In the current political upheaval and divisiveness and resulting havoc, fear, and confusion, many people are asking, ‘How do I speak out against injustice and the collateral moral injury without hating those who perpetrate harm?’ ‘What action can I take in the face of the shredding of the moral fabric of society that seeks to uphold justice, mercy, and compassionate action?’ At these times, I find it important to recall the teachings of Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh and the Plum Village community. Nhat Hanh wrote more than 100 books and they all contain a basic yet profound message that is important to recall today. Mindfulness, concentration, and insight are the basis for transforming ourself and our society. That transformation begins with volition, your intention, which invites you to ask what do you really love? What are your love priorities? Do you spend time on your highest love priorities? Do your love priorities support greater belonging, compassion, understanding, and peace, modeling the moral and emotional character needed in polarizing and chaotic times. With this volition grounded in a heart and mind of love, even as you speak out against injustice and oppression, you move with awareness of the inherent humanity in each person. You choose what to say and how to act, transforming fear into freedom As I live into this month, this year, I ask myself what do I really love and the answer is clear. Love is a moral act and each act of love, of kindness, of generosity, of choosing peacemaking over division creates real transformation so needed in a divided world. As a Quaker, I love these resources to engage in social action now. Together we create the world we all deserve. American Friends Service: https://afsc.org/get-involved Friends Committee on National Legislation: https://www.fcnl.org/act Finally, please join me for this new offering. Register now. Spaces are limited.  Open for Registration Now! Portuguese Camino: Walk in Beauty Pilgrimage of El Camino for 2026, Our Kindest Camino Ever! October 10-20, 2026 Duration: 11 days / 10 nights Distance: 80 miles/129 km Difficulty: Moderate Start/End: Guimarães, Portugal -Santiago de Compostela, Spain Includes All Breakfasts, Gourmet Picnic Lunches, Dinners and 3-4 star hotels. |
- Has walking El Camino been on your ‘bucket list’?
- Are you facing a life transition or milestone event and want time, space, the beauty of the natural world, and the support of community of like-minded people?
- Are you ready to prioritize what you?
Walk in Beauty: Pilgrimage of El Camino Awaits You!
Travel in a way that touches your soul, that becomes not just a ‘trip’ but a defining life moment. Our kindest and gentlest Camino ever combines the stunning beauty of northern Portugal and Spain with spacious time for you to reflect with a caring, supportive community on your inner capacity to lead a more authentic, meaningful, and resilient life.
Let us pamper you in this exclusive, small group, amenities-packed pilgrimage where you’ll savor breathtaking natural beauty of the legendary coast of Portugal and Spain, charming, three and four-star accommodations, and regional delicious cuisine, including gourmet picnic lunches.
Inspiring Highlights
Beginning Guimaraes, the ‘birthplace’ of Portugal and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Camino explores the allure and beauty of northern Portugal and Spain. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of coastal towns and estuaries, peaceful countryside villages, forested paths, waterfalls, and winding rivers. Showcasing a mix of Gothic, Manueline, and Renaissance architectural styles, this Camino follows ancient paths through historic towns, churches and squares, iconic castles, and cobblestones streets, and ending in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Santiago de Compostela, an urban sanctuary of medieval architecture and art.
Our kindest and gentlest Camino ever meanders through Ponte de Lima and the banks of the River Lima and Valença do Minho, to historic Tui as we cross the River Miño into Spain. Walk through rural villages, shaded wooded paths, the white wine-producing region of the Rias Baixas, and the estuaries surrounding Pontevedra. With coastal views and natural and cultural heritage full of magical, wild, and protected spaces, you’ll arrive at Santiago de Compostela, the iconic ancient city.
At the end of this Camino, you’ll receive the Compostela, official recognition of having completed this historic pilgrimage.
Accommodations are three and four-star hotels with private bath, charmingly restored country manor houses, and B&B’s that offer the best in hospitality, comfort, and location.
This Camino is for foodies! Enjoy delicious regional cuisine, with dinners at restaurants known for exceptional local cuisine, atmosphere, and service. During our walk, you’ll savor gourmet picnics, using the freshest local and regional ingredients. All breakfasts, picnic lunches, and dinners are included, and vegetarians and those with food allergies are fully accommodated.
Space is limited to 12 persons. Watch this 4-minute video on the Camino Portuguese.
What People Are Saying
- The scenery is spectacular and the beautiful rhythm of walking the Camino is truly revelatory.”
- “To walk the Camino my own way empowered and stretched me into new horizons, safely and in community….”
- “Everyday was a feast for the senses.”
- “I am venturing home with my heart burst wide open, full of hope and possibilities. I am deeply grateful.”
What’s Included:
- Courage & Renewal® Approach to reflection and expert facilitation
- Pre-departure confidential 30-minute coaching session with Valerie.
- Comprehensive pre and post-pilgrimage preparation, including customized training schedule, newsletters, virtual community calls, and 30-page Camino Resource Guide
- Carefully selected en suite three and four-star hotels, charmingly restored country manor houses, and B&B’s
- Private van support
- Luggage transfers
- All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
- Pilgrim’s Passport & Credentials
- Compostela Certificate
- 2- English-speaking guides
- Pre and Post-Camino travel assistance
- Daily informational program and route map
- Celebratory farewell dinner
- Guided walking tour in Guimaraes and Santiago
What’s NOT included:
- Round trip airfare
- Ground transportation from Santiago
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance
- More Information & Register
- Are you ready for a life defining moment?
- Are you seeking a community of like-minded people?
- How will you celebrate the next milestone moment in your life?
