There’s something magnetic about the Camino de Santiago - something that draws us in far beyond the thrill of cycling. For centuries, it’s been a spiritual, cultural, and personal journey for pilgrims. But for those of us who love to travel by bike, the Camino transforms into something even more exhilarating: an unforgettable ride through Portugal and Spain, filled with breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, great food, and soul-deep connections. I’ve had the immense pleasure of riding several of the main cycling routes to Santiago de Compostela - each unique, each meaningful, each a story of its own. Today, I want to take you along with me. Let’s explore the most popular Camino cycling routes in Portugal and Spain, the rich experiences that unfold along each path, and how to choose the one that’s just right for your next epic bike ride. Table of Contents Many Roads to Santiago The Portuguese Coastal Route (Caminho da Costa) The Portuguese Central Route (Caminho Central) The Camino Francés (French Way) The Camino Primitivo (Original Way) The Camino del Norte (Northern Way) Which Camino Should You Ride? Buen Camino! Many Roads to Santiago Over the centuries, the Camino de Santiago has evolved into a rich tapestry of pilgrimage routes, each shaped by geography, politics, faith, and the needs of travelers seeking their own way to Santiago. While the destination remains the same (Santiago de Compostela - where the remains of Saint James are said to rest) the paths leading there have multiplied. Some routes hugged the coast to avoid Moorish-held territory, others passed through great religious or royal centers, and many followed ancient Roman roads or shepherd trails. Today, these historic ways offer cyclists a variety of landscapes, cultures, and rhythms to explore. Each route with its own distinct character, challenges, and charms. The Portuguese Coastal Route (Caminho da Costa) Distance: Approx. 280 km from Porto to SantiagoBest for: Lovers of sea views, seafood, and a gentler terrainBest time to ride: Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) If you enjoy ocean breezes and the rhythm of waves crashing as your backdrop, the Portuguese Coastal Route is sheer magic. Beginning in the gorgeous city of Porto - already a UNESCO World Heritage site in itself - this ride hugs the Atlantic before turning inland to Santiago. It’s a smoother and more forgiving route, making it perfect for riders who appreciate long, relaxed days in the saddle with plenty of time to enjoy local wine and seafood feasts. Scenic highlights? Picture sun-dappled rides through fishing villages like Vila do Conde and Esposende. Boardwalk trails glide over sand dunes, and the air is fresh with salt, pine and eucalyptus. You’ll pass through Viana do Castelo, a town with both medieval charm and a modern soul. And then there’s the crossing into Spain over the Minho River - a moment I’ll never forget. Cultural treasures: Santiago’s cathedral may be the prize, but along the way, you’ll visit ancient monasteries, chapels, and cobblestone town squares that feel frozen in time. In Caminha and Baiona, there’s a deep connection to Galicia and Portugal’s seafaring past. What to eat? Grilled sardines, octopus salad, and creamy pastel de nata in Portugal. Cross the border, and the tapas culture takes over. Try the Padron Peppers and pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus), a dish I could eat every day of the ride and never tire of. The Vinho Verde and Albarriño wines of the Minho and Rias Baixas are some of the best white wines in the world and deserve a story on their own - IMO. Who will love it? This route is ideal for those newer to long-distance cycling, or anyone who wants a balance of physical activity and luxurious downtime. Couples love it for its romance; solo riders enjoy the quiet; groups enjoy the camaraderie over vinho verde and seaside sunsets. The Portuguese Central Route (Caminho Central) Distance: Approx. 260 km from Porto to SantiagoBest for: History buffs, lovers of Portuguese architecture and cuisineBest time to ride: Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September) If you’re drawn to history and crave the textures of stone walls, Gothic cathedrals, and Roman roads under your wheels, the Central Route might just be your perfect path. This route leaves Porto’s riverside elegance behind and winds through the pastoral heartland of northern Portugal, with its rolling vineyards and tranquil valleys, before entering Galicia. Terrain-wise, it’s a notch more challenging than the Coastal Route - but absolutely manageable with CTTC’s top-tier bicycles and ebikes and vehicle support. The gravel trails and cobblestones add a rustic charm, while forested paths and medieval bridges keep the camera clicking. Scenic and cultural highlights: Barcelos, home of the famous Portuguese rooster; Ponte de Lima, arguably the oldest village in Portugal with a spectacular Roman bridge; and Valença, where an imposing fortress offers a last dramatic Portuguese farewell. Then it’s across the Minho River into Tui, Spain, and a final flourish of Galician forests and ancient stone villages before arriving at Santiago. Food? Hearty and regional. In Portugal: caldo verde soup, bacalhau in endless delicious forms, and vinho verde to refresh the palate. In Spain, empanadas, chorizo in cider, and local cheeses like tetilla and San Simón add flavor to every stop. Who should ride this? If you like riding through the heart of things - where rural traditions still thrive and old stones whisper stories - this is for you. It suits more experienced cyclists, especially those seeking cultural immersion and quieter country routes. The Camino Francés (French Way) Distance: Approx. 780 km from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port (France) to SantiagoBest for: The classic pilgrim experience, varied landscapes, and deep traditionBest time to ride: May–June or September–October (avoid summer crowds) The Camino Francés is the superstar of the Camino world - and for good reason. It's the most famous, the most traveled, and for many, the most spiritually powerful. It’s also the most diverse, taking you from the French Pyrenees through the vineyards of La Rioja, across the sweeping Meseta plains, and into the lush hills of Galicia in northeastern Spain. I won’t sugarcoat it: this is a long, challenging ride, with some real climbs! But with CTTC’s support, your luggage transported, hotels arranged, and the best rest stops mapped out - you get to savor every mile rather than suffer it. It's also likely my personal favourite thanks to the richness of historic sites and legends along the Way. Highlights along the way? Too many to count, but here are a few: Pamplona: Tapas, Hemingway, and Navarrese charm. Burgos: A Gothic cathedral that takes your breath away. León: A lively university city with golden light, noble plazas and it's unique Barrio Humedo night scene. O Cebreiro: A mystical mountain village where mist clings to stone houses and Celtic echoes are in the air. Try a Quemada if you're feeling brave! The people you meet on this route are part of the experience. Pilgrims from all walks of life share stories over café con leche or in albergues. As a cyclist, you’re welcomed into this warm, multinational community. Cuisine: This is a tour of regional delights. Rioja wines, Cecina (cured beet), roast lamb in Castilla y León, and Galician seafood, Alabariño wines and almond cake in the final stretch. You could design an entire trip around food alone! Who should ride this? Riders looking for a long-form journey - the kind that invites reflection and reveals something new each day. It’s for those who want to say, “Yes, I rode the Camino - and I truly earned it.” The Camino Primitivo (Original Way) Distance: Approx. 320 km from Oviedo to SantiagoBest for: Adventurers, mountain lovers, experienced cyclistsBest time to ride: June–September (when the weather in Asturias is most favorable) The Camino Primitivo is where it all began - King Alfonso II took this mountainous route from Oviedo to Santiago in the 9th century. It's the most rugged and challenging of the major Camino options and, in my humble opinion, one of the most rewarding. This is a route of high passes, remote landscapes, and utter tranquility. The Asturias region feels untouched, and the trails wind through forests, over mountain ridges, and into hidden villages where life ticks by slowly. If you're a mountain biker, this might be your best choice to ride, for both the rugged scenery and challenging climbs and terrain. It’s a workout. The climbs are significant, and on a few stages, you'll be thankful for a good breakfast and CTTC’s expert guiding. But the views from the top? They stay with you forever. Cultural highlights? Oviedo’s pre-Romanesque churches are a revelation. Lugo, with its intact Roman walls, is like cycling into a time capsule. And in between: chapels tucked into forests, wayside crosses, and humble yet awe-inspiring landscapes. What’s to eat? Fabada Asturiana (a rich bean stew), cider poured from a height in the traditional Asturian way, grilled meats, and crusty bread. It’s rustic and hearty, and perfect after a big day’s ride. Who will love this route? Experienced cyclists looking for solitude and wild beauty. This is for those who find joy in the physical challenge, who love mountains and mist, and who aren’t afraid of a bit of mud on their tires. The Camino del Norte (Northern Way) Distance: Approx. 825 km from San Sebastián or Irun to SantiagoBest for: Coastal aficionados, solitude seekers, foodiesBest time to ride: Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) This is the route for those who want the Atlantic Ocean as their constant companion, with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and charming Basque and Cantabrian villages dotting the way. It’s a wilder, less-trodden route than the French Way, and I often recommend it to friends who want a Camino experience that’s both beautiful and less crowded. Starting in Irun or San Sebastián (a culinary destination in its own right), the route follows the rugged northern coast of Spain before cutting inland into the misty green hills of Galicia. The terrain is rolling and hilly, with short but steep climbs, so it’s ideal for riders with a bit of experience under their belts. Cultural highlights? The coast here is nothing short of spectacular. You’ll ride through fishing villages like Getaria, Luarca, and Ribadeo - each with their own personality and postcard views. There’s art and architecture in Bilbao (home to the Guggenheim), the laid-back surf vibes of Santander, and the medieval flavor of Llanes and Castro Urdiales. When you head inland, the route shifts dramatically - green hills, quiet roads, stone chapels lost in time. By the time you roll into Santiago, you’ll feel like you’ve seen every shade of green Spain has to offer. Culinary Delights? Let’s talk food. This is seafood heaven. Think grilled hake, anchovies marinated in vinegar, and txakoli (a lightly sparkling Basque white wine). In Cantabria, stop for sobao and quesada pastries. And the pintxos culture in the Basque Country? Out of this world. Each bar offers its own mini masterpieces - just be sure to pace yourself! Who Will Love This Route? Riders who love the sea, foodies looking to eat their way through Spain, and anyone who wants a Camino experience off the beaten path. It’s a physically rewarding route with rich cultural layers - and just enough edge to keep you engaged every day. Which Camino Should You Ride? Here’s a quick summary to help you decide: Route Ideal For Terrain Highlights Vibe Portuguese Coastal Newer riders, couples, relaxed travelers Gentle, mostly flat Seaside boardwalks, fishing villages, ocean views Romantic & relaxed Portuguese Central History lovers, cultural explorers Moderate Roman roads, medieval towns, vineyard valleys Authentic & immersive Camino Francés Traditionalists, long-distance adventurers Varied Famous cathedrals, classic pilgrim camaraderie, diverse landscapes Iconic & social Camino Primitivo Experienced cyclists, solitude seekers Challenging Mountain passes, quiet forests, ancient pilgrimage history Wild & introspective Camino del Norte Coastal enthusiasts, foodies, art lovers Hilly, rolling Rugged Atlantic coastline, pintxos bars, Basque and Cantabrian culture Scenic & sophisticated Buen Camino! Riding the Camino is never just about the destination. It really is all about the journey - how each town, each meal, each pedal stroke adds to a story that’s deeply personal and wonderfully shared with friends you make along the way. At CTTC Bike Tours, we design custom Camino experiences that reflect your pace, preferences, and priorities. Whether you want luxury lodgings and fine dining or something more rustic and reflective - we’ve been there, we know the way, and we’ll make sure you love every moment of the journey. The Camino is waiting. And it’s even better on two wheels!
