The Full Camino: Walk and Cycle

Arrive into this delightful mountain town at the foothills of the Pyrenees after your journey from Pamplona or from Bayonne. The old town of St Jean Pied de Port winds down the hill with narrow cobbled streets that are a delight to explore.

Take in the views from the Citadelle which looks across the wooded valleys as you meet pilgrims from all over the world ready to embark on their Camino. St Jean was built in an important position that guarded the passes through the Pyrenees and the armies of Charlemagne and Napoleon passed this way. It has become the traditional starting point for pilgrims walking the French Way and you will see many people arriving and preparing for the challenging Pyrenees crossing. Decide if you will take the Napoleon route (very scenic but more difficult) or the Valcarlos route (for bad weather).

Before you embark on your Camino journey make sure you buy any last-minute supplies, pack your lunch and warm gear and waterproof jacket and light a candle at the church for good luck.

Set off in the predawn darkness through the old streets and under the statue of St. James, follow in the footsteps of millions of others who have preceded you over the centuries. The streets are full of pilgrims walking towards the hills, it is a magical feeling as you cross the old bridge and head out of town.

Today will be the first time you follow the famous yellow arrows which mark the 790 km journey all the way to Santiago; you will get very practiced at looking out for the markings and for other pilgrims along the route. The first section today is steep as you follow country lanes and farmland up out of the Valley of St. Jean. Make sure you take time to enjoy the views of the beautiful countryside.

As you climb higher you will pass the Albergue at Orisson, which is great for a food/drink stop and then head into open country above the tree line, where sheep, cattle and ponies graze. Look out for the statue of the Virgin of Orisson and the van which sells hot drinks and snacks to weary pilgrims. The inconspicuous border crossing from France to Spain lies within a patch of forest marked by an old stone sign stating the distance to Santiago and a small drinking fountain. Continue onwards to the highest point at the Col de Lepoeder (1450m) and take some time to enjoy the extensive views over the Pyrenees.

After this, you start your descent through woodlands to the monastery at Roncesvalles which beckons enticingly between the trees on your downhill climb. Arrive at Roncesvalles and enjoy a well-earned drink at the Posada before checking into your accommodation. Roncesvalles or ‘the valley of thorns’ is a beautiful spot still cloaked in a medieval atmosphere.

Make sure you visit the beautiful 12th-century church, cloisters and museum before dinner, where you will share tales with fellow pilgrims from every corner of the world, all relieved to have finished today’s section and some would say the hardest day of all the Camino!

Today’s walk is mostly undulating downhill as you head down through valleys and enjoy delightful woodland walking. Meander on country paths, following the river Arga and climb two small hills with plenty of shade and drinking fountains en route. It is very pleasant largely shaded walking and not as strenuous as the day before.

Towards the end of the day, you will descend into the town of Zubiri and possibly your overnight accommodation or onwards to Akerreta another few kilometres away depending on your itinerary. Today is a long walk but well worth it once you reach your hotel in Akerreta which is a beautiful converted country house that featured in the movie ‘The Way’.

Enjoy the lounge and library or relax with a drink before your meal which is prepared from produce grown in the gardens of the hotel, you will never taste anything fresher!

Depending on your starting point, today’s walk leads you out of the peaceful countryside and toward the famous city of Pamplona. Along the way, you’ll cross several beautiful old bridges, and as you climb a gentle hill, the city gradually comes into view.

The excitement builds as you walk through the outskirts of the city, over the river and through the old city walls. Once inside the city, you’re immediately immersed in the narrow cobbled streets which burst with colour and life. The Camino passes through famous streets forming the route for the running of the bulls as part of the San Fermin festival and spills into the central plaza area. Check into our centrally located hotel and explore the many galleries, churches and sights of this vibrant city. Alternatively, head to Cafe Iruna on the main plaza where Hemingway and other celebrities hung out, pay close attention to its art deco interior which has not changed over the decades.

That evening, dine in some of the city’s award-winning restaurants specialising in elaborately prepared ‘pinchos’ or finger foods.

Take a well-deserved rest day to sleep in and explore the vibrant city of Pamplona, soaking up its rich artistic, historical, and gastronomical delights. Rest days also offer the perfect chance to visit larger towns along the route, pick up any supplies you may need, visit a chemist, or catch up on laundry—giving you a full day to handle personal errands and recharge. Whether you choose to enjoy a foodie tour or simply relax, this day is all about pacing yourself for the journey ahead.

The Camino quickly leaves the city and enters tranquil rolling countryside, passing through Cizur Menor on your ascent to the hill of the Sierra del Perdón. Here you’ll find the iconic sculpture of 12 medieval pilgrims in a procession (the translated inscription reads: ‘Where the way of the wind meets the way of the stars’).

After the rocky and steep descent, you have the option of a side trip to the distinctive eight-sided church of Eunate, linked to the Knights Templar who defended the pilgrims on the road to Santiago, continue on to Puente la Reina, famous for its perfectly balanced 11th-century stone bridge and one of the famous photos of the Camino. Overnight in Puente de la Reina.

Today’s track initially follows the River Arga before it begins its uphill journey and today you will climb to three hilltop villages with wonderful views of the surrounding farmland. The walk continues through fields and past the remains of the 13th-century Monasterio de Bargota.

After walking for approximately 5km you reach the town of Mañeru. Leaving the village, the path winds through picturesque olive groves and vineyards and past a cemetery Another 2.5 kilometres sees you pass through a gothic arch and into the medieval hilltop village of Cirauquí. A little unusually the Camino guides you through a building where you can stamp your own credentials. Look out for the beautiful 12th-century Iglesia de San Román with its impressive doorway.

Leaving Cirauquí through another gothic arch, the Camino takes a downhill path leading to an old paved Roman road considered to be one of the best-preserved examples along the Camino. After crossing a rather dilapidated Roman bridge, the route meanders through rolling arid hills where the Roman road disappears and reappears.

The next town is Villatuerta where at the top of the hill you will find the gothic 12th-century Iglesia de la Asuncíon, an ideal place to rest awhile. You will also find the Iglesia del Espiritu Santo and the Iglesia Santo Domingo just before reaching the pretty town of Estella.

The day starts in Estella, a lovely small town split in two by the Ega River and surrounded by conic, wooded hills topped with castles (or their ruins) and churches attesting to its long history as a crucial centre of commerce.

Just outside of Estella you will find the famous Irache fountain which dispenses free red wine to thirsty pilgrims (courtesy of the Bodegas)! After taking a sip and visiting Estella’s most important monuments, your walk enters a dense forest of evergreen oaks and passes through fields of red poppies, wheat, grapes and white asparagus; the latter a local grown specialty.

Continue on to Los Arcos a classical pilgrim halt, where you can enjoy narrow tranquil streets.

Most of today’s route is on natural paths and dirt tracks and is very enjoyable walking with some steep sections as you cross a set of hills prior to crossing the river valleys of the Rio Linares and Valdearas.

At Torres del Río you’ll pass another architectural wonder of the Camino, the 12th-century octagonal Holy Sepulchre Church, associated with the Knights Templar. Further on you reach Viana, a well preserved historical town whose centre has changed little over the centuries.

Today our goal is Logroño and the capital of the La Rioja region and home of some of Spain’s most celebrated red wines. Logroño has one of the most distinguished culinary traditions in Spain and there are over 50 taperías (tapas restaurants) located within a four-block area close to the town centre.

The traditional tapas restaurants often serve only one tapa (such as mushroom), served as pincho (pintxo in Basque) and meaning one serving.

Enjoy a restful day in Logroño, the vibrant capital of La Rioja. Stroll through the charming old town, visit the Cathedral of Santa María de la Redonda, or explore a local wine museum. In the evening, experience the city’s famous food scene by hopping between the lively pinchos bars on Calle Laurel. It’s the perfect chance to relax and recharge while sampling the region’s culinary delights. This stop also marks a transition in your journey—get ready to switch from walking to cycling as you continue your Camino adventure with fresh energy and a new perspective.

Begin your cycling journey from Logroño with a hearty breakfast and ensure your daypack is stocked with water, snacks, and lunch, as services are limited until you reach Navarrete, 13km away. Along the route, pass the restored ruins of the 12th-century Hospital de Peregrinos, a reminder of the Camino’s deep history. Stop in Navarrete to explore the charming old town and 16th-century Church of the Assumption before continuing toward Nájera.

Nájera, once a royal seat in medieval times, sits dramatically along the Najerilla River beneath towering red cliffs. Don’t miss the Monasterio de Santa María La Real, founded in 1032. From here, the route follows quiet country tracks through rolling farmland to Azofra, a small village with deep pilgrim roots.

Continue on to Cirueña before enjoying a descent into Santo Domingo de la Calzada. This historic town was shaped by Saint Dominic, who built bridges, roads, and a pilgrim hospital—now the town’s Parador. The town square is home to both the Cathedral and centuries of Camino tradition, making it a fitting place to end your ride and reflect on today’s journey.

Today’s ride takes you from the historic town of Santo Domingo de la Calzada toward Villafranca Montes de Oca, covering a variety of terrain and charming villages. The first part of the route runs close to the busy N-120, so take care and ensure you have plenty of water, as shade and services are limited. You’ll find brief respite in the peaceful villages of Grañón, Redecilla del Camino, Castildelgado, and Viloria de Rioja—ideal for a quick break or snack stop.

Continue through Villamayor del Río before arriving in Belorado, a relaxed and welcoming town with a lively Plaza Mayor lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Be sure to check out the 16th-century Church of Santa Maria, nestled beneath dramatic limestone cliffs.

After Belorado, the path shifts to more scenic terrain, following earthen tracks through open countryside and gentle woodland. The ride becomes more tranquil and enjoyable as you approach Villafranca Montes de Oca, a small village surrounded by forested hills. It’s the perfect place to unwind and rest before tomorrow’s climb into the Montes de Oca range.

Today’s ride begins with a steady and challenging climb from Villafranca Montes de Oca to Alto de Pedraja, the highest point of the day. You’ll pass through peaceful oak forests before descending into San Juan de Ortega, a village founded by a disciple of Santo Domingo known for aiding pilgrims. From here, the route becomes easier and mostly downhill, offering a welcome break after the morning ascent.

Continue through the quiet Rio Vena valley, cycling past Atapuerca, an area known for its important archaeological discoveries. You’ll face one final hill before descending into the outskirts of Burgos.

Take care navigating the final stretch through the city, but your effort will be rewarded: Burgos is a vibrant city with deep historical roots. Be sure to visit the stunning Catedral de Santa María, one of Spain’s largest Gothic cathedrals. It’s the perfect place to pause and reflect on your journey so far. You’ll have time tomorrow to rest, explore the city, and prepare for the next stage of your adventure.

Spend your rest day exploring the many highlights of Burgos, often referred to as the Gothic capital of Spain. With a population of around 180,000, Burgos offers a vibrant mix of history, architecture, and local culture. Don’t miss the magnificent cathedral—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and take time to wander the charming old town. If you’re visiting around June 29, you may catch the city’s main festival, San Pedro y San Pablo, celebrated in the week before and after this date with lively events and traditions.

As with any larger city, it’s wise to stay alert—reports of petty theft and overcharging are not uncommon. Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious in busy areas or tourist spots.

Burgos marks the gateway to the Meseta, a high plateau known for its exposed terrain and fewer towns or services. Use your rest day to check your bike, top up tire pressure, and restock essentials like sunscreen, snacks, and medical supplies. It’s also a good time to visit a bike shop if you need gear or a tune-up before continuing the journey.

Back on the bikes today we leave the bustling city of Burgos to virtual wilderness. The track on this section is mainly earth and you travel through what seems like never-ending crop fields. This section of the route is often referred to as the Meseta. You may come across a shepherd and his herd but if not it will most likely be just you and the birds. The Meseta also has zero shade from the sun so make sure you are well covered up.

Hornillos del Camino is your half way point for today’s riding and is a classic pilgrim village where little has changed over the centuries. This is a great place to immerse yourself in the ancient atmosphere of the way.

Once past Hornillos del Camino there are few towns en route to Castrojeriz so make sure you are stocked up with any water and supplies you might need. We are again traveling along the lonely Meseta towards Hontanas, a small town of just 80 which is tucked away in a fold in the landscape. This town is largely undiscovered except by pilgrims and has a solid parish church which dominates the tiny village square.

From Hontanas there is less than 10km to go, the last 2km downhilling into Castrojeriz where you will spend the night. Castrojeriz is the perfect place to rest for the night as it is a small sleepy town of just 600 with an obsession with siesta. If you still have a little energy left it is well worth the walk up to the hilltop castle Castillo as you will get lovely views over the town and countryside. If not just take a load off and relax in one of the local bars with a beer.

Today you start with a steep climb out of Castrojeriz to get back onto the Meseta, but never fear there is a downhill slope on the other side. Again today’s riding will see you in little shade on earth tracks with few water stops so make sure you take precautions. About 7km into your ride you will come across a small village called Itero de la Vega with a population of only 190. After Itero de la Vega you will pass over the Canal Pisuerga with a gentle incline before descending into Boadilla del Camino.

Boadilla del Camino originally had a population of over 2,000 which once served the multiple pilgrim hospitals, but the population is now only a mere 200. Continuing on a few more kilometres you will reach Fromista. Fromista is best known for the beautiful 11th century Iglesia de San Martin which was built with a gorgeous mellow stone. With over 300 external corbels each carved with a different human, animal or mystical motif this is a must see site.

From here we are off the earth tracks and onto what is often referred to as the pilgrim autopistas which run alongside the main roads. Around 13km from Fromista you will enter the town of Villalcazar de Sirga which is well known for its hospitality. Now declared a national monument, the town of Villacazar de Sirga is home to the superb 13th century Templar church of Santa Maria la Virgen Blanca. This church houses the tombs of royalty and nobles alike.

Only a short 5 more kilometres to your resting place for the night – Carrion de los Condes. This fascinating town retains its medieval atmosphere in its quiet side streets and was home to no less than 14 pilgrim hospitals. The town has a variety of shops, bars and restaurants so take your pick!

Today’s 54km ride from Carrión de los Condes to Hermanillos de la Calzada takes you deep into the heart of the Meseta—Spain’s high, open plateau known for its vast landscapes and peaceful solitude. The terrain is mostly flat, but services are limited, especially for the first 17km. Be sure to start early, eat a good breakfast, and carry plenty of water and snacks. The first village with facilities is Calzadilla de la Cueza, followed by Ledigos and the small hamlet of Terradillos de los Templarios. The route then continues to the historic town of Sahagún, once an important religious centre, before reaching Hermanillos. This stage is ideal for reflection, with long stretches of quiet track and sweeping views. It’s a good idea to check your bike, pump your tires, and make sure you’re well-stocked before departing. While remote, this is one of the most atmospheric and meditative sections of the Camino.

Today’s 45km cycle from Hermanillos de la Calzada to León offers a rewarding mix of peaceful countryside and vibrant city life. You’ll pedal through gentle rolling fields and small villages, soaking in the calm of the Meseta before approaching León, a city rich in history and culture. León’s stunning Gothic cathedral, colorful markets, and lively tapas bars provide the perfect welcome after your ride. This stage balances serene rural landscapes with the excitement of arriving in one of the Camino’s most iconic cities.

Spend your day exploring this beautiful city and its incredible Gothic cathedral, renowned for its marvellous stained-glass windows. In the evening the narrow streets and plazas come alive when locals flood the local bodegas, cafes and restaurants.

There are two routes available for this morning, both start at ‘La Virgen Del Camino’ and converge at ‘Hospital de Orbigo’ – one is a more indirect route that goes via Villar de Mazarife and has better scenery and less traffic, a more pleasant ride. The other route runs parallel to the autopista (highway) is less peaceful but quicker. You will see pilgrims on both routes but we’d recommend the quieter one via Villar de Mazarife. Stop for refreshments at the cafe overlooking the extraordinary bridge the ‘Puente de Orbigo’ – built on a Roman bridge this one dates from the 13th century and is one of the best preserved bridges in Spain.

You then ride the final 15km to reach the beautiful walled town of Astorga, with views of the mountains of Leon in the distance. On this last section you will cross over a few kilometres of quite rough tracks over rolling terrain before you reach the cross which overlooks Astorga. Look out for the small basic ‘Cantina’ at the top of the hill, a welcome refreshment stop before you reach the cross. Continue on to Astorga, which offers a number of attractions including a Cathedral by Gaudi and a delicious chocolate museum!

Switching from wheels to feet, you’ll need to get used to walking again. Leaving Astorga behind, you’ll follow pleasant paths across open plains with beautiful views of the surrounding hills. This next section of the Camino Francés takes you through La Maragatería and into the Bierzo region, known for its mining history and its proximity to Galicia. La Maragatería has very few villages, so it’s essential to carry enough food and water for emergencies.

Even in summer, pack warm clothing as you’ll be walking into higher mountain areas. From Astorga, follow the Camino markers past the cathedral, then turn left onto Calle Portería and through Puerta Obispo. Take a right onto Calle Sancti Spiritu, continue down Calle San Pedro, passing a church, and at the crossroads head over to Calle de los Mártires towards Santa Colomba de Somoza. The Ermita del Ecce Homo on your left confirms you’re on the right path.

The route parallels the road, reaching Murias de Rechivaldo after about 5km. Another 5km brings you to Santa Catalina de Somoza; walk down Calle Real and rejoin the main road at the large cross. From here, the path climbs for 4km to El Ganso (1020m elevation). The trail continues through El Ganso, passing the famous El Roble del Peregrino—an old oak tree where many pilgrims rest in its shade. Onward to Rabanal del Camino (1155m), you’ll pass the remains of the Roman gold mines of La Fucarona.

As you leave Rabanal del Camino you’ll start to feel the incline which steepens as you head into the hills towards Foncebadon (the infamous deserted village which is no longer deserted). The incline is always walkable and there are plenty of switchbacks with great views back over the plains behind you.

At the top of the hill is the Iron Cross – Cruz de Ferro – an ancient monument said to be erected by the Celts and where pilgrims leave something, usually, a stone or pebble that represents their burden or a memorial to a loved one. Passing over a few more hilly sections you will reach your highest point at Collado de las Antenas (1515m), from here it is a steep downhill to Molinaseca (610m).

Leaving Molinaseca you firstly descend before climbing again towards the city of Ponferrada which can be clearly seen in the distance. Once in the city of Ponferrada, continue past the castle of the Knights Templar, make sure you enjoy a quick coffee in the plaza to admire the hills you’ve just climbed. After Ponferrada, the walk continues through gentle rolling hills and vineyards before reaching the charming town of Villafranca del Bierzo which is nestled in the hills that mark the border into Galicia. Both Molinaseca or Villafranca del Bierzo are great places to consider an additional rest day.

Walk down Calle del Agua and at the far end turn left at the statue of the pilgrim. Walk across the Río Burbía, past the convent and Iglesia de la Concepcion and keep walking until you reach the exit of the road tunnel through the mountains. Cross over and take a right turn, walk another 3km before turning right into an older section of the NVI road just before you enter the village of Pereje. Walk down the Calle Camino de Santiago until you reach where the motorway crosses the NVI, turn right onto the main road and follow this road until you reach the village of Las Herrerias.

The Camino from this point onwards climbs through the mountains starting gently but progressively getting steeper until you reach the atmospheric hilltop hamlet of O Cebreiro. From Las Herrerias you drop into the valley taking a quieter road and then ascend through deep woodland to the village of La Faba. The path continues through the village to Laguna de Castilla and on to the delightful hilltop hamlet of O Cebreiro.

From O Cebreiro take the main road towards the village of Liñares which is about 3km away.

Walk through the village and join the road at the end, following the markers to a rough track that runs parallel to the road. The path now climbs steeply for 1km to the Alto de San Roque, where on a clear day you will get wonderful views across the mountains and into Galicia. The path continues to climb and after 1.5km you reach the small village of Hospital da Condesa. Walk through the village and down a minor road signposted to Sabugos. This will take you along a lane and track through the small town of Padornelo. Once through the village the track begins to climb steeply towards the Alto do Poio some 3km away.

Walk through the village and down the road forking right to walk down a track parallel to the road and into the village of Fonfría in 3.5km. From here is it downhill all the way to the town of Triacastela.

As you leave Triacastela you arrive at a T-junction where you are given a choice of two routes towards Sarria. The left-hand route takes you to past the impressive monastery at Samos about 11km away, the right-hand route guides you through a more rural path towards San Xil before meeting the Samos route a few kilometres prior to Sarria. Both routes are clearly marked.

In Samos you will find the impressive Benedictine Monasterio de San Julián de Samos. To leave Samos, continue along the main road towards Sarria. Sarria has been inhabited for many thousands of years both by the Celts and the Romans but the town was founded at the end of the 12th century by Alfonso IX, the last king of León who named the village Vilanova de Sarria.

Sarria is a busy, modern town with plenty of shops, hotels, restaurants and bars, but its origins are Celtic and it was an important and major medieval centre for pilgrims. Remnants of its ancient past can still be seen in the old quarter along Rua Major.

The Igrexia de Santa Maria has an ancient pilgrim’s mural. If you follow the Camino route to the top end of town you will see the ancient Convent Monasterio da Madalena, the ruins of the Castle and the medieval bridge Ponte Aspera that crosses the River Celerio. Nowadays the town is bustling with peregrinos, from those that started their Camino hundreds of kilometres back, to the large number that walk the final 100km to Santiago de Compostela to qualify for their Compostela.

You can get your credential from the Igrexia Santa Maria on Rua Major or the Convent Monasterio da Madalena on the outskirts of town, which you pass on the first stage of this section of the Camino. Now is a good time to stock up on any equipment. You will find the Peregrinoteca equipment shop, located by the steep stairway at the start of Rua Major is good for hiking socks, walking poles and a variety of hiking gear.

The majority of the walk is on sheltered woodland pathways or quiet country roads and passes through many hamlets and small villages. The scenery along the way is wonderfully green and lush and very rural. It is a good idea to have food and toilet provisions with you as there are long stretches with no amenities.

You start this section climbing the steep stone stairway at the start of Rua Major then wind your way through the old quarter, across the river and alongside the railway track. Once you cross the river there is a climb through the woodland to open fields and onto Barbadelo, a 10th-century village with a 12th-century church that has national monument status because of its ancient frescos. From here the hamlets of Baxan and Leiman are the last stops for refreshments.

The next section is uphill for 5km until you reach Morgade which is a lovely place for lunch or overnight if you prefer to walk shorter daily distances. It is downhill for the next 5km, passing through Ferrerios with its ancient chalice stone and Romanesque church until you climb the final section and high point of the day (660m) at Alto Momientos, which has wonderful views over the reservoir and surrounding countryside. From here begin your steep descent into Portomarin. Now cross the Mino Reservoir over its modern bridge into Portomarin.

Portomarin has been inhabited for thousands of years and its importance grew with the popularity of the Camino in the middle ages. At one time it had three orders of Knights: the Knights Templar, the Knights of St John and the Knights of Jerusalem, which may go some way to explaining the castle-like edifice of the 12th-century Romanesque church of San Nicolás that stands in the square at the centre of town. The town was previously divided by the Rio Mino but was flooded in 1960 to create the Mino Reservoir.

Every historic monument was moved brick by brick to the town that stands on the hill today; you can see pictures of the old town in some of the bars and cafes that line the main street. Today’s walk is uphill for 15km; the gradient is never too steep and you gradually climb to a height of 720m. The path crosses and runs parallel to the main road to Gonzar, though you spend most of your days walking on woodland tracks and quiet roads.

The Camino starts at the Escalinata de Nuestra Señora de las Nieves (Stairs of Our Lady of the Snow) crosses back over the Mino Basin and then a climb up through woodland to the main road where it crosses several times passing through Toxibo on the way to Gonzar. After Gonzar the Camino leaves the road and goes down a small track to Castromaior, onto Hospital de la Cruz, then a country road to Ventas de Naron, which is a good place to stop for the night if you are walking shorter distances. Begin the climb to Sierra Ligonde, today’s high point at 720m. From here the walk is now downhill to Ligonde and Eirexe and on to A Calzada. There is a detour here of 2km to the National Monument, Vilar de Donas where the Knights of Santiago are buried and is worthy of a visit if you have time. A gentle climb now takes you through several small hamlets to Alto Rosario, a good vantage point on a clear day and then down into Palas de Rei.

Today’s walk is mostly on paths through quiet woodland, crossing over the main road to Arzua several times and guiding you through six river valleys to reach a high point of 515m at Coto.

On route you will pass Melide, a busy town founded in the 13th century and has many historic buildings and churches including the Capilla de San Pedro and San Roque next to which stands a 14th century stone cross said to be the oldest in Galicia. The museum and the buildings around the Plaza de Convento are well worth a visit. Melide is also famous for Pulpo Gallego, octopus cooked Galician style and reputed to be the best in Spain.

Much of the path after Melide winds through woodlands of oak, pine and eucalypt, passing over several valleys though Boente, Castañeda and then Ribadiso from where you can see the Hospital San Anton, one of the oldest pilgrim hospitals in existence. From Ribadiso follow the country road on a steep uphill climb and through the outer suburbs before entering Arzua.

Arzua with a population of around 7000 is the last large town before you reach Santiago. The 14th-century Capilla de la Magdelena is the town’s main monument. Arzua is most famous for its local cheese, Queixo, a smooth creamy cheese made from cow’s milk which most restaurants feature in some way and is definitely worth trying. The town also celebrates its cheese with a Queixo Cheese festival every March.

The majority of today’s walk to O Pedrouzo is through wonderful pine and eucalyptus-scented woodland. The path is mostly level, passing through three shallow river valleys with a gradual climb up to Alto de Santa Irene at 404m.

Out of Arzúa it alternates between track and county lane passing through several small hamlets before crossing through a shallow valley and stream and into A Calzada where you will find a roadside cafe. Another 1.5km brings you to Calle, a quaint village of traditional houses and two more cafes. The Camino now winds its way over another shallow valley and into A Salceda, a small village with a bar and shop.

There is good accommodation here, just off the Camino, for those who are walking shorter distances and want to spend the night. The path continues on woodland paths passing a monument to Guillermo Watt who died at this spot, a day from completing his Camino. The path now takes you through two small hamlets and onto A Brea where you have the option of continuing on the road to Santa Irene or through a woodland path to Alto de Santa Irene, the high point of today and a good picnic and rest area.

From here the path continues down through woodland and then a tunnel into Santa Irene. After Santa Irene the path climbs steeply to the main road, into eucalyptus woodland and onto A Rua and the village to O Pedrouzo.

O Pedrouzo is a small but busy village with plenty of shops, restaurants and bars and the last stage of the Camino before entering Santiago de Compostela. Today’s route will be a busy as pilgrims begin the last stage of their walk into Santiago.

The pilgrim mass at Santiago Cathedral begins at 12 noon so you will need to leave early to arrive on time. The first section of today’s route passes through eucalypt forests with most of the route on quiet roads and pathways before the final kilometres and a climb to Monte do Gozo before descending into the suburbs of Santiago. The Camino wends its way through eucalyptus forests and farmland through the village of San Anton, onto Amenal and climbs to Cimadevila and the forestry area around Santiago airport. The path runs alongside the airport and you will see many crosses of twigs and branches used by pilgrims to decorate the fence.

The path now follows the road into San Paio where there are many popular bars and restaurants and a good place to take a break. After San Paio the path heads uphill to a tree-lined pathway and into Lavacolla. This is the village where pilgrims traditionally washed to purify themselves before entering Santiago and Lavacolla literally means to wash your tail. From Lavacolla the path heads steeply uphill to Villamaior then on a track to the studios of TV Galicia and the high point of day at 396m.

The Camino then heads downhill into San Marcos where there are several bars and cafes, here you will find a monument commemorating the visit of Pope John Paul II. In less than a kilometre you will come to Monte do Gozo, Mount of Joy, as this is where pilgrims first sighted the stunning Catedral de Santiago spires. The route is now downhill, along and over the railway and into the city suburbs. From here the route is well signposted into the old quarter with its wonderful historical buildings and narrow shop-filled alleyways until you finally reach the Praza do Obradoiro and the wonderful ancient Cathedral.

Today you have the whole day to enjoy and explore historic Santiago with its many enticing tapas bars and restaurants. You can attend the midday pilgrim mass and look around the famous Cathedral of St. James which forms the city’s heart and watch the steady stream of pilgrims walking into the square as they finish their epic journey.

You are free to check out of your hotel any time before 10 am. If you’d like to explore Santiago further, you can leave your bags with reception. Interested in more walking options from Santiago? Consider extending your journey with our captivating 6-day Camino de Finisterre for an epic journey to ‘The World’s End”.