Albergues from Porto to S De C and distances between

This downloadable guide http://www.amigosdelcamino.com/ is in Spanish and Portuguese only but should be of some use. I am toying with the idea of the Camino Portugues in Spring 2009 and have looked at it from time to time. I have not walked the camino Portugues so I'm sorry that I have no specific information.

Hi

I’ve just returned from walking the Camino Portugués from Porto. I did it in 10 stages. Albergues are not available universally in Portugal and the distances of some recommended stages are greater than the 15 – 20 kms you mention.

Time before departure is really short so doing a huge amount of research won’t be possible in advance. I hope the following helps:

1 I was amazed at how well many Portuguese people speak English – they preferred speaking to me in English than in Spanish. Communication was never a difficulty.

2 There are a number of tourist offices in Oporto – one conveniently located right next to the Cathedral – they will provide maps and a list of pilgrim accommodation at each of the stages. It appeared to be well researched.

3 Taxis and to some extent buses are available all the way – even in the smallest villages and the proximity of main roads to the route makes it very feasible simply to get a bus or taxi back and forth to accommodation, if necessary

4 In Portugal the local fire station will always try to help including providing accommodation if that is available – I met a young woman who was walking the length of Portugal staying in fire stations.

5 A Credential and sello is only available from the Cathedral in Oporto. They had run out when I started but they were available at the first albergue.

Buen Camino

John