Fátima Walking Routes
Fátima Walking Routes are a network of religious and cultural itineraries that start at various locations and end at the Sanctuary of Fatima.
Developed by the Centro Nacional de Cultura since 1996, in partnership with many institutions and in partnership with the Shrine of Fatima, they offer safe and pleasant conditions for pilgrims and walkers heading to the Shrine of Fatima, avoiding busy roads in favour of dirt tracks and small rural roads.
These itineraries cover a variety of territories with great cultural and scenic interest and are linked to other national and international itineraries.
Information for Pilgrims
Fátima Walking Routes offer a spiritual journey through Portugal, combining cultural and religious significance. Pilgrims can walk these routes year-round, though the best conditions are in spring, summer, and autumn. While summer may have high temperatures, pilgrims can adjust their schedules to start early in the morning. The routes are designed to accommodate different journey lengths, allowing flexibility according to personal preferences.
Each route begins and ends at public places of religious or cultural significance, such as churches or chapels. Pilgrims will find essential services along the way, including places for food, water, and accommodation. It’s important to plan ahead and prepare for the specific conditions of each journey.
The routes are marked with a logo and symbols, though simpler blue arrows may be used in some areas until full signposting is completed. Pilgrims are encouraged to consult the route map for guidance.
Pilgrim’s Credentials
The Pilgrim’s Credential serves as a passport, certifying each stage of the journey and can be stamped at designated locations like tourist offices, parishes, and hotels. The official credential is issued by the National Culture Centre (CNC), which can be obtained from their office in Lisbon, or requested via email or phone. A voluntary €2 donation is suggested to support the credential production.
Preparing for the Journey
Pilgrims should plan their stages based on their physical condition and available accommodation. Each stage is typically 25-30 kilometers, and preparation for varying climate conditions is key. Proper hydration, comfortable clothing, and a well-fitted rucksack are essential. Pilgrims are also advised to respect the environmental guidelines for conservation and sustainability during their walk.
The Northern Route
- 364 km
- 17 days
This route covers Northern and Central Portugal. The scenery is beautiful and varied, and while the rural and urban landscape gradually changes along the way it is defined by the constant presence of the rivers and mountains that delineate this ancestral land, dotted with small villages, towns and cities.
The landscape between the Rivers Minho and Douro is verdant and a sea breeze blows across it. Between the Rivers Douro and Mondego the coastal plain strikes a contrast with the mountainous inland terrain.
To the south of the River Mondego the landscape undergoes a progressive transformation, eventually reaching the limestone mountains of Aire and Candeeiros. The walker will come to know a substantial part of the geography, history and culture of Portugal.
A considerable stretch of the Northern Route coincides with the Portuguese Way of St. James.
Read more.
Tagus Route
- 150 km
- 6 days
It is part of a geocultural space marked by the Tagus river and by the complex natural, social and cultural system associated with this great waterway that crosses Portugal. A part of the Way has the river for horizon and advances through the serene landscape of the Lezíria plains.
Another part continues along the plateaus, mountains and valleys of the limestone massif of the Serras de Aire and Candeeiros, the ancestral and characteristic territory of transition between the river system of the Tagus and the Atlantic coast.
This Way is a true cultural and spiritual itinerary of knowledge, encounter, experiences and sharing. The pleasure of new discoveries is always on the horizon, including landscape, heritage and community.
