Why More First-Time Walkers Are Choosing the Camino Inglés

For many people, the idea of walking the Camino de Santiago has been sitting quietly on their bucket list for years. They love the thought of slowing down, disconnecting from daily life and embarking on a meaningful personal journey. But once they begin researching the different Camino routes, the experience can quickly start to feel overwhelming.

With so many trails to choose from, the Camino Francés is by far the most iconic Camino route and, for many travellers, the one that first sparks their interest. Popularised by films such as The Way (2010), this historic trail stretches over 790km, starting in France and crossing northern Spain before arriving in Santiago de Compostela. For many people, it’s the classic Camino experience they picture when they first begin their research.

It’s also no secret that the popular Sarria to Santiago section of the Camino Francés has become one of the most common entry points for first-time walkers. Covering approximately 115km, it offers a manageable timeframe, a strong social atmosphere and the unforgettable experience of arriving into Santiago while still earning the Compostela certificate. For many travellers, it remains an excellent introduction to the Camino and can be tailored to suit different walking abilities and comfort levels.

However, as the Camino continues to grow in popularity, particularly leading into the upcoming 2027 Holy Year, I’ve noticed more travellers beginning to say:

“It sounds nice… but is it too touristy and crowded for the kind of experience I’m looking for?”

While the Camino Francés remains the gold standard for many pilgrims seeking that classic first Camino experience, another route is quietly gaining attention among travellers looking for a Camino that still captures the magic of the journey, but with:

• quieter trails
• fewer crowds
• a more relaxed pace
• authentic pilgrimage experience
• and something that feels achievable without needing five or six weeks away

That’s exactly why the Camino Inglés is quietly becoming one of the most appealing Camino routes for first-time walkers.

A Quieter Alternative to the Camino Francés

This shift is not just being driven by travellers themselves, but is also gaining wider attention across Galicia, Spain. As conversations within regional tourism bodies continue around sustainability and preserving the authenticity of the Camino experience ahead of the 2027 Holy Year, quieter Camino routes such as the Camino Inglés are increasingly being recognised as an important part of the Camino’s future.

Traditionally followed by pilgrims arriving by sea from England, Ireland and Northern Europe, the Camino Inglés (English Way) follows a shorter and far less crowded path through the beautiful Galician countryside. Starting in the historic port cities of Ferrol or A Coruña, the route covers approximately 120km or 75km respectively before arriving into Santiago de Compostela, making it one of the shortest Camino routes that still qualifies for the Compostela certificate.

But what makes the Camino Inglés so appealing isn’t just the distance.

It’s the feeling of the route itself.

Unlike some of the more popular Camino trails, the Camino Inglés often feels calmer, more personal and far less intimidating for first-time pilgrims. The walking days are manageable, the atmosphere is relaxed and while you’ll still meet fellow walkers along the way, it rarely feels overcrowded or rushed.

For many travellers, the Camino Inglés offers the perfect middle ground: social enough to feel connected, but quiet enough to still feel deeply personal. For travellers deciding between a self-guided journey or a more social walking experience, our Insight article on walking the Camino alone vs in a group explores the benefits of both styles of travel.

Why the Camino Inglés Appeals to First-Time Walkers

One of the biggest reasons travellers choose the Camino Inglés as their first Camino is that it feels achievable.

Not everyone has the ability to take five or six weeks away from work, family or daily responsibilities to walk a full Camino route. For many first-time pilgrims, committing to a shorter journey can feel significantly less intimidating while still offering the emotional reward and sense of accomplishment the Camino is known for.

The Camino Inglés also offers simpler logistics compared to some longer Camino routes. With a shorter timeframe, fewer transfers and straightforward access through Galicia, it can feel far more approachable for travellers planning their first Camino experience.

Importantly, despite being shorter, the Camino Inglés still delivers the moments many travellers dream about when imagining their first Camino: peaceful walking days, meaningful conversations with fellow pilgrims, beautiful countryside, local Galician culture and the unforgettable arrival into Santiago de Compostela.

Tailored Camino Inglés Walking Tours with RAW Travel

At RAW Travel, we currently offer three different Camino Inglés itineraries designed to suit a range of walking styles, timeframes and comfort levels. Each itinerary can also be tailored further, allowing travellers to choose an experience that best matches their walking ability, preferred pace and overall travel style.

Whether you’re looking for shorter walking days, additional rest time, upgraded accommodation or simply extra support planning your first Camino, our experts can help create an experience that feels achievable, comfortable and rewarding from start to finish.

Is the Camino Inglés the Right Camino for You?

For travellers looking for a quieter, more approachable and deeply rewarding first Camino experience, the Camino Inglés is becoming an increasingly attractive alternative to some of the busier Camino routes.

It offers many of the things travellers imagine when dreaming about walking the Camino de Santiago: connection, simplicity, reflection, beautiful scenery and a genuine sense of achievement, all within a timeframe that feels realistic for modern travellers.

Whether you’re planning your very first Camino or simply searching for a quieter and more personal route into Santiago, the Camino Inglés offers a rewarding introduction to the Camino de Santiago experience.

Not sure where to begin? Whether it’s the Camino Inglés or another trail, our Camino experts are here to help, and getting in touch is the first step towards your own Camino journey.