Camino Espiritual and Guided Boat Journey

Camino Espiritual

Want a twist on the classic Camino that gives pilgrims a spiritually enriching experience away from the crowds on the way to Santiago de Compostela?

The Variante Espiritual of the Camino takes pilgrims from either the town of Tui along an alternative to the Camino Portugues, or from Oia in the very south of Galicia along the Camino Portugues Coastal. Both routes offer a deeply fulfilling pilgrimage, culminating in a boat journey that emulates a journey undertaken by St James himself that sails along the sparkling waters of the Ulla River.

The route’s origins stem from the execution of the Apostle James in the year 44 AD. Following his death, its is said that a group of Spanish disciples clandestinely placed his body in a boat made of stone and, guided by angels, sailed to the mouth of the Ulla River and landed at Iria Flavia (present-day Padrón). From there, the disciples carried the body of St James to the site of what is now the city of Santiago.

The Camino Espiritual includes your boat journey on the Ria de Arousa plus all of the usual benefits of Follow the Camino’s tour packages.

The Variante Espiritual de Camino de Santiago from Oia is a lesser-known yet profoundly rewarding pilgrimage route that diverges from the traditional Camino Portuguese trail. Starting in the charming coastal town of Oia, situated in the Galicia region of Spain, this trail offers pilgrims a spiritually enriching experience. The journey begins amidst the quaint beauty of Oia, where the sound of crashing waves and the salty breeze of the Atlantic Ocean create a serene and contemplative atmosphere. As pilgrims set forth on this path less traveled, they leave behind the bustling crowds and embark on a more secluded and introspective adventure. The route meanders through picturesque landscapes, lush forests, and rolling hills, providing pilgrims with ample opportunities to connect with nature and find solace in its beauty. The route's origins stem from the execution of the Apostle James in the year 44 AD. Following his death, a group of Spanish disciples clandestinely placed his body in a boat made of stone and, guided by angels, sailed to the mouth of the Ulla River and landed at Iria Flavia (present-day Padrón). From there, the disciples carried the body of the Apostle James to the site of what is now Santiago del Compostela.

Stage 1 of 1

activity

183.6km

9 days

Comfort

Easy

Easy

Challenge

Jan
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Good Time
Off/Low Season
Not Possible

The Variante Espiritual provides more time on the coastline of Galicia. But be ware it also includes a steep climb up and around Monte Redondo.

The Variante Espiritual de Camino de Santiago from Tui is an alternative route for pilgrims embarking on the renowned Camino de Santiago. It starts in the town of Tui, located in the Galicia region of Spain, near the border with Portugal. Unlike the traditional Camino Portuguese route that passes through Pontevedra, the Spiritual Variant diverges, offering a more spiritually enriching journey. Throughout the journey, pilgrims will encounter picturesque villages, historic churches, and peaceful rural settings. The route follows ancient paths used for centuries by devout pilgrims seeking spiritual enlightenment. The Variante Espiritual de Camino de Santiago from Tui offers a deeply fulfilling pilgrimage experience for those seeking a more profound spiritual connection while walking the path of countless pilgrims who have journeyed before them. The route's origins stem from the execution of the Apostle James in the year 44 AD. Following his death, a group of Spanish disciples clandestinely placed his body in a boat made of stone and, guided by angels, sailed to the mouth of the Ulla River and landed at Iria Flavia (present-day Padrón). From there, the disciples carried the body of the Apostle James to the site of what is now Santiago del Compostela.

Stage 1 of 1

activity

156km

9 days

Comfort

Easy

Easy

Challenge

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Popular Time
Good Time
Off/Low Season
Not Possible

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