Walking the Camino de Santiago from Lisbon, Portugal, to Santiago de Compostela, Spain, is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through stunning landscapes, historic towns, and peaceful countryside. This 600-kilometer journey is part of the Portuguese Way, one of the most popular Camino routes.
If you’re considering this pilgrimage, you’ll have two main options: the “Coastal Route” and the “Inner Route” or also known as the “Central Route”. Both have their own unique charm, so let’s compare them to help you decide which is best for you.
Comparing the Coastal and Inner Routes
The Coastal Route:
– Terrain* Mostly flat, with gentle coastal paths.
– Scenery: Gorgeous ocean views, sandy beaches, and fishing villages.
– Difficulty**: Easier walking, though there can be strong winds near the coast.
– Highlights: Porto, Viana do Castelo, and Vigo.
The Inner Route or Central Route
– Terrain: A mix of flat stretches and hilly sections.
– Scenery: Rolling countryside, vineyards, forests, and charming medieval towns.
– Difficulty: Moderate, with some steep climbs.
– Highlights: Santarém, Coimbra, and Ponte de Lima.
Recommended Route:
Both are excellent options and it is difficult to give an unbiased recommendation. So we will give you our biased opinion, we prefer the coastal route because the terrain is less difficult and follows the coast the majority of the distance. The coastal route provides amazing beach views, ocean breezes, and plenty of places to take breaks at secluded beaches. However, if you are looking for more challenging terrain, the inner or central route is a better choice for you to enjoy a mix of history, culture, and diverse scenery.
Conclusion
Walking the Camino de Santiago from Lisbon to Santiago de Compostela is a life-changing journey. Whether you choose the Coastal Route for its ocean views or the Inner Route for its cultural richness, you’ll experience the beauty, history, and spirit of the Camino. Use this guide to plan your adventure and enjoy every step of the way!
References
- 1. [Wikipedia: Camino de Santiago](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camino_de_Santiago)
- 2. [Santiago Compostela Network](https://santiago-compostela.net/)
- 3. [Rick Steves: Camino de Santiago](https://www.ricksteves.com/europe/spain/camino-de-santiago)
- 4. [Santiago Ways: Camino from Lisbon to Santarém](https://santiagoways.com/en/camino-de-santiago-routes/camino-portuguese/from-lisbon-to-santarem/)
