7 Nts Ruta Maritima - Kayak & Walk

Duration: 7 Nights

From €1,295pp

All Year

The Ruta Maritima is a unique Camino route that commemorates the arrival of the body of the Apostle Saint James to the coast of Galicia in northwest Spain.

This exciting itinerary comprises a three-day, 35-km kayak up the Arousa Estuary, followed by a 23-km walk to the city of Santiago de Compostela. You will encounter beaches of white sand and turquoise waters, followed by forested trails and rolling farmlands.

The combination of fun sporting activities, natural splendour and fascinating cultural and culinary traditions makes this a truly special Camino experience.

Day 1. Arrival in O Grove

O Grove is a lovely Galician fishing village located on a small peninsula joined to the mainland by an isthmus.

In the evening, take a dip in one of the nearby bathing spots or sample some of the local seafood cuisine for which O Grove is famous.

Overnight: O Grove

Day 2. Introductory Course

In the morning, our training course will cover a range of important issues including the type of equipment you will be using during your trip, the sea conditions you will face and key safety guidelines to bear in mind while kayaking.

In the afternoon, there will be a short paddling session in the waters around O Grove.

Overnight: O Grove

Day 3. O Grove - Vilanova de Arousa (9 km)

Set forth from O Grove and paddle as far as Isla de Arousa where you can visit the island’s wonderful beaches and Carreirón Natural Park, a special protection zone for several bird species that inhabit the island.

Your day ends in Vilanova de Arousa, a picturesque seaside town with a nice promenade and views of the Arousa Estuary.

Overnight: Vilanova de Arousa

Day 4. Vilanova de Arousa - Catoira (12 km)

Today you hug the coastline until you reach the mouth of the River Ulla and the historic town of Catoira.

Although all that remains today are the two towers built to repel Viking raids, a connected chapel and the demolished footings of a grand wall, this fortress settlement was once as important as any in Spain.

Overnight: Catoira

Day 5. Catoira - Padrón (14 km)

Today is a very symbolic stage as you paddle upriver as far as the town of Padrón, where it is believed the Apostle James first preached during his time in Spain. It is also the place where the remains of the Apostle were brought ashore after his disciples’ long journey from Jerusalem.

Take a relaxing stroll around the town’s historic centre in the evening.

Overnight: Padrón

Day 6. Padrón - Santiago de Compostela (23 km)

Time now to switch from kayaking to walking.

Depart Padrón by foot, tracing the journey of Saint James’ disciples as they carried the Apostle’s body to his final resting place at Campus Stellae (Compostela).

Enjoy the thrill of arriving in Plaza de Obradoiro and the famous Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela—the final destination of every pilgrim on the Camino.

Overnight: Santiago de Compostela

Day 7. Free Day in Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is the capital of Galicia and, as home to the tomb of the Apostle Saint James, one of the greatest holy cities in the world.

Visiting the shrine containing the Apostle’s relics in the Cathedral, wandering through the streets of the old town, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, and tasting delicious seafood cuisine are just some of the highlights of this magnificent city.

Overnight: Santiago de Compostela