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Camino Portuguese from Porto to Santiago: 2027 Small Group Guided Coastal & Spiritual Route

Posted on March 1, 2026 by CruisinColemans

Imagine beginning your pilgrimage in Porto, Portugal, sipping port wine along the Douro River — and ending weeks later in Santiago de Compostela, standing before the cathedral you walked nearly 170 miles to reach.

July 16 – August 2, 2027 (with the option for two supplemental days), we are leading a small-group walk on the Camino Portuguese from Porto to Santiago, combining the breathtaking Coastal Route with the deeply meaningful Spiritual Variant. This journey blends Atlantic views, medieval towns, Galician forests, unforgettable cuisine, and the kind of community that only forms when you walk together toward something sacred.

Participants will have the option to sign up for one or both trips (if you are brave enough to spend that much time with the Colemans). If you walk both trips, we offer a 5% discount on your total trip cost. Both trips will include luggage service, private rooms with double occupancy, and the option for taxi service if needed on any given day. Message us for the single supplement if you are traveling solo and don’t want to room with anyone. This trip is limited to 12 participants. We specialize in small-group experiences to cultivate lasting relationships, deepen cultural immersion, access off-the-beaten-path experiences, and reduce environmental impact. You can read about the Tomar to Porto trip here.

You can express interest in either trip by completing this form.

Below is what you can expect daily on this trip, walking from Porto, Portugal, to Santiago de Compostela, Spain. At the end of the blog post, you can read what is included in the trip, what is excluded, and the cost breakdown.

The Daily Itinerary from July 16-August 2, 2027

For this trip, our group will walk 269.4 kilometers (167.4 miles). We will walk 14 days of the 18-day trip (or 21 days if you add the supplemental days). We will average walking 19.23 kilometers (11.9 miles) a day. There’s something powerful about walking your way to Santiago — especially when the journey begins beside the Atlantic and winds through fishing villages, medieval towns, vineyards, and forested hills. This Camino Portugués route combines the Coastal Way with the Spiritual Variant, giving you the very best of Portugal and Galicia.

July 16, 2027, Day 1, Arrive in Porto, Portugal
If you arrive in Porto today, we suggest arriving as early as possible to explore the hilly, riverside city. As a group, we will enjoy a port house tour and a port tasting in the late afternoon. We will also enjoy dinner together. This will be a dinner with those who are walking in our first group from Tomar to Porto, and those who are just arriving in Porto.

July 17, 2027, Day 2, Spending a Full Day in Porto
This day will include another tour of a porthouse, a port tasting, and time to explore on your own. You’ll want to explore the churches, the porthouses, and even the Harry Potter bookstore! In the late afternoon, we will have a shell ceremony to help get our minds ready for the pilgrimage, followed by dinner as a group.

July 18, 2027, Day 3, Walking from Porto to Vila Chã
Leaving the city, the Camino quickly leads us to the coast. Boardwalk paths hug the Atlantic as waves crash nearby — an unforgettable way to start the pilgrimage. This is a long day because it takes a bit to get out of Porto. There will be the option to take a taxi ahead to shorten your day. It is one of the three longer walking days; fortunately, it’s relatively flat. We overnight in Vila Chã, a quiet fishing village where the pace of life instantly slows.
Mileage: 26.9 kilometers

July 19, 2027, Day 4, Walking from Vila Chã to Aguçadoura
Today continues along sandy beaches and wooden walkways. We pass traditional fishing platforms and small coastal communities before arriving in Aguçadoura, known for its dunes and wide-open shoreline. This walk is all about easy walking and big views — a great day to settle into the Camino rhythm. Today you will have the opportunity to leave your burdens (or shells) on the Caminho Shell Bar “wall.” If you are lucky, you will see a working windmill.
Mileage: 18.4 kilometers

July 20, 2027, Day 5, Walking from Aguçadoura to Marinhas
The Camino turns slightly inland, weaving between coastal paths and rural farmland. We end the day in Marinhas, just outside Esposende, where cafés and pastelarias reward us for our miles. Oh, the pastries, I hope you are not coming to lose weight because those pastries are extremely tempting!
Mileage: 17.7 kilometers

July 21, Day 6, Walking from Marinhas to Viana do Castelo
One of the most scenic days in Portugal. We cross rivers, walk quiet paths, and arrive in the elegant city of Viana do Castelo. This day is special because of the history, architecture, and a lively town in the evening. Before we enter Viana do Castelo for a rest day, we cross an Eiffel Bridge.
Mileage: 21.3 kilometers

July 22, Day 7, Rest Day in Viana do Castelo
Those who want can take the funicular or climb to the Basilica of Santa Luzia for jaw-dropping views over the coast. This byzantine gothic church was completed in 1946. This is a gorgeous place for a rest day. Settle in and enjoy this beautiful city in Portugal.

July 23, Day 8, Walking from Viana do Castelo to Caminha
This is your second-longest walking day, but you just enjoyed a beautiful rest day (if you did in fact rest!). The Camino traces the coastline again before heading toward the mouth of the Minho River. We arrive in Caminha, a charming border town where Portugal and Spain meet. Tonight, you will enjoy a sunset over the river and a sense of crossing into something new.
Mileage: 26.3 kilometers

July 24, Day 9, Walking from Caminha to Vila Nova de Cerveira
We love to balance the long walking days with the shorter ones. It gives you the opportunity to challenge yourself and then recover. Today, you have a shorter, gentler walk along the Minho River inland. Art installations, vineyards, and peaceful paths lead us to Vila Nova de Cerveira, known for its creative spirit and relaxed atmosphere.
Mileage: 13.1 kilometers

July 25, Day 10, Walking from Vila Nova de Cerveira, Portugal, to Tui, Spain!
We cross the border into Spain today — a big Camino milestone. After crossing the bridge over the Minho River, we arrive in Tui, home to an impressive hilltop cathedral and medieval old town. You are lucky because on this trip you will experience the wonderful cuisine of Portugal and the delicious cuisine of Spain, specifically in the region of Galicia.
Mileage: 19.2 kilometers

July 26, Day 11, Walking from Tui to O Porrino
The Camino heads inland through forests, villages, and industrial areas — a reminder that pilgrimage isn’t always postcard-perfect, but always meaningful. O Porriño welcomes us with friendly bars and pilgrim energy.
Mileage: 18.3 kilometers

July 27, Day 12, Walking from O Porrino to Redondela
A beautiful ascent followed by a scenic descent with sweeping views of the Vigo estuary. We arrive in Redondela, famous for its viaducts and welcoming pilgrim scene. You will enjoy a gorgeous sunset over the water.
Mileage: 15. 5 kilometers

July 28, Day 13, Walking from Redondela to Pontevedra
Today we will enjoy stone paths, forest trails, and historic bridges that guide us into Pontevedra, one of Galicia’s most beloved cities. Its old town is lively, walkable, and full of charm.
Mileage: 20.2 kilometers

July 29, Day 14, Walking from Pontevedra to Armenteira
Today, we leave the main Camino to begin the Spiritual Variant — often described as one of the most meaningful sections of the entire route. A steady climb takes us into the hills and to the Monastery of Armenteira, surrounded by forests and silence.
Mileage: 21 kilometers

July 30, Day 15, Walking from Armenteira to Vilanova de Arousa
We descend through the stunning “Ruta da Pedra e da Auga” (Route of Stone and Water), following rivers, old mills, and mossy bridges all the way to the coast. Vilanova de Arousa welcomes us back to the sea. This is one of the most beautiful walking days in Spain!
Mileage: 23.6 kilometers

July 31, Day 16, Walking from Vilanova de Arousa to Padron
A highlight of the Spiritual Variant: we travel part of today by boat, retracing the legendary route of St. James’ remains up the river. After docking, we walk into Padrón, famous for its peppers and Camino history.
Mileage: just a couple of kilometers of walking and a gorgeous boat ride

August 1, Day 17, Walking from Padron to Santiago de Compostela
The final walk. The last, long walk. Emotions run high as we pass through forests, villages, and finally into Santiago. The first glimpse of the cathedral towers is unforgettable. The walk into Santiago is absolutely epic. You came alone or with a partner, but you leave with a band of pilgrim friends.
Mileage: 25.6 kilometers

August 2, Day 18, Rest Day in Santiago de Compostela
This will be a busy “rest day” with much to see and do. We will start our day getting our compostelas, then head over to hear the stories of the Portal of Glory, followed by a rooftop tour of the cathedral. There is a mass at noon for pilgrims, where you can stick around afterwards to tour the inside of the cathedral. After dinner, we will enjoy a traditional Queimada ceremony and find the shadow pilgrim who only comes out after dark. This will be a late night as it’s still light out at 10:00 p.m.!

August 3-5, Day 19-21, Bus Trip and Overnight in Finisterre and Back to Santiago for One More Night
These are supplemental days because we know not everyone has the time to add on a few more days. But for those who want to go to the end of the Earth, we have the opportunity. The cost of the supplemental days is $450.

To complete our pilgrimage, we travel west by bus to the Atlantic coast and the legendary Cape Finisterre. Here, pilgrims have long come to burn old clothes, reflect, and symbolically begin anew at the edge of the world. But please don’t burn your clothes, as it’s illegal now! We will hunt for scallop shells on the beach and enjoy some shopping in the village. At 6:30 p.m., we will walk together the final 3 kilometers to the lighthouse to see the zero-kilometer marker and enjoy a final meal together. After dinner, we will watch the sunset and then walk the 3 kilometers back to the village. Tomorrow we will transport you back to Santiago, where you can enjoy one more day of tourism and shopping. We will arrive in Santiago at about noon.

On this final day in Santiago, we will explore Abastos Market (the traditional fresh market and home to Michelin-rated restaurants), tour the Pilgrims Museum (on your own), have more time to tour the cathedral museums, and enjoy a tapas dinner. You will depart home on August 5, 2027.

Why Walk the Camino with Cruisin’ with the Colemans?
This experience is for travelers who want the Camino without the stress of going it alone — but still with all the meaning. Our group trips are designed around:

Thoughtfully paced walking days
Built-in community and support
Time for reflection and fun
Cultural immersion beyond any guidebook
Boutique travel, this means (as applicable) a small group with uniquely curated experiences, small hotels in the perfect location, a small group of travelers, dinners with multiple courses, and always a few surprises created just for the group.
Groups are always limited to 12 participants

If you’ve been drawn to the Camino but wanted to experience it with connection, guidance, and intention, this walk was created for you.

What’s Included in the Trip:
– Lodging in private rooms of two people per room with private bathrooms (though if we stay in a house or small apartments, you may share bathrooms with other members of our group). Check-in is typically about 3 p.m. You can expect a range of lodging experiences from us. We will place you in accommodations close to the action so you won’t spend your time traveling or walking into the city. We cannot ever guarantee air conditioning, and, even when it’s included, we cannot ensure its quality. It’s Europe, where air conditioning is not the standard.
– All breakfasts, which are pretty simple in Europe, typically include a pastry, coffee, and juice.
– All dinners with multiple courses. Water and wine are included with dinner. A typical European dinner begins at 8 p.m. and lasts about 2 hours. We encourage you to eat a late lunch, enjoy a restful siesta, and have an afternoon snack.
– The optional opportunity to attend mass daily, as available.
– Daily luggage transfer. Luggage is limited to 30 pounds and a bag/suitcase no larger than 25″ tall. You will receive a document with a suggested packing list and will be encouraged to hand-wash your laundry throughout the trip. Washing machines are occasionally available.
– Taxi transfer on any day you are struggling and need to move ahead to walk fewer kilometers. Plans for the taxi are made by 8 p.m. the night before.
– Your pilgrim shell (the symbol of this pilgrimage) and your credential.
– Participation in a port wine tour and tasting.
– Tours along the route that will be outlined in detail during our online meetings.
– Two online meetings with your group, help with securing your airfare, and on-demand phone or video calls with us.
– We will be both filming video and taking photos throughout the trip, so loved ones can follow you on our social media channels. You will receive a Google Drive link after the trip with all the pictures we took and the edited videos we published.

What’s Not Included in the Trip:
– Airfare
– Transportation to/from the airport
– Lunch, snacks, and cocktails throughout the day

Cost of the Trip:
– $4,300 per person in a double occupancy room. There is a $200 early-bird discount if you sign up before October 31, 2026.
– Returning travel participants always receive a $200 discount, regardless of when they sign up, and the ability to sign up first for a future trip (can not be combined with the early-bird discount).
– If you choose to walk both trips, you will receive a 5% discount off your total cost for both trips (can be combined with another offer).
– After October 31, you can get an additional $100 discount for referring a friend (that is $100 off for you and $100 off for your friend).
– Payment plans will be arranged and agreed upon, with the final payment due by April 30, 2027
– This trip is capped at twelve people.
– Credit cards are accepted with a 3.6% credit card fee (this is the charge we get from using Square). Payments are accepted without a fee via Venmo, Zelle, electronic check, or paper check by mail.

To Secure Your Spot:
Registration will open on April 1, 2026. For the month of March 2026, registration is open only to those who have pre-registered or traveled with us in the past. If you are interested in this trip, the first step is to please complete our group travel interest form. Once we have ensured you are a good fit for our group travel experiences, and registration is open, a $500 non-refundable deposit is required.

Camino Portuguese from Tomar to Porto: 2027 Guided Small-Group Walk in Portugal

Posted on March 1, 2026 by CruisinColemans

In July 2027, we are leading a small-group walk on the Camino Portuguese from Tomar to Porto, one of Portugal’s most beautiful and lesser-traveled pilgrimage routes. This 16-day guided journey combines meaningful walking, cultural immersion, unforgettable meals, and boutique lodging — all without the stress of planning it yourself. If you’ve dreamed of walking the Camino in Portugal but want connection, support, and thoughtful pacing, this experience was designed for you.

We are leading two groups in the summer of 2027. The first group will walk the Camino Portuguese from Tomar to Porto, the focus of this blog post. The second group will walk from Porto to Santiago de Compostela. Both trips will include walking, gaining a better understanding of the culture from locals, learning a bit about the history of the region we will be walking in, and, of course, developing an appreciation for the food of Portugal. Our trips are about more than just walking; we are building community and appreciating culture in the places we travel to. We are not rushing to a destination; rather, we are slowing the walk, taking a rest day, enjoying a Fado de Comibra concert, and savoring the port wine of Porto. You can read about the Porto to Santiago trip here.

Participants will have the option to sign up for one or both trips (if you are brave enough to spend that much time with the Colemans). If you walk both trips, we offer a 5% discount on the total cost. Both trips will include luggage service, private rooms with double occupancy, and the option for taxi service if needed on any given day. Message us for the single supplement if you are traveling solo and don’t want to room with anyone. This trip is limited to 12 participants. We specialize in small-group experiences to cultivate lasting relationships, deepen cultural immersion, access off-the-beaten-path experiences, and reduce environmental impact.

You can express interest in either trip by completing this form.

Below is what you can expect daily on this trip, as we walk from Tomar to Porto. At the end of the blog post, you can read what is included in the trip, what is excluded, and the cost breakdown.

For this trip, our group will walk 210 kilometers (130 miles). We will walk 13 days of the 16-day trip. We will average walking 17.52 kilometers (10.9 miles) a day. Some journeys are about the destination, others are about who you become — and who you walk with — along the way. Walking the Camino Portuguese from Tomar to Porto invites you to slow down, move with intention, and experience Portugal the way pilgrims have for centuries.

July 1-17, 2027 Itinerary – Walking from Tomar to Porto

July 1, 2027, Day 1: Meet Us in Tomar, Portugal
You will fly into either Lisbon or Porto, and then take a train to Tomar for the start of our journey. You will arrive around mid-afternoon and have plenty of time to wander the village, take a short nap, and then enjoy your first Portuguese dinner with your group. Our plan is to have dinner at a medieval-style restaurant that is unlike any other. See this video from our 2019 pilgrimage to enjoy views from the festival and the restaurant.

July 2, 2027, Day 2: Enjoy the Festival in Tomar and Get to Know Your Group
Today, we will enjoy Festa dos Tabuleiros, a harvest festival with origins dating back to the 13th century, held once every four years. We should be able to enjoy the butler’s parade today and the street decorations. We will also walk up to the Convento de Cristo, a Knights Templar castle, where we will hold our shell ceremony and officially begin our pilgrimage.

July 3, 2027, Day 3: Your First Walking Day from Tomar to Alvaiázere
We will all begin today, taking a taxi to our official start in Calvinos. You don’t have to take this taxi; however, it will make for a 30.9-kilometer day if you walk the entire day. We will save 11 kilometers by starting with the taxi, which makes for a more reasonable day. Once we start walking, there will be a bit of a climb, but then the countryside quickly opens up, giving us space to settle into the Camino mindset.
Mileage: 20 kilometers

July 4, 2027, Day 4, Walking from Alvaiázere to Ansião
A few rolling hills and wide landscapes define today’s walk. The pace is steady, the conversations feel natural, and the sense of community in the group starts to form. Ansião welcomes us with small-town charm and everything we need to rest well.
Mileage: 14.5 kilometers

July 5, 2027, Day 5: Walking from Ansião to Rabaçal
Today feels timeless. We walk through forest paths and quiet farmland, far from crowds and distractions. Rabaçal is small, peaceful, and perfectly suited for an evening of reflection and connection. There is a small Roman museum in town for those who have the energy to enjoy it.
Mileage 18 kilometers

July 6, 2027, Day 6: Walking from Rabaçal to Cernache
A scenic walk, mainly downhill, through rural Portugal brings us to Cernache. This shorter day allows time to slow down, journal, explore, or simply enjoy being present with the group. Partway through the day, there is another Roman museum that some may want to visit. In Conínbriga, we will not only see a Roman museum but also explore Roman ruins dating back to 139 B.C.E. It was occupied until 468 AD.
Mileage: 17.6 kilometers

July 7, 2027, Day 7: Walking from Cernache to Coimbra
We approach Coimbra, one of Portugal’s most iconic cities. Crossing into the historic center and seeing the university rise above the river is a powerful Camino moment. Tonight, we celebrate how far we’ve already come together.
Mileage: 12.5 kilometers

July 8, 2027, Day 8: Coimbra Rest Day
Today we won’t be walking, but we will put many kilometers under our feet as we explore the hilly city of Coimbra. It’s a university town with a ton of charm. We will end our day with a Fado de Coimbra show, and of course, our daily family dinner.

July 9, 2027, Day 9: Walking from Coimbra to Mealhada
I hope you rested a bit yesterday because today is a big day. Fortunately, it’s relatively flat today, but it’s a long one. Leaving the city behind, we return to quiet roads and countryside walking. Mealhada is famous for its local delicacy, leitão, making it a perfect place to enjoy a relaxed group dinner and plenty of laughter. The people you will meet on this trip will be friends for a lifetime.
Mileage: 22.4 kilometers

July 10, 2027, Day 10: Walking from Mealhada to Águeda
An easier, flatter day takes us into colorful Águeda, known for its creative spirit and vibrant street art. It’s a joyful reminder that the Camino offers delight as much as depth. This is one of several of my favorite places in Portugal! I can see you now sitting on a swing down by the Rio Águeda in the late afternoon.
Mileage: 25.4 kilometers

July 11, 2027: Day 11: Walking from Águeda to Albergaria-a-Velha
Today brings long, peaceful stretches through forests and farmland. This is classic Camino walking — meditative, grounding, and deeply satisfying. Albergaria-a-Velha offers a warm, quiet, and welcoming stop for the night.
Mileage: 16.3 kilometers

July 12, 2027, Day 12: Walking from Albergaria-a-Velha to Oliveira de Azeméis
Rolling terrain and small villages guide us north. The miles feel lighter now as the group moves in rhythm. Oliveira de Azeméis is relaxed and authentic — a place where Camino friendships truly solidify.
Mileage: 19.8 kilometers

July 13, 2027, Day 13: Walking from Oliveira de Azeméis to São João da Madeira
We continue through northern Portugal’s heartland, passing cafés, neighborhoods, and green spaces. São João da Madeira brings energy and comfort, with plenty of time to enjoy the evening together. This is a shorter day, so people can resupply or just enjoy another city along the Camino Portuguese. We will end the day at our favorite restaurant on the Camino with our favorite restaurant owner. This will be a night you will remember for a long time after the trip.
Mileage: 9.4 kilometers

July 14, 2027, Day 14: Walking from São João da Madeira to Grijó
A gentler day takes us through familiar Camino landscapes — quiet roads, shaded paths, and moments of conversation and silence. Grijó, with its beautiful monastery, feels like a fitting pause before the final day.
Mileage: 19 kilometers

July 15, 2027, Day 15: Walking from Grijó to Porto
Our final walk carries us into Porto, where the Douro River and the city’s unmistakable energy greet us. Ending the Camino here is emotional, celebratory, and unforgettable. We don’t just arrive — we arrive changed.
Mileage: 15.1 kilometers

July 16, 2027, Day 16: Rest Day Porto
Today, we will enjoy a bit of touring in Porto. This day will include a tour of a porthouse, a port tasting, and time to explore on your own.

July 17, 2027, Day 17: Supplemental Day in Porto ($300 supplemental day)
There is so much to explore in Porto, and if you have the time to stay an extra day, you will have a lot to do and see! We will be welcoming our group that will walk from Porto to Santiago. If you want to join us for both trips, this supplemental day will be included in the total cost of both trips at no extra charge. Today we will explore another port house – that’s worth staying for all in its own!

We began as individuals. We finish as a Camino family.

Thoughtfully paced walking days
Built-in community and support
Time for reflection and fun
Cultural immersion beyond any guidebook
Boutique travel, this means (as applicable) a small group with uniquely curated experiences, small hotels in the perfect location, a small group of travelers, dinners with multiple courses, and always a few surprises created just for the group.
Groups are always limited to 12 participants

If you’ve been drawn to the Camino but wanted to experience it with connection, guidance, and intention, this walk was created for you.

What’s Not Included in the Trip:
– Airfare
– Transportation to/from the airport
– Lunch, snacks, and cocktails throughout the day

Cost of the Trip:
– $3,995 per person in a double occupancy room. There is a $200 early-bird discount if you sign up before October 31, 2026.
– Returning travel participants always receive a $200 discount, regardless of when they sign up, and the ability to sign up first for a future trip (can not be combined with the early-bird discount).
– If you choose to walk both trips, you will receive a 5% discount off your total cost for both trips (this discount can be combined with another offer).
– After October 31, you can get an additional $100 discount for referring a friend (that is $100 off for you and $100 off for your friend).
– Payment plans will be arranged and agreed upon, with the final payment due by April 30, 2027
– This trip is capped at twelve people.
– Credit cards are accepted with a 3.6% credit card fee (this is the charge we get from using Square). Payments are accepted without a fee via Venmo, Zelle, electronic check, or paper check by mail.

To Secure Your Spot:
Registration opens April 1, 2026. For the month of March, registration is open only to those who have pre-registered to walk with us. If you are interested in this trip, the first step is to please complete our group travel interest form. Once we have ensured you are a good fit for our group travel experiences, a $500 non-refundable deposit is required.

10 Reflections from our 2019 Camino – Part 1

Posted on September 11, 2019 by Cruisin Michelle

“OUR TOP TEN REFLECTIONS MAY NOT SURPRISE YOU, BUT OUR NUMBER ONE WILL LEAVE YOU STUNNED”

We walked part of the Camino Frances and all of the Camino Portuguese in June and July of 2019. As of today, we’ve been home for exactly a month. We have been extremely busy since we’ve been home with little time to reflect but the Camino is always on our mind. Creating a list of our top 10 reflections is tough because it may be too early to genuinely process our experiences. However, we think this is a pretty good representation.

#10 – Every Camino is Different

We didn’t consciously go into this Camino with a list of expectations; however, since we walked the Camino Frances, from St. John Pied de Port, France to Finisterre, in 2017 we unconsciously had more expectations than we realized. For example, being teachers the overall time of year we walked was the same for both. However, we started in León, Spain this trip around the 10th of June when last time we didn’t arrive in León until the 4th of July. A month makes a difference that we didn’t expect. Last time it was the festival season, this time it was large groups of school children walking the Camino as their end of the year school trip.

Additionally, we heard the Camino Portuguese has fewer people; however, we figured that would make people want to bond more. Not in our case, remember every Camino is different, people were already in self-proclaimed groups or wanted to be alone. The other factor we had is we biked from Lisbon to Porto and then walked from Porto to Santiago so we didn’t have the ability to follow at the same pace as others. The final major unexpected factor was the sheer foot pain I was in for most of the trip. I wasn’t the happiest person all of the time and it greatly impacted our experience.

#9 – The Camino Tells You When to Stop

This is a tough one for me to admit because I want to be unstoppable. However, the Camino will humble anyone. In January through March of 2017, I was in a walking boot for a stress fracture on the top of my left foot. We walked the Camino Frances that year in June and July. The Camino wasn’t too bad, I had my bad days and I should have had foot surgery as soon as we returned home. But I didn’t. Sadly, after more over-training and overuse, I was back in a walking boot from March to May 2019 for two stress fractures on the top of the same foot. I needed surgery but the Camino was calling. I scheduled my surgery for August 2019. As of now, I am 2 weeks post-op and though I can’t bear weight on my foot, I am in significantly less pain.

If you skip to the end of the video below, you will see my reflections about walking the Camino after only 3 weeks into our 8 week trip. I was humbled, broken, and yet inspired by what I was learning from the Camino. Another pilgrim on the Camino said, “listen to the whispers before they become screams.” He was right, great advice, the Camino is always talking to you.

Our Last 2 days on the Camino Frances and Reflections of 300 Miles Walking this Camino

#8 – Never Judge Someone’s Footwear

No, these aren’t our hiking shoes, but they are shoes made of cork that we brought home from Portugal

Yes, there is an unintentional theme going on here regarding feet but when it comes to the Camino it is the most important discussion, food is second and it’s next on our list so hang tight. Brian and I are completely different when it comes to foot problems, I have a lot and he has none. He walked our 2017 and 2019 Caminos entirely in Chaco sandals, linked below, and had zero feet problems. He used O’Keeffe’s Healthy Feet cream every night to help with dry skin.

I need to wear one specific pair of shoes, they need to fit my feet with bunions and hammertoes and need to be wide-ish but my feet are not wide enough for wide shoes. Not all Merrell shoes work for me but the Moabs, linked below, are a great shoe for me. Additionally, I love toe socks and wool socks. I alternate wearing them both when hiking. Unfortunately for this Camino because I was in a boot for so long and I was trying out a different pair of Merrell’s I didn’t wear my Moab’s. Big mistake, always trust the shoes you know. If you can walk all day around an amusement park and still want to continue the next day, those are the shoes to walk in.

Every single person on the Camino is wearing the shoes they think will be the best, some based on experience, others based on someone else’s input. So many people expressed shock when they saw Brian in his Chacos but never said anything to me. However, I was the one struggling.

#7 – The Food in Portugal is Amazing

We didn’t know what to expect when it came to Portuguese food as it’s not a cuisine that you hear about in restaurants. But holy cow were we pleasantly surprised when we arrived! The food was flavorful, colorful, and though there were common staples, there was a nice variety. The one thing we knew was Portugal was known for their pastries and they did not disappoint. They had both sweet and savory, you could find them on every corner, and we ate a lot of them! Haha

Our favorite restaurant on the Camino Portuguese was Tudo aos Molhos in Sao Joao da Madeira. Jorge, the owner and host, takes a level of pride in the food he serves that is rarely seen in home kitchens, let alone busy restaurants. For us, this place is probably the biggest not to miss stop of Portugal! You can see our meal beginning at 2:52 in the video below.

The bottom line is we ate our way through Portugal and it was amazing! If you have favorite Portuguese food, leave a comment.

#6 – Porto has Port, Lisbon has Soul

We thought for sure we would love Porto more than Lisbon. Why? I have no idea, maybe something we heard, maybe the draw of Port wine, maybe the water, who knows. I am not sure why we were trying to pick one over the other except that we had 3 days at the end of our trip and we were trying to decide where to spend those days. Early in our trip planning, we picked Lisbon without much thought and then we changed our minds but we were locked into a non-refundable hotel. This all happened before we saw either city but we had to stick with spending our 3 days in Lisbon and we pouted about it for a few months. Now, I am disappointed that we spent so much time pouting because from the moment the plane landed for a 7 hour layover in Lisbon we were in love.

The beach, the buildings, the character, the Tuk-Tuks, the people, the wine, the music, and the neighborhoods, there is so much to say about Lisbon. Brian created a “48 hours in Lisbon” video, it’s linked below. There will also be another 48 hour video about Lisbon in the coming weeks, subscribe to our YouTube channel to get notified when that video drops.

We stayed in the neighborhood of Alfama both times we were in Lisbon, both during our layover between Camino’s and at the end of the trip. The first time we were in Lisbon they were celebrating the Festa de Lisboa which celebrates the barrios (neighborhoods) of Lisbon for the entire month of June. The whole city is decked out for the party and it is sure not to disappoint. Grilled sardines in the street, fado music floating out of doorways, vino Porto, Ginja, sangria, and so many more drinks to sample keep partiers going all night long for the entire month! Alfama is one of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods having survived the earthquake of 1755 and they take the party up a notch. During the rest of the year, Alfama is a little quieter during the day, but in the evenings this neighborhood comes to life and should not be missed.

48 hours in Lisbon – The 1st of 2 Mini Travel Guides

Wait? Where are the last 5 reflections? I’m sorry, you’ll have to wait until next week. But I promise it will be worth the wait. There is still much to reflect upon, it’s too much for one blog post. I will give you a hint – when we walk the Camino again, we won’t do it the same way. Our number one reflection even shocked us!

We will have a YouTube video out on Sunday and another blog post will come out on Wednesday. Be sure to subscribe to both our blog and our YouTube channel if you like what you are reading.

Until next time…

He Said, She Said: 5 Questions on el Camino de Santiago

Posted on May 8, 2019 by CruisinColemans

As the school year winds to a close, we are getting very excited about our upcoming trek on the Camino de Santiago. As you probably already know, in 2017 we hiked the 550 mile Camino Frances from Saint Jean-Pied-de-Port to Santiago and then on to Finisterre. This summer we will be repeating part of that trek, walking from Leon to Santiago but also walking the Camino Portuguese from Lisbon to Santiago and the Camino Fisterre, walking from Santiago to Muxia to Finisterre and back to Santiago for a total of 1,162 km (722 miles) over a two month period. Today we bring you “his” thoughts and “her” thoughts about our upcoming adventure as we answer the top five questions that we hear most often.

What are you most excited about?

Brian: Revisiting some of our favorite cities (such as Astorga and O’Cebreiro) along the Camino Frances is really exciting but I am most looking forward to being back in Santiago on Feast Day. Seeing the fiesta from a pilgrim’s perspective was a great experience and getting to participate again now that the exterior of the Cathedral is finished is going to be awesome.

The opening of the Festival at the Cathedral in Santiago

Michelle: I agree that seeing the Fiesta in Santiago again will be fantastic, especially since the Cathedral is complete on the outside so I hope the projections will be on the Cathedral this year. But, ultimately, I am most excited about walking every day with friends! Walking next to my best friend, meeting new friends, meeting up with an old friend in Portugal, and sharing this incredible moment in time with so many other pilgrims.

What are you most nervous about?

Brian: On the Camino Frances we were averaging about 13 miles a day with frequent stops every 5-8 km. In Portugal, the villages are further apart and our days will be significantly longer with an average of 16 miles a day. Add to that the fact that we are further south and the summer heat can be brutal, I think there is plenty to be nervous about!

Michelle: Yes, what he said! I am nervous about how early we will have to get up in the morning to beat the heat. Also, the last time we walked the Camino, we were so lucky with the rain. It only rained twice while we were walking the entire summer. I am hoping for cooler temperatures and the rain is tolerable. But, what I am most nervous about, and it’s something I haven’t shared with people who don’t see me in person. I injured my foot when we were in Gatlinburg in March. I have been walking with a boot because of two stress fractures on the top of my foot. The doctor said I will be healed by the end of May and can do light walking until we leave on June 10th. Unfortunately, I fear re-injury. However, we have accepted that we may need to taxi ahead and accommodate as needed. There is magic on the Camino and I am praying some healing magic comes my way. Brian is quite patient and we always have each others back in tough situations like this one. Safety is always goal number one.

What village are you most looking forward to?

Brian: Duh, Porto, the home of Port wine! We plan to do plenty of Port tasting while we are there. I’m also really excited about Tomar. While we are there, the Fiesta de los Tabuleiros will be happening. The Festival of Trays only takes place every four years and just happens to coincide with our layover. For me, one of the primary reasons for hiking the Camino is to experience the local culture and big festivals are a great way to meet locals.

Michelle: Mmmmm port, tinto, cheese, pastries, festivals. Let me dream about all of that for a moment! I don’t have one particular village in mind but I am excited that the first and last legs of our trip will be a repeat of some of our favorite spots. I love Foncebadón because it’s this super tiny village that many pilgrims stay at in order to hike to Cruz de Ferro at sunrise. O Cebreiro is another tiny village that we couldn’t stay at last time because they didn’t have any rooms, I am looking forward to staying there this time. If the village is tiny, I am looking forward to it. The big cities overwhelm me because Brian wants to walk them! Haha

What are you doing differently this time?

Brian: My packing list is a little different this time. I’m taking less clothing and getting rid of some of the same extras that Michelle mentions below. I’ve decided to take a dice game (Farkle) for evenings in the albergue (but to save weight, I’ve created an online score sheet on Google Drive). I also have some new camera gear that you can read more about in the next question.

Michelle: I am taking a smaller pack going from 48 liters to 36 liters. I am not taking a sleeping liner or towel because we will be in private rooms and they are provided for you. The biggest thing I am doing differently, beyond the “stuff,” is a shift in attitude. I was overwhelmed last time. This is a big adventure, far from home, where nobody speaks your language (or so I thought). I didn’t know if we could do it. This time, I know we can. I am more open to the relationships that form on the Camino. I am open to whatever food we eat as a pilgrim. I am open to the entire experience, in a way that I was not before. What a blessing.

What is the most essential piece of gear you are taking?

Brian: Because we are documenting this trip more actively on YouTube and our blog (we hope), my gear is probably the most essential equipment. I’ve found new trekking poles that can double as a monopod and I have a gimbal to help with better video quality. I’ll also be bringing a boom mic for voice-overs. All of the videos will be shot on a new iPhone X that I’ll be upgrading to in the coming weeks.

Michelle: I am adding extra shoe insoles because mine were quite beaten up last time. Finally, as of this moment and this could change, I am taking 3 pairs of shoes to help manage my foot problems. I am taking my Merrell Moab 2 hiking shoes and my New Balance 880 tennis shoes which I will switch between during the day, and then my Chacos for evenings and rest days. Again, we’ll see but I have to figure out how to manage my foot problems.

There you have it, another edition of He Said, She Said. We are just counting down the days, practicing our tinto arm, making sure we have all of our gear, purging as much as possible, and most importantly wrapping up the school year so when we return we will be ready to start another year. Do you still have a lingering question about the Camino? Leave a comment below! Your question may just show up in our next He Said, She Said blog post.

Outside the Templar castle in Ponferrada

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