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SELF-GUIDED
8 DAYS
Moderate
Walkers have been pilgrimaging since around 800AD on the Camino Primitivo (the ‘Original Camino’) to Santiago de Compostela, to visit the tomb of St James. This is the first route to be walked and probably the most scenic of all of the Caminos that wind their way through Spain. Starting in the stunning Roman-walled city of Lugo, and following the Camino trail for 103 km into Santiago de Compostela, qualifies for the coveted Camino passport.
This week-long walk heads across Asturias and Galicia, two profoundly different landscapes and cultures in the context of the rest of Spain. Galicia, in particular, with its own language and culture, stands out. The timeless landscape reveals ancient churches and medieval towns that have welcomed Camino trekkers over the last centuries. After collecting your ‘Compostela’ (pilgrim’s certificate), visit tapas bars sampling typical Galician dishes and toasting your achievement!
Arrive early enough to explore the beautiful walled city of Lugo. The Roman wall is one of the best preserved in the world, and the town is one of Spain’s most beautiful. The city comes alive at night with its cafe, restaurant and tapas bar nightlife.
Accommodation: Hostal Alba or Lugo Spa Hotel
The walk out of Lugo is convoluted, but the notes make it navigatable. Once in the countryside, the Camino tracks through farmland and forest. It is a lovely walk to San Roma de Retorta. Due to the availability of rooms, you may walk a few kilometres further on the Camino to get to your accommodation today. This shortens the next day and makes more time to enjoy Melide. Fear not though, this terrain is flat and heading down, making the walk easy.
Walk: 19.5km (could be up to 31km due to accommodation)
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: A toqueira cantina hostel
Walk from San Roma Retorta through forest, past gorgeous Spanish farms and cafes. It is apparent that this part of Galicia is somewhat wealthier, and the buildings reflect that. The way into Melide is the last time you will have the track to yourself. At Melide, you will join the most popular route (not necessarily the best), but along with that comes access to a whole new level of service and food options. Like Melide’s famous classic Galician dish of ‘Pulpo a Galega’ (octopus).
Walk: 27.1km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:Hotel Lux Melide
This short, manageable walk today follows less secluded trails through woodlands and into a region dotted with castles, churches and ancient settlements. The extra pilgrims on the track make this day even easier to find your way. This is your chance to choose from the plethora of restaurants; why not stop and eat and possibly even enjoy a wine – but make sure you walk the entire 15km to get to your accommodation. This part of the walk is the ‘fun’ part if you want to enjoy other people’s company. If you don’t, it is still possible to walk alone or, conversely, get up and get started early (or, interestingly, set out late from Melide, as it is only a short day as the track tends to empty out by 2 pm).
Walk: 14.4km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Casa Teodora
A family-run business, brothers Jesus and Gabriel manage this popular Camino stopover. The restaurant is popular with locals and serves fresh sardines and beef shank, complemented by local wines, such as a perfectly chilled Albarino and Ribeiros white wine.
The penultimate day of walking weaves its way towards Santiago across farmland and woodland. The trail heads through several villages, including Cortobe and Fondevila, which have seemingly stood still in time since the Middle Ages. A gentle ascent leads up to the 18th-century hilltop chapel of Santa Irene (named after a Christian martyr). The last few km’s of today’s route follow a shaded trail through eucalyptus woods before arriving in the lively town of Rua.
Walk: 19.6km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel O’Pina
For over fifty years Hotel O’Pina has been welcoming pilgrims on the last leg of their journey to Santiago. Small and hospitable, the en-suite rooms are spacious and the hotel restaurant is famous for its fresh, daily serving of Empanada Gallega (Galician pie).
Today, the Camino leads you into the heart of Santiago de Compostela to the majestic cathedral in Plaza de Obradoiro. Leaving Rua, rural trails give way to an urban environment as fellow walkers begin to converge for the last leg of this historic route. As you pass through Lavacolla, before crossing the stream, tradition would usually see pilgrims bathe and purify themselves in preparation for their arrival to Santiago. The final stretch to Santiago heads into the magnificent historic centre where you can present your pilgrim passport and receive your ‘Compostela’ certificate. With 2 nights in Santiago, you can relax and recharge your legs this afternoon, before exploring this UNESCO listed city tomorrow.
Walk: 20km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Lux Santiago
Spend 2 nights in Hotel Lux, only a few minutes walk from the historic centre. Within easy reach of local bars and restaurants you can spend the evenings sampling local lobster and octopus dishes. Rooms have their own bathroom, comfortable beds and wifi.
A day to rest and enjoy the spectacular atmosphere of this world-famous city. You can return to Plaza de Obradoiro and the Cathedral built in honour of Saint James and, depending on the day, you may even be able to attend mass. For some, the journey continues onto Finisterre, which in Roman times was thought to be the end of the world. After another 4 days of walking, many pilgrims continued to the coast to bathe after their long journeys. Nowadays, the additional days of walking add a closing chapter to your Camino experience. If you wish to add Finisterre on to your experience, this can easily be done for you. Just let us know at the time of booking.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Lux Santiago
Depending on your onward travel plans, you can spend the morning soaking up the atmosphere of the plaza before heading off on your journey home.
Meals Included: Breakfast
During this tour, you will stay in simple, small family-run hotels and guest houses that have been welcoming walkers of the Camino Primitivo for many years. All rooms have an en-suite and typically, in the style of the Camino, accommodations have a great atmosphere as most other guests will be fellow walkers. As this walk is a very busy route from Melide it is usual for similar accommodations to be used other than that listed.
Single Rooms
If you are travelling with family and/or friends but would like single rooms, we would advise booking as soon as your plans are finalised to secure your rooming preferences. Single rooms incur an additional single occupancy fee.
Dining
You will be provided with seven breakfasts. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please let us know at the time of booking so we can let your hosts know. Should you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing a few of your own snacks with you.
You will find many of the accommodations have their own restaurant, which serves regional dishes, using local ingredients. Although dinners aren’t included in this tour, dinners can be included each evening as a supplement if you wish. Lunches can be purchased locally – a great part of the experience. You can either order lunch from your accommodation or buy local cheeses and meats along with a wide variety of different types of bread you will find along the Camino.
Your Camino trip will begin in the comfortable Alba Lugo, 400 metres from Lugo Cathedral, featuring views of the city. It is located in Lugo, right in the centre of the city, inside the wall – close to the main points of interest. There is an upgrade possible for a small cost at Lugo Spa Hotel.
Your Camino trip will begin in the comfortable Alba Lugo, 400 metres from Lugo Cathedral, featuring views of the city. It is located in Lugo, right in the centre of the city, inside the wall – close to the main points of interest. There is an upgrade possible for a small cost at Lugo Spa Hotel.
Your Camino trip will begin in the comfortable Alba Lugo, 400 metres from Lugo Cathedral, featuring views of the city. It is located in Lugo, right in the centre of the city, inside the wall – close to the main points of interest. There is an upgrade possible for a small cost at Lugo Spa Hotel.
During ancient times, King Alfonso II of Asturias undertook a journey along the historic pilgrimage route to Santiago, which serves as the origin of what we now identify as the Primitive Way. Found in Palas de Rei, a mere 44 km from the Congress and Exhibition Center, you will discover Albergue A Toqueira. You can enjoy this lodging’s garden, communal lounge, and terrace. At A Toqueira, you have the opportunity to pay homage to the cultural legacy of Galicia, as the location gracefully converts a traditional farmer’s dwelling into a contemporary eatery and hostel designed to accommodate present-day travelers on foot.
During ancient times, King Alfonso II of Asturias undertook a journey along the historic pilgrimage route to Santiago, which serves as the origin of what we now identify as the Primitive Way. Found in Palas de Rei, a mere 44 km from the Congress and Exhibition Center, you will discover Albergue A Toqueira. You can enjoy this lodging’s garden, communal lounge, and terrace. At A Toqueira, you have the opportunity to pay homage to the cultural legacy of Galicia, as the location gracefully converts a traditional farmer’s dwelling into a contemporary eatery and hostel designed to accommodate present-day travelers on foot.
During ancient times, King Alfonso II of Asturias undertook a journey along the historic pilgrimage route to Santiago, which serves as the origin of what we now identify as the Primitive Way. Found in Palas de Rei, a mere 44 km from the Congress and Exhibition Center, you will discover Albergue A Toqueira. You can enjoy this lodging’s garden, communal lounge, and terrace. At A Toqueira, you have the opportunity to pay homage to the cultural legacy of Galicia, as the location gracefully converts a traditional farmer’s dwelling into a contemporary eatery and hostel designed to accommodate present-day travelers on foot.
During ancient times, King Alfonso II of Asturias undertook a journey along the historic pilgrimage route to Santiago, which serves as the origin of what we now identify as the Primitive Way. Found in Palas de Rei, a mere 44 km from the Congress and Exhibition Center, you will discover Albergue A Toqueira. You can enjoy this lodging’s garden, communal lounge, and terrace. At A Toqueira, you have the opportunity to pay homage to the cultural legacy of Galicia, as the location gracefully converts a traditional farmer’s dwelling into a contemporary eatery and hostel designed to accommodate present-day travelers on foot.
Situated in Melide, a mere 48 km from Santiago de Compostela Convention Centre, Hotel Lux Melide offers charming 3-star lodging along with a delightful terrace. This establishment, holding a 3-star rating, also features a communal lounge space. Among the standout features of the hotel is its diverse selection of breakfast choices tailored to various dietary needs. Guests have the opportunity to kickstart their day with a nutritious and delectable breakfast, whether they prefer a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free option.
Situated in Melide, a mere 48 km from Santiago de Compostela Convention Centre, Hotel Lux Melide offers charming 3-star lodging along with a delightful terrace. This establishment, holding a 3-star rating, also features a communal lounge space. Among the standout features of the hotel is its diverse selection of breakfast choices tailored to various dietary needs. Guests have the opportunity to kickstart their day with a nutritious and delectable breakfast, whether they prefer a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free option.
Situated in Melide, a mere 48 km from Santiago de Compostela Convention Centre, Hotel Lux Melide offers charming 3-star lodging along with a delightful terrace. This establishment, holding a 3-star rating, also features a communal lounge space. Among the standout features of the hotel is its diverse selection of breakfast choices tailored to various dietary needs. Guests have the opportunity to kickstart their day with a nutritious and delectable breakfast, whether they prefer a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free option.
Situated in Melide, a mere 48 km from Santiago de Compostela Convention Centre, Hotel Lux Melide offers charming 3-star lodging along with a delightful terrace. This establishment, holding a 3-star rating, also features a communal lounge space. Among the standout features of the hotel is its diverse selection of breakfast choices tailored to various dietary needs. Guests have the opportunity to kickstart their day with a nutritious and delectable breakfast, whether they prefer a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free option.
Situated in Melide, a mere 48 km from Santiago de Compostela Convention Centre, Hotel Lux Melide offers charming 3-star lodging along with a delightful terrace. This establishment, holding a 3-star rating, also features a communal lounge space. Among the standout features of the hotel is its diverse selection of breakfast choices tailored to various dietary needs. Guests have the opportunity to kickstart their day with a nutritious and delectable breakfast, whether they prefer a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free option.
A family run business, Hotel Casa Teodora is managed by brothers Jesus and Gabriel to make a popular Camino stopover. The restaurant is popular with locals and serves dishes such as fresh sardines and beef shank. These meals are complemented by local wines, such as a perfectly chilled Albarino and Ribeiros white wine.
A family run business, Hotel Casa Teodora is managed by brothers Jesus and Gabriel to make a popular Camino stopover. The restaurant is popular with locals and serves dishes such as fresh sardines and beef shank. These meals are complemented by local wines, such as a perfectly chilled Albarino and Ribeiros white wine.
A family run business, Hotel Casa Teodora is managed by brothers Jesus and Gabriel to make a popular Camino stopover. The restaurant is popular with locals and serves dishes such as fresh sardines and beef shank. These meals are complemented by local wines, such as a perfectly chilled Albarino and Ribeiros white wine.
A family run business, Hotel Casa Teodora is managed by brothers Jesus and Gabriel to make a popular Camino stopover. The restaurant is popular with locals and serves dishes such as fresh sardines and beef shank. These meals are complemented by local wines, such as a perfectly chilled Albarino and Ribeiros white wine.
Hotel O’Pino has been welcoming pilgrims for over fifty years on the last leg of their journey to Santiago. Small and hospitable, the en-suite rooms are spacious and the hotel restaurant is famous for its fresh, daily serving of Empanada Gallega (Galician pie).
Hotel O’Pino has been welcoming pilgrims for over fifty years on the last leg of their journey to Santiago. Small and hospitable, the en-suite rooms are spacious and the hotel restaurant is famous for its fresh, daily serving of Empanada Gallega (Galician pie).
Hotel O’Pino has been welcoming pilgrims for over fifty years on the last leg of their journey to Santiago. Small and hospitable, the en-suite rooms are spacious and the hotel restaurant is famous for its fresh, daily serving of Empanada Gallega (Galician pie).
Hotel Lux, situated in the heart of the town, is only a few minutes walk from the historic centre. Within easy reach of local bars and restaurants you can spend the evenings sampling local lobster and octopus dishes. Rooms have their own bathroom, comfortable beds and access to WiFi.
Hotel Lux, situated in the heart of the town, is only a few minutes walk from the historic centre. Within easy reach of local bars and restaurants you can spend the evenings sampling local lobster and octopus dishes. Rooms have their own bathroom, comfortable beds and access to WiFi.
Hotel Lux, situated in the heart of the town, is only a few minutes walk from the historic centre. Within easy reach of local bars and restaurants you can spend the evenings sampling local lobster and octopus dishes. Rooms have their own bathroom, comfortable beds and access to WiFi.
This tour is available from 1st April until 31st October. Regardless of when you travel, there are often celebrations along the Camino, specific to individual towns or regions. From Galician literature festivals to the nationwide celebrations of Semana Santa, walking the Camino is a colourful experience.
The Camino is a well-trodden route, so the trails are very well-defined for the most part. You will follow an ancient pilgrim trail and therefore, whilst sections of the walk will take you deep into the picturesque countryside, you will also walk through urban environments and alongside roads, as you follow the truest route possible.
You should be used to walking up to 25 to 30km with up to 500m of ascent and descent. The kilometres may vary slightly on this walk due to where we have to book the accommodation, and up to 10km on Day 2. On any typical day, you will hike on rocky trails, and farm and forest tracks and cover long sections in the open countryside. You will sustain climbs to hilltop towns, villages, and the rolling countryside. You will also walk on some roads, so please be mindful of all road users at all times.
A moderate active lifestyle makes walking enjoyable, an exercise regime of 2 to 3 times a week is needed, in addition to your usual walks. The route is very well waymarked by the iconic scallop-shell markers and with the many other walkers on the trail, it’s very easy to find your way.
For each of the walks, you will be provided with daily walk notes, a map and the GPX tracks if you wish to use them for your own device.
The route runs across northern Spain and through a variety of terrain. During the early and latter part of the season, conditions can be changeable from temperate warms days through to frosty mornings and very cool nights. From May to September, rainy days are less frequent and temperatures are steadily between 20-24 degrees, however, it is possible that you may experience a few cloudy days. See weather averages here.
The tour starts in Lugo and finishes in Santiago. To reach Lugo fly into Madrid or Santiago de Compostela.
The most straightforward way to reach Lugo is from Santiago ( if you want to get a return flight), it is around a 3hr 30min to 5 hrs train or 2 hr bus journey changing once in O Coruna for the train. If you would prefer a private transfer we can always arrange these for you or you can simply get a taxi.
From Madrid, it is around a 6-hour journey from the main Chamartin train station (or 6 hrs on a bus).
There’s plenty of trains that go all over Spain from Santiago de Compostela. There is also an airport in Santiago as mentioned that has flights to all over Europe.
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form or email us at info@stroll.com
Walkers have been pilgrimaging since around 800AD on the Camino Primitivo (the ‘Original Camino’) to Santiago de Compostela, to visit the tomb of St James. This is the first route to be walked and probably the most scenic of all of the Caminos that wind their way through Spain. Starting in the stunning Roman-walled city of Lugo, and following the Camino trail for 103 km into Santiago de Compostela, qualifies for the coveted Camino passport.
This week-long walk heads across Asturias and Galicia, two profoundly different landscapes and cultures in the context of the rest of Spain. Galicia, in particular, with its own language and culture, stands out. The timeless landscape reveals ancient churches and medieval towns that have welcomed Camino trekkers over the last centuries. After collecting your ‘Compostela’ (pilgrim’s certificate), visit tapas bars sampling typical Galician dishes and toasting your achievement!
Arrive early enough to explore the beautiful walled city of Lugo. The Roman wall is one of the best preserved in the world, and the town is one of Spain’s most beautiful. The city comes alive at night with its cafe, restaurant and tapas bar nightlife.
Accommodation: Hostal Alba or Lugo Spa Hotel
The walk out of Lugo is convoluted, but the notes make it navigatable. Once in the countryside, the Camino tracks through farmland and forest. It is a lovely walk to San Roma de Retorta. Due to the availability of rooms, you may walk a few kilometres further on the Camino to get to your accommodation today. This shortens the next day and makes more time to enjoy Melide. Fear not though, this terrain is flat and heading down, making the walk easy.
Walk: 19.5km (could be up to 31km due to accommodation)
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: A toqueira cantina hostel
Walk from San Roma Retorta through forest, past gorgeous Spanish farms and cafes. It is apparent that this part of Galicia is somewhat wealthier, and the buildings reflect that. The way into Melide is the last time you will have the track to yourself. At Melide, you will join the most popular route (not necessarily the best), but along with that comes access to a whole new level of service and food options. Like Melide’s famous classic Galician dish of ‘Pulpo a Galega’ (octopus).
Walk: 27.1km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:Hotel Lux Melide
This short, manageable walk today follows less secluded trails through woodlands and into a region dotted with castles, churches and ancient settlements. The extra pilgrims on the track make this day even easier to find your way. This is your chance to choose from the plethora of restaurants; why not stop and eat and possibly even enjoy a wine – but make sure you walk the entire 15km to get to your accommodation. This part of the walk is the ‘fun’ part if you want to enjoy other people’s company. If you don’t, it is still possible to walk alone or, conversely, get up and get started early (or, interestingly, set out late from Melide, as it is only a short day as the track tends to empty out by 2 pm).
Walk: 14.4km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Casa Teodora
A family-run business, brothers Jesus and Gabriel manage this popular Camino stopover. The restaurant is popular with locals and serves fresh sardines and beef shank, complemented by local wines, such as a perfectly chilled Albarino and Ribeiros white wine.
The penultimate day of walking weaves its way towards Santiago across farmland and woodland. The trail heads through several villages, including Cortobe and Fondevila, which have seemingly stood still in time since the Middle Ages. A gentle ascent leads up to the 18th-century hilltop chapel of Santa Irene (named after a Christian martyr). The last few km’s of today’s route follow a shaded trail through eucalyptus woods before arriving in the lively town of Rua.
Walk: 19.6km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel O’Pina
For over fifty years Hotel O’Pina has been welcoming pilgrims on the last leg of their journey to Santiago. Small and hospitable, the en-suite rooms are spacious and the hotel restaurant is famous for its fresh, daily serving of Empanada Gallega (Galician pie).
Today, the Camino leads you into the heart of Santiago de Compostela to the majestic cathedral in Plaza de Obradoiro. Leaving Rua, rural trails give way to an urban environment as fellow walkers begin to converge for the last leg of this historic route. As you pass through Lavacolla, before crossing the stream, tradition would usually see pilgrims bathe and purify themselves in preparation for their arrival to Santiago. The final stretch to Santiago heads into the magnificent historic centre where you can present your pilgrim passport and receive your ‘Compostela’ certificate. With 2 nights in Santiago, you can relax and recharge your legs this afternoon, before exploring this UNESCO listed city tomorrow.
Walk: 20km
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Lux Santiago
Spend 2 nights in Hotel Lux, only a few minutes walk from the historic centre. Within easy reach of local bars and restaurants you can spend the evenings sampling local lobster and octopus dishes. Rooms have their own bathroom, comfortable beds and wifi.
A day to rest and enjoy the spectacular atmosphere of this world-famous city. You can return to Plaza de Obradoiro and the Cathedral built in honour of Saint James and, depending on the day, you may even be able to attend mass. For some, the journey continues onto Finisterre, which in Roman times was thought to be the end of the world. After another 4 days of walking, many pilgrims continued to the coast to bathe after their long journeys. Nowadays, the additional days of walking add a closing chapter to your Camino experience. If you wish to add Finisterre on to your experience, this can easily be done for you. Just let us know at the time of booking.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Lux Santiago
Depending on your onward travel plans, you can spend the morning soaking up the atmosphere of the plaza before heading off on your journey home.
Meals Included: Breakfast
During this tour, you will stay in simple, small family-run hotels and guest houses that have been welcoming walkers of the Camino Primitivo for many years. All rooms have an en-suite and typically, in the style of the Camino, accommodations have a great atmosphere as most other guests will be fellow walkers. As this walk is a very busy route from Melide it is usual for similar accommodations to be used other than that listed.
Single Rooms
If you are travelling with family and/or friends but would like single rooms, we would advise booking as soon as your plans are finalised to secure your rooming preferences. Single rooms incur an additional single occupancy fee.
Dining
You will be provided with seven breakfasts. If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please let us know at the time of booking so we can let your hosts know. Should you have severe food allergies, it’s always worth bringing a few of your own snacks with you.
You will find many of the accommodations have their own restaurant, which serves regional dishes, using local ingredients. Although dinners aren’t included in this tour, dinners can be included each evening as a supplement if you wish. Lunches can be purchased locally – a great part of the experience. You can either order lunch from your accommodation or buy local cheeses and meats along with a wide variety of different types of bread you will find along the Camino.
Your Camino trip will begin in the comfortable Alba Lugo, 400 metres from Lugo Cathedral, featuring views of the city. It is located in Lugo, right in the centre of the city, inside the wall – close to the main points of interest. There is an upgrade possible for a small cost at Lugo Spa Hotel.
Your Camino trip will begin in the comfortable Alba Lugo, 400 metres from Lugo Cathedral, featuring views of the city. It is located in Lugo, right in the centre of the city, inside the wall – close to the main points of interest. There is an upgrade possible for a small cost at Lugo Spa Hotel.
Your Camino trip will begin in the comfortable Alba Lugo, 400 metres from Lugo Cathedral, featuring views of the city. It is located in Lugo, right in the centre of the city, inside the wall – close to the main points of interest. There is an upgrade possible for a small cost at Lugo Spa Hotel.
During ancient times, King Alfonso II of Asturias undertook a journey along the historic pilgrimage route to Santiago, which serves as the origin of what we now identify as the Primitive Way. Found in Palas de Rei, a mere 44 km from the Congress and Exhibition Center, you will discover Albergue A Toqueira. You can enjoy this lodging’s garden, communal lounge, and terrace. At A Toqueira, you have the opportunity to pay homage to the cultural legacy of Galicia, as the location gracefully converts a traditional farmer’s dwelling into a contemporary eatery and hostel designed to accommodate present-day travelers on foot.
During ancient times, King Alfonso II of Asturias undertook a journey along the historic pilgrimage route to Santiago, which serves as the origin of what we now identify as the Primitive Way. Found in Palas de Rei, a mere 44 km from the Congress and Exhibition Center, you will discover Albergue A Toqueira. You can enjoy this lodging’s garden, communal lounge, and terrace. At A Toqueira, you have the opportunity to pay homage to the cultural legacy of Galicia, as the location gracefully converts a traditional farmer’s dwelling into a contemporary eatery and hostel designed to accommodate present-day travelers on foot.
During ancient times, King Alfonso II of Asturias undertook a journey along the historic pilgrimage route to Santiago, which serves as the origin of what we now identify as the Primitive Way. Found in Palas de Rei, a mere 44 km from the Congress and Exhibition Center, you will discover Albergue A Toqueira. You can enjoy this lodging’s garden, communal lounge, and terrace. At A Toqueira, you have the opportunity to pay homage to the cultural legacy of Galicia, as the location gracefully converts a traditional farmer’s dwelling into a contemporary eatery and hostel designed to accommodate present-day travelers on foot.
During ancient times, King Alfonso II of Asturias undertook a journey along the historic pilgrimage route to Santiago, which serves as the origin of what we now identify as the Primitive Way. Found in Palas de Rei, a mere 44 km from the Congress and Exhibition Center, you will discover Albergue A Toqueira. You can enjoy this lodging’s garden, communal lounge, and terrace. At A Toqueira, you have the opportunity to pay homage to the cultural legacy of Galicia, as the location gracefully converts a traditional farmer’s dwelling into a contemporary eatery and hostel designed to accommodate present-day travelers on foot.
Situated in Melide, a mere 48 km from Santiago de Compostela Convention Centre, Hotel Lux Melide offers charming 3-star lodging along with a delightful terrace. This establishment, holding a 3-star rating, also features a communal lounge space. Among the standout features of the hotel is its diverse selection of breakfast choices tailored to various dietary needs. Guests have the opportunity to kickstart their day with a nutritious and delectable breakfast, whether they prefer a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free option.
Situated in Melide, a mere 48 km from Santiago de Compostela Convention Centre, Hotel Lux Melide offers charming 3-star lodging along with a delightful terrace. This establishment, holding a 3-star rating, also features a communal lounge space. Among the standout features of the hotel is its diverse selection of breakfast choices tailored to various dietary needs. Guests have the opportunity to kickstart their day with a nutritious and delectable breakfast, whether they prefer a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free option.
Situated in Melide, a mere 48 km from Santiago de Compostela Convention Centre, Hotel Lux Melide offers charming 3-star lodging along with a delightful terrace. This establishment, holding a 3-star rating, also features a communal lounge space. Among the standout features of the hotel is its diverse selection of breakfast choices tailored to various dietary needs. Guests have the opportunity to kickstart their day with a nutritious and delectable breakfast, whether they prefer a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free option.
Situated in Melide, a mere 48 km from Santiago de Compostela Convention Centre, Hotel Lux Melide offers charming 3-star lodging along with a delightful terrace. This establishment, holding a 3-star rating, also features a communal lounge space. Among the standout features of the hotel is its diverse selection of breakfast choices tailored to various dietary needs. Guests have the opportunity to kickstart their day with a nutritious and delectable breakfast, whether they prefer a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free option.
Situated in Melide, a mere 48 km from Santiago de Compostela Convention Centre, Hotel Lux Melide offers charming 3-star lodging along with a delightful terrace. This establishment, holding a 3-star rating, also features a communal lounge space. Among the standout features of the hotel is its diverse selection of breakfast choices tailored to various dietary needs. Guests have the opportunity to kickstart their day with a nutritious and delectable breakfast, whether they prefer a vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free option.
A family run business, Hotel Casa Teodora is managed by brothers Jesus and Gabriel to make a popular Camino stopover. The restaurant is popular with locals and serves dishes such as fresh sardines and beef shank. These meals are complemented by local wines, such as a perfectly chilled Albarino and Ribeiros white wine.
A family run business, Hotel Casa Teodora is managed by brothers Jesus and Gabriel to make a popular Camino stopover. The restaurant is popular with locals and serves dishes such as fresh sardines and beef shank. These meals are complemented by local wines, such as a perfectly chilled Albarino and Ribeiros white wine.
A family run business, Hotel Casa Teodora is managed by brothers Jesus and Gabriel to make a popular Camino stopover. The restaurant is popular with locals and serves dishes such as fresh sardines and beef shank. These meals are complemented by local wines, such as a perfectly chilled Albarino and Ribeiros white wine.
A family run business, Hotel Casa Teodora is managed by brothers Jesus and Gabriel to make a popular Camino stopover. The restaurant is popular with locals and serves dishes such as fresh sardines and beef shank. These meals are complemented by local wines, such as a perfectly chilled Albarino and Ribeiros white wine.
Hotel O’Pino has been welcoming pilgrims for over fifty years on the last leg of their journey to Santiago. Small and hospitable, the en-suite rooms are spacious and the hotel restaurant is famous for its fresh, daily serving of Empanada Gallega (Galician pie).
Hotel O’Pino has been welcoming pilgrims for over fifty years on the last leg of their journey to Santiago. Small and hospitable, the en-suite rooms are spacious and the hotel restaurant is famous for its fresh, daily serving of Empanada Gallega (Galician pie).
Hotel O’Pino has been welcoming pilgrims for over fifty years on the last leg of their journey to Santiago. Small and hospitable, the en-suite rooms are spacious and the hotel restaurant is famous for its fresh, daily serving of Empanada Gallega (Galician pie).
Hotel Lux, situated in the heart of the town, is only a few minutes walk from the historic centre. Within easy reach of local bars and restaurants you can spend the evenings sampling local lobster and octopus dishes. Rooms have their own bathroom, comfortable beds and access to WiFi.
Hotel Lux, situated in the heart of the town, is only a few minutes walk from the historic centre. Within easy reach of local bars and restaurants you can spend the evenings sampling local lobster and octopus dishes. Rooms have their own bathroom, comfortable beds and access to WiFi.
Hotel Lux, situated in the heart of the town, is only a few minutes walk from the historic centre. Within easy reach of local bars and restaurants you can spend the evenings sampling local lobster and octopus dishes. Rooms have their own bathroom, comfortable beds and access to WiFi.
This tour is available from 1st April until 31st October. Regardless of when you travel, there are often celebrations along the Camino, specific to individual towns or regions. From Galician literature festivals to the nationwide celebrations of Semana Santa, walking the Camino is a colourful experience.
The Camino is a well-trodden route, so the trails are very well-defined for the most part. You will follow an ancient pilgrim trail and therefore, whilst sections of the walk will take you deep into the picturesque countryside, you will also walk through urban environments and alongside roads, as you follow the truest route possible.
You should be used to walking up to 25 to 30km with up to 500m of ascent and descent. The kilometres may vary slightly on this walk due to where we have to book the accommodation, and up to 10km on Day 2. On any typical day, you will hike on rocky trails, and farm and forest tracks and cover long sections in the open countryside. You will sustain climbs to hilltop towns, villages, and the rolling countryside. You will also walk on some roads, so please be mindful of all road users at all times.
A moderate active lifestyle makes walking enjoyable, an exercise regime of 2 to 3 times a week is needed, in addition to your usual walks. The route is very well waymarked by the iconic scallop-shell markers and with the many other walkers on the trail, it’s very easy to find your way.
For each of the walks, you will be provided with daily walk notes, a map and the GPX tracks if you wish to use them for your own device.
The route runs across northern Spain and through a variety of terrain. During the early and latter part of the season, conditions can be changeable from temperate warms days through to frosty mornings and very cool nights. From May to September, rainy days are less frequent and temperatures are steadily between 20-24 degrees, however, it is possible that you may experience a few cloudy days. See weather averages here.
The tour starts in Lugo and finishes in Santiago. To reach Lugo fly into Madrid or Santiago de Compostela.
The most straightforward way to reach Lugo is from Santiago ( if you want to get a return flight), it is around a 3hr 30min to 5 hrs train or 2 hr bus journey changing once in O Coruna for the train. If you would prefer a private transfer we can always arrange these for you or you can simply get a taxi.
From Madrid, it is around a 6-hour journey from the main Chamartin train station (or 6 hrs on a bus).
There’s plenty of trains that go all over Spain from Santiago de Compostela. There is also an airport in Santiago as mentioned that has flights to all over Europe.
We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.
For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.
We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants. You can get in touch with us via our contact form or email us at info@stroll.com
We thoroughly enjoyed our Camino Primitivo walk through Stroll. From the first contact with Bella from Stroll we found the whole experience to be smooth sailing. Bella was so efficient, responding to all my queries quickly, professionally and in a really friendly manner. The accommodation she booked for us was fantastic, couldn’t fault it at all and the transfer of our luggage each day worked seamlessly. Would highly recommend booking a walk through Stroll.
The organisation is perfect. The choice of hotels is fabulous. Facilities, food and service are highly commendable. Kudos to Stroll for providing the best service.
The instructions were excellent, they were helpful for finding the Accommodation and getting back on to the track. We loved every thing about this walk. We were caught in the Spanish/French blackout and our host did all he could to help and accommodate us ( at San Romola de Retorta)
Thank you it was amazing!
I have recently completed the Primitivo Stage Lugo to Santiago de Compostela walk of the Camino. Having the Notes and App provided by Stroll was a great help in both my preparation for the walk and to follow during the walk itself. The accommodation was very good and well located and the luggage delivery service worked perfectly. I had great weather and shared the walk with many other helpful and friendly people from many different countries. Great.
My friend and I recently completed the Camino walk. Stroll arranged accommodation, transportation and a large range of resources, maps etc. The whole process was seamless, hassle free and at a very affordable cost. We would definitely recommend Stroll to anyone interested in the Camino.
I found Stroll to be fully supportive and helpful in arranging my Camino. Everything went well. Pickups, hotel bookings, luggage transfers- all went perfectly. I couldn’t have expected any more – it was great
Well organised and a ln outstanding guide made our walk unforgettable
Q: What happens if I don’t want to walk one of the days, can I travel with the luggage?
Unfortunately, walkers cannot travel with the luggage. The information you are provided with has details for local taxi numbers, bus and train timetables should you wish to not walk on any day. Your accommodation hosts will also have up to date information and advice should you wish to travel to the next destination by local transport. As always, you can call us in the office should you need help during your walk.
Q: Where would you suggest adding an extra night?
Santiago, of course! This city is worthy of an extra day and not just to further explore the grand cathedral. Santiago boasts a wealth of medieval architecture, tapas bars and restaurants. We can also arrange an onward walk to the coastal point of Finisterre. Regarded as the end of the world by the Romans, many pilgrims continue on walking for several days to reach Finisterre. Having completed the Camino, it is an extra 4 days to reach Finisterre with a transfer back to Santiago on the fifth day.
Q: Can you extend our stay in Santiago de Compostela?
Of course, please let us know at the time of booking if you would like to extend your time in Santiago.
Q: Can my children walk with me?
We don't allow children under the age of 16 to do this walk.
Q: We’re travelling as friends but would like single rooms?
Subject to a single occupancy payment, single rooms are available. However, due to the limited accommodation single rooms might not always be available for every night of the tour, but we will let you know your options throughout the booking process.
Q: Can we reduce the days walked?
We wouldn’t suggest completing the itinerary in less than 8 days and 7 nights.
Q: Can we extend the days walked?
Of course, we’re happy to discuss your needs. If you feel you would prefer the ultimate Camino walk, you may wish to look at walking the full Camino route for 40 days or Leon to Santiago in 16 days.
Andrea L
We thoroughly enjoyed our Camino Primitivo walk through Stroll. From the first contact with Bella from Stroll we found the whole experience to be smooth sailing. Bella was so efficient, responding to all my queries quickly, professionally and in a really friendly manner. The accommodation she booked for us was fantastic, couldn’t fault it at all and the transfer of our luggage each day worked seamlessly. Would highly recommend booking a walk through Stroll.
Lolita V
The organisation is perfect. The choice of hotels is fabulous. Facilities, food and service are highly commendable. Kudos to Stroll for providing the best service.
Paul P
The instructions were excellent, they were helpful for finding the Accommodation and getting back on to the track. We loved every thing about this walk. We were caught in the Spanish/French blackout and our host did all he could to help and accommodate us ( at San Romola de Retorta)
Thank you it was amazing!
Keven R
I have recently completed the Primitivo Stage Lugo to Santiago de Compostela walk of the Camino. Having the Notes and App provided by Stroll was a great help in both my preparation for the walk and to follow during the walk itself. The accommodation was very good and well located and the luggage delivery service worked perfectly. I had great weather and shared the walk with many other helpful and friendly people from many different countries. Great.
Anita D
My friend and I recently completed the Camino walk. Stroll arranged accommodation, transportation and a large range of resources, maps etc. The whole process was seamless, hassle free and at a very affordable cost. We would definitely recommend Stroll to anyone interested in the Camino.
Richard G
I found Stroll to be fully supportive and helpful in arranging my Camino. Everything went well. Pickups, hotel bookings, luggage transfers- all went perfectly. I couldn’t have expected any more – it was great
Karen K
Well organised and a ln outstanding guide made our walk unforgettable