A Sacred Pilgrimage for Women
A Sacred Pilgrimage for Women
Portugal & Spain
Portugal & Spain
October 18 - November 1, 2025
October 18 - November 1, 2025
Have you ever envisioned walking the transformative Camino de Santiago in Spain? Does the idea of a purposeful journey, one that enriches your soul and offers a pause from the busyness of life appeal to you?
If so, we invite you to join us this October for an 13-night expedition through Portugal and Spain. This immersive experience encompasses a stay at O Refugio Retreat Center in the serene Vinho Verde wine region of Northern Portugal, followed by seven nights dedicated to walking the ancient Way of St. James, and concluding in Santiago de Compostela for two nights. Our trip will begin and end in the charming city of Porto, Portugal.
This Travel on Purpose™ small group tour is for all women (25 and older) who want to experience a faith pilgrimage, connect with other women and enjoy the beauty of northern Portugal and the Galicia region of Spain.
If so, we invite you to join us this October for an 13-night expedition through Portugal and Spain. This immersive experience encompasses a stay at O Refugio Retreat Center in the serene Vinho Verde wine region of Northern Portugal, followed by seven nights dedicated to walking the ancient Way of St. James, and concluding in Santiago de Compostela for two nights. Our trip will begin and end in the charming city of Porto, Portugal.
This Travel on Purpose™ small group tour is for all women (25 and older) who want to experience a faith pilgrimage, connect with other women and enjoy the beauty of northern Portugal and the Galicia region of Spain.
What's included:
What's included:
- Two nights in the heart of Porto at a boutique hotel
- A captivating walking tour of Porto to immerse you in the city's charm
- A two-night stay at O Refugio Retreat Center in the Vinho Verde region of Portugal
- Art classes and personal time dedicated to rest and reflection
- Seven nights of lodging along the Camino de Santiago
- Two nights at the historic Parador de Santiago de Compostela
- Convenient luggage porter service between locations on the Camino
- A massage and hot springs soak in Caldas de Reis along the Camino
- Ground transportation before and after walking the Camino
- All breakfasts, dinners, and select lunches included
- A welcome gift and a journal to capture your memorable moments
- Pre-trip materials designed to assist you in both physical and spiritual preparation for this unique journey
What's not
included:
What's not
included:
included:
- International flights to and from Porto, Portugal
- Lunches while on the Camino
- Souvenir shopping
- Travel insurance
- Additional travel should you plan to arrive early or journey onward
Our journey will begin and end in Porto, renowned for its stunning riverfront, historic architecture, and vibrant culture. Porto captivates visitors with its rich heritage, delectable cuisine, and world-famous Port wine, making it an irresistible destination for those seeking a blend of tradition and charm.
Our hotel in the heart of Porto to begin and end our journey.
Itinerary Highlights
Itinerary Highlights
Community
Community
While much of this experience is dedicated to personal rest and reflection, the community among travelers on the Camino de Santiago undoubtedly will stand out as a highlight. A profound sense of community is created as diverse pilgrims navigate its ancient paths. Through shared meals and moments, many steps and communal rest, the Camino becomes an experience of community that resonates long after the journey's end.
Rest
Rest
The Camino de Santiago offers a sanctuary of rest amid its captivating trails. Through rhythmic steps and scenic vistas, a tranquil atmosphere is created, inviting your soul to take a pause. Away from the hustle of daily life, the pilgrimage becomes a meditative journey, allowing minds to unwind and find clarity.
Reflection
Reflection
Historically, this a sacred journey, offering pilgrims a profound opportunity for quiet introspection, spiritual reflection, and a place to find solace to delve into their inner selves. Whether walking in solitude or sharing stories with fellow travelers, the Camino provides a unique environment for spiritual growth, opening a door to self-discovery and a deeper connection with God.
“Most of us are more tired than we know at the soul level. We are teetering on the brink of dangerous exhaustion, and we cannot do anything else until we have gotten some rest...we can't really engage [any spiritual disciplines] until solitude becomes a place of rest for us rather than another place for human striving and hard work.”
― Ruth Haley Barton, Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation
― Ruth Haley Barton, Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation
Itinerary
Itinerary
October 18:
Depart the US.
Day One//October 19:
Arrive in Porto, Portugal by mid-day. Transfer to our hotel in the city center and meet the group. Spend the afternoon exploring Porto, it's magnificent waterfront, the famous Livraria Lello Bookstore, or take an optional ceramics class with local artisans. We'll enjoy an early dinner and head to bed for a good night of rest.
[D]
Day Two//October 20:
After breakfast, we will head out on a walking tour with a local guide, learning about some of the unknown histories of Porto. Next, we'll enjoy a traditional lunch accompanied by local wine on the waterfront. Then we'll collect our things and meet our driver to depart for O Refugio, a farm and retreat center in the Vinho Verde wine region of Portugal. We'll get settled into our comfortable accommodations, meet our host, and enjoy dinner together.
[B, L, D]
Day Three//October 21:
Today, we'll have the opportunity to pause, slow down, and embrace a more simple way of living. Marta, the retreat director, will guide us through sessions of Lectio Divina and other contemplative practices. We'll also take a community walk, learn about nature journaling, and participate in an art class—each offering a chance to connect with the beauty around us. If the weather allows, we’ll end the day with stargazing and a bonfire after dinner. The meals at O Refúgio will be vegetarian, featuring fresh, organic produce from the garden and local community.
[B, L, D]
Day Four//October 22:
We'll conclude our time at the retreat center with a slow morning and time for solitude and reflection. After brunch, we'll say goodbye to our friends at O Refugio and drive north to the small border town of Valenca, Portugal, visiting a small family-owned winery along the way. We'll enjoy the ancient walled city of Valenca, before crossing the river and taking a short walk into Spain. We'll check in at the traditional Parador, enjoy dinner together, and head to bed as we prepare for our first day on the Camino.
[B, L, D]
Day Five//October 23:
It's the first morning on the Camino! Following breakfast, we'll turn in our luggage to the porter and begin our pilgrimage. Today's walk will take through a beautiful forested area as we head north to O Porriño. Discover a quaint cafe along the way, offering a Pilgrim's Lunch, usually consisting of soup, freshly baked bread and a glass of wine. Walk with friends from the group, meet new friends making a similar journey, or choose to walk alone in solitude. Arrive in O Porriño in the early afternoon. Check-in at the next hotel, rest and enjoy the afternoon at your leisure. We will have a group dinner together, listening as friends share memorable moments and discoveries.
Walking distance: 10 miles
[B, D]
The next six days will follow a similar pattern as we make our way north, walking in the footsteps of 12th-century pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Each day will be a unique experience as we collect our stamps, passing through villages, historical points of interest and forested areas. Share meaningful conversations, savor personal moments of clarity, and enjoy sweet communion with the Creator and you journey one step at a time.
Day Six//October 24:
North to Redondela.
Walking distance: 12 miles
[B, D]
Day Seven//October 25:
North to Pontevedra.
Walking distance: 10 miles
[B, D]
Day Eight//October 26:
North to Caldas de Reis.
Walking distance: 13 miles
[B, D]
Day Nin//October 27:
North to Padrón.
Walking distance: 10 miles
[B, D]
Day Ten//October 28:
North to O'Coruna.
Walking distance: 5 miles
[B, D]
Day Eleven//October 29:
Today we'll make our final walk north to Santiago de Compostela. The sense of accomplishment is sure to ignite celebration as we get our first glimpse of the Cathedral Santiago de Compostela. We'll collect our official Compostela in the Pilgrim's Reception Office and capture a group photo. Then we'll settle into the historic Parador de Santiago de Compostela, sharing the magnificent square with the cathedral. Hot showers and a celebration dinner will round out our day.
Walking distance: 12 miles
[B, D]
Day Twelve//October 30:
After breakfast, we'll meet up with a local guide for an insider tour of the cathedral. We'll get to know its Romanesque architecture, learn about the construction throughout the centuries, admire the Chapel of Relics, and attend the Pilgrim's mass. With one full day in Santiago, we'll have plenty of free time to explore the winding old town streets, soak in the rooftop views and reflect on all that's taken place. Enjoy a traditional Spanish dinner at one of Santiago's culinary gems, celebrating community and memorable takeaways.
[B, L, D]
Day Thirteen//October 31:
After breakfast, we'll checkout and head back to Porto in a private shuttle. Once checked in at our hotel, we'll celebrate with a traditional Fado music dinner, culminating our incredible journey.
[B, L, D]
Day Fourteen//Nov 1:
Depart for home (or onward journey)
[B]
Itinerary is subject to change based on availability and weather. Details are not confirmed until paid in full.
Meet the trip leaders
Meet the trip leaders
Dianne Sivulka
Dianne Sivulka
Dianne is the creator and owner of Travel on Purpose. She is passionate about immersive travel and inspiring others to step out of their comfort zones to explore the world. She believes travel should challenge our assumptions, broaden our perspectives, and help us appreciate the way people live in different parts of the world. Her favorite thing about women's tours is watching how complete strangers become a tight-knit community through shared experiences and impactful moments. She looks forward to returning to the Camino and sharing the experience with a group in 2025.
Mary Bishop
Mary Bishop
Mary Bishop is an adventurous traveler and passionate leader who finds joy in the great outdoors. With a love for hiking, camping, and motorcycle riding, she embraces every opportunity to explore new landscapes and connect with people along the way. An avid gardener and home chef, Mary enjoys creating delicious meals and cultivating beauty in her surroundings. Mary earned her Compostela in 2024 and she looks forward to returning to the Camino experience to share the journey and special moments with fellow pilgrims.
Travel to Portugal and Spain for US citizens requires a valid passport for a minimum of three months beyond the length of your stay, and two blank pages. The European ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will likely be required by October 2025. This will be a simple online application with a payment of less than $10 USD. We will assist travelers with the application process.
O Refúgio Retreat Center
O Refúgio Retreat Center
O Refúgio is a warm and inviting farm and retreat center nestled along the picturesque Douro River in the charming village of Canelas, Penafiel, just 45 km from Porto. Offering simple yet comfortable accommodations, it is a place of beauty and tranquility—perfect for those seeking both rest and renewal. Here, you are invited to disconnect from the busyness of life and reconnect with God, nature, and community. Through creativity, reflection, and a deep care for Creation, O Refúgio provides a peaceful space to pause, reflect, and be refreshed.
“Noticing leads to wonder, and wonder leads to gratitude.”
“Noticing leads to wonder, and wonder leads to gratitude.”
— MOTTO OF O REFÚGIO
— MOTTO OF O REFÚGIO
Accommodations along the Camino include apartments, boutique hotels,
historic inns, modest guest houses and a traditional albergue.
A Splurge in Santiago de Compstela
A Splurge in Santiago de Compstela
The Parador de Santiago de Compostela, housed in a stunning 16th-century former royal hospital, is one of the oldest and most luxurious Paradors in Spain. Its rich history, combined with its opulent architecture and exceptional service, makes it an extraordinary and unforgettable place to stay, right next to the iconic Santiago Cathedral. Following our seven days of walking, we will enjoy a two-night stay in this special hotel.
The Parador de Santiago de Compostela, housed in a stunning 16th-century former royal hospital, is one of the oldest and most luxurious Paradors in Spain. Its rich history, combined with its opulent architecture and exceptional service, makes it an extraordinary and unforgettable place to stay, right next to the iconic Santiago Cathedral. Following our seven days of walking, we will enjoy a two-night stay in this special hotel.
Payment Schedule & other details
Payment Schedule & other details
Tour cost per person
>>> private room: $4700*
>>> shared room $3200
Payment Schedule:
>>>$500 deposit is due at time of booking
>>> 50% remaining balance on April 30
>>> 50% remaining balance on July 30
*Please note: one night will be spent in a traditional albergue with shared accommodations. Our group will be the only pilgrims at the property.
Payment Options:
Payment Options:
- Credit Card: an additional 3% will automatically be added to cover fees.
- Zelle: dianne@travelonpurpose.com
- Personal check: Travel on Purpose, P.O. Box 18, Bonsall, CA 92003
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended to project your investment. If you have to cancel your trip, and aren't eligible for a refund due to the cancellation policy, you will be refunded through the insurance company. Check travel insurance coverage that you may already have with your credit card company. If you'd like our help with travel insurance, we can provide a quote through Allianz that includes trip cancellation and medical emergency.
Terms & Conditions
Terms & Conditions
The itinerary is subject to change based on availability and weather, and the price is not confirmed until paid in full.
By booking this trip, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions.
Cancellations & Refunds
Cancellations & Refunds
We strongly recommend purchasing cancellation insurance at the time of booking to protect your investment. In addition, when booking your flight, be sure to book a fare that allows for cancellations or changes.
- Deposit: Deposits are non-refundable.
- 120 Days or more before departure: 50% of the amount you've paid (minus the deposit) can be applied toward a future trip.
- 90 Days or more before departure: 25% of the amount you've paid (minus the deposit) can be applied toward a future trip.
- 60 Days or more before departure: No refund or credit of any kind.
- NO REFUNDS: If you leave the trip after it has started, fail to join it, join after the departure, or leave before its completion, no refunds or credits will be issued for unused services.
A note about weather, blisters and long days of walking...
A note about weather, blisters and long days of walking...
Let's have a real conversation about what it's like on the Camino de Santiago, because it's not all rainbows and butterflies.
Imagine going out for a 12 mile walk tomorrow,
then doing it again the next day,
and the next and the next.
Imagine that it could be raining every day and everything you have could be soaking wet.
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The reality...
The reality...
It’s going to be a long walk, probably with some blisters, aches, and pains along the way. You might have moments when you’ll wonder what made you think this was a good idea.
And also this...
And also this...
But, if you prepare physically and view the journey as a reflection of life—with both challenges and joys—you’ll find beauty and purpose in it all. Walking with an open heart and embracing the moments along the way will reward you with one of the most exhilarating and transformative experiences of your life.
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Pilgrimage is a rare opportunity to engage your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being one step at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is this trip for?
A: Women (minimum age is 25)
Q: What is the cost?
A: $4700 per person for a private room, or $3200 per person for a shared room.
Q: What are the hotels like?
A: It's a little bit of everything. In Porto, we will stay at a beautiful hotel in the city center. The retreat center is modest and comfortable. Lodging along the Camino includes apartments, boutique hotels, historic inns, modest guest houses and a traditional albergue.
Q: Can TOP book my airfare and help me with travel insurance?
A: Yes! We can recommend a flight that is best from your area. If you'd like a travel insurance quote, just ask!
Q: When should I arrive in Porto? When does the tour officially begin?
A: Arrive by mid-day on October 19, 2025.
Q: When is the tour officially over? What is the earliest I can book my departure flight?
A: Depart from Porto, Portugal anytime on November 1, 2025
Q: Can I arrive in Portugal earlier and stay longer?
A: Absolutely! If you have the time, we think it's a great idea! Let us know if we can suggest an itinerary for you or book additional nights at the hotel we're staying at.
Q: Do I have to be a Christian to participate?
A: No. As with all Travel on Purpose trips, everyone is welcome. Regardless of your faith background or beliefs, everyone is invited on this special journey.
Q: I have dietary restrictions. Will I find enough to eat?
A: Yes! Every place we will eat has lots of options. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free can all be accommodated. Keep in mind that if you have a serious food allergy, cross-contamination can happen at any time.
Q: What if I need assistance along the Camino?
A: Our leadership team will have a support vehicle and will be standing by to assist should you need help.
Q: What if I don't feel comfortable walking on the Camino alone?
A: Don't worry. Each day we will organize group walks for anyone wanting to walk with a group. A set departure time will be established and regular stops along the way, with a planned lunch stop will be part of each day's journey.
Q: Is it possible to walk alone and break off from the group?
A: Absolutely! The Camino de Santiago is well-traveled and everyone wanting to walk alone will feel safe doing so. In fact, we encourage everyone to have some moments of solitude on the journey to think, pray, and reflect.
Q: How many hours of walking does each day take?
A: That entirely depends on your pace and how often you stop. It isn't a race and pilgrims tend to take their time getting to the next spot. With the mileage we have planned for each day, most days will take approximately 5-6 hours, including time for breaks and lunch.
Q: How can I prepare physically? And how will I know what gear to bring?
A: We will provide pre-trip materials designed to assist you in physical preparation, including a training schedule, and a complete list of what gear to bring.
A: Women (minimum age is 25)
Q: What is the cost?
A: $4700 per person for a private room, or $3200 per person for a shared room.
Q: What are the hotels like?
A: It's a little bit of everything. In Porto, we will stay at a beautiful hotel in the city center. The retreat center is modest and comfortable. Lodging along the Camino includes apartments, boutique hotels, historic inns, modest guest houses and a traditional albergue.
Q: Can TOP book my airfare and help me with travel insurance?
A: Yes! We can recommend a flight that is best from your area. If you'd like a travel insurance quote, just ask!
Q: When should I arrive in Porto? When does the tour officially begin?
A: Arrive by mid-day on October 19, 2025.
Q: When is the tour officially over? What is the earliest I can book my departure flight?
A: Depart from Porto, Portugal anytime on November 1, 2025
Q: Can I arrive in Portugal earlier and stay longer?
A: Absolutely! If you have the time, we think it's a great idea! Let us know if we can suggest an itinerary for you or book additional nights at the hotel we're staying at.
Q: Do I have to be a Christian to participate?
A: No. As with all Travel on Purpose trips, everyone is welcome. Regardless of your faith background or beliefs, everyone is invited on this special journey.
Q: I have dietary restrictions. Will I find enough to eat?
A: Yes! Every place we will eat has lots of options. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free can all be accommodated. Keep in mind that if you have a serious food allergy, cross-contamination can happen at any time.
Q: What if I need assistance along the Camino?
A: Our leadership team will have a support vehicle and will be standing by to assist should you need help.
Q: What if I don't feel comfortable walking on the Camino alone?
A: Don't worry. Each day we will organize group walks for anyone wanting to walk with a group. A set departure time will be established and regular stops along the way, with a planned lunch stop will be part of each day's journey.
Q: Is it possible to walk alone and break off from the group?
A: Absolutely! The Camino de Santiago is well-traveled and everyone wanting to walk alone will feel safe doing so. In fact, we encourage everyone to have some moments of solitude on the journey to think, pray, and reflect.
Q: How many hours of walking does each day take?
A: That entirely depends on your pace and how often you stop. It isn't a race and pilgrims tend to take their time getting to the next spot. With the mileage we have planned for each day, most days will take approximately 5-6 hours, including time for breaks and lunch.
Q: How can I prepare physically? And how will I know what gear to bring?
A: We will provide pre-trip materials designed to assist you in physical preparation, including a training schedule, and a complete list of what gear to bring.
Still have questions?
LET'S CHAT!
Give me a call or send me an email.
phone: 760-613-4540
email: dianne@travelonpurpose.com
Still have questions?
LET'S CHAT!
Give me a call or send me an email.
phone: 760-613-4540
email: dianne@travelonpurpose.com
