Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims from all over Europe who, since the 9th century, have been making their way to the tomb of Saint James in Santiago de Compostela. The trail takes us across the northern reaches of Spain’s Galicia region, through a spectacular wealth of natural and cultural treasures, finally arriving in Santiago de Compostela, where you can visit the magnificent Cathedral and allow yourselves a day to explore this most lovely of cities.
Suggested Itinerary
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Day 1:
Local bus to Sarria
On arrival in Santiago you will take a local bus from Santiago to the town of Sarria, changing bus in Lugo. On arrival and time permitting, there will be the opportunity for anyone interested to visit the delightful Benedictine monastery of Samos by taxi (just a short 12km drive away), one of the most important monasteries in Galicia.
Day 2:
Walk to Portomarin
Before leaving Sarria you will pick up your Credencial booklet, which will be used to gain ‘passport’ stamps at various points, and which you'll use to get your certificate at the end. From Sarria we continue on foot through Galicia, traversing a terrain of undulating hills in the most verdant of all Spain’s regions. Passing the hamlet of Brea we reach the famous 100km landmark, for so long a magical moment for weary pilgrims. It was here that they could regather their strength, knowing that it was now only another 3-4 days to go to Santiago. Nowadays this waypoint marks the start point for where you have to walk from continuously to Santiago in order to get the 'compostela' certificate. This afternoon we reach Portomarin, once a splendid medieval village, which was relocated by Franco to make way for a dammed lake. Remnants of the town’s more prosperous days can still be seen amongst its narrow streets, such as the delightful Romanesque San Pedro church. (Approx. 5 hours walking, 21km, 250m ascent, 360m descent).
Day 3:
Continue to Lestedo
Today you will start your walk on the Camino de Santiago by crossing part of the dammed lake on a disused railway bridge. The trail continues gradually uphill, passing the 80km mark at Castromaior village, before reaching the last high pass (702m) just before Ligonde. From here, you'll walk through undulating hills, which make way for eucalyptus trees and Cruceiros, the stone crosses so typical for Galicia, before descending gently to your night stop at Lestedo hamlet. (Approx. 5 hours walking, 20 km, 360m ascent, 130m descent).
Day 4:
En route to Melide
Today you will walk through idyllic rural Galicia, first passing through the important pilgrim town of Palais de Rei. The white-washed town hall overlooks the town square, a good place to stop for a break. Leaving the town behind, the route takes you through farmland and rural countryside. You will walk through an oak grove before crossing the provincial border and entering A Coruña. At the town of Fuerlos, you'll cross a medieval bridge with four arches before reaching your stop for the night at Melide. (Approx. 4 and a half hours walking, 19km, 150m ascent, 200m descent).
Day 5:
Walk to Aruza
Today you will pass many horreos, typical barns of the region that dot this beautiful countryside. You will start to see more signs of reaching Santiago and pass through many pilgrim villages. Finally crossin the River Iso before arriving in Aruza. Aruza is the junction where the Camino Frances (French Way) and Camino del Norte (North Way or Camino Primitivo) meet. (Approx. 3 and a half hours walking, 14km, 150m ascent, 100m descent).
Day 6:
Continue to Rua
Today you continue the approach to Santiago, passing many pilgrim sites including pilgrim Guillermo Watt’s memorial; he died here whilst on the pilgrimage and his shoes can be found in the stone wall. You may also want to stop at the Santa Irene chapel to see some interesting statues of St James before continuing your walk along a country road to the village of Rua. (Approx. 4 and a half hours walking, 18km, 120m ascent, 150m descent).
Day 7:
Final day to Santiago
Today you will complete your pilgrimage and arrive in Santiago de Compostela. You will pass through the village of Lavacolla, where pilgrims would wash and change into their best clothes for the final stretch of the walk. From here you will ascend the final hill before the city to Monte Gozo, this being the point where the pilgrims could finally see the cathedral and the end of their journey in the distance. You are now just 5kms/one hour from Santiago’s historic centre and the end of your pilgrimage, sharing the emotion of pilgrims from all over the world. (Approx. 6 hours walking, 23km, 180m ascent).
Day 8:
Free day in Santiago
Today has been left free to explore the historic and beautiful city of Santiago at your own pace. Visit the magnificent cathedral and appreciate in more depth the stunning architectural diversity of its Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles. Alternatively you may prefer to wander the city’s narrow streets and visit some of the architectural treasures that are dotted around the city. In the Convento de Santo Domingo de Bonaval you will find a folk museum dedicated to the region of Galicia, whilst the Monasterio de San Martiño Pinario and the Palacio de Gelmirez are just two of the other jewels to see. And, at the end of the day, what better way to relax than with a reviving drink on the Praza das Praterias and watch the world pass by. Alternatively, you could take a trip by bus to Cape Finisterre, the true land’s end for medieval pilgrims.
Fly home this evening, or maybe spend some extra time in this wonderful city - the choice is yours, and we can arrange it for you!
