails, 30 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Authentic Trails requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 31 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of authentic trails charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.