7 Nts Ruta Maritima - Kayak & Walk
Duration:
7 Nights
From €1,395pp
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
Day 8. Santiago de Compostela.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the end of your Camino adventure. See you next time!
Bed & Breakfast Basis
Highlights:
- Enjoying the beauty of the Galician coast and the transparent waters of local beaches
- Sampling delicious traditional seafood dishes and local white wines
- Following the journey of Saint James’ disciples as they transported the Apostle’s body to Santiago de Compostela
- Wandering the bustling, pilgrim-filled streets of Santiago de Compostela
Stages:
- O Grove – Vilanova de Arousa (9 km)
- Vilanova de Arousa – Catoira (12 km)
- Catoira – Padron (14 km)
- Padron - Santiago de Compostela (23 km)
Tips for walking the Camino
- Bring high-quality footwear that you are used to wearing along with high-quality socks, to help prevent blisters.
- Make sure that your shoes and socks are always dry when you are walking.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- Do some training before you embark on your trip. Some level of fitness will stand to you during this challenge.
- Don’t forget to use sunscreen!
- Check the weather forecast before you leave to make sure you bring the right gear with you.
- Don’t forget your camera!
- Take earplugs. A good night’s sleep is vital!
- En suite hotel accommodation
- Breakfast
- Daily luggage transfer
- Pilgrim’s kit (passport and shell)
- Detailed information prior to start
- 24/7 support telephone number
- All kayaking equipment
- Evening dinners (guided tours)
- Two experienced guides (guided tours)
- All transfers to and from airport (guided tours)
Flights are not included (available on request)
Single Supplement - €195pp
Group Size: Min. of 8 people required


