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The French Way vs the Portuguese Way: Which Camino trek?

The French Way vs the Portuguese Way: Which Camino trek?

The Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of St James, is one of the most iconic and historic pilgrimage routes in the world. Spanning across Euro... Read more

28 Jun 2024 24 minute read

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The French Way vs the Portuguese Way: Which Camino trek?

By KE Adventure Travel

The Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of St James, is one of the most iconic and historic pilgrimage routes in the world. Spanning across Europe, it is made up of a network of trails that lead to the shrine of the apostle St James the Great in the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. For centuries, pilgrims have embarked on these trails for a spiritual journey however today, the Camino is known as a trek for anyone to enjoy, renowned for the camarderie amongst trekkers.

Among the numerous paths that make up this ancient network, the French Way (Camino Francés) and the Portuguese Way (Camino Portugués) are two of the most popular routes. Each offers unique experiences, landscapes and cultural encounters.

Which one should you choose?

Camino Historical Background

FW - The French Way is the most traditional and renowned route, often depicted in literature and films about the Camino. This path has been trodden by pilgrims since the medieval era and is known for its rich historical significance.

PW - The Portuguese Way has gained popularity in recent years, though it has been a pilgrimage route since the Middle Ages. It is the second most travelled path to Santiago after the French Way.

Camino Route Overview

FW - The Camino French Way begins in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a quaint town in the French Pyrenees. However trekkers can join the route at any point as it winds through Puente de la Reina, Logroño, Burgos, León, Astorga, Ponferrada and Sarria.

PW - The main Portuguese Way starts in Lisbon, however many pilgrims opt to begin in Porto. This route can typically be completed in about two weeks from Porto or Tui.

Scenery & Terrain

FW - The French Way offers diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills of Northern Spain and the expansive vineyards of La Rioja to the vast Meseta plains of Castilla y León. The final stretch through Galicia is lush and green, with a more temperate climate.

PW - The Portuguese Way is characterised by its coastal route. The coastal trail from Porto offers stunning ocean views, sandy beaches and picturesque fishing villages to explore along the way.

Cultural Highlights of the Camino

FW - Along the Camino Francés, pilgrims encounter numerous historical landmarks, including the Gothic Cathedral of Burgos and the impressive León Cathedral. The route also passes through picturesque villages and vibrant cities, offering a blend of rustic charm and urban sophistication.

PW - Pilgrims can take in the historic town of Tui on the Spanish border and visit the cathedral overlooking the Miño River; further north Pontevedra boasts a charming old town and the Pilgrim's Church of St James, both are well worth visiting.

Pilgrims Experience

FW - The Camino Francés is well-equipped with albergues (pilgrim hostels), cafes and restaurants, making it accessible and comfortable. The overriding experience people have of trekking the Camino, particularly on the busier French Way, is the sense of camaraderie, creating a unique community spirit among pilgrims.

PW - The Portuguese Way is slightly less busy than the French Way, offering a quieter and more intimate experience for those seeking a tranquil journey.

Choosing the right Camino route

Both the French and Portuguese Camino treks offer unforgettable experiences. The choice ultimately depends on what kind of journey you are seeking. If you are looking for a longer, more challenging route with a strong sense of pilgrim tradition and camaraderie, the French Way might be the best fit. On the other hand, if you are looking for a shorter, less crowded path with a blend of coastal and inland scenery, the Portuguese Way could be perfect.

Take a look at the various routes we offer below, all of which allow you to take in a portion of the iconic Camino de Santiago for yourself. Don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions.