Family Cycling on the Camino Portugues Coastal

You arrive in Vigo.

Your day on the trail will take you to Arcade, 23km from Vigo. This section will offer spectacular views of Vigo and will take you into forested land. It is where the two Portuguese Camino meet, therefore you should be able to make pilgrim friends from the first day.

After arriving at your accommodation, if time and energy permit, the whole family can make its way to the Salinas de Ullo, which is only a 10-minute walk. This protected natural park is unique for its beauty as well as flora and fauna diversity.

For your second night, you will be able to enjoy the wonderful sea views from the rooftop terrace of your accommodation. The recent refurbishment guarantees a comfortable stay. The hotel restaurant is known for its local dishes as well as a good selection of options for the young ones.

Today, you will cross the Verdugo River over Ponte Sampaio. It is in this bridge is where Napoleon’s army suffered one of its greatest defeats in Galicia. From Ponte Sampaio the Camino continues along a cobbled road taking pilgrims to the 13th century Church of Santa María, where you can enjoy magnificent views over the Bay of Vigo while walking towards Pontevedra.

Today you will head to the Spa town of Caldas de Reis. Today’s stage is not long and very manageable. Along the way, you will spot numerous ‘Cruceiros’, or stone crosses, which are a distinguishing feature of the Galician landscape. Besides, the trail will take you through Albariño vineyards, another expression of the local culture. After crossing the Umia river, you will reach the picturesque town of Caldas de Reis.
In Caldas de Reis, the whole family can enjoy the famous hot springs. Taking a bath in the warm thermal waters in an open-air swimming pool is an experience not to be missed. If the family fancies some sightseeing, the pedestrian town center is worth visiting. With charming squares and rich heritage, it is also scattered with playgrounds for the young ones left with energy.

With a thermal water pool and a landscaped garden, your accommodation will provide you with maximum comfort. The modern amenities and tasteful decor will make the whole family feel at home. For dinner, you may choose to sit outside the beautiful terrace or in the cozy hotel restaurant. The menu will be based on seasonal produce for an authentic experience. The little ones will be spoilt with tasty choices.

Today you will be cycling to Padron, a town internationally renowned for its exquisite peppers. After crossing the Ulla river, you will be entering the A Coruna province, leaving Pontevedra behind you. It is a short and moderate stage, with beautiful views of the numerous streams and rivers of that part of Galicia. On your arrival in Padron, you will quickly feel a strong connection with the Camino. The town is believed to have been the arrival point of the body of Saint James when it was brought to Santiago de Compostela by ship.

As a major spot on the Camino, Padron offers young pilgrims plenty of opportunities to have fun. After visiting the famous Santiago Church, we recommend taking the whole family to the Artistic-Botanic Gardens. Centrally located, the park offers an enjoyable environment, with numerous fountains, landscaped gardens, and sculptures.

In Padron, your accommodation will be a perfect example of Galician country houses. Full of character and tradition, your rural hotel will guarantee an authentic experience. The gardens and swimming pool will be the perfect spot to relax at the end of your day. For dinner, you and your family will enjoy tasty dishes that reflect the region’s long culinary traditions.

Today is your final stage. After visiting Santiago Cathedral and recovering from your walk, take time to explore this gem of a city, small and vibrant. Its old town will enchant you. In Santiago de Compostela you will find not only pilgrims but also locals and students, enjoying a few bites and socialising over a glass of wine in the many bars, restaurants, and cozy cafes.

The city also has numerous options for children to have fun. If after five days on the Camino they fancy a little bit of time off, we recommend the little train. It is a great way for the whole family to discover the city while resting their legs! The natural history museum is very popular among families. Even the youngest ones are eager to learn about animals and their natural habitat. Of course, if it is some playtime they are after, you will find a good number of playgrounds scattered around the city.

In order for you to be at the heart of it all, we have selected a centrally located hotel, offering comfort and quietness. On top of its rustic charms and views of the old town, it offers a peaceful garden. To fully make the most of the city, we recommend staying an extra in Santiago.