Welcome to the Coastal Camino Portugués with Fresco Tours! Your adventure starts in the town of Viana do Castelo where we meet you and have our orientation meeting. The meeting is followed by a guided tour and dinner in Viana do Castelo.
Viana do Castelo
Viana do Castelo is a picturesque city in northern Portugal. It lies along the Lima River and is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Established in the 13th century, it has grown into a significant port and cultural hub, while retaining its historical charm.
The city’s historic center is a treasure trove of architectural beauty. It features a mix of Manueline, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The Praça da República, the central square, is surrounded by notable buildings such as the 16th-century Misericórdia Church and the 15th-century fountain. However, the city’s crown jewel, the Basilica of Santa Luzia, inspired by the Sacré-Cœur in Paris. Perched atop a hill, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, river, and the Atlantic Ocean.
The Camino Portugués Coastal
Viana do Castelo is an important waypoint for pilgrims on the Caminho de Santiago, specifically the Portuguese Coastal Way. This route is an alternative to the more traditional inland routes to Santiago de Compostela. It also offers pilgrims the chance to experience Portugal’s stunning coastline and charming seaside towns.
The coastal route offers scenic beauty with the Atlantic Ocean as a constant companion. Pilgrims can enjoy stretches of sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and picturesque fishing villages. Just north of Viana do Castelo, the route continues through charming towns like Caminha, where the Lima River meets the Atlantic, and further along into Spain, where it eventually converges with the traditional inland Portuguese Way.
Walking the Portuguese Coastal Way through the town allows pilgrims to connect with the area’s maritime heritage and natural landscapes, enriching their pilgrimage experience with the region’s unique cultural and historical context.
