Camino Portuguese Coastal & Spiritual Variant | A Camino De Santiago Story

[@PEGShane]

Excellent video and takes some of the anxiety out of the trip for a first timer. Thank you so much for putting it together :) (My friend and I begin from Porto on Aug 26 of '24.

[@Caminohacks]

Your first Camino! I’m excited for you and your friend. You will have an amazing time. If you have any questions about packing, accommodation, Camino apps, etc, let me know. Buen Camino

[@risch18]

I am walking the Caminho at the moment from Lisboa, leaving Porto tomorrow. Thanks for the video it gave me a few different options.

[@Caminohacks]

Buen Camino. Happy I could help. I hope your journey from Porto goes well and you have the weather on your side. I’m always here if you need any advice

[@manonthemoon2912]

Planning to walk the Portuguese Camino along the coast from 6th May, have walked Frances 2022, Norte and Primitivo 2023, so looking forward to another adventure.

[@Caminohacks]

You’ll have an amazing time. I highly recommend the espiritual variant, although you might want to book the first night as the municipal I stayed in now has less beds. The monastery is the alternative and people said that was a nice stay. Happy to give you any advice you need, although it sounds like you’re an experienced pilgrim ☺️

[@storiestellr]

this is an excellent episode, Dan! I love the long , in-depth format, it really allows the viewer to immerse in your camino. I dig the voiceover mixed with ambient sounds. it really ties the whole thing together nicely. That monster arrow! 😂 The Snore-overs 😳 And Portuguese pastries? Let’s just say, Spain could learn a thing or three from Portugal. It seems they have much to learn from their neighbors when it comes to the art of flaky, buttery perfection. I’ll need to walk this Camino *just for that* 👀 The Church of Croissant: do they accept new pilgrims, those of us who worship at the altar of fatty carbohydrates? If so, I shall don my backpack and make haste to this hallowed (imaginary?) establishment - I’m ready to partake in their flaky, golden sacraments. here’s a Camino lifehack: pack some hot sauce (Tabasco, or ideally something more interesting), and even a humdrum tortilla turns into something mildly interesting. 🧠 keep ‘em coming!

[@Caminohacks]

Thank you, buddy. Means a lot coming from the master of Camino voice overs. There were parts where I simply didn’t have anything to say, so rather than try to find some random fact I left it blank and natural - part deliberate, part what the hell. Ha ha, so much snoring. To be fair, the last one was out of this world! I actually got up and gave the offenders bed a nudge it was so bad. 💤 The Portuguese breakfast game is A++. Ha ha, if you walk it you may come back heavier than when you started, the food is so good. I think they’ll welcome you with open arms, my friend! It’s on the Litoral route, day one from Porto, I’ll give them a call and tell them to fire up the ovens, because a hungry pilgrim is on route. Great idea, although my favourite hot sauce comes in a glass bottle, adding extra weight. Maybe I leave the toothpaste at home and use hot sauce instead.😂 Thanks again, I’m looking forward to watching your next adventures.

[@viewfrommyveranda]

I am starting my research on walking Camino Portuguese, in fact, giving it a try next month to see what Day 1 might look like. Thanks for putting this together, so helpful. Gives me courage and confidence.

[@Caminohacks]

If you have any questions or need advice on the route let me know, I’m always happy to help. I’ve walked the coastal and central routes too. I’m sure you’ll be fine ☺️

[@candibachtell1786]

Thanks for another great video. In June I will start my 10th Camino. Perhaps this route since I haven’t done the coastal. But the Frances always calls to me. I am so glad that our paths crossed on the Primativo last summer.

[@Caminohacks]

It was lovely to meet you on the Primitivo 😊 The Frances has such a strong pull, doesn’t it. I’m sure your 10th Camino will be another amazing experience, which ever one you decided to do. When in the year will you walk?

[@filiporoque4997]

Hey Hi, I cannot thank you enough for uploading Camino Portuguese Muito Obrigado, wonderful memories, the young German Cops whom I met in Porto motivated me to hike till Vila do Conde must be around 40kms, I liked your idea to use 1$ Light rain poncho to save on weight (one never stop learning), next hike I might take the central route and then via Espiritual , passed your link to my friends who have shown interest, thanks and keep on Hiking (looking forward to your next adventure)

[@Caminohacks]

Hi, thank you for watching and leaving me a comment, I really appreciate it ☺ Wow, that 's a long day's walking to Vila do conde. The cheap festival poncho is perfect for the summer months, it weighs nothing. The espiritual route is a must, I loved it! If you walk the central route try to stay at Casa Fernanda, it's a must stay place for me and she's a lovely host. There's also a cheap donativo the stage before, I give it a shout out in my newsletter - camino.beehiiv.com/p/try-let-go Thank you so much for passing my video onto your friends, I hope they decide to go with you on your next Camino adventure. When do you plan go? I am planning to walk the San Salvador and Primitivo in June - both of which I hope to film. Buen Camino

[@filiporoque4997]

@@Caminohacks Basically I like how you capture your "Caminos" it helps me in planing my own hikes and you are very sympathisch and how you explain things (because of my stroke I was retired early and I am a slow Hiker, if you see a Pelegrino with "Hospital clutches" thats me) I love being in the nature, thanks to you again for taking the time to response it means a world to me Muito muito Obrigado

[@Caminohacks]

@@filiporoque4997 Thank you for saying that it means a lot to me today of all days to hear that my videos help you with your planning. Your kind comments have brought a smile to my face, so thank you too. I set out to try and help, and hopefully entertain a little along the way. I am sorry to hear you had a stroke, that must have been very tough for you. It’s great to hear it’s not stopped you getting out and being in nature, I’ll be sure to keep my eyes peeled for the pilgrim with the hospital crutches. You might be a bit slower, but you get there in the end. Buen Camino, my friend.

[@grahamwallace]

Nice video! Man is Frank a speed merchant or what! 😂

[@Caminohacks]

@@grahamwallace ha ha, he often gets the Nick name fast Frank. Boy does he walk fast 😂

[@fitmelissa1]

Wonderful video! Thank you for uploading it and for offering so many great recommendations!

[@Caminohacks]

Thank you for saying that 😊 It’s a wonderful Camino with some many accommodation options and routes to choose from. Buen Camino

[@sbartdbarcelona44]

thank you

[@Caminohacks]

Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment 😊

[@dgale1023]

I'm jealous of all you guys that live over there. I live in California all the across the US.But it shouldn't hinder me.

[@Caminohacks]

We are fortunate to have these routes on our European doorstep, but you also have some stunning walks in the US. Hopefully in the future you can find the time and funds to make it over here to walk a Camino ☺️

[@dgale1023]

@@Caminohacks thank you, yes we have beautiful parks but I would be more interested to be around people of different languages.

[@Caminohacks]

@@dgale1023 You'll certainly get that on Camino, languages and cultures. I truly hope you're able to make it over to walk a Camino. If I can help you with any Camino realted tips, do give me a shout

[@stephainehorner9013]

I just finished the Portuguese’s way from Porto this past Tuesday. The hostel you showed in Pontevedra I stayed at also. Great spot. I miss the eucalyptus forests already🥹

[@Caminohacks]

How did you find the Portuguese Camino? Was it your first Camino? I hope you had a lovely time ☺️

[@stephainehorner9013]

It was my first Camino. I really adored it. I wish I had a longer holiday so I could’ve walked even slower and see more of the places there. Also our trails in the States don’t sparkle like they do in Portugal. 😂 I was told there is mica in the rocks. And everything here is to-go. There you have to make time to use the dishes at the bars and cafés. I really love little things. I saved your video because it reminds of those details and gets me excited to plan for the next one. Thank you for that😊

[@Caminohacks]

I’m so pleased to hear you had such a wonderful experience on the Portuguese Camino, it’s such a lovely route along the coast. It sounds like you’ve got the Camino bug now too 😄 The Portuguese central is a lovely route and has one of my favourite albergue experiences, casa de Fernanda, should you ever go back. What is the next route you have your eye on? Thank you for taking the time to watch my video - I loved walking along the beaches and exploring The espiritual route ⛴️

[@stephainehorner9013]

@@Caminohacks I’ve heard really wonderful things about Casa de Fernanda. I would like taking the central route to stay there and take a trip to Braga. However, I was thinking about trying to begin the Frances. I need to get myself physically ready for climbing the Pyrenees, however. I am open to advice on where to start as I am not a mountain climber by habit 😅.

[@Caminohacks]

The Frances is a such a great route, I think you’ll love it. If you’re concerned about the first day you can split it, there is orisson or 1 Kms further auberge borda - I’ve heard amazing things about borda. Apparently the owner was a chef so the meals there are gooood 😄 www.aubergeborda.com I’d also highly recommend taking some walking poles. It can be a strenuous day, but if you leave early you can do it. Depending on the month you go, it can also be advisable to book up until Pamplona. If you have anymore questions then let me know

[@AnchoredinStrength]

This is very nice. I have been thinking doing Camino de Santiago for a while, so I am glad to come across your channel and seeing what your experience has been like. Keep up the lovely work and all the best on your journeys.

[@Caminohacks]

Thank you for saying that, Matthew. Pleased you’re liking the Camino content I’ve been putting out, and that you enjoyed my Portuguese camino video. I hope one day you do get to walk the Camino, it’s such a special trip. If you ever have any questions please do let me know. All the best

[@NickLivingLife]

Pausing 13 minutes in to comment ….This one is an absolute cracker my friend. I love it ❤😊

[@Caminohacks]

Thank you so much for saying that, Nick. Appreciate your lovely words of encouragement. How far off is your next Camino? I’m looking forward to seeing your exploits this year. Oh, and your Scottish (possibly underwater) adventures too!

[@NickLivingLife]

@@Caminohacks hahaha. I go to Scotland next Wednesday, and then I have a week when I get back from that before flying to Lisbon. It’s all coming up fast now 😊

[@Caminohacks]

Well, you have a week to dry out before Lisbon I guess 😂 I’m sure it’ll clear up for when you’re there. Exciting times, mate! You got any new gear or gadgets for this one?

[@NickLivingLife]

@@Caminohacks I’ve got some thermal legs to sleep in for Scotland…that’s about it I think mate 😂

[@Caminohacks]

Ha ha, I have a hunch they might come in handy 😂

[@rosanadancel7225]

Hi love it. Got to put it on my bucket list. How much days you done this?. Thank you

[@Caminohacks]

Hi, you can walk the Portuguese camino in 10 to 12 days. I hope you do get to walk it

[@placidobaamonde6374]

2 minutos escasos a Santiago de Compostela, capital de Galicia, patrimonio de la humanidad y meta principal de los Caminos. Sin duda el Camino portugués alcanza su máxima belleza al recorrer GALICIA. De todos modos gracias por visitar la tierra gallega, pero con la pena de los 2 minutos escasos a la maravillosa ciudad de Santiago.

[@Caminohacks]

Gracias por ver el vídeo. Sí, entiendo tu punto de vista de que sólo se dedicó una pequeña cantidad de tiempo a Santiago, y como espectador quieres ver más. Pensándolo bien, debería haber incluido más secuencias, pero como he incluido Santiago en muchos de mis otros vídeos, como la oficina del peregrino, el casco antiguo y la catedral, no se me ocurrió incluirlo esta vez. A menudo es difícil encontrar el equilibrio entre estar presente en el viaje y, al mismo tiempo, ser director de cine, acordándose de tomar imágenes adicionales de cosas que la gente nueva en el canal aún no ha visto. Pensaré en tu comentario la próxima vez que filme en el Camino, así que gracias.

[@michaelhayden5264]

Five years after I planned to walk this camino, my plan is to return to Spain, starting in early May 2026 and walk from Salamaca to Santiago and then bus to Porto and walk the Coastal route

[@Caminohacks]

I've heard Salamanca is a beautiful city, so a wonderful spot to start your journey. I've not walked the Via de la Plata, so you will have to let me know what it's like.

[@michaelhayden725]

@@Caminohacks I started from Merida in 2013. Lasted 5 days before almost destroying my left foot. Here’s hoping this second attempt will be more successful. Cheers

[@Caminohacks]

Ouch, sorry to hear that. How did that happen to your foot? Hopefully you can avoid that happening this time and enjoy your walking.

[@michaelhayden725]

@@Caminohacks it took nearly two years rest, walking on soft sand, swimming and most importantly a change of footwear that provided support. It was probably my inexperience in long walks. Thanks for the interest. Cheers

[@Caminohacks]

@@michaelhayden725 it sounds like you did all the right things to get your foot back to normal again. I find poles can be of real benefit to me when hikng long distances as they take some pressure of the feet and hips. But, it sounds lie you know how to take care of yourself!

[@michaelhayden5264]

The Spiritual Variant does appear to take the pilgrim away from the crowded trails. But why the ferry from Vilanova de Arouse? Is the walking track just that to much on road, crowded etc. I do agree that the ferry trip would refresh the body and spirit. Cheers

[@Caminohacks]

The ferry takes the traditional route that the remains of st james supposedly took, via stone boat on its journey to Santiago de Compostela. Looking at the map, it seems as though there are no services for 25 km+ if you were to try walking instead of taking the boat. I’m sure it’s doable, but the boat trip at sunrise is an experience I’d recommend.

[@Sn-nw6zb]

I am doing my camino for first time, also visiting portugal and Spain for first time from USA. Any tips on how should I follow map? Is there map or GPS locations did you follow? If you have used cellphone and in case tracked GPS route through app, it would be great if you can share. And did you book for hostels ahead of time? If yes then all distances need to be planned out.

[@Caminohacks]

Exciting times, your first Camino! Which one are you doing? When do you start walking? The app is use for the live map feature is Wise Pilgrim, here’s a link to the Portuguese one - apps.apple.com/gb/app/wise-pilgrim-camino-portugu%C3%A9s/id983056779 You can plan your stages on the app and mark towns you start and want to stop in. You can also use a dedicated website to plan your stages, it’s featured near the end of this video I made - kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4escmSnr8-LiKcsi=cls10HhnfUHW9TLr If you’re waking the Portuguese Camino you might want to book a day or so ahead if you’re staying ‘on stage’ as it can get busy in the summer, especially after Tui as that is the last 100kms. The Frances, for peace of mind you might want to book from St Jean to Pamplona and then it opens up. Let me know how you get on, if you have anymore questions then give me a shout. Buen Camino

[@Sn-nw6zb]

​@@Caminohacks thanks for your response man. No one I know has done camino before, even people hear for the first time, when I tell them so thanks for giving me all details. I am flying to Lisbon on 12th Aug and then will start from Porto on 13th or 14th Aug. I see there is coastal way and central way as well from Porto to Santiago. So I am not sure which one should I do it? (I am coming from Northern California in US so I can tolerate heat a bit better :) ) But I want to take spiritual variant as well. I have 10-11 days and then need to head back to Lisbon to meet family. And In order to book ahead of time, I would need to know exact number of kms/miles I can walk. I am fit and active everyday running & hiking, but never walked like this, so I also don't know how to break down into stages of days. I have several other questions, it would be great to get your help: - => Which cellphone carrier/provider should I buy when I get to Portugal and later can I use it in Spain, France & Poland? (Because that's where we would travel next) => Do they have laundry in hostels, so I can pack only a few pairs of clothes? => Does it rain in end of the Aug there? => In worst case, if I get delayed, how easy is to find hostel on the spot? How easy is to find directions? I like your routine of waking up earlier and finishing distance earlier, I might do it as well. Thanks Again.

[@Caminohacks]

Hey, both inland and the coast are beautiful, so I guess it’s which you prefer scenery wise. You can walk the coastal half way, then cut in like i did in the video to Valenca. That way you can experience a couple of days on the central before turning off onto the spritual route. Here’s a Camimo thread on eSIMs which should help - caminoways.com/esims-on-the-camino-de-santiago#:~:text=Benefits%20of%20eSIMs%20for%20Pilgrims%20on%20the%20Camino&text=With%20an%20eSIM%2C%20you%20can,emergency%20services%20at%20all%20times. They normally have washing machines yes, or you can buy travel wash and hand wash your gear - www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0037S0XZE/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_AVP9B8E2GD0406CT9FVD?linkCode=ml2&tag=dancamino-21 August should be good for weather, but take a lightweight poncho juts incase as some days could rain - amzn.to/4cZi7iy If you download the wise pilgrim app (or Buen Camino app) that will have all albergues listed. Municipal albergues cannot be booked in advance, so people just walk up and secure a bed on the day. After Tui it gets busier so you either have to be in town first or book if you want a bed in a private albergue. Waking up early, means you get into town quicker, secure a bed and can then relax and enjoy the afternoon ☺️

[@03085716]

your voice reminds of the voiceover guy who does lots of stuff, mainly sports docs, im not sure of his name

[@Caminohacks]

Thanks. Fingers crossed I can take some of the lovely voice over work from him 😄

[@fidelcastro6104]

Which month was your trip

[@Caminohacks]

We walked in august

[@Getoverit-001]

To bad you missed the Piedras and Agua after Armenteria-it was my favorite part of the Spiritual Variant

[@Caminohacks]

I’ve not been able to locate either of those places on the map, how far after Armenteria are they?

[@Getoverit-001]

@@Caminohacks look up Ruta da Pedra y da Agua in Google Maps or Apple Maps -starts about 1-2 km from Armenteria-runs next to the river

[@Caminohacks]

Thanks for the tip, will do!

[@alvaroperezmartin3574]

@@Caminohacks You missed it because it was night when you come across it.

[@Caminohacks]

@@alvaroperezmartin3574 ok

[@phillipsmith6756]

did your mate get the pole tips stuck in the boardwalk gaps from time to time?

[@Caminohacks]

I think he did ok, although he didn’t like using the hand grips. I’m guessing you weren’t so lucky? 😄

[@RedFlash20000]

How heavy was robertos backpack ?

[@Caminohacks]

Gosh, that is a good question! When I tried picking it up I was shocked how heavy it was. At a guess I would say 10KG minimum.

[@davang595]

What's the app you use for navigation?

[@Caminohacks]

I use wise pilgrim apps - apps.apple.com/gb/app/wise-pilgrim-camino-portugu%C3%A9s/id983056779

[@jenniferknight5055]

Wise pilgrim got mostly 1 star because it crashes ALL the time. Did yours crash? Please comment.

[@jenniferknight5055]

Better app = Buen Camino de Santiago App. Most of the Routes are on this app and it doesn't crash all the time.

[@angelfire402]

Everyday for 11 years I wish I could go but I am almost saved enough just the flight round trip from Los Angeles, California is over $2,200.00 dollars in Euros is $2,048.06. to much money

[@Caminohacks]

That is very expensive, I do hope you are able to reach your financial goal and make it to the Camino. If and when you get here you can live quite cheaply on the Camino by staying in municipal albergues (€10) and eating food from the supermarket - this is what lots of people do.

[@angelfire402]

@@Caminohacks I will be eating from the supermarkets. Thank you for the awesome tips.

[@Caminohacks]

Happy to help with more advice if you need it

[@Davidshee]

I guess you were looking for a holiday and not a pilgrimage. You seen to of had several camino lessons / tests that you did not learn from. The camino is not an easy route to youtube content its a pilgrinage or spiritual journey where you will endure hardship in several forms. The restaurant where you stated that they said the kitchen was closed but still serving people, maybe they have a capacity constraint in the kitchen with only one chef ? The rude man, you mention, it sound like maybe someone was once again blocking his front door with a chair ? You say you will do it again, then please do but please wait until the camino calls you, do it with an open heart then your mindset will be correct.and you will ride out any of the problems you encounter, you'll enjoy the good times and hen you'll feel the magic..... Honestly its a wonderful pilgrimage if you engage with it, and the Spanish ( French, Portuguese also) along the way are beautiful people with love in their hearts..... Take care. Love. Hope. Strength x

[@Caminohacks]

Hi David, many people walk the path for different reasons, which in my opinion is why the way is so special. You are given the opportunity to walk with people who are walking for spiritual, fitness, personal and religious reasons. So while it may have started out as a religious pilgrimage, today it is often walked by people for non-religious reasons. The Camino calls us all in different ways, which again is part of its beauty. My walk will be different to yours, but no less special or worthwhile. I wish you well, David and have a good way

[@jenniferknight5055]

Thank you for your astute observation. I agree with your assessment of Dan's holiday.

[@jenniferknight5055]

Wish there were more "hacks and tips" and a LOT fewer vertigo-inducing shots of your blue feet walking. PLEASE edit those out. And PLEASE give an indication of what month it is, and the temps, and how did you combat blisters? Also, was there any spiritual component to your walk, or was this just for physical exercise? Doesn't appear you visited any churches along the way?

[@Caminohacks]

Hi Jennifer, if you take a glance at the description underneath you’ll see which month this was walked. If you’re keen to learn more about blister prevention I made a whole video on the subject, which has helped me stop getting them - kzbin.info/www/bejne/rYWXnKaFZ9OifM0si=P32NwnWD8eQrxffv For me, the spiritual nature of the Camino comes from walking and spending time in nature, and connecting with fellow pilgrims. Walking a Camino is never just about the exercise 😊 This time around I didn’t spend much time in some of the beautiful churches along the way, next time I’ll try and capture some for you. Thanks for watching and stay tuned for my forthcoming Primitivo video, which for me is one of the most beautiful and uplifting Camino experiences I’ve had and been lucky enough to document. Buen Camino