Camino de Santiago

The Camino de Santiago is a series of walks that converge on the medieval city of Santiago de Compostela, where St James (one of Jesus’ twelve apostles) is buried in a spectacular cathedral, and it’s been a pilgrimage for Christians for over a thousand years.

In the last few decades, however, it’s taken on an even greater significance outside of its Christian origins. People from all over the world, from all religions now walk ‘The Way of St James’, and it’s arguably the most popular hike on the planet – with over 300,000 people completing it in 2017.

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The Camino in Style – 13 Days

Self-guided

Enjoy cultural, culinary & scenic highlights on the Camino de Santiago at your own pace. Private transfers, walk our favourite sections & stay in carefully selected hotels.

img Self-guided img 13 Days img From £ 2775 img Easy to Moderate What's Included

The Camino in Style – 13 Days

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What's Included
  • 12 nights’ accommodation, rooms with ensuites, handpicked hotels and guesthouses, staying in authentic Spanish villages in excellent locations
  • 12 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 2 evening meals
  • Highlights of 2 main Northern Camino trails, the Camino Frances and the Camino del Norte, plus walks on the Camino Vadiniense and Lebaniego
  • The best walking possible away from the crowds
  • Meet and greet at the beginning of the walk
  • A comprehensive set of walk notes with detailed walking itineraries, integrated maps and insider tips in our notes (where to get the freshest produce, the best restaurants, the best wine). We also supply a walking map app to use on the track
  • Transport on and off the track and luggage transfers
  • Dedicated 24/7 local support on the ground in Spain for reassurance. Travelling this way means that if you wish you can also increase or decrease the walk lengths if need be
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CAMINO PRIMITIVO – THE ORIGINAL WAY – 11 Days

Self-guided

Camino Primitivo – the original way. Walk the first stage of the Primitivo from Oviedo to Lugo in the footsteps of pilgrims along the oldest Camino de Santiago route.

img Self-guided img 11 Days img From £ 1020 img Moderate What's Included

CAMINO PRIMITIVO – THE ORIGINAL WAY – 11 Days

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What's Included
  • Ten nights accommodation in rooms with ensuites
  • Ten breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers each day so you can walk with a light pack
  • Comprehensive walk and route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • 24/7 telephone support
  • Walk the world-famous Primitivo Camino from Oviedo to Lugo
  • Explore the rich cultures of Galicia and Asturia in Northern Spain
  • Walk the Camino but enjoy the benefit of having time to walk by yourself if you wish.
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Camino Primitivo Final Stage Lugo to Santiago – 8 Days

Self-guided

Complete the final 103km of the famous Camino Primitivo. Walk from the walled city of Lugo to the iconic cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.

img Self-guided img 8 Days img From £ 670 img Moderate What's Included

Camino Primitivo Final Stage Lugo to Santiago – 8 Days

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What's Included
  • 7 nights accommodation
  • 7 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers as described
  • Pilgrim Passport
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • Walk the final 103km of the Camino from Sarria to Santiago
  • Spend each day walking alongside fellow pilgrims on this world-famous route
  • Discover ancient villages and medieval churches
  • On the ground support from local representatives
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Portuguese Camino de Santiago – 14 Days

Self-guided

Blend beaches, countryside and historical towns on an ancient pilgrim walking trail from Porto to Santiago de Compostela.

img Self-guided img 14 Days img From £ 1050 img Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Portuguese Camino de Santiago – 14 Days

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What's Included
  • Walk the Portuguese Camino de Santiago (way of St James)from Porto all the way to Santiago de Compostela
  • 13 night’s accommodation in 2 to 3 star character filled hotels (an upgrade to 4 star and better accommodation is available.)
  • Breakfast on every day of the walk
  • On the ground support from local representatives
  • Our comprehensive set of notes, detailed walking itineraries, integrated maps and insider tips (where to get the best tapas plus a lot more)
  • Total walking distance of 230km, a real challenge
  • All transport on and off the track including luggage transfers
  • Take advantage of nearly 30 years experience in organising self-guided walking holidays
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Portuguese Coastal Camino Way of St James – 15 Days

Self-guided

Walk the Portuguese Coastal Camino de Santiago (way of St James) from Porto all the way to Santiago de Compostela via the coast.

img Self-guided img 15 Days img From £ 1130 img Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Portuguese Coastal Camino Way of St James – 15 Days

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What's Included
  • Walk the Portuguese Coastal Camino de Santiago (Way of St James) from Porto all the way to Santiago de Compostela via the coast
  • 14 night’s accommodation in 2 to 3-star (or 4- star or better on the luxury trip) character-filled hotels and breakfast on every day of the walk
    An upgrade to 4-star accommodation is available.
  • Our comprehensive set of notes, detailed walking itineraries, integrated maps and insider tips (where to get the best tapas plus a lot more)
  • Pilgrim kit: passport (credentials) and shell (Viera) and walk 259kms on the Portuguese Camino the Way of St James pack free
  • All luggage transfers and transport on the track
  • Take advantage of nearly 30 years experience in organising self-guided walking holidays
  • On the ground support from local representatives
  • You can shorten the walk if you wish and start from closer to Santiago de Compostela
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Portuguese Camino Spiritual Variant – 9 Days

Self-guided

Portuguese and Spanish countryside and the boat trip on the Ría de Arousa – an ancient pilgrim walking trail from Valenca to Santiago de Compostela.

img Self-guided img 9 Days img From £ 850 img Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Portuguese Camino Spiritual Variant – 9 Days

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What's Included
  • Walk 128km of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago (way of St James)from Porto all the way to Santiago de Compostela
  • 8 nights accommodation in 2 to 3 star character filled hotels (an upgrade to 4 star and better accommodation is available.)
  • Boat trip La Translatio
  • Breakfast on every day of the walk
  • On the ground support from local representatives
  • Our comprehensive set of notes, detailed walking itineraries, integrated maps and insider tips (where to get the best tapas plus a lot more)
  • All luggage transfers
  • Take advantage of nearly 30 years of experience in organising self-guided walking holidays
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Portuguese Camino Tui to Santiago – the Final Stage – 8 Days

Self-guided

Portuguese and Spanish countryside and historical towns on an ancient pilgrim walking trail from Porto to Santiago de Compostela.

img Self-guided img 8 Days img From £ 645 img Moderate What's Included

Portuguese Camino Tui to Santiago – the Final Stage – 8 Days

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What's Included
  • Walk the Portuguese Camino de Santiago (way of St James) from Porto all the way to Santiago de Compostela
  • 7 nights accommodation in 2 to 3 star character filled hotels (an upgrade to 4 star and better accommodation is available.)
  • Breakfast on every day of the walk
  • On the ground support from local representatives
  • Our comprehensive set of notes, detailed walking itineraries, integrated maps and insider tips (where to get the best tapas plus a lot more)
  • Total walking distance of 117km, a real challenge
  • All luggage transfers
  • Take advantage of nearly 30 years experience in organising self-guided walking holidays
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Camino Frances: The Full Route – 38 Days

Self-guided

Complete the epic, historic Camino Frances in 38 days, walking from the French town of Saint Jean Pied de Port to Spain’s Santiago de Compostela.

img Self-guided img 38 Days img From £ 3215 img Challenging What's Included

Camino Frances: The Full Route – 38 Days

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What's Included
  • 37 nights of accommodation & 37 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers as described
  • Rest days in Leon and Santiago
  • Receiving your Compostela certificate for completing the full route – Pilgrim Passport
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • Walk the full Camino Frances route (812km) from St Jean to Santiago de Compostela
  • Solo walking is possible at an extra cost – see General Info
  • A £400 deposit per pax is needed to book this trip
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Camino Frances Stage 1: St Jean Pied de Port to Logrono – 9 Days

Self-guided

Complete the first stage of the historic Camino Frances in 9 days, walking from the French town of Saint Jean Pied de Port to Logrono, Spain’s northeast.

img Self-guided img 9 Days img From £ 860 img Moderate What's Included

Camino Frances Stage 1: St Jean Pied de Port to Logrono – 9 Days

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What's Included
  • 8 nights of accommodation & 8 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers as described
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • Begin the journey of walking the full Camino Frances route from St Jean to Logrono
  • Hike 171km across the French Pyrenees into the Basque country
  • Visit the 16th-century town of Pamplona, a favourite of Ernest Hemingway
  • Discover ancient villages and medieval churches
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Camino Frances Stage 2: Logrono to Burgos – 7 Days

Self-guided

Complete the second stage of the Camino Frances from Logrono to Burgos in 7 days self-guided walking pack free and stay in comfort.

img Self-guided img 7 Days img From £ 570 img Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Camino Frances Stage 2: Logrono to Burgos – 7 Days

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What's Included
  • 6 nights of accommodation & 6 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers as described
  • Extra days available in Logrono and Burgos
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • Enjoy exploring the stunning towns of Logrono and Burgos
  • Walk 217km unencumbered by a large pack and stay in comfortable accommodation each night
  • Discover ancient villages and medieval churches
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Camino Frances Stage 3: Burgos to Leon – 11 Days

Self-guided

Walk stage 3 of the epic, historic Camino Frances in 11 days, walking 183 km from the town of Burgos to Leon in Spain’s heartland.

img Self-guided img 11 Days img From £ 915 img Moderate What's Included

Camino Frances Stage 3: Burgos to Leon – 11 Days

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What's Included
  • 10 nights of accommodation & 10 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers as described
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • Discover ancient villages and medieval churches
  • See the architecture of Antoni Gaudi in Leon
  • Walk pack free and stay in comfortable accommodation
  • Enjoy walking through the expansive Spanish countryside and immersing yourself in Spanish culture each evening
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Camino Frances Stage 4: Leon to Sarria – 11 Days

Self-guided

Walk from Leon to Sarria as you complete stage 4 of the famous Camino Frances, walking unencumbered by a large pack, staying in comfort and enjoying a good nights sleep.

img Self-guided img 11 Days img From £ 915 img Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Camino Frances Stage 4: Leon to Sarria – 11 Days

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What's Included
  • 10 nights accommodation & 10 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers as described
  • Flexible itinerary to add days
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • 24/7 telephone support
  • Walk 206km of the world-famous Camino from Leon to Sarria
  • Explore the architecture of in Leon
  • Follow old Roman roads into medieval towns and hilltop villages
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Camino, Final Stage: Sarria to Santiago – 8 Days

Self-guided

Complete the final 100km of the famous Camino de Santiago. Walk from the town of Sarria to the iconic cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.

img Self-guided img 8 Days img From £ 790 img Moderate What's Included

Camino, Final Stage: Sarria to Santiago – 8 Days

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What's Included
  • 7 nights accommodation
  • 7 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers as described
  • Pilgrim Passport
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • 24/7 telephone support
  • Walk the final 100km of the Camino from Sarria to Santiago
  • Spend each day walking alongside fellow pilgrims on this world-famous route
  • Discover ancient villages and medieval churches
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Camino, Relaxed Final Stage: Sarria to Santiago – 9 Days

Self-guided

Walk the final 100km of the famous Camino de Santiago in a more relaxed style over 9 days. Walk from Sarria to the stunning cathedral in Santiago de Compostela.

img Self-guided img 9 Days img From £ 805 img Easy to Moderate What's Included

Camino, Relaxed Final Stage: Sarria to Santiago – 9 Days

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What's Included
  • 8 nights accommodation and 8 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers
  • Pilgrim Passport
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
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Camino Frances: Leon to Santiago – 17 Days

Self-guided

Walk from Leon to Santiago de Compostela as you complete the last 300km of the famous Camino Frances, ending at the steps of Santiago Cathedral.

img Self-guided img 17 Days img From £ 1395 img Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Camino Frances: Leon to Santiago – 17 Days

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What's Included
  • 16 nights accommodation
  • 16 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers as described
  • Pilgrim Passport
  • Flexible itinerary to add days
  • Receiving your Compostela certificate for completing 300km of the Camino
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • 24/7 telephone support
  • Walk the world-famous Camino from Leon to Santiago de Compostela
  • Explore the architecture of Gaudi in Leon and Astorga
  • Follow old Roman roads into medieval towns and hilltop villages
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Camino Finisterre: Santiago de Compostela to Fisterra – 6 Days

Self-guided

Complete the final traditional end of the famous Camino de Santiago. Walk from Santiago de Compostela to Cape Fisterra and wet your feet in the Atlantic.

img Self-guided img 6 Days img From £ 565 img Moderate What's Included

Camino Finisterre: Santiago de Compostela to Fisterra – 6 Days

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What's Included
  • 5 nights accommodation
  • 5 breakfasts
  • Luggage transfers as described
  • Route Notes, Maps and GPX tracks
  • Walk the final traditional stage to the sea of the Camino from Santiago to the Sea
  • Spend each day walking alongside fellow pilgrims on this world-famous route

Overview

Back in the 9th Century, when the pilgrims began, the walk would begin from your home and end at Santiago de Compostela, however, a series of distinct routes have since emerged, and formalised over time.

Now you can start from Seville in the south of Spain, the middle of France, Portugal, or the most popular route of all – The Camino Frances (The French Way) which begins just over the Pyrenees into France, a St Jean Pied de Port.

Your experience will be different depending on what route you take, of course, however, the constants of the Camino seem to be immersion into a historic world of churches and cathedrals, ancient agricultural landscapes, wonderful regional cuisine and a shared sense of mission with your fellow pilgrims.

Whatever your reasons for walking, the destination is the same, and there’s a friendliness and camaraderie that feels unique to the Camino. Stories and walks shared. The journey made richer.

History

According to scripture, James was one of Jesus’ first disciples, and after Jesus died he travelled to the Galicia region of northwestern Spain to preach the word of Christianity.

This area was accepted by the Romans, at the time, to be the very edge of the known world, so you could surmise that James was trying to get as far away as possible from the powers that crucified his lord, and by all accounts he should have stayed there.

Local tradition has it the Virgin Mary appeared to him on the banks of the Ebro River, prompting him to return to Jerusalem where he was promptly beheaded by King Herod, becoming the first disciple to be martyred.

He obviously made an impression during his time in Spain, as his body was ceremoniously wrapped, carefully transported by boat and then overland to what eventually became Santiago de Compostela – which translates to St James of the Field of Stars.

The first pilgrims to the site can be traced back to the 9th Century, however, it grew in popularity and by the 11th Century, people were crossing the Pyrenees to visit his remains.

By the 12th Century there were even more visitors, encouraged by a document called the Codex Calixitus which is recognised as being the first-ever guidebook.

Interesting side note:

The codex was found in the archives of the Cathedral at Santiago de Compostela in 1886 and displayed until it was stolen in 2011. A year later it was discovered in the garage of a Cathedral employee, along with 2.4 million Euros from the collection boxes!

The black plague, the emergence of Protestantism and a series of wars and political unrest whittled away the number of pilgrims until the 16th Century, when it was a seldom travelled route indeed.

It wasn’t until 1987, when UNESCO bestowed world heritage status on the walk that it began to attract greater numbers again. Since then it has gone from strength to strength, inspiring hundreds of thousands to walk the Way of St James, once again.

The Kumano mountains are home to a wide array of exotic and beautiful native species. The most prolific being the mighty cedar tree, which can be found all over the mountains and valleys, creating atmospheric forests to get lost in, or to find yourself in.

Japanese Cedar Tree Cryptomeria japonica

An extremely fast-growing evergreen that can reach up to 100 feet high and 30 feet wide, and live to be 600 years old. They emanate a pleasant pine scent, and they’re insect repellent – which is also pleasing.

Their trunks grow tall and straight, and the wood is waterproof and light so they’re often used for building. In fact, that’s why there are so many of them all over Japan.

The Government embarked on a massive reforestation effort after World War II, and even today, of the 62.3 million acres of forest in Japan, over 10 million are cedar forests.

Japanese Black Bear Ursus thibetanus japonicus

Although Kumano literally means ‘Bear Field’, it’s extremely unlikely that you’ll come across a bear on your walk as there are very few left. In fact they’re listed as vulnerable on the endangered species list.

It is possible though. The Japanese Black Bear tends to live in forests and mountains, although they’re not too keen on Cedar’s as they don’t produce any nuts for them to eat.

They’re black, of course, and have a distinctive crescent moon of white or silver across their chest. And they’re vegetarians most of the time, however will happily take a swipe at anyone who gets in their way.

Some people wear little bells to warn them off, however we’re not entirely sure that’s reliable advice. Best to stay aware, and stay out of their way if you see one.

Japanese Giant Hornet Vespa mandarinia japonica

If you spot a Giant Hornet you’ll know about it. Coming in at three to four centimetres, the aptly named Giant Hornet isn’t the largest hornet in the world, but it’s pretty close.

Their sting, particularly because of the amount of venom injected, can also cause anaphylactic shock if you’re allergic.

The good news is that they’re not interested in human beings at all, however they’re territorial so if they think you’re invading their space, they‘ll chase you away rather aggressively.

If you see one, or a few, simply turn around and walk away. If you run or wave your arms around, they’ll think you’re a danger, and they’ll go after you at speeds of up to 25mph!

Like most wild animals, they’re not something to be concerned about unless you bother them. As any Australian used to walking the bush will already know. See a snake? Turn around and walk away.

Just leave the Giant Hornets alone and you’ll be fine. If you are prone to anaphylactic shock however, we’d recommend you take an epi pen with you, just in case.

Tanuki Nyctereutes procyonoide

Also known as Racoon dogs, although they’re not actually related to Racoons, Tanuki are sociable little animals that live in pairs, or small groups. They live in burrows and come out at night to forage around.

They’re the only canine that actually hibernates, so depending on when you visit, you may or may not spot a Tanuki or two.

If you don’t see one in real life, you may, however, come across a drawing or a little model of one. These cute little animals have crept into Japanese folklore as shape-shifting spirits called Bake-danuki.

And although they used to have a rather sinister reputation, over the last few hundred years their reputation has changed to that of a fun loving character who brings good fortune and prosperity.

So if you see a real one, as they do come out to forage during the day sometimes – congratulations!

Japanese Macaque Macaca fuscata

This hardy species of monkey lives further north than any other non-human primate, can be seen all over Japan, and is also known as a ‘Snow Monkey.’

You may have seen pictures of these cold looking fellow’s, with snow stuck to their bushy grey eyebrows, pink faces poking through the steam as they bathe in a lovely hot spring.

In fact, there’s only one place in the whole of Japan where they do that, and it’s nowhere near the Kumano. There is a good chance you’ll see a macaque on your walk though, and if you do, don’t look into their eyes. They can get upset with that. And an upset monkey can totally ruin your day.

Mamushi Gloydius blomhoffii

The Mamushi, or Japanese pit viper, is one of the most dangerous snakes in Japan, biting a couple of thousand people every year.

They hunt at night using heat-sensitive ‘pits’ that allow them to track down warm-blooded rodents, and if you see one you’ll recognise their dark brown head is a triangular shape, with light grey sides.

They are quite common, and live in all kinds of environments so there’s a good chance you’ll spot a Mamushi on your walk. Keep your eyes open and don’t step on one, you’ll be alright.

LOCAL CUISINE

Given the Camino crosses three different countries, it’s a little difficult to summarise the cuisine you’ll enjoy along the way. But we’ll give it a try.

When you’re not in the cities, you’ll be travelling for most of the time in between lots of little villages and towns, and whenever you stop for the night, or lunch, you’ll have the pleasure of tasting a cheese, or a dish that’s been made locally for hundreds of years.

Cured meats and salamis that have probably never made it out of the region you’re in. Fresh bread that melts in the mouth, and now and again, you’ll stumble into a wine region – like La Rioja.

We’re convinced they keep the best wines for themselves here, and if you visit during the summer festival, on June 29th, you’ll be lucky enough to experience the Batalla de Vino – one of the world’s biggest food fights.

Spanish omelettes are a delight wherever you are in Spain, and Tapas varies depending on the region you’re in too. More seafood the closer to the coast, of course, and when you’re near Padrón, if it’s the right season, you’ll find a plethora of peppers known as Pimentos.

In Portugal, you can sample a variety of Bacalhão dishes – cod fish combined with rice, potatoes and locally made sauces. Cocido, a huge plate of meat, garbanzos and greens. Roast goat, drowned octopus, and of course, the ubiquitous Portuguese tart.

The further into the countryside you get, however, the less chance of there being a menu in English, so you either need to brush up on your languages, or go with a sense of culinary adventure – and an iron stomach. Enjoy!

ACCOMMODATION

Alberges

Most people stay in the numerous Alberges dotted along all routes through France, Spain and Portugal – and they’re extremely good value. These ‘pilgrim’s hostels’ can provide a bed in a dormitory from as little as 3 Euro a night. Some are owned by the local Municipality, some are privately owned, and generally a little more salubrious, and a few are located in monasteries.

Chambre d’Hotes

If you’re beyond bunking in a dormitory – although it can be challenging, it has its charms too (!) – then there are plenty of small, often family run, bed & breakfasts to stay in. They’re generally pretty rustic, but you’ll receive a warm family welcome, and a comfy bed for the night.

Hotels

With a bit more to spend, you can stay in a wide variety of hotels along the way. From five star boutique experiences, to a range of standard accommodation options, there’s plenty to choose from. And if you’d like something a little unusual there are converted barns, old parishes and historic buildings throughout.

Paradors

Alfonso III was the King of Spain from 1886 to 1931, and he was literally born with a silver spoon in his mouth – well not quite, but he was King from the moment he was born, and he was presented naked, on a silver tray, to the prime minister of the time.

What a start in life. Who would have thought, from that privileged beginning, he would go on to open up many of Spain’s most beautiful historical buildings to the public.

These paradors are castles, palaces, fortresses, convents and monasteries where only the chosen few could have stayed in before, but after Alfonso started to open them up, they became luxury five-star hotels for anyone who could afford a night’s accommodation.

There are 94 of these magnificent buildings across Spain, and a good number dotted along the Camino de Santiago. Some new buildings have been built too, generally in areas of outstanding natural beauty.

One night (at least) in a Spanish palace, or castle, is a night not to be missed.

TRANSPORT

Anywhere you want to start your walk, it’s pretty easy to get to. Europe, in general, is well served by plane, train and bus services – especially the larger destinations like Seville, Porto or Pamplona.

Santiago de Compostela is the end point for many however, so here’s a few details about getting back home afterwards from Santiago de Compostela.

Flights
You can fly direct to Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, London, Liverpool, Frankfurt, Rome, Barcelona, Paris and Dublin.

Trains
To Madrid. Leaving at 9am and arriving at 2pm, or the overnighter, leaving at 10:30pm and arriving at 7:30am the next morning.

To Barcelona. Via Madrid as above. Another 2hrs 45 minutes onto Barcelona. Service on the hour, every hour.

To Pamplona. Via Ourense Emplane. Trains every four hours, taking 1 hour 37 minutes. From Ourense Emplane there’s only one train a day to Pamplona, and it takes 7 hours 45 mins. Seems like quite a long journey, but considering you’ve probably just taken two weeks to walk it, maybe not so bad.

Buses
To Santander. Two buses a day, taking 7 hours 45 mins.

To Madrid. Via Mendez Alvaro. Four buses a day, taking 8 hours and 45 mins. From Mendez Alvaro the train takes 28 minutes, and delivers you at terminal 4 of the Madrid Barajas Airport.

Timetables change, of course, so it’s best to check all of this with the local tourist board before you go.

Climate & Weather

The variety of routes you can take, and the distance you can travel make it rather tricky to forecast the weather. Nevertheless, we are talking about Northern Europe in general, so mid-summer isn’t going to be too hot (compared to most of Australia for example) and mid-winter you’re going to get some snow, especially in the Picos de Europas, and the Pyrenees.

Galicia itself is heavily influenced by the Atlantic. It’s frequently windy between October and April, and it can be foggy anytime – which actually adds to the beauty of the landscapes in the early morning.

Santiago De Compostela is cool and humid, with the warmest weather between July and August – average highs of 24°C and lows of about 14°C. It’s frequently rainy too, and even in these summer months, you’ll get five days of rain.

The best time to walk is actually in spring, or autumn, however, as it’s a lot less crowded, there’s less chance of rain and the temperature is much nicer for walking in.

TERRAIN

The overwhelming majority of those who walk the Camino take the ‘French Way’ – which means crossing the mountainous boundary between France and Spain – the Pyrenees.

It crosses a lot further north than Hannibal and his famous elephants did, but it’s the same imposing barrier nonetheless, and quite a test for the legs at the beginning of your walk.

Further along the northern coast of Spain you’ll also skirt the fierce looking Picos de Europa mountains, however apart from these two regions, you’ll be walking, for the most part, through a variety of agricultural landscapes that have been shaped by generations of farmers tilling the land, and feeding the population for thousands of years.

Rolling fields of cereals, olive groves, vineyards and the lush green pastures of the Cantabrian coast, interspersed with picturesque villages and cobbled lanes lined with sunflowers, roman bridges and gothic cathedrals.

The high plains of Castilla last for hundreds of kilometres, and are perhaps the most uninteresting section of the walk, yet there’s nothing too taxing, and overall across all of the routes, the paths themselves are wide, and in good condition.

In fact the majority of the Camino is not very difficult, except for the fact that you’ll be walking for, potentially, two or three weeks in a row.

At the end of the walk, and after a decent rest (!) many pilgrims continue another 70kms to the coast, and the most Westerly point of Spain – Finisterre. This was the end of the known world for the Romans, and the translation in Latin is ‘Finis’ – ‘End’ and ‘Terre’ – Earth.

UNESCO Dual Pilgrimage

The Dual Pilgrim initiative unites two UNESCO world heritage listed walks, the El Camino in Spain and the Kumano Kodo in Japan.

Both are culturally significant, beautiful walks that pilgrims have been completing for over a thousand years, however the natural environments you’ll find yourself in, and the experiences you’ll enjoy are as different as you can probably get.

While the El Camino takes you on Christian pilgrimage through Europe to the north-west of Spain, where the relics of St James are buried, the Kumano takes you through a mountainous region of Japan to visit three sacred shrines, steeped in the Buddhist and ancient Shinto religions.

If you complete them both you’re given a certificate and a badge, and if you want, you’re listed on the Dual Pilgrim website, with a picture of you receiving your certificate next to your name, and the date you completed the task.

So what do you have to do?

Camino de Santiago

Complete one of the Way of St. James routes, walking the final 100km on foot or by horse, or the last 200km by bicycle.

Kumano Kodo

No bikes or horses allowed on the Kumano, so you have to walk any of the following routes:

Takijiri-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha – 38 km
 Kumano Nachi Taisha to/from Kumano Hongu Taisha – 30 km
Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha – 7 km – plus a visit to Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Kumano Nachi Taisha
 Koyasan to Kumano Hongu Taisha – 70 km

If you start with the Camino, you need to register at the Santiago Tourist Office. You won’t get a ‘dual pilgrim passport’ starting here, but you’ll be able to get a certificate that you can present in Japan when you finish.

What happens at the end.

If you complete the two at Santiago, you’ll be given a badge in the Santiago tourist office without much fanfare or celebration. If you finish in Tanabe, in Japan, however, there’s a special Taiko Ceremony where you’ll be invited to express your spiritual journey, thoughts and emotions in the physical realm, by banging on the sacred Taiko drum.

You’ll also receive a certificate from the Head Priest, made from local Washi Japanese handmade paper, and featuring the character for “Way” in the background. A unique memento of your achievement.

Practicalities

Pilgrims Passports

You can buy a ‘Credencial del Peregrino’ from any number of churches, shops and tourist offices. These will give you preference in the Auberges if they’re crowded, and if you get it stamped along the way, you can receive a ‘Compostela’, or, certificate of completion at the end.

Compestelas
Available from the Pilgrims Office in Sangtiago, on production of a stamped ‘Credencial del Peregrino’. Christian, and non-religious compostela’s are also available. 

What to take
You can have a look at our blog on what to take on a walk, however, keep in mind that you will never be too far away from civilization – and you’re best to pack light on a walk of this length. Because of the conditions in northern Spain, we’d also strongly advise you take a set of waterproofs.

Languages.

We’d recommend a phrasebook for the countries you’ll spend most time in, however here are a few words of Spanish.

Hello  – Ola
What is your name? –  Como te llamas?
My name is – Me llamo es…
How are you? – Cómo estás?
I am good – Muy Bien
Where did you start walking the Camino? – Donde empezaste el camino?
Where is the hotel? – Dónde está el hotel?

In Galicia, most people also speak a regional dialect called Galego – but they’ll be pleased if you at least attempt a little Spanish.

Money.
The Euro is used throughout, and you’ll be able to use credit cards in most places too.

Plugs.

You’ll need a European converter with two-point round plugs. 230 V and 50 Hz.

Tipping

Not mandatory, or even expected in Spain, Portugal or France, but 5% might be given if the service was very good – and you’d like to express your thanks.

Albergue Etiquette

Respect for your fellow pilgrims is at the heart of Albergue etiquette.

Don’t make a noise in the dorm room, don’t set an alarm, respect the lights out curfew at 10pm, turn your phone to silent and don’t use it in the dorm, clean up after yourself in the kitchen, and everywhere else for that matter – and don’t snore.

In fact, there are sometimes snorers’ rooms if you ask.

Or instead of having to worry about all of that, you could ask us to arrange everything and instead of staying in a dorm room, you’ll be staying in a boutique hotel – using your phone as much you like, and not queuing up to use a shower in the morning.

An Onsen is a naturally occurring hot spring, and since the Kii Mountains lie just south of the Japan Median Tectonic Line, and right on top of the Pacific Ring of Fire, there are quite a lot of them bubbling up through the rock.

They dredge up a diverse array of minerals from beneath the earth’s mantle, and are known to have significant healing properties for anyone who bathes in their waters. They’re highly popular in Japan, and a range of resort-style facilities have sprung up around most of them to cater to the visitors.

Yunomine Onsen

During a walk on the Kumano Kodo you’ll probably spend some time in what’s thought to be Japan’s oldest onsen – the Yunomine Onsen. Discovered roughly 1,800 years ago, Yunomine is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right.

Resting in a onsen after a long days’ walk is a particular delight of the Kumano Kodo, and in Yunomine you can even combine it with a tasty snack.

Next to the river there’s an open section of the hot spring that gets up to 90 degrees Centigrade, and if you buy a few eggs and vegetables you can have them lowered down in a net to cook.

Fast food, old school Japanese style.

Kawayu Onsen

Another Onsen worth mentioning sits on the Oto river, which is a tributary of the Kumano-gawa. One side of the river is a variety of ryokans, minshuks and hotels, while the other side is a scenic forested mountainside.

The hot spring here is 73 degrees, but the river brings it down to a beautiful
40 and the best way to enjoy it is to dig your own little bath out of the pebbles, settle in, and relax.

LOCATIONS

St Jean Pied de Port

This is the starting point for the most popular Camino route ‘The French Way’ and it’s a beautiful little market town nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees, hugging the River Nive.

Before you buy your final provisions and set off for Spain, make sure you take in some of the ancient inscriptions above the doors around town. See if you can find the old bakery, and discover the price of wheat in 1789.

Pamplona

Pamplona has been around since 75BC, when it began as a camp for the Roman General Pompey – which is where the name came from. The city’s fortunes rose and fell over the years, throughout various German and Visigoth invasions, the advance of the Moors and eventual annexation into Spain.

All of this rich history can be found in the buildings throughout the city, however it’s better known for hosting one of the biggest parties in the world – the festival of San Fermin – and in particular, the running of the bulls. If you’re there between 6 and 14 July there will be a million other people visiting too – so you might want to just keep on walking.

Burgos

A must as you pass through Burgos is a visit to the cathedral, which is heralded as one of the most magnificent in all of Spain. A UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right, the Burgos Cathedral has been attracting devotees since the 13th Century.

The Burgos Castle may also have been magnificent, however the French army destroyed it in 1813 leaving only ruins behind. Nevertheless it’s a great place to get a great view of the city, as the ‘Mirador de Castillo’ lookout delivers a 270 degree, panoramic view.

It does sit on a hill however, so you may have walked enough by the time you get there, and decide to sit with a glass of wine and some Tapas instead.

Leon

Once again it’s a cathedral that’s at the heart of this city. The Santa Maria de Leon is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in Spain, and it’s also home to one of the largest, and best preserved collection of medieval stained glass windows in all of Europe. Hence its nickname – The House of Light. It’s so impressive that it inspired the famous architect, Antoni Gaudí, to design and build the Casa Botines – which can also be found in the city.

The Christian theme continues with an oriental and biblical museum to be found, and a Holy Week that features the “Procession of the Meeting”, which represents the meeting of St John, the Virgin Mary and Christ.

Still, throughout many of these ancient towns, you can often find a nod to the unusual. And in Leon it appears to be the celebration of alcohol called  “The Burial of Genarín” – named after a drunk beggar who was killed by Leon’s very first rubbish truck, in 1929.

Why on earth this event is a cause for celebration, we don’t know, however there must be an interesting story to be found there, somewhere…

Sarria

In order to receive a Compostela of completion, you need to walk at least 100km to get to Santiago – and with Sarria lying only 111km away, it’s a very popular place for pilgrims to begin the Camino.

It’s filled with medieval churches, monasteries, fortresses and castles, yet it’s now a central hub for farming, and furniture making. There are festivals for St John, a day for Corpus Christi, and there’s a Noite Meiga (Witch’s night) towards the end of August.

Santiago De Compostela

The very place we’re all heading to, of course, and the cathedral is once again – the centre of the city. Even if you’re not walking the Camino yourself, you can find a spot to sit, and watch the pilgrims arrive after their long walks across the top of Spain. The ‘French Way’ is almost 800km’s in total, so there’s often an emotional response when they arrive – and it can be quite a moving experience to witness.

You can also attend mass, where the Priest welcomes pilgrims from all over the world and congratulates them on their efforts – resulting, often, in a few tear soaked pews.

The Old Town of the city is well worth a visit too, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985, two years before the Way of St James was. It’s one of the most elegant quarters in Spain, and in amongst the gothic churches and historic buildings, you’ll find little gems serving up a variety of seafood, and the odd Rioja.

Religion & Spirituality

There’s no doubt, or debating the fact that the Camino de Santiago began as a Christian pilgrimage. A way to test your faith, respect your god and perhaps seek redemption.

The Codex Calixtinus, written in the 12th Century as a guide to the Camino (also the very first guidebook ever written, about anywhere) leaves you in no doubt as to the nature of the walk.

‘The pilgrim route is for those who are good: it is the lack of vices, the thwarting of the body, the increase of virtues, pardon for sins, sorrow for the penitent, the road of the righteous, love of the saints, faith in the resurrection and the reward of the blessed, a separation from hell, the protection of the heavens.

It takes us away from luscious foods, it makes gluttonous fatness vanish, it restrains voluptuousness, constrains the appetites of the flesh which attack the fortress of the soul, cleanses the spirit, leads us to contemplation, humbles the haughty, raises up the lowly, loves poverty.’

Nowadays, however, even the Dean of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is not so sure anymore. Here’s what Segundo Perez Lopez has to say about the people who walk the Way of St James today.

“The current situation of crisis in the world, and personal searching, leads oneself to get out on the pilgrimage route, to try to find oneself, and transcend, making sense of our existence.”

Notice he doesn’t mention anything about religion, or god, gluttonous fatness or the protection of the heavens. Even for a Catholic priest he recognises the more personal, spiritual nature of many pilgrims today.

The church will even provide you with a non-religious ‘Compostela’ – certificate of completion – if you like, which makes only one stipulation in accordance with religion.

You have to ‘make the Pilgrimage for religious/spiritual reasons or at least have an attitude of search’.

So even the Church is saying it doesn’t necessarily have to be about religion anymore.

Spirituality, a shared experience with others, the monotonous isolation of walking for weeks on end – perhaps, the church is admitting that maybe, there’s a touch of the divine in the act of the walk itself. Who knows, but it can’t do any harm to go and find out.

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