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OVERVIEW

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!

Highlights

  • Walk the final 103km of the Camino from Lugo to Santiago
  • Visit the majestic cathedral at Santiago de Compostela
  • Spend each day walking alongside fellow pilgrims on this world-famous route
  • Visit the amazing walled city of Lugo
  • Discover ancient villages and medieval churches
  • Walk into Santiago's Plaza de Obradoiro and to the steps of its impressive Baroque cathedral
  • Claim your coveted pilgrim's certificate

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
8 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 1245

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 375

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8

DAY 1
Arrive Lugo

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

DAY 2
Lugo to San Romao de Retorta - Ferreira

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

DAY 3
San Romao de Retorta to Melide

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

DAY 4
Melide to Arzua

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.

DAY 5
Arzua to Rua/O Pedrouzo

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).

DAY 6
Rua/O Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela

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.

DAY 7
Rest day in Santiago de Compostela

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

DAY 8
Onward Travel

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

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 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

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

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.

  • NIGHT 1

  • NIGHT 2

  • NIGHT 3

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHT 5

  • NIGHT 6 & 7

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE

Elevation is not a major consideration in your overall training program. However, you should still incorporate some form of resistance training to increase your endurance.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

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 WALKING

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.

WEATHER

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.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

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.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips requiring international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance including medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred by our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Apr 2024 - 31 Oct 2024
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $1245

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $375
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Apr 2025 - 31 Oct 2025
    AVAILABLE
    from

    $1295

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $395
    BOOK NOW

FAQS

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.

SIMILAR TRIPS

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.

 Self-guided 11 Days From $1890 Moderate What's Included

CAMINO PRIMITIVO – THE ORIGINAL WAY – 11 Days

BACK 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.

8 Day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

Self-guided

Walk this ancient trail from end to end at a slower pace. Enjoy wondrous views, old forest and bathe in onsens staying in traditional Japanese Ryokans or Minshuku’s.

 Self-guided 8 Days From $2895 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

8 Day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

BACK What's Included
  • Walk the entire Kumano Kodo Nakahechi from end to end via magnificent shrines ending at the glorious Nachi waterfall and temple complex
  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
  • 7 nights stay in intimate family-run or small traditional Japanese lodgings, some with in-house onsens
  • Superb traditional multi-course meals for breakfast and dinner each day on the walk. Plus 4 walkers lunches
  • Itineraries can be flexible to shorten the walking or slow the trip down by adding more rest days
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s comprehensive track notes and maps
  • 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground

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.

 Self-guided 8 Days From $1395 Easy to Moderate What's Included

Camino, Final Stage: Sarria to Santiago – 8 Days

BACK 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

Magical Tour du Mont Blanc – 8 Days

Self-guided

Hike the renowned Tour du Mont Blanc in 8 days by linking the best trekking sections with short bus journeys, panoramic cable cars and mountain trains.

 Self-guided 8 Days From $2995 Challenging What's Included

Magical Tour du Mont Blanc – 8 Days

BACK What's Included
  • 7 nights of accommodation in 3.5-star hotels and 7 breakfasts
  • Cable car Skyway pass for use on the extra Cormanyeur rest day
  • Transfers from Geneva and all luggage transfer
  • Private transfers to Italy from France and back again
  • Maps, Auswalk Mont Blanc walk notes and GPX tracks
  • Itineraries have the flexibility to account for most weather conditions
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s authored comprehensive track notes and maps
  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation arranged for you
Overview

OVERVIEW

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!

Highlights

  • Walk the final 103km of the Camino from Lugo to Santiago
  • Visit the majestic cathedral at Santiago de Compostela
  • Spend each day walking alongside fellow pilgrims on this world-famous route
  • Visit the amazing walled city of Lugo
  • Discover ancient villages and medieval churches
  • Walk into Santiago's Plaza de Obradoiro and to the steps of its impressive Baroque cathedral
  • Claim your coveted pilgrim's certificate

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
8 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate

Grade 3 – Moderate

Short, steep hill sections. Walks that are longer than 12km with varied terrain. A moderate active lifestyle and some walking experience is recommended.
PRICE FROM
$ 1245

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 375

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

DOWNLOAD PDF
Departure Dates
Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5
  • Day 6
  • Day 7
  • Day 8

DAY 1
Arrive Lugo

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

DAY 2
Lugo to San Romao de Retorta - Ferreira

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

DAY 3
San Romao de Retorta to Melide

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

DAY 4
Melide to Arzua

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.

DAY 5
Arzua to Rua/O Pedrouzo

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).

DAY 6
Rua/O Pedrouzo to Santiago de Compostela

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.

DAY 7
Rest day in Santiago de Compostela

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

DAY 8
Onward Travel

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

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • 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
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

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.

  • NIGHT 1

  • NIGHT 2

  • NIGHT 3

  • NIGHT 4

  • NIGHT 5

  • NIGHT 6 & 7

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 17-25 km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE

Elevation is not a major consideration in your overall training program. However, you should still incorporate some form of resistance training to increase your endurance.

UNEVEN TERRAIN

Preparation for hiking on uneven terrain demands a blend of physical and mental readiness.

Begin with balance-enhancing exercises, such as one-legged stands and stability ball workouts, laying a groundwork for stability and coordination. Strengthening the lower body is especially important, achieved through the incorporation of squats, lunges, and step-ups. Gradually increase the complexity of the terrain on which you walk, moving from gravel paths to rocky trails. Cultivate mindfulness during your practice, directing focused attention to both your immediate surroundings and precise foot placement.

The importance of suitable footwear cannot be overstated; prioritise options that offer robust support and reliable grip to navigate varying terrains with confidence. Build endurance through consistent hikes, progressively increasing distance and difficulty.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

AVAILABILITY

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 WALKING

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.

WEATHER

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.

HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

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.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips requiring international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance including medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred by our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 1 Apr 2024 - 31 Oct 2024
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $1245

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $375
    BOOK NOW
  • 1 Apr 2025 - 31 Oct 2025
    AVAILABLE
    Details
    from

    $1295

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $395
    BOOK NOW
Faqs

FAQS

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.

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