Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago

 The Camino de Santiago is the name given to the various Pilgrimage routes that have been followed for centuries by pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela to visit the shrine of the apostle St James the Great. The official history indicates that the body of Saint James the Apostle was discovered by a shepherd named Pelayo in a field in Galicia during the 9th Century, at the time of the reign of King Alfonso II. Saint James had died, beheaded by King Herod Agrippa, some 800 years earlier and, according to legend, had been taken by two disciples by boat to Galicia (to the town of Iria Flavia, today known as Padron). His body lay in a field close by, to be discovered centuries later.

King Alfonso II, on learning of this important discovery, had a small chapel built to mark this holy place, before subsequently commissioning a larger one to also compete with other religious centres of pilgrimage such as Rome and Jerusalem and to attract pilgrims from all over the World. The relics of Saint James transformed Santiago de Compostela into one of the world’s most important pilgrimage destinations. King Alfonso II, King of Asturias, is himself regarded as one of the first pilgrim´s as he travelled from Oviedo to Santiago to verify the findings, starting what is now known as the Primitive Way, the route which is believed to be the oldest route. The construction of the Romanesque cathedral began in 1078 and started what was the beginning of a golden age for pilgrimage to Santiago.

The Camino Frances (French Camino) was established later, when the Kings Sancho the Great and Alfonso VI (shortly after recovering their lands from Moorish influence) facilitated the way, with infrastructure developments such as bridges for pilgrims to pass through their territories of Navarra and Leon, and also encouraging population settlements along the routes to provide services.

By the time Aymerica Picaud wrote Codex Calixtinus (the first medieval guidebook for the Camino) in the 12th Century, thousands were travelling to Santiago each year, primarily along the French Route. The numbers travelling grew throughout the 12th and 13th Centuries, moved by faith and/or other reasons, which might have included paying a penance or doing so on behalf of others. Pope Calixtus II had declared Holy Years as those when July 25th (the Feast of St James) falls on a Sunday, which still of course applies today (2021 is the next Holy Year). Many travelled to follow the promise of salvation.

Interest declined from the 14th Century onwards, due to both political and economic factors. Religious wars and the Reformation, Spain´s battles to recover its southern territories, the plague and economic woes… all of these contrived to cause dwindling numbers.

Interest, and participation, has grown markedly since the early 1990´s again, due in part to the work of enthusiasts, governmental bodies, the Church and furthermore a result of Pope John Paul 11 visits in the 1980´s. In 1993, the year the French Camino was declared UNESCO World heritage (other routes subsequently gained the same recognition in 2015 due to “the need to explain the origins of the Jacobean phenomenon”) 100,000 people reached Santiago de Compostela via a Camino.

The numbers have been increasing year on year, with over 320,000 (from over 200 countries) collecting their Compostela in 2018. Today, the Camino is taken by as many for non-religious reasons as it is by those for religious reasons. Whatever one´s motivation may be, The Camino will not disappoint and the experience and enjoyment that is to be gained from the Camino will live long in the memory.

It is also noteworthy that there is a pre-history of the Camino as it appears that the Way might have attracted many, even before the 8th Century, as the route that followed the Milky Way all the way to Fisterra (Finia Terrae). Finisterre was believed to be the end of the world in times long gone and remains a magical destination for many.

Today there are numerous routes to Santiago, you could however say that the only genuine one is one that starts from your own front door, as it was for the original pilgrims who didn´t have transport to get them to what are today the usual starting points for the most commonly chosen routes to follow.

Established Camino Routes are variations to what are known principally as The French Way, The Portuguese Way, The English Way, The Northern Way and The Primitive Way.

Today, due to time restrictions amongst other factors, many decide just to walk roughly the last 100 KM´s which are normally covered in 6 or 7 days, as this is the minimum distance one must travel on any one of the Jacobean Routes by foot (or 200KM´s if cycling) to obtain the “Compostela” certificate upon completion of your Camino in Santiago de Compostela.

We look forward to welcoming you on the Camino!

SOME FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS…

If I don´t pre-book accommodation, will I still find somewhere to sleep? Years ago, this was relatively easy, not so today, the Camino has increased in popularity and today in most months it is highly risky and difficult. Only Santiago itself has what one would consider good hotel options, most other places on the stages are small premises such as pensions or hostels or holiday farms, and many have only up to 8 rooms. Wasting time, with no guarantee of finding something appropriate, each day after having walked for hours is not a recommendable or indeed an enjoyable way to experience the Camino.

Do I need to be very fit…?’ Obviously completing the Camino has its challenges however no, one does not need to be very fit as it is within most people´s capabilities, you will find children as young as 8 to people over 75 successfully completing the Camino<. Being somewhat prepared would be beneficial however a slow pace takes you a long way walking…

‘And if I start to walk and feel unwell or unable to keep walking……?’ Along the way you will always encounter a bar, shop or other place where you can call a local taxi who will arrive quickly and for a small fee (less than €10 normally) take you to your next destination.

‘How do I follow the Camino or if I get lost…?’ Wherever you go you will find a yellow arrow or shell symbol indicating the way. Aside from that, it is virtually impossible to get lost as you will be constantly meeting other people along the way.

‘What should I expect from my lodgings’ We categorise the lodgings two ways, “Basic” or “Charming”. Until Santiago itself, Basic category accommodation generally consists of small 1* or 2* simplistic, but acceptable, pension or hotel / hostel type accommodation, but always in double rooms with private bathrooms and continental breakfasts included. Charming category lodgings are generally pretty farmhouses or old renovated country houses that are very welcoming and comfortable. Breakfasts there will include a wider range, ensuring you get your required energy intake each morning! Charming accommodations can be slightly outside of the villages or towns where the stage ends.

In Santiago itself, included in both categories we will book you in good 4+ hotels always, a prize for your efforts!

Special Note: Sometimes the accommodations provided are a short distance from the stage finishing point. A call to the hotel will suffice and in a few minutes a car will collect you, an even return you in the morning to the same place so you can continue on your way.

‘I have no religious motivation; I am not a pilgrim….’ You will be like many on the Camino in that case, each has their own motivation and the natural beauty, historic places and comradery of meeting and walking with others are aspects that make this a satisfying and magical experience regardless of one´s initial motivations.

Important:

On arrival you will be given your Credential, which is a 14-page document 16×19 centimetres in size. This passport, as it is often referred to, is important as you must get it stamped along the way, at least twice a day on the Galician stretch of the Camino if walking. The stamps are collected from hostels, bars, shops and other locations that one passes on the route. Once you get to Santiago, you must take the Completed Credential with you to the Pilgrim´s office and following inspection to prove you have completed a minimum of the last 100 KM’s you will then receive your Compostela certificate.

The Compostela is a curious certificate written in Latin that will act as a souvenir of your journey and a memory of the overall experience. Note: If you turn up at the Pilgrim´s office after noon or 1pm you may not be able to get your certificate the same day so you should allow time (either arriving very early) or leaving later the following day to be able to get your certificate. It must be collected in person, and it is not an option to make appointments for the following day.

Before you go, learn the magic phrase that you will hear throughout your journey…  Buen Camino!!!

French Camino Routes

From Sarria to Santiago (114.2 km, 6 nights)

Day 1   Santiago Airport → Sarria

On arrival at Santiago Airport, you will be met and transferred to your accommodation in Sarria, during which you will receive your Camino Credential. Overnight.

Day 2   Sarria – Portomarin     (22.2 km)

Breakfast. Your first stage takes you from Sarria to Portomarin, a delightful town on the River Miño. Journey through beautiful towns and quiet villages walking country roads under the shade provided by oak trees. You will see many traditional Galician granaries along your way, we recommend you take a visit to the Romanesque Church of Santiago in the town of Barbadelo, which is a declared a National Historic Monument. Another location you will pass is Mercado de Serra, a village known as where the Jews came to negotiate and supply goods to pilgrims’ centuries before. You will also see the beautiful village of Ferreiros and then Vilachá and the ruins of the Loio Monastery which was the birthplace of the Knights of the Order of Santiago. Finally, you will reach Portomarín where you will stay this evening. Overnight.

Day 3   Portomarín – Palas de Rei       (24.8 km)

Breakfast. Today´s route will take you across the river Miño (Galicia´s longest river) and ascends gently to Hospital da Cruz and then takes you through the pine groves and meadows of the Sierra de Ligonde. You will pass beautiful hamlets such as Gonzar and Ventas de Narón whilst we recommend a visit to the Chapel of San Marco in Lameiros to admire the transept. The Romanesque Churches of Santa María de Castromaior and the Church of Eirexe are usual stopping points before we eventually reach Palas de Rei, today´s destination. Overnight.

Day 4   Palas de Rei – Arzua   (28.5 km)

Breakfast. Today you will head to the bustling town of Arzúa. The route will take you from Palas de Rei to Casanova and the wonderful village of Leboreiro. A break in the lively town of Melide, where it is said the best Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician Octopus) is prepared. Here, the French route connects with the Northern Route from Oviedo, The Camino today crosses several streams and villages before you reach Boente (and its Church of Santiago) and then the medieval Ribadiso before you finally reach Arzúa, which is famous for its local cheese and the churches of Santa Maria and A Magdalena. Overnight.

Day 5   Arzua – A Rua/Pedrouzo         (19.3 km)

Breakfast Today´s section of the Camino will take you through beautiful forests, quiet villages and lovely streams You will have the opportunity to visit the Chapel of St Irene and its famous statue of Santiago. Overnight.

Day 6   A Rua/Pedrouzo – Santiago de Compostela    (19.4 km)

Breakfast. Today you will complete your quest and reach Santiago de Compostela. Your route today will take you via Burgo, Arca, San Antón, Amenal and San Paio before you reach Lavacolla, where pilgrims used to wash and change before entering the city of Santiago. Rows of tall eucalyptus trees line your journey to Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy) which is the first point from where the Santiago Cathedral bell tower can be seen. You will then enter the City via the Porta de Camino and marvel on your arrival into Santiago and the amazing spectacle that awaits, the Obradoiro square and the Cathedral, the final resting place of the Apostle St James. Ideally, you will have made it to Santiago in time to attend the Pilgrim´s mass at 12pm after which you will likely want to follow one of the main traditions and give a hug to the Saint. Overnight.

Day 7   Santiago de Compostela

Breakfast. Your journey will terminate today unless you choose to stay an extra day to relax and enjoy the beautiful and enchanting, small and vibrant, city of Santiago de Compostela. Should you be leaving today… have a safe trip home!

From Astorga to Sarria (143.2 km, 7 nights)

If you have already completed the most frequented part of the Camino from Sarria to Santiago and wish to experience a different route, then the previous 145kms of the French Route is ideal. Many find this the most interesting route, owing to the scenery, captivating countryside and natural beauty.

Day 1   Astorga

Make your own way to the historic city of Astorga, where the French and Ruta de la Plata (Silver Route) merge. A visit to the splendid Gothic cathedral that presides over the city or a trip to admire the Episcopal Palace (one of Gaudi´s few works outside of Catalonia) are two options to spend part of your day here as you prepare for your adventure ahead. Overnight.

Day 2   Astorga – Foncebadon            (25.8 km)

Breakfast. Your route today takes you towards the stunning León mountains. Not long after starting, you will pass near Castrillo de Polvazares which is architecturally impressive, so we suggest a stop. You will pass EL Ganso and then a few miles further on you will encounter the remains of an old roman exploitation before you reach Rabanal del Camino, where the building at the entrance was an Albergo in medieval times. Your destination tonight is Foncebadón, an enclave of great importance in the middle ages. Overnight.

Day 3   Foncebadon – Ponferrada       (26.8 km)

Breakfast. Today´s stage is one of the most rewarding on the Camino as it climbs Mount Irago. A stop at the Iron Cross is obligatory, one of the most special places on the French Way. It is traditional to deposit a stone that you have brought from your place of origin here. You will then descend to the lush area of El Bierzo passing places such as Manjarin and El Acebo before reaching the lovely town of Molinaseca, where you will see the homes of towers of old Nobles. You will then reach Ponferrada, that takes its name from the iron bridge that was commissioned by the bishop for pilgrim´s to be able to pass, where you should explore the old town and its impressive 12th Century Templars Castle. Overnight.

Day 4   Ponferrada – Villafranca del Bierzo     (24.2 km)

Breakfast. After your night in Ponferrada, the Camino takes you across the heart of the lush El Bierzo region. Your route will take you via Columbrianos (and its preserved Roman road), Camponayara and Cacabelos, which was an important town in the Middle Ages, before you arrive at Villafranca del Bierzo (known as Little Compostela), a town founded in the 11th Century. A visit to the Church of Santa Maria is recommended, as is the garden of St James Church, and its “Forgiveness gate” which only opens in Holy years. Overnight.

Day 5   Villafranca del Bierzo – O’Cebreiro     (27.8 km)

Breakfast. Today´s journey will start by traversing Pereje, a medieval-looking municipality, before entering Trabadelo. Then continue to Vega de Valcarcel and on toward O´Cebreiroto arrive in Galician lands. Today´s stage has a fair ascent over a few kilometres, but the views on offer are truly spectacular. Some Celtic houses still remain in O´Cebreiro, whilst there is also an old Hospital for Pilgrims that was also a refuge from the weather and wolves in times long gone. Overnight.

Day 6   O’Cebreiro – Triacastela         (20.8 km)

Breakfast. Today, walk the Ranadoiro mountains passing Padornelo, where the order of San Juan of Jerusalem was founded before ascending briefly again to reach Alto do Poio. Here you will find the Pilgrim’s statue and have wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. From there, descend to the village of Triacastela. Overnight.

Day 7   Triacastela – San Xil – Sarria  (17.8 km)

Breakfast. To reach Sarria, there are two Camino routes. We suggest the “San Xil” Camino which offers stunning scenery and takes you along many narrow forest tracks with paved pathways through beautiful Galican Oak woods. Overnight.

Day 8   Sarria → Santiago de Compostela

Breakfast. Your journey will terminate today, with a transfer to either Santiago de Compostela to explore the city itself, or to the airport for your onward journey home. Should your trip with us finish today, we hope it has exceeded your expectations. Have a safe trip home!

From O’Cebreiro to Santiago (152,8 km, 8 nights)

Day 1   Santiago Airport – O’Cebreiro

On arrival at Santiago Airport, transfer to O´Cebreiro, to start your Camino adventure. You will be given your Credential during the transfer to O’Cebreiro, which is the actual starting point within Galicia on the French Route. Overnight.

Day 2   O’Cebreiro – Triacastela         (20.8 km)

Breakfast. Today, walk the Ranadoiro mountains passing Padornelo, where the order of San Juan of Jerusalem was founded before ascending briefly again to reach Alto do Poio. Here you will find the Pilgrim’s statue and have wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. From there, descend to the village of Triacastela. Overnight.

Day 3   Triacastela – San Xil – Sarria  (17.8 km)

Breakfast. To reach Sarria, there are two Camino routes. We suggest the “San Xil” Camino which offers stunning scenery and takes you along many narrow forest tracks with paved pathways through beautiful Galican Oak woods. Overnight.

Day 4   Sarria – Portomarin     (22.2 km)

Breakfast. Your destination today is Portomarín, a delightful town on the River Miño. Today´s route will take you through beautiful towns and quiet villages walking country roads under the shade provided by oak trees. You will see many traditional Galician granaries along your way. We recommend you take time to visit to the Romanesque Church of Santiago in the town of Barbadelo, which is a declared National Historic Monument. Another location you will pass is Mercado de Serra, a village known as to where the Jews came to negotiate and supply goods to pilgrims’ centuries before. You will also see the beautiful village of Ferreiros and Vilachá and the ruins of the Loio Monastery, which was the birthplace of the Knights of the Order of Santiago, before you finally reach Portomarín. Overnight.

Day 5   Portomarín – Palas de Rei       (24.8 km)

Breakfast. Today´s route will across the river Miño (Galicia´s longest river) and ascends gently to Hospital da Cruz and then through the pine groves and meadows of the Sierra de Ligonde. You will pass beautiful hamlets such as Gonzar and Ventas de Narón. We recommend you visit the Chapel of San Marco in Lameiros to admire the transept. The Romanesque Churches of Santa María de Castromaior and Eirexe are usual stopping points before you reach Palas de Rei. Overnight.

Day 6   Palas de Rei – Arzua   (28.5 km)

Breakfast. Today you will head to the bustling town of Arzúa. The route will take you from Palas de Rei to Casanova and the wonderful village of Leboreiro. A break in the lively town of Melide, where it is said the best Pulpo a la Gallega (Galician Octopus) is prepared. Here, the French route connects with the Northern Route from Oviedo, The Camino today crosses several streams and villages before you reach Boente (and its Church of Santiago) and then the medieval Ribadiso before you finally reach Arzúa, which is famous for its local cheese and the churches of Santa Maria and A Magdalena. Overnight.

Day 7   Arzua – A Rua/Pedrouzo         (19.3 km)

Breakfast. Today´s section of the Camino will take you through beautiful forests, quiet villages and lovely streams. You will have the opportunity to visit the Chapel of St Irene and its famous statue of Santiago. Overnight.

Day 8   A Rua/Pedrouzo – Santiago de Compostela    (19.4 km)

Breakfast. Today you will complete your quest and reach Santiago de Compostela. Your route today will take you via Burgo, Arca, San Antón, Amenal and San Paio before you reach Lavacolla, where pilgrims used to wash and change before entering the city of Santiago. Rows of tall eucalyptus trees line your journey to Monte do Gozo (Mount of Joy) which is the first point from where the Santiago Cathedral bell tower can be seen. You will then enter the City via the Porta de Camino and marvel on your arrival into Santiago and the amazing spectacle that awaits, the Obradoiro square and the Cathedral, the final resting place of the Apostle St James. Ideally, you will have made it to Santiago in time to attend the Pilgrim´s mass at 12pm after which you will likely want to follow one of the main traditions and give a hug to the Saint. Overnight.

Day 9   Santiago de Compostela

Breakfast Your journey will terminate today unless you choose to stay an extra day to relax and to enjoy the beautiful and enchanting, small and vibrant, city of Santiago de Compostela. Should you be leaving today. Have a safe trip home!

From Tui to Santiago (115,2 km, 6 nights)

The Portuguese Camino Routes are the second most well-known, as understandably many Pilgrims, Royalty and Nobles among them came from Portugal. Today, this route is the 2nd most famous route after the Sarria to Santiago French Route, it is also much less busy.

Day 1   Santiago Airport → Tui

On arrival at Santiago Airport, you will be transferred to Tui and be handed your Credential. Tui is beautiful, on the border with Portugal, with many charms to discover, such as the remains of its fortress-cathedral. Overnight.

Day 2   Tui – Redondela (*)      (31.6 km)

Breakfast. On leaving Tui the route, takes you in the direction of O Porriño via the old town of Tui and then through the Tunel das Monxas where you will, after a sharp climb, reach the San Telmo bridge. The terrain gets easier and you then head to O’Porriño and on to Redondela, which is at the end of the estuary of Vigo. Overnight.

Day 3   Redondela – Pontevedra         (19.6 km)

Breakfast. Leaving Redondela you will see some outstanding views of the Ria de Vigo as you head towards Pontevedra, the first major city on the Portuguese route. You will go over the Verdugo River on Ponte Sampaio, where Napoleon suffered his greatest defeat in Galicia, and then on to Pontevedra where, amongst other places you will wish to visit Ferrería Square and the Sanctuary of the Virgin Pilgrim, the patron saint and symbol of the city. Overnight.

Day 4   Pontevedra – Caldas de Reis  (21.1 km)

Breakfast. The route to Caldas de Reis will take you through pine and eucalyptus tree forests to Ponte Cabras and then Lombo Da Maceira before crossing through Tivo, famed for its lovely fountain and public washing area. You will then reach Caldas de Reis, known, since Roman times, for its hot springs. Overnight.

Day 5   Caldas de Reis – Padrón         (18.6 km)

Breakfast. On leaving Caldas de Reis you will cross the Umia River and the hot springs that gave the town its name. The trail takes you through forests and then gradually climbs to the village of Santa Mariña. Thereafter there is a descent to then cross the Fontenio River before reaching todays destination, Padrón. Believed to be the arrival point of the body of Saint James when it was brought by ship to Santiago, Padrón today is also known for its special peppers. Overnight.

Day 6   Padrón – Santiago de Compostela      (24.3 km)

Breakfast. The special day has arrived. The final leg of the journey to Santiago will pass through several small towns until you reach the historical sanctuary of A Esclavitud, from where one can see the imposing Castro Lupario Fortress. Continuing, you will see the Santiago Cathedral Towers from Agros dos Monteiros and then pass by the ruins of the Castle of A Roche Vella as you approach Santiago. Ideally, you will reach Santiago in time to be able to participate in the Pilgrim´s Mass (if you wish) which is held daily at 12pm and then follow the tradition and hug the Saint in the Cathedral. All before enjoying the delights of Santiago in the afternoon. Overnight.

Day 7    Santiago de Compostela

Breakfast. Your journey will terminate today, unless you choose to stay an extra day to relax and to enjoy the beautiful and enchanting, small and vibrant, city of Santiago de Compostela. Should you be leaving today… have a safe trip home!

(*)Special Notes regarding Day and Stage 2 – Tui to Redondela

– This stage is slightly longer that what would be usual, however it is possible to complete with it being the first stage and as you will have extra energy with it being at the beginning. We have also planned it this way as accommodation is invariably harder to find, but not impossible, in other locations. If a customer wishes, an extra day can be planned (with a supplementary cost) to split this section in two and make it easier.

– Please also note that there is an alternative route signposted to avoid the industrial estate on the outskirts of O´Porriño.

From A Guarda to Santiago (157,4 km, 7 nights)

‘’The Coastal Route’’

Day 1   Santiago Airport – A Guarda

On arrival at Santiago Airport, you will be transferred to A Guarda, (150 KM´s with a travel time of approx. 1 Hr 45 mins). You will also be given your Credential. Overnight.

Day 2   A Guarda – Baiona      (30.7 km)

Breakfast. This first stage from A Guarda offers an amazing landscape of great beauty as you commence heading North with the Atlantic to your left. It is also a stage with many interesting historic sites such as the Fort of Santa Tecla and the Monastery of Oia. As you leave the village of Oia and follow the cliffs you reach the lighthouse of Cabo Silleiro before you head towards the mountains of Baredo and then to Baiona – which was the first port in Europe to receive the news of the Discovery of the Americas in 1492. In Baiona, you should not miss seeing its boardwalk and pretty old town area. Overnight.

Day 3   Baiona – Vigo  (27.1 km)

Breakfast. Today´s destination is Vigo, the most populated and industrialised city in Galicia. You will follow the coastline all the way to Vigo passing the beautiful fountain of O Pombal before reaching Sabaris and then crossing two Romanesque bridges as you reach and pass Ramallosa, which is also where the marshland of the Foz del Rio begins – an area of great ecological value. You will pass the lovely town of Nigran and continue until Vigo, all the while accompanied by the great view to your left of the Cies Islands. Overnight.

Day 4   Vigo – Pontevedra       (35.6 km)

Breakfast. After some leisure time in Vigo, you will continue your Camino leaving the city through the Ties district. You will then pass several locations such as Paradela, Parada and Trasmañó before arriving at Redondela. Here you will meet those that are walking the interior Portuguese way and from here, everyone will share the same path to Santiago. Leaving Redondela you will ascend to Cesantes, and then descend to Arcade. Before reaching Pontevedra for your overnight stay, you will cross the historic Ponte Sampaio over the Verdugo river. Overnight.

Day 5   Pontevedra – Caldas de Reis  (21.1 km)

Breakfast. The route to Caldas de Reis will take you through pine and eucalyptus tree forests to Ponte Cabras and then Lombo Da Maceira before crossing through Tivo, which is famed for its lovely fountain and public washing area. You will then reach Caldas de Reis, known, since Roman times, for its hot springs. Overnight.

Day 6   Caldas de Reis – Padrón         (18.6 km)

Breakfast On leaving Caldas de Reis you will cross the Umia River and the hot springs that gave the town its name. The trail takes you through forests and then gradually climbs to the village of Santa Mariña. Thereafter there is a descent to then cross the Fontenio River before reaching today´s destination, Padrón. Believed to be the arrival point of the body of Saint James when it was brought by ship to Santiago, Padrón today is also known for its special peppers. Overnight.

Day 7   Padrón – Santiago de Compostela      (24.3 km)

Breakfast. The special day has arrived. The final leg of the journey to Santiago will pass through several small towns until you reach the historical sanctuary of a Esclavitud, from where one can see the imposing Castro Lupario Fortress. Continuing, you will see the Santiago Cathedral Towers from Agros dos Monteiros and then pass by the ruins of the Castle of A Roche Vella as you approach Santiago. Ideally, you will reach Santiago in time to be able to participate in the Pilgrim´s Mass (if you wish) which is held daily at 12pm and then follow the tradition and hug the Saint in the Cathedral. All before enjoying the delights of Santiago in the afternoon Overnight.

Day 8   Santiago de Compostela

Breakfast. Your journey will terminate today unless you choose to stay an extra day to relax and to enjoy the beautiful and enchanting, small and vibrant, city of Santiago de Compostela. Should you be leaving today… have a safe trip home!

Finisterre Extension

The Camino towards the edge of the World

From Santiago to Fisterra (89,6 km, 5 nights)

Day 1   Santiago de Compostela

Arrive in Santiago de Compostela make your way to your accommodation. Overnight.

Day 2   Santiago de Compostela – Negreira    (20.6 km)

Breakfast. The first stage covers 21km´s and starts from the Plaza de Obradoiro main square, from where you start to follow the yellow arrows that will guide you on your way. Your start takes you behind the Cathedral to your right to follow Rua de Hortas and then Rua do Cruceiro de Gaia. The stage today alternates between inhabited areas and countryside, taking you through small towns and over Roman Bridges. When you reach Negreira, we recommend you take a little time to visit Pazo de Cotón, the country house of the Cotón family and the chapel next door. Overnight.

Day 3   Negreira – Olveiroa     (33.6 km)

Breakfast. Today’s stage takes you via Vilaserío and then, on a nicer stretch, to Santa Marina before you ascend Mount Aro. You will enjoy the great views of the region, the Xallas River and the coast before descending to Ponte Olveira and then, without entering Dumbría, turning left to head to Olveiroa. Overnight.

Day 4   Olveiroa – Corcubión  (21.4 km)

Breakfast. Leaving Olveiroa your path will take you to the village of Hospital, this is a pretty path owing to the splendid views. You will then follow the way to Fisterra which will take you between pines and eucalyptus trees to Cruceiro of Marco do Couto. You will then reach today´s destination, Corcubión, a modest but captivating town whose name is believed to originate from an ancient Celt language that means “circle or end of the lake”. The town is a declared national Historic-Artisitic Heritage site, since 1984. Overnight.

Day 5   Corcubión – Finisterre – Cabo de Finisterre   (14 km)

Breakfast. Your final stage is a beautiful trail that borders the cliffs and coves along the coast. Today´s journey starts with an uphill trek towards San Roque before going down to Amarela and Estorde. Later, leaving Sardineiro you will have great panoramic views of the Langosteira beach, before your reach Fisterra via the San Roque district. This is not however your destination, the destination is the lighthouse of Capo Finisterre, where the stone marked with Km 0 welcomes you. Watching the sun disappear beneath the ocean is a wonderful spectacle that rewards you from the journey you have undertaken. Overnight.

Day 6   Finisterre – Santiago de Compostela

Breakfast. Transfer to Santiago airport for your onward journey. Have a safe trip home!

Camino Tips

Here we detail a few general tips when planning and then undertaking a Camino trip along with a recommended luggage list.

Top Tips

1. Choose the right route – there are many Camino Routes, of which we feature 6 above. Assuming the clients are doing a part of the Camino for the first time, they should do some independent research to help understand what to expect. In planning the preferred route, special attention should be paid to the distances involved in the stages and if so preferred, to take additional time. It is not a race; it is an experience to savour and to be enjoyed to the maximum.
2. Choose the right time to travel – It can get pretty hot during the summer months so if you are doing the Camino in the peak summer (the end of June to early August) you should be prepared to walk early in the mornings to avoid the hottest part of the day (which is normally from 2 – 8).
3. Walk at your own pace – Don´t worry about keeping pace with others, go at your own pace and enjoy the wonderful scenery and experience of being on the Camino. If you are not a regular walker, you may wish to get some practice walking in over the month or two before you travel – to build some stamina. That being said, the Camino is an achievable goal for the vast majority without undue hardship.
4. Bring the right gear, it is important to bring the right things with you (see below for more recommendations), and if you do plan on carrying your backpack, which is unnecessary as we of course include luggage transfers automatically in our rates), make sure you pack light and bring the minimum, your back and feet will appreciate it!
5. Enjoy the local food – each Camino Route region has its own regional or very local specialities. Take advantage to try many of these as you go.
6. Get into the spirit. You will encounter many fellow travellers and of course interact with the locals too. Embrace the experience and greet your fellow travellers with the all-important greeting…. Buen Camino!

Recommended Luggage List

Here we list the essentials to take, working on the assumption that you will not be carrying your luggage (as if you are then you must pack as lightly as possible), alongside some other items we would suggest are optional.

Essential

1. Footwear – the most important. It is essential to wear appropriate footwear. Walking boots are best as they provide the best ankle support and grip. Any footwear you plan to use should be well broken in and have been used for a couple of months before. Brand new shoes or inappropriate footwear will lead to problems!
2. Trousers & Tops – mid-mountain trousers, again best they have been pre-used to ensure practical and comfortable are advisable in the less warm months. The trousers should either be waterproof or bring separate waterproofs in case the rain appears. A windproof / waterproof lightweight jacket is also advisable. A lightweight comfortable sweatshirt or jumper is useful on cooler days,
3. Shorts – you will definitely want to walk in shorts during the main summer months, you may even wish to use shorts to take a dip in one of the many rivers (or bring swimming attire) you will pass on extremely warm days.
4. Walking socks, suitable for warm weather ideally.
5. Flip-flops – essential for after completing your stage each day to rest your feet.
6. A Hat, sunglasses and sun-cream.
7. Vaseline – many apply a small amount to their feet each morning before beginning the stage to help avoid or minimise blisters.
8. A penknife

Non-essential

9. Ear Plugs – depending on where and how you sleep, you may wish to have earplugs.
10. Hiking Poles or staffs.
11. First-aid kit – plasters, insect repellent, wipes, blister kit, tape, aspirins etc.
12. High energy food snacks – such as energy bars or dried fruits.
13. A torch.
14. A special towel – a lightweight fast drying towel (readily available in most sports shops).
15. Something reflective – if you are thinking of potentially walking very early or very late when there may be little natural light.
16. Binoculars – to get a better and closer look at some of many sites on the way, should you wish.