The Portuguese Camino de Santiago from Baiona
The Portuguese Coastal Way from Baiona.
The Portuguese Coastal Way, or Caminho da Costa, which was historically used by pilgrims coming from overseas countries who arrived at Portuguese ports to reach Compostela, is becoming a popular alternative to the inland Portuguese Way, thanks to its unparalleled natural surroundings that accompany pilgrims on their journey and its remarkable artistic heritage.
The route begins in the coastal city of Baiona, in the heart of the Rías Baixas, famous for its Albariño wine and seafood. First, enjoy its promenade and, finally, visit the Monterreal Castle, completed in the 16th century, which was targeted by pirates and the Portuguese army and is now the Parador de Turismo Conde de Gondomar.
Along this route of just over 20 km, you will find many manor houses, typical of Galician medieval nobility, and delve further into the Ría de Vigo, discovering unique natural viewpoints that allow you to admire the beauty of the southern Galician coast.
In Redondela, a small town of about 30,000 inhabitants, highlights include the Parish Church of Santiago de Redondela and the Convento de Villavella. The town's most prominent features are its railway viaducts (Viaducto de Madrid and Viaducto de Pontevedra), built in the late 19th century and listed as cultural heritage since 1978.
The stage begins along the Ría de Vigo, featuring the islands of San Simón and Santo Antón, which hold remains of galleons from the Battle of Rande, as well as extensive Galician mussel farms.
Upon entering the municipality of Pontevedra, you will cross the Via XIX, a Roman road created during Emperor Augustus's era. Notable landmarks include the Basilica of Santa María la Mayor and the Ruins of Santo Domingo.
Continuing on the journey, besides being the birthplace of King Alfonso VII of León, Caldas de Reis serves as a point of relaxation, known for its therapeutic thermal waters. You can also stroll through the town and visit places like the Church of Santa María, the Church of Santo Tomás Becket, and the botanical garden.
Padrón is known as the town where the body of Apostle James arrived in AD 44. Points of interest include the Church of Santiago, the Santiago Bridge, the Carmen Fountain, the Convent of Carmen, and the Casa A Matanza (Rosalía de Castro Museum). This area is also famous for Padrón peppers, a delicious variety about which it is said, "some are hot, some are not."
For the final stage, you will depart from Padrón towards Santiago de Compostela. Once in Santiago de Compostela, you will find a wealth of places to visit. The main attraction is the Cathedral and the Obradoiro Square, but it is also worth strolling through the Old Town, enjoying the culinary offerings, and visiting other iconic buildings such as the Hostal de los Reyes Católicos, the Monastery of San Martín Pinario, or the Pazo de Raxoi.
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