More international pilgrims and strong presence of Americans on the Portuguese Way
A start to the year with an international atmosphere
The Portuguese Coastal Way has begun 2026 confirming something that many pilgrims have already been noticing in recent years: it is increasingly a more international route. During the first weeks of the year, the presence of foreign walkers has clearly been the majority, especially pilgrims from the United States.
Winter is still the low season on the Camino, and this is noticeable in the total number of pilgrims. The rain, wind and storms typical of the Galician coast mean that many walkers prefer to wait for spring. Even so, those who dare to walk in these months find a calmer, quieter and more authentic Camino.
A route that never stops growing
The Camino de la Costa has been growing steadily for several years. Every season new pilgrims join, attracted by the beauty of the route, the proximity of the sea and stages that, in general, are affordable for many walkers.
The forecasts for this year indicate that the route will continue to increase the number of pilgrims and consolidate itself as one of the preferred options within the Portuguese Ways. Many hospitalists and professionals in the sector agree that international interest continues to increase.
What pilgrims are finding
Those who are already walking in these first weeks of the year tell very similar experiences. More and more languages are heard in the hostels, the atmosphere remains close and the landscape, even in winter, continues to be one of the great attractions of this route.
Walking next to the sea, passing through towns with a seafaring tradition and enjoying quiet stages means that the Portuguese Coastal Way maintains that balance that so many pilgrims seek: nature, culture and time for oneself.
Advice for those planning to do it in 2026
If you are thinking about traveling this route this year, it is worth keeping in mind that the popularity of the Camino continues to grow. In spring and summer some hostels can fill up easily, so planning stages and arriving early is usually a good idea.
Winter, on the other hand, continues to be the ideal time for those seeking silence, intense landscapes and the feeling of having the Camino almost to themselves.
