Galicia: The Route of the Camellia

Step into the quietly enchanting world of northern Spain on this wonderfully paced journey through Galicia’s most beautiful gardens, historic estates, and atmospheric cities. From sun-dappled pazos and camellia-lined walkways to coastal viewpoints and UNESCO‑listed Santiago de Compostela, this tour traces the path of Galicia’s celebrated camellia collections. Travelling with garden expert David Hurrion, you will discover elegant manor houses, bloom-filled estates, and characterful old towns, all set against Atlantic vistas, while enjoying fine local cuisine and carefully chosen hotels. A richly rewarding blend of horticulture, history, and Galician charm awaits.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival
Fly from London Gatwick to Porto and transfer to hotel for three-night stay.  Evening welcome drink at the hotel, then an introductory talk by David Hurrion followed by dinner with wine.

Day 2: Historic Gardens & Galician Elegance
Begin the day with a visit to the impressive Castillo de Soutomaior, set amid beautiful vineyards and formal gardens. Enjoy a guided exploration of the castle’s interior, followed by time to wander through its landscaped gardens, where camellias, magnolias, and shaded walkways create a serene introduction to Galicia’s garden heritage. Next travel to the typically Galician town of Pontevedra, whose old town consists of a host of cobbled streets and tiny squares, dotted with historic churches and excellent tapas bars. This afternoon, visit the Pazo de Lourizán, home to one of Galicia’s most important botanical gardens. Discover an extraordinary collection of exotic trees, rare plant species, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Ría de Pontevedra.

Day 3: Formal Gardens & Coastal Character
Morning visit to the Quiñones de León Museum in Vigo’s Castrelos Park. Explore the historic palace before spending time in the beautifully designed gardens, blending formal French layouts, rose gardens, and romantic woodland areas. Then enjoy a relaxed afternoon in Vigo’s Casco Vello (Old Town). Wander cobbled streets, browse small shops, or enjoy sea views from one of the city’s many terraces. Evening dinner at the hotel.

Day 4: Manor House Gardens & Santiago de Compostela
Spend the morning at Pazo de Rubianes, a stately manor surrounded by extensive gardens renowned for their camellias, vineyards, and ancient trees. The visit includes a guided tour of the garden and the interior of the pazo, then lunch at a local restaurant. Next, we travel to Santiago de Compostela and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to soak in the atmosphere of this historic pilgrimage city. Transfer to the hotel for a four-night stay.

Day 5: Santiago de Compostela Walking Tour
This morning, we take a guided walking tour of Santiago de Compostela, exploring its historic heart, elegant plazas, and spiritual landmarks. Learn about the city’s rich cultural and religious heritage as you walk through the UNESCO-listed old town. The rest of the day is free to relax, explore independently, or enjoy one of the city’s parks and gardens.

Day 6: Iconic Pazos of Galicia
Visit the magnificent Pazo de Oca, often referred to as the “Galician Versailles.” Explore the palace interior and its spectacular gardens, famous for their ornamental waterways, stone bridges, sculpted hedges, and camellia-lined paths. Lunch at a local restaurant, then continue to the Pazo de Santa Cruz de Rivadulla, set in romantic woodland gardens celebrated for their exceptional camellia collection and tranquil atmosphere.

Day 7: Santiago de Compostela at Leisure
A full day at leisure to enjoy Santiago de Compostela at your own pace – Visit the magnificent Cathedral with the opportunity to attend the daily Pilgrim’s Mass, relax in Alameda Park with views over the city, or browse the city’s vibrant food market.

Day 8: Coastal Gardens & Departure
Visit the elegant Pazo de Mariñán, set on a coastal estate overlooking the sea. Stroll through its refined gardens, featuring fountains, alleys of camellias, and panoramic Atlantic views. Continue to A Coruña to visit the Xardín de Méndez Núñez and Xardín de San Carlos, two peaceful urban gardens offering a blend of history, sculpture, and seaside vistas. Enjoy some free time to explore the city before our transfer to the airport for our return flight to London Gatwick.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 25 passengers.

Please note: This tour has been graded as moderate due to the amount of time spent walking and standing for viewing at attractions. Please visit the mobility page on our website for further information, or call our team with any questions prior to booking.

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Gatwick to Porto, returning from A Coruna
• Three nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at Parador de Pontevedra, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Four nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at Hotel Compostela, Santiago, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Welcome drink at the hotel on the first evening
• Two dinners and 2 lunches
• Transfers and full touring itinerary with guided tours and entrance fees as detailed
• Tour manager throughout
• Expert David Hurrion throughout
  
  

NOT INCLUDED

• Double room for sole use supplement - £371
• Holiday insurance 
• Meals other than those stated 
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTELS

Parador de Pontevedra (3 nights)
Housed in a beautifully restored 16th‑century Renaissance palace‑convent, the Parador de Pontevedra is a highlight in its own right. Set within the historic old town, it features a tranquil inner cloister garden with stone arcades, lush planting, and seasonal camellias, offering a peaceful retreat just steps from Pontevedra’s cobbled streets and elegant plazas. Bedrooms are comfortable and decorated in a classical style with ensuite bathroom, air-conditioning, TV, telephone, safe and hairdryer.

Hotel Website

 
Hotel Compostela, Santiago de Compostela (4 nights)
Located on Galicia Square right on the edge of the old town and just a short walk to the famous Cathedral, the four-star Hotel Compostela offers an excellent base for exploring the city. Facilities at the hotel include a bar-cafe, plus comfortable bedrooms with ensuite bathroom, air-conditioning, TV, telephone, wifi, safe and hairdryer.

Hotel Website