Dear Pilgrims,
Welcome to this sacred journey through some of the most cherished sites of our Catholic faith! As we embark on this pilgrimage, we will visit the renowned sanctuary of Fatima, where we will reflect on the messages of hope and faith. Our journey will then take us to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, a place steeped in rich history and devotion.
Next, we will experience the profound serenity of Lourdes, a site of healing and grace. Throughout our travels, we will discover not only the beauty of these holy places but also the deep roots of our Church's history and the magnificent art that has arisen from our faith.
As we explore these landmarks, and several other important sights along the way ending our travels in Barcelona, we will witness how diverse cultures express their devotion to Christ, enriching our own relationship with Him. May this pilgrimage open our hearts and minds, allowing us to grow in faith and unity with one another and with the wider Church.
Let us walk together in faith, discovering the wonders of God’s love along the way.
In Christ’s Peace,
Father Oriol
JUNE 19: Depart USA
JUNE 20: ARRIVE IN LISBON, PORTUGAL
o Welcome to Portugal! Check into your hotel, and tonight, meet your Tour Director. (dinner)
JUNE 21: LISBON–SANTARÉM–FÁTIMA
o On your guided sightseeing tour of the capital of Portugal, see the enormous monument dedicated to Henry the Navigator, as well as the 16th-century Belém Tower, the Moorish citadel, and the impressive Black Horse Square. Visit the Cathedral La Sé, where St. Anthony was baptized, and St. Anthony’s Church, where it is said he was born. Admire the beauty of St. Mary of Belém Church, part of the Jeronimo’s Monastery complex. This building dates to the mid-1400s and was built as thanks to the Virgin Mary for Vasco de Gama’s successful voyage to India. Leaving Lisbon, head north and stop in Santarém to visit the Church of the Eucharistic Holy Miracle to then arrive in Fátima, home to one of the most famous Catholic shrines. Enjoy an orientation walk and visit the Tomb of the Visionaries and the Chapel of the Apparitions, where the Virgin Mary repeatedly appeared to three shepherd children in 1917, culminating in her revelation of the Three Secrets of Fátima. This evening, join pilgrims from around the world for the Rosary and candlelight procession at Our Lady of Fátima Basilica.
Today's Distance: 118 mi / 190 km (breakfast/dinner)
JUNE 22: FÁTIMA
o Spend the day at the Sanctuary at leisure praying and reflecting open the apparition of Mary. In Fatima, attend Mass at the Sanctuary of Our Lady with time to wander on your own. This evening, perhaps join in praying the Rosary once more. (breakfast/dinner)
JUNE 23: FÁTIMA–BRAGA–SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA, SPAIN
o Journey north and stop in Braga, one of the oldest Christian cities in the world, and visit the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, UNESCO World Heritage site and pilgrimage destination, where devout followers have walked the “Stations of the Cross” for contemplation and penance since 1811. See the unique zigzag stairway dedicated to the five senses: sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste—and the three theological virtues: faith, hope, and charity. Continue into Spain and head for Santiago de Compostela, one of the most significant pilgrimage destinations since the Middle Ages. On arrival, an orientation walk introduces you to the old city center. Then, attend the Pilgrim Mass.
Today's Distance: 273 mi / 440 km (breakfast/dinner)
JUNE 24: SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
o This morning, spend some time discovering Santiago de Compostela, known throughout history for the key 9th-century pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago (or Way of St. James). (breakfast)
JUNE 25: SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA–BURGOS
o Today, travel to Burgos, the historic capital of Old Castile. Your visit takes you to the magnificent Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and the burial place of Spain’s national hero, El Cid.
Today's Distance: 304 mi / 490 km (breakfast)
JUNE 26: BURGOS–LOYOLA–LOURDES, FRANCE
o Travel through the Basque region toward Lourdes. En route, pause to reflect at the 17th-century Sanctuary of Loyola, built in honor of St. Ignacio of Loyola, founder of the Jesuit religious order. Cross into France and stay overnight in Lourdes, home to another world-famous pilgrimage destination. Join the nightly Rosary and candlelight procession for a memorable spiritual experience.
Today's Distance: 298 mi / 480 km (breakfast/dinner)
JUNE 27: LOURDES
o Today, a local spiritual expert will introduce you to this important Marian Shrine. You will see all the main sites and hear the story of how the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Bernadette in 1858. The afternoon is at leisure to further explore this little market town. According to the schedule, attend Mass at the Sanctuary either early in the morning or in the evening. (breakfast)
JUNE 28: LOURDES–MANRESA–MONTSERRAT, SPAIN
o Head for the France/Spain border. Spend time in the town of Manresa, known for its Basilica of Saint Mary of Seo, but more importantly for Pont Vell, a bridge associated with the worship of St. Ignacio of Loyola. See the architectural compound of Santa Cova, the sanctuary home of St. Ignacio of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits, when he stayed in the city. Reach the beloved Marian shrine of Montserrat, located on top of a monumental massif, and spend the night next to the Monastery.
Today's Distance: 249 mi / 400 km (breakfast/dinner)
JUNE 29: MONTSERRAT–BARCELONA
o Visit the Sanctuary of Montserrat this morning, where the Benedictine monks dedicate their lives to prayer, and work. Life in the monastery follows a set rhythm in which work and prayer both play a part, according to Saint Benedict’s motto, "Ora et Labora." Spend time in prayer, admire the image of Our Lady of Montserrat, and attend Mass. Leave the idyllic scenery of Montserrat, and drive through the countryside dotted with celebrated vineyards, to reach Barcelona, the lively capital of Catalonia.
Today's Distance: 37 mi / 59 km (breakfast)
JUNE 30: BARCELONA
o Get to know the city on a guided sightseeing tour including a drive around Montjuïc to see the Olympic Stadium for a great panoramic view of the port and city. Continue to the city center’s Plaza Catalunya and Paseo de Gracia to admire Gaudi’s eccentric Houses Batlló and Milà, as well as his Sagrada Familia, an unfinished architectural masterpiece that is still a consecrated expression of the Catholic faith. Celebrate Mass, then, this evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant to celebrate faith, life, and friendship. (breakfast/dinner)
JULY 1: BARCELONA
o Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (breakfast)
Air inclusive price $5300.00/person based on double occupancy
Land only price $3600.00/person based on double occupancy
Limited single rooms available for a supplement of $750
Group Air Itinerary
6/19 AA2840 Chicago 2:45p Philadelphia 5:44p
6/19 AA0258 Philadelphia 9:20p
6/20 Lisbon 9:05a
7/1 AA0041 Barcelona 11:05a Chicago 1:45p
Deposit of $1000/person is required to hold your reservation
January 15 - please pay 1/2 of your package
$2150/person air inclusive
or $1300/person for land only
April 1 - the remaining balance of your package is due.
Pilgrimage is nonrefundable at the time of your final payment. Please secure travel insurance!
Transfers
Transfers Included with the purchase of the group air package or you may ride along if your flight times coincide with the group travel times.
Extra Nights or Air Deviations
Extra nights pre or post pilgrimage are available.
Singles rooms are limited, please inquire.
Contact Carefree Travel if your travel plans include a different flight itinerary.
Valid Passport
Your passport must remain valid for 6 months beyond your travel dates. Please provide a copy of your passport for our records.
ETIAS for 2025. More information about the “European visa” is coming soon.
Travel Insurance
Insurance is quoted on an individual basis. Please contact Jill for details.
Jill Loveless
Carefree Travel Inc
1421 Racine St Suite A
Delavan, WI 53115
262-728-8221
carefreetravel@elknet.net
The group must maintain a minimum of 25 travelers to continue. The group prefers not to exceed 30 travelers. If the group drops below 25 the tour company will charge a supplement to continue the private departure.
ACCOMMODATIONS
• Accommodations will be provided for Cosmos in superior tourist-class hotels, or best available tourist-class
• Hotels are subject to availability & subject to change. If for any reason we are unable to accommodate your group in the hotels considered in the quotation, we reserve the right to seek alternative accommodation. Alternative hotels are typically of equal or better quality than hotels listed on the quotation, as based on amenities and ratings guides, and may be located in alternate cities. No reduction will be given.
• Standard accommodations are twin-bedded rooms with private bath or shower, based on double occupancy.
• Single accommodations are on a request basis and generally limited to 10 percent of the passengers traveling.
TOUR DIRECTOR/LOCAL HOST
The services of a professional Tour Director (Globus/Cosmos) are provided in accordance with the terms of your itinerary.
MOTORCOACHES are air-conditioned nearly everywhere while touring. No use of the motorcoach other than as specified in the itinerary.
SIGHTSEEING as outlined in the itinerary with inside visits (including admission charge) in the tour description. Sightseeing with local guides where applicable. Sightseeing is subject to availability at the time of travel. If select sightseeing proves unavailable, an alternative will be discussed/arranged.
AIRPORT TRANSFERS on arrival and departure are included for your group. Group transfers require that all passengers are arriving and/or departing on the same flight. In the event passengers are on multiple flights at different times, additional supplements will be assessed.
Important Dates to Remember
Payment of a $1000.00/person deposit secures your place on the tour. The deposit is the same for anyone requiring the group air reservation.
Additional payments are required by January 15, 2025 and April 1, 2025. These deadlines are firm.
Cancellations and Penalties Land
This is a private tour. It is 100% nonrefundable at the time of your final payment. Please consider some type of travel insurance coverage.
Cancellations and Penalties for Group Air
The group must maintain a minimum of 10 travelers to hold the quoted price. This minimum must travel roundtrip together on the quoted flights. If an individual requires flexible travel please advise Carefree Travel at the time of booking. Air reservations are non-refundable and subject to the rules put forth by American Airlines.
Carefree Travel Inc works with a tour operator (Cosmos) to conduct your pilgrimage.
Please review US State Dept information for these destinations.
US State Department Portugal travel information