My family and I, 2 50+ adults and 2 22+ male adventurers, are planning to walk a small portion of the
Camino de Santiago in 2017 probably at the end of May into June. Our varying fitness levels have decided on trying the last 100 km either Sarria to Santiago or Tui to Santiago.
So many questions, where to begin? While I know there is no right answer, we could use some advice on which of these sections would be better in this time period. Also, we would like to stay in pensions or small hotels and could use some advice on this as it may help us determine route chosen. I see a lot of self guided tours, but I am leaning toward booking the rooms and consequently setting our pace ourselves.
Here's how we tackled the Caminho Portuguese starting on May 24 this year. We had great weather the entire time, and I think the Tui to Santiago route is doable for most people (although the Redondela leg is a bit longer):
·
Started in Sagres, Portugal, heading north on the Rota Vicentina, picking up the Fisherman's trail as soon as possible, and eventually getting to Lisbon
·
Headed west out of Lisbon taking a coastal route to Sao Pedro de Moel, then cut inland to Coimbra and, eventually, Porto.
·
Took the coastal route to Angeiras, then cut inland to Arcos, eventually to Tui, and finally Santiago de Compostela
So much for our route. On to the places I can recommend staying at in Tui and beyond:
· Tui -
Albergue Villa San Clemente – On the northern end of town and right on the trail, making it a great jumping off point when you leave. We got a private room on the 2nd floor and really liked it. Easy to get to Valenca, which I recommend because the fort is awesome!
· Redondela –
Casa Rural As Chivas – kind of a long slog to get there, actually going past Redondela up into the foothills. Very nice, and is another great spot to start your next day’s hike since it’s a straight shot to the trail.
· Pontevedra –
Parador de Pontevedra – On the high end of the price scale but, hey, you’ve earned it, amirite? Beautiful and very near the trail
· Calas de Reis – I’ve got nothing. We stayed at the
Hotel Sena, but it’s nothing special and kind of out of the way.
· Escravitude -
Casa Grande da Capellania – Former rectory for the church next door, family owned and run for generations. BTW, by staying here instead of Padron, it makes for a nice easy day into Santiago. This place is a comfortable and homey, and the proprietor will cook you a dinner that’s fantastic. Great place to stay…unless you’re sensitive to noise ‘cause it is very close to a busy highway. It didn’t bother us, but that’s just us, so your mileage may vary. It is also right on top of the trail, so a great place to head off to Santiago.
· Santiago –
Hotel Costa Vella – OK, the best for last. I highly recommend the Costa Vella. Roberto, the proprietor, will do everything he can to make your stay enjoyable. Also, the place is beautiful and has a garden area that can’t be beat which will help calm your mind after days of hiking. This place is an absolute gem!