Coimbra to Porto and then to Santiago?

[kmccue]

I have mixed emotions. It sounds like lots of urban, cobblestone and asphalt. My other option is Porto to Santiago and then figure in Finisterre. Three weeks of hiking? What is my best bet? I've already walked from Santiago to Finistere a few years ago.

 

[surya8]

I walked Porto - Santiago, then Fisterra-Muxia in Apr-May, also Santarem-Porto in Oct. Regarding the Coimbra-Porto stage: it has a suburban feel to it, especially the closer you get to Porto. Yes, cobblestones to remember. If you walk in a group and chat then maybe you won't feel it that much I loved Mealhada though, with the street art, umbrellas and a very good albergue. The more scenic stages are between Golega and Coimbra, if you like nature. Cork farms, a lake near Tomar, eucalyptus forests, hills. Even though the distances are huge, more then 30km to walk every day, I loved walking there. Would probably go back for day hikes in the area if and when in Portugal. Also if you have time walk between Fisterra and Muxia - the most amazing beaches are there. We even decided to break it in two and stayed in Lires in between.

 

[HeidiL]

Go to Conimbriga first! Lovely Roman museum, good restaurant...