Tour Description
Embark on a gastronomic adventure like no other with a delightful 7-night holiday that combines the best of Vigo in Galicia, Spain, and Vila Praia de Âncora in Northern Portugal, focusing on the region’s rich culinary heritage and exquisite wines.
Galicia is famed for its gardens with collections of exotic flowering plants such as camellias. The region has numerous paths criss-crossing the countryside offering gentle strolls through woods, alongside rivers and through vineyards. These paths meander through traditional villages, past old churches and the characteristic ‘horreos’ (grain stores on stilts), down to the coast. Rias are little fingers of the ocean which cut into the land, creating the perfect equilibrium. Because of the rias, this region offers some of the best fish and seafood.
Start in Vigo, immerse yourself in the heart of Galician cuisine. Savour succulent seafood while exploring the city’s historical connection with the sea. Visit historic quarters of the city, admire the beauty of this coastline on foot, and cruise along the Ria de Vigo whilst enjoying mussel tasting and local wines.
Cross the border into Northern Portugal, where Vila Praia de Âncora welcomes you with a blend of coastal charm and culinary wonders. Located on the stunning Costa Verde, this is a quieter, greener Portugal, famous for its mountains, lush green countryside, beautiful beaches and delightful “Vinho Verde”.
Explore the town of Ponte de Lima and its beautiful surroundings, following the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela along the little hamlets that shape this area’s farmland landscape. Discover a local vineyard where you’ll learn about the history and taste of the regional Loureiro and Alvarinho wines.
Discover the port city of Viana do Castelo, home of the museum ship “Gil Eanes” and enjoy a port wine and pastel de nata experience in Barcelos, a city steeped in history, culture, and arts and crafts.
Throughout your journey, you’ll be captivated by the warm hospitality and genuine passion for food and wine that both the Rias of Vigo and the Portuguese Costa Verde have to offer.
This unforgettable gastronomic experience promises to tantalise your taste buds and leave you with cherished memories of the delectable delights from two distinct but equally remarkable culinary destinations.
Itinerary
DAY 1
Welcome to Spain
Fly to Porto Airport and transfer to Vigo in Spain. Depending on arrival time, there will be an introductory walk.
We start the week with a traditional Spanish tapas dinner and refreshing local wines.
Transfer Time = 2 hours 40 minutes
DAY 2
Vigo
Today, discover the origins of Vigo in O Castro, a fortress located right in the heart of Vigo that was home for the town’s first settlers. This hilltop fortress is integrated within a modern garden park that offers spectacular views over Vigo and its estuary.
Explore the centre of Vigo where old and new come together on the banks of the estuary, brought alike by the richness of the sea.
Finally, ending the day with a seafood dinner at a local restaurant is the perfect way to indulge in the culinary delights of the area. The Spanish and Portuguese cuisine, especially seafood dishes, are renowned for their flavours and freshness.
Distance: app. 5km/3.1mi; Ascent/Descent: +-127m; Terrain: good paths and dirt tracks, steps and stepped footpaths.
DAY 3
Museo Do Mar And Mussel Cruise
This morning, walk along one of the many beautiful waterfronts that Vigo has, getting closer to the Rias, the beautiful aquatic landscape that shapes life in the region.
Continue exploring the maritime traditions of the city, and visit the Museo do Mar de Galicia where you’ll have the opportunity to discover more about the long-lasting historical relationship of the people of Galicia with the sea.
Embark on a captivating cruise along the picturesque Ria de Vigo and delve into the fascinating world of mussel farming first-hand. Immerse yourself in a guided tour that unravels the rich history of this practice, all while indulging in an exquisite tasting experience. Savour delectable mussels paired harmoniously with locally sourced wine. This journey promises not only scenic beauty but also an insightful exploration of culinary and cultural delights.
Distance: app. 2.4km/1.4mi; Ascent/Descent: +-10m; Terrain: pedestrian walkway, good paths and dirt tracks.
DAY 4
Welcome to Portugal
Today we transfer to Portugal. On the way, we visit Tui and take the time to explore the town. This is small medieval looking village on the Spanish side, known for its imposing cathedral and famous amongst pilgrims, for being the initial point for those starting the Central Caminho de Santiago.
Our walk will shadow those that for millennia have being walking this famous pilgrimage.
From Tui we cross the river on a beautiful railed bridge that resembles the works of Gustave Eiffel and that allows magnificent views over the both sides of the imposing Lima River.
Once in Portugal, we visit Valença, a fabulously picturesque and fortified village, famous for its narrow streets and linen shops where a mix of Portuguese and Spanish languages can be heard.
Distance: app. 4km/2.4mi; Ascent/Descent: +92m/-10m; Terrain: good paths and dirt tracks, tarmac, cobbles, steps and stepped footpaths.
DAY 5
Ponte de Lima
Our walk will follow the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims before us, along little hamlets that shape this farmland’s landscape. We walk towards Ponte de Lima, one of the oldest towns in Portugal, located on the southern bank of the beautiful river Lima.
The town gets its name from the long mediaeval bridge, initially of Roman origin, that was the only safe passage of the Lima River, in all its extension, until the end of the Middle Ages.
In the afternoon, we invite you into a beautiful property with an historical vineyard. This is the perfect place to discover the Vinho Verde region and enjoy the unique wines that are born here.
Distance: app. 4km/2.4mi; Ascent/Descent: +14m/-22m; Terrain: good paths and dirt tracks, tarmac, cobbles.
DAY 6
Viana do Castelo
Viana do Castelo is a harbour city located where the Lima River meets the Atlantic sea, and is one of the main stops of the Portuguese Coastal Camino de Santiago.
Explore the city, known for the impressive sanctuary of Senhora da Agonia that overlooks narrow streets of traditional charm and historic buildings from the top of the Santa Luzia hill.
Viana do Castelo is also famous for being the home of the former Portuguese hospital ship “Gil Eannes” that now serves as a museum ship dedicated to the sea and the maritime sciences, showcasing the historic and contemporary importance of the city’s harbour to Portugal’s relation with the ocean.
Distance: app. 1km/0.6mi; Ascent/Descent: 0m/-10m; Terrain: tarmac, cobbles and steps.
DAY 7
Barcelos
The historical city of Barcelos is located on the waters of the River Cávado. The day unfolds before you, an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of this historic city. At its heart stands the illustrious Barcelos Cockerel, a symphony of vivid colours that has become an iconic emblem of Portugal’s heritage.
Barcelos, a name steeped in culture, was accorded a UNESCO Creative City title in 2017. A haven for artisans and craftspeople, the city reveals its prowess through wonders like the Ceramic Museum, the handicraft centre, and a weekly market that is one the biggest in the country and whose origins date back to the 15th century.
Venturing through the streets of this vibrant city, your senses are rewarded with a well-earned indulgence….port wine and pastel de nata!
Distance: app. 1km/0.6mi; Ascent/Descent: 14m/0m; Terrain: tarmac, cobbles and steps.
DAY 8
Departure
Transfer to the Airport.
Info
Hotels
Sercotel Hotel Bahía de Vigo**** (or similar)
Located between Vigo’s old town and Cies Islands’ departure pier, Sercotel Bahia de Vigo offers spacious, accommodation with great views of the Vigo Estuary. Free WiFi is offered throughout the property.
Hotel Meira (Vila Praia de Âncora)**** (or similar)
Situated in the wind-protected valley of Vila Praia de Âncora, this 4-star hotel is only 2 minutes’ walk from the beach.
All rooms offered by the Hotel Meira are elegantly furnished and feature wooden floors. Each comes with a safety deposit box and satellite TV.
The swimming pool offers perfect refreshment on hot summer days.
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