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Embark on a memorable journey along the Camino de Invierno, a serene and picturesque alternative to the traditional Santiago routes. This unique pilgrimage invites you to explore the stunning landscapes of Galicia while wandering through charming villages and rich historical sites. The route meanders alongside the Sil River, unveiling breathtaking views of terraced vineyards and dense forests, along with the remarkable ruins of Las Médulas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Blending natural beauty, cultural heritage, and excellent local cuisine, the Winter Way offers a rewarding and intimate walking experience, ideal for those seeking a quieter path away from the busier Camino routes.
Highlights
- Marvel at the stunning terraced vineyards of Ribeira Sacra
- Experience the tranquility of one of Santiago's lesser-known routes
- Explore the ancient mining ruins of Las Médulas, steeped in Roman history
- Savour delicious Galician specialties like Botillo del Bierzo and local wines
- Discover charming towns with rich cultural heritage, such as Monforte de Lemos
- Delve into the myths and legends that weave through Galicia's landscapes
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Ponferrada, the captivating heart of the El Bierzo region. Take this opportunity to explore the historic centre, where you can meander through charming streets and indulge in some of the renowned Bierzo DO wine, steeped in a rich winemaking tradition. The iconic Ponferrada Castle, dating back to the times of the Knights Templar, invites you to delve into its storied past, standing as a monumental testament to the region's medieval defenses.
Hotel in Ponferrada
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotel (14 nights)
Transfers
- Luggage Transfers
- Private Vehicle Transfers
Meals
14 breakfasts, 0 lunches, and 0 dinners
Guidance & Support
- Itinerary & Walk Notes
- Walking App for Navigation
- 24/7 on-trip support
How We Rate This Walk
Stroll Walking Level
Moderate
Rated by our team — we walk every route before we recommend it.
Expect some hills and longer walking days. A reasonable level of fitness will help you enjoy the experience.
View Fitness GuideDays on the trail
Average per walking day
Gain per day
5/10
Trail difficulty
Where You'll Stay
Accommodation along the Camino de Invierno is rooted in the landscape it passes through. You will find yourself in rural guesthouses and small, welcoming hotels that sit comfortably within their surroundings, each offering en-suite rooms and the kind of hospitality that Galicia does well. Where alternative properties are occasionally used in place of those listed, they will always be of equivalent quality.
Single Rooms
If you are travelling with others but would prefer a single room, we recommend booking as early as possible. Availability can be limited on this popular route and a single occupancy fee applies.
What You'll Eat
Fourteen breakfasts are included throughout the trip, served at your accommodation before each day's walking begins. For lunch, the route provides its own pleasures, with local cheeses, cured meats and a wide variety of breads available to pick up along the way. Come evening, Galician cuisine earns its reputation, and many properties along the route have their own restaurants where dinner can be added as a supplement. The region is known for its empanadas and the excellent wines of the Ribeira Sacra, and there is real reward in discovering both at your own pace.
Note: Please advise us of any food allergies or intolerances at the time of booking. If you have severe allergies, bringing some of your own snacks is recommended, as specialist ingredients can be harder to source along the way.
More About This Trip
Dates & Pricing
Choose Your Start Date
Pick any available date — this is your trip, your schedule
June 2026
July 2026
Prices shown are per person, twin/double share basis.
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