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El camino de santiago pilgrimage, the way of st. james pilgrimage in spain.

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The Way of St. James Join us on an epic, 75-mile walking pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela that will transform your life. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people walk the Camino. Now it’s your turn. Whatever your motivation, Dynamic Catholic will give you an unforgettable experience that will challenge your body, mind, and soul.

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• Round-trip airfare from your desired Airport * If you want to book your own airfare, Land Only option is available
• Base Price: 2 Travellers in 1 Room: Queen or King Bed or 2 Twin beds
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• Breakfast and dinner daily; lunch on walking days
• Transportation by air-conditioned motor coach
• Sightseeing and admissions fees
• Assistance available to pilgrims who are unable to complete any leg of the journey
• Catholic Priest, Mass daily & Spiritual activities
• Flight bag & Portfolio of all travel documents
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Centrally located hotels or similar

Hotel Alfonso IX

Pousada de Portomarin

Hotel Amenal

San Francisco Hotel Monumento

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Day 1: Depart United States

Make your way to your local airport where you will board your overnight flight(s). Your meals will be served on board.

Day 2: Arrive in Madrid (Tour Day: 2 miles | 3.2 kilometers | 4,500 steps)

Upon arrival in Madrid, you will collect your luggage in the baggage claim area, and continue to the Arrival’s Hall where you will be greeted by your driver. Transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon you will enjoy a short walking tour of Spain’s capital city. There we will celebrate Mass, followed by a tour of the Cathedral. We will continue our walking tour of Madrid to include the exterior of the Royal Palace. Walk through the Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, and we make a final stop at the Church of Saint James. Return to your hotel. We will enjoy a nice meal before having a restful overnight in Madrid – our walking begins tomorrow!

Day 3: Madrid - Foncebadon - Iron Cross - O Cebreiro - Sarria (Walking Day: 2.8 miles | 4.5 kilometers | 6,500 steps)

This morning, you will enjoy breakfast and transfer to Sarria. Sarria is located in the northwest of Spain and is noted for being the entry point to the oriental side of the region, Galicia. Your transfer will end and you will begin on foot from Foncebadon. In the eleventh century, this village was a common resting place for pilgrims on El Camino due to its hospitals, hospice, and church. Currently, the structures that have served so many are now in ruins. While in Foncebadon, you will walk to view the “Iron Cross.” This Cross is a common pausing place for pilgrims as they leave a stone at the foot of the cross to symbolize a sin or burden that they are leaving behind. Your tour continues as you leave your burdens behind and continue onward to the village nestled in the mountains, O Cebreiro. Many pilgrims pause at this site due to the Eucharistic Miracle that occurred in the year 1300. Additionally, be sure to have your cameras ready as this village is suspended 1,300 meters in the air and provides a breathtaking panoramic view. Your first walking day culminates with a delicious meal and an overnight in Sarria.

Day 4: Sarria - Portomarin (Walking Day: 15 miles | 23.5 kilometers | 35,000 steps)

Today is the day that your walking pilgrimage (El Camino) to Santiago de Compostela officially begins! Pick up your Pilgrim Passport and set out for Portomarín. With the guidance of Our Lord, and through the spirit of St. James the apostle, you will become an authentic pilgrim by journeying along the physical road, as well as, the spiritual one. Your first official day of walking will culminate in Portomarin. This town dates back to the Roman Ages and was an important halt along the route in the Middle Ages. Due to the creation of a dam in 1962, the Old Portomarin is currently underneath the Mino River. As a result of the dam creation, many of the old buildings were moved, brick by brick. Among these buildings is the Church of St. John of Jerusalem. In Medieval Times, this church was strategically set along the route of El Camino in order to protect the tomb of Santiago. At Portomarin, you will enjoy dinner followed by an overnight.

Day 5: Portomarin - Palas de Rei (Walking Day: 16 miles | 25 kilometers | 37,500 steps)

This morning, you will enjoy breakfast at your hotel and journey from Portomarin, through the woods to the Palas de Rei. This was a noteworthy town in the Middle Ages, as it contained a Royal Hospital and the church of St. Tirso. As the rugged walk continues, you will continue through fields, forests, and granaries. Additionally, you will see a prominent characteristic of Galician Landscape, Los Cruceiros. These wayside crosses depict Christ and the Virgin Mary. Dinner and enjoy a restful overnight in Arzua.

Day 6: Palas de Rei - Arzua (Walking Day: 18.2 miles | 29 kilometers | 44,000 steps)

Breakfast will be served at your hotel. Your pilgrimage continues as you will travel from Palas de Rei to the bustling small town of Arzua. Before arriving in Arzua, your group will stop at Melide. This town is a crucial point of El Camino because it is where the French and Oviedo routes converge. Upon arrival in Melide, you will notice the old roads that date back to the fourteenth century, which are some of the oldest in the region of Galicia. After lunch, you will leave the Lugo province and enter into the province of A Coruna. As your group continues to Arzua, you will cross the beautiful, medieval bridge over the Iso River to Ribadiso. Following your visit to this Chapel, your day will culminate with the arrival in Arzua, where you will enjoy dinner and an overnight.

Day 7: Arzua (Rest Day: 4.5 miles | 7.2 kilometers | 10,500 steps)

Just like God rested on the seventh day, we will take a break. After Mass, spend time reflecting on your journey so far and enjoy the day in carefree timelessness. Dinner and overnight in Arzúa.

Day 8: Arzua - Arca de O Pino (Walking Day: 14.2 miles | 22.8 kilometers | 33,000 steps)

Your journey is almost over as you walk to the largest community before Santiago, Arca de O Pino! Upon walking this route, you will immerse yourselves in the fragrant eucalyptus groves and experience the breathtaking scenery. At a point throughout your walk, you will stop and enjoy a picnic lunch. Following lunch, you will continue your journey and arrive in Arca de O Pino. As you explore this village, you will notice joy etched on the faces of the pilgrims. Although they have traveled a long distance, they are not weary. With God and St. James guiding their paths, excitement and anticipation continues for their arrival in Santiago.

Day 9: Arca de O Pino - Monte del Gozo - Santiago de Compostela (Walking Day: 10.4 miles | 17 kilometers | 25,000 steps)

Day 10: Santiago de Compostela (Tour Day: 8.2 miles | 13.1 kilometers | 19,200 steps)

This morning you will awaken in the beautiful city of Santiago de Compostela! Formed by Galician granite, the Cathedral is one of the finest architectural examples in Europe as it encompasses Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles. Additionally, the Cathedral contains numerous and valuable pieces of art that truly captivate the eye. Upon entering the Cathedral, the tradition will lead as you will hug the dazzling statue of St. James. Following this intimate embrace, you will descend into the crypt where the Patron Saint of Pilgrims’ relics is kept. Following your visit, you will enjoy free time for lunch on own before your sightseeing tour of the city. Some stops on your tour include the Obradoiro Square, Fonseca Palace, Gelmirez Palace, Franco Street, and much more. Your evening will be free to spend at your leisure until a final dinner with your group. You will spend a final overnight in Santiago de Compostela.

Day 11: Return Home

Your last day in Spain will begin with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a transfer to the Santiago Airport for your return flight(s) home. You will say ‘hasta luego’ (see you later) to your new friends made on this journey.

*206 Tours Disclaimer: Occasionally local religious and national holidays, weather, traffic conditions and other events may necessitate changes in the sequence of events or the missing of certain events/places. Though every effort will be made to follow the itinerary, it should be considered as an indication, rather than a contract of events and places to be visited.

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About the el camino:.

Join us on an epic, 75-mile walking pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela that will transform your life. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people walk the Camino. Now it’s your turn. Whatever your motivation, Dynamic Catholic will give you an unforgettable experience that will challenge your body, mind, and soul.

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Saint James path rediscovered in Poland

• Thread starter sillydoll
• Start date Nov 4, 2009

Veteran Member

• Nov 4, 2009

This summer, a new part of the Saint James’ Way that goes through Małopolska, leading from Sandomierz to Krakow, was opened. During a mass in the Dominican Church of Saint James in Sandomierz, which preceded the official opening of the route, the superior of the monastery, Father Wojciech Krok, preached: “It is not only the physical, but a certain spiritual path that we have to travel that is a part of our life. The pilgrimage to Santiago has the elements of a spiritual path.” The first section of the Polish route was reconstructed in July 2005, and it became the Lower Silesian part of the Saint James’ Way. The event was followed by route openings in several other voivodships, as well as plans to reconstruct the route in other parts of the country. Interest in the Way is increasing and people who have recently made the journey are helping to create it. A special forum designated for Polish pilgrims testifies to this. It is a good way to exchange opinions, find a person that will accompany you when travelling and to search for information. http://www.krakowpost.com/article/1670  

• Nov 9, 2009

When the post on the Camino in Poland was posted we were walking along the Malopolska Droga sw. Jakuba towards the beautiful wooden church of St.James in Wieclawice which is the last "stop" before Krakow for those who walk from Sandomierz. We were a group of members of the CSJ visiting the Confraternity in that part of Poland. The route is well marked from Sandomierz and the parishes are working hard to provide for pilgrims. It is possible to walk for 5 days from one church of St.James to another, (though the church of St.James in Krakow is no longer standing). Ks.Ryszard Honkisz (Fr. Richard is Parish priest of Wieclawice) has worked enthusiastically to establish the route. We were made very welcome all along the way by many hospitable people though it was only possible for us to walk a short distance through beautiful woods in autumn sunshine. Two years earlier some of us from the CSJ had walked a short stretch of the Camino Polaco near Jakubow. This route could begin on the border with Lithuania. (We were told in Olsztyn of pilgrims from Lithuania). There is a challenge here for those who wish to start far to the east.....from Kiev perhaps? Look at http://www.swjakob.pl and click on Bractwo sw.Jakuba to see a short film.....which shows the woods we walked through. (My apologies for the lack of accents on the words in Polish!!) Maricristina  

Veteran wanderer

laurie said: Look at http://www.swjakob.pl Maricristina Click to expand...

You mention Kiev. Do you know if there are there any St James' churches, or signs of Saint James in Russia? I have tried to Google it but have'nt had much luck. I read in a book on Moscow that underneath the zakomary gables in the Cathedral of the Archangel (built in 1505 by an Italian architect) is a scallop shell motif.  

• Nov 10, 2009

Wikipedia gives just one reference to a church of St. James in Russia, the Church of St. James Son of Zebedee, in Moscow (Kazyonnaya Sloboda). There is an illustration but no further information. It appears to be the only church with that dedication in Moscow. I mentioned Kiev because there are hopes of extending the camino from Sandomierz into the Ukraine. Maricristina  

Peter Robins

the Orthodox church was always more interested in the 'other' James, and never took much interest in Santiago. I would doubt if you'll find many references to pilgrimage to Santiago in the eastern churches. AIUI, the intended route from Kiev is the Via Regia, so not via Sandomierz, which is more of a 'branch line' further north. http://www.jakub-malopolska.itl.pl/grafika/mapa1.jpg Photo of rather cold-looking CSJ on the Sandomierz group's blog http://sandomierz.wordpress.com/2009/11 ... ndomierzu/  

Telluridewalker

Active member.

On that map of Poland, I see four different icons of the scallop shell- are these different/competing "brands" of the Camino in Poland? (I wish I read Polish.) Anyplace online in English that anyone can recommend for info on the Camino in Poland?  

in fact, I see there's a new page on the current status from the Ukraine border to Krakow on that site. Here's Google's (not too bad) translation http://www.google.co.uk/translate?js=y& ... ry_state0=  

Telluridewalker said: On that map of Poland, I see four different icons of the scallop shell- are these different/competing "brands" of the Camino in Poland? (I wish I read Polish.) Anyplace online in English that anyone can recommend for info on the Camino in Poland? Click to expand...

• Nov 15, 2009

Here- http://mypielgrzymi.com/drogi/ you will find a map of all existing routes in our country. Different scallop styles in various regions is just the consequence of different groups working on the Camino in Poland. If you wish to get some information on the routes go to http://www.camino.net.pl . Most of the organisations and single people working on the route are now organised around association "Przyjaciele Dróg Świętego Jakuba w Polsce". There is a lot going on at polish Caminos nowadays and we will be more than happy to assist all pilgrims, who wish to come and visit us. Take care. Kuba.  

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Welcome to Camino Latvia

In Spanish Camino means – way.

For pilgrims the Way is not just a word, it is a way of life.

Camino de Santiago is one of the most fascinating pilgrimage routes in the world. Its destination is the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, located in the Northern part of Spain. Pilgrims walk this Way on foot. It is commonly regarded as a way of self discovery, forgiveness and devotion.

Camino has been featured in many documentaries and films, depicted in numerous books, it has served as inspiration for beautiful music. Every year thousands of pilgrims from all over the world take up their backpacks and set out on the Way. For each pilgrim the Camino is unique, to each one it speaks in a very personal way.

How can you know what your Camino might be like? You can find that out only by letting the Way lead you.

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Lesser Polish Way of St. James

The existing network of the polish trails of saint james, fits also the lesser polish way of st. james. it covers the areas of the historic district of the state of the first piast, (province of kraków and sandomierz). the routing refers to the medieval tract leading along the edge of the vistula river valley, from sandomierz to kraków., santiago de compostela is a city located in the north-western spain, the capital of the region of galicia. since the discovery of the tomb of st. james apostle the greater by the hermit pelagius in about 813, millions of faithful people began to traverse the continent, using the existing transport and trade roads, creating a network of trails which from the remotest corners of europe led to the northern spain. most of them guided by the pure religious motives, but there were also those who were just curious to get to know the world, pushed by the desire of experience of the hardships of a long journey. goethe wrote that on the pilgrimage routes to santiago "europe was born..." and the people mingled with a sense of belonging to the european community, which then was represented by the christian religion. at the same time it was the route along which the culture and architecture of the romanesque were developing, spreading new ideas and achievements of the civilization of the middle ages. there were a few pathways leading to the shrine of st. james. so-called french roads have been the most important since the ninth century, passing through the pyrenean passes and converging in the town of puente la reina. from the place there was one common pilgrims trail called the camino grande . the way of the pilgrims is designated by the shell of. st. james, whose "rays" converge at one point - at the hiking target, in addition a yellow arrow appears. the attribute of each pilgrim follower to santiago is also a shell snapped on a backpack or worn around a neck, as well as a stick. john paul ii used to speak about the great importance of the pilgrim road for europe. he said: "from santiago i'm directing to you - old europe - the crying full of love. find yourself be yourself discover your origins. liven up your roots..." in 1987, the council of europe established the first european cultural route. it appealed to the existing medieval routes to santiago de compostela. signposts with a motif of the shell of st. james appeared initially in spain and in the next few years in such countries as france, germany, italy, austria and switzerland. in 1993, the pilgrimage road to santiago in spain, and in 1998 the route in france, were included in the unesco list of world cultural and natural heritage of humanity. the archival sources and archaeological discoveries made in different parts of poland prove that poles also pilgrimaged to the tomb of st. james. we know dozens of polish pilgrims who were registered in spanish documents. in 2005 poland joined the countries where jacob's trails were marked. currently in our country there are 24 sections of st james road. the most famous ones are among others: lower silesian way of st. james , the polish way (camino polaco) , the way of st. james via regia, pomeranian way of st. james, lesser poland's way of st. james, beskid way of st. james and warsovian way of st. james . currently the way of st. james is the longest marked trail pilgrimage, and also the longest cultural and thematic trail in poland. in total, between the years 2005 and 2015 over 5,200 km of marked sections of the camino de santiago were prepared for the pilgrims in poland. lesser polish way of st. james is a part of the existing polish network of st. james trails. it covers the areas of the historic district of the state of the first piasts (the province of krakow and sandomierz) and refers to the medieval tract leading along the edge of the vistula river valley from sandomierz to krakow. this route was one of the branches of the so-called russian route leading from polesie and ruthenia to the capital of the crown and silesia. the project to reconstruct lesser polish way of st. james from sandomierz to krakow was established in june 2007, during a meeting of people from krakow, sandomierz and tarnobrzeg who had pilgrimaged to santiago de compostela. some people and institutions such as: the members of the brotherhood of st. james apostle in old wiêc³awice, the mayors and employees of the municipality in pa³ecznica and micha³owice participated in the work associated with the demarcation and marking the lesser polish way of st james . valuable assistance and guidance were also obtained from the authorities of the cities of sandomierz, staszów, busko-zdrój, skalbmierz, s³omniki and kraków as well as from the authorities of the municipalities of czarnocin klimontów, kocmyrzów-luborzyca, koniusza, radziemice, szyd³ów, wiœlica, zielonki and z³ota.ma³opolska droga œw. jakuba jest jednym z ponad dwudziestu polskich odcinków camino de santiago . the most important of the demarcation of the main points of lesser polish way of st james was the distribution of the churches of st. james apostle, located on a clear, continuous line from sandomierz via kotuszów, szczawory¿, probo³owice, pa³ecznica, niegardów, wiêc³awice stare, kraków and further via sanka, palczowice to bestwina. according to some historians, the short distances between the towns confirm the existence of lesser poland's pilgrimage route to the tomb of st. james the greater in santiago de compostela in the middle ages. medievalists emphasize that these temples could perform the rank of station churches. their location in close proximity to each other (not exceeding 30 km stretch of sandomierz-krakow) allowed to walk the consecutive road segments in one day. the length of lesser polish way of st james from sandomierz to szczyrk is 317 km. so, the same as the pilgrims greet on the way of st. james, we also wish you all buen camino - good way we appeal to all residents to open their homes and hearts to pilgrims, and when they lose the trail help them to find the way, saying a good word of consolation and encouragement to continue the pilgrimage. ready to welcome the pilgrims, we ask you to mark your houses with a shell of st. james, which can be obtained from diocesan shrine of st. james apostle in wiêc³awice stare. all the necessary information about lesser polish way of st james is posted on the following websites: www.caminogalicja.pl www.swjakub.pl.

Below the current version of the Lesser Polish Way of St James is shown, marked by number 1.

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Camino Polaco

We felt like on a pilgrimage, visiting 2 important churches on the camino to Santiago leading through the north of Poland.

The first church was in Roszel (Rössel) where a Gothic castle stands on a steep hill side above the river Sajna, built 1350−1401 by the Teutonic Order. It is now a hotel but the tower and the cellars can be visited. Next to it the Saints Peter and Paul church is also from the 14th century.

Near Reszel, the Catholic shrine of Święta Lipka ( Heiligelinde) was our second church. As  a baroque church it was a big change to the many Gothic brick churches we had seen during the last weeks while travelling through the north of Germany and Poland.

According to a legend, Święta Lipka refers to a tree with a wooden statue of Mary under which miracles took place. A chapel at the site was first mentioned in a deed issued by Johann von Tiefen, then Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights in 1491. At this time Heiligelinde was already a pilgrimage site with an inn.

Although the village lay in the Protestant region of Masuria, the chapel was rebuilt by the Jesuits and consecrated in 1619 as a Roman Catholic church. It became a popular pilgrimage site among the Roman Catholic populace of the surrounding counties.

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Walking the Camino de Santiago: How to Plan Your Trip

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Camino de Santiago: The Popular Routes

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What’s a Compostela?

Camino del Norte

Camino Portugués

Camino primitivo.

Camino Inglés

The English Way launches from the port city of Ferrol and is the shortest traditional itinerary at 75 miles. (A second option leaves from A Coruña but is not long enough to earn your Compostela.) Not many distance-walkers choose this Camino, so you’re bound to have more solitude. Walkers cover this distance in six days.  

Vía de la Plata

Boasting a total of 621 miles, the Silver Way is the most extensive distance of the Camino itineraries. This southernmost passage starts in Seville, and links up historic cities, art, and architecture. The stages—meaning, the suggested segment that pilgrims should cover each day—are longer, so it’s not usually an attractive choice for first-timers. It’s also the least-walked route of all. Reserve at least 40 days to check-off these miles.   

Camino Finisterre-Muxía

This leg is garnish for all of the Camino routes. Many travelers extend their walk from Santiago de Compostela westward to the seaside town Finisterre—which means end of the earth — against the Atlantic coast. The 71-mile iteration takes pilgrims north to the fishing village of Muxía then veers south to Finisterre and takes 3-5 days. At your endpoint, you can stroll 2 miles from town to the tip of the peninsula. There, the 1853 Faro de Fisterra (faro means lighthouse) stands over the rocky shore known as Costa de la Muerte, coast of death . If you go, be sure to take a portrait with the Camino mile-marker zero.    

Camino Francés (the French Way/French Route)

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Pamplona

Pamplona to logroño.

Logroño to Ponferrada

Ponferrada to santiago de compostela.

Top Sights Along the Camino de Santiago

Santiago de compostela, o cebreiro , cruz de ferro, wine fountain, el alto del perdón, local events, festas da ascensión , san fermín festival, saint james festival , león cathedral international organ festival, albariño wine festival, octopus festival, fiestas de san mateo, camino de santiago: the best time to go.

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Walking the El Camino de Santiago – The Many Paths of this Pilgrimage

While often walked as a pilgrimage to the Catedral del Santiago , the presumed burial place of St. Jame’s remains, thousands of folks walk the multiple paths or ways to this coastal town for their own personal reasons.  Often they return again and again.  Today I interview Umberto di Venosa of Follow the Camino , a tour company he founded after becoming enamored with the “Way”, and finding no company set up to assist those seeking to walk The El Camino , decided to start one himself.

We learn about the multiple paths that head to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, when to go, who walks the El Camino and why, and what you can expect if you walk the El Camino.   On the many trails, you’ll walk through mountains and villages, mesas and pastures.  You’ll meet fellow pilgrims and make lifelong friends.  You will return home refreshed and renewed from walking this trail famous for replenishing the soul.

What is the El Camino?

The El Camino de Santiago, sometimes called “The Way” , is actually multiple traditional trade route paths used by Christian pilgrims over the centuries who walked to the cathedral in Santiago, Spain to pay homage to St. James, who is believed to be buried there.  This pilgrim’s walk was originally walked to gain a plenary indulgence , or forgiveness or lessening of punishment for a sin.

The most popular path is the “French Way” , which starts in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port on the French side of the Pyrenees.  This almost 500 miles route (769 km) takes most people about four weeks to complete.  The French Way route passes through the major cities of Pamplona, Logrono, Burgos and Leon.  Roughly 60% of pilgrims choose the French Way .

Other popular routes include:

• The  Portuguese Way is the second most popular path with starting points at Lisbon or Porto.  About 380 mi/610 km.  You can also walk part of the way along the coast, or mix the two paths
• The North Way also runs through France, but is more challenging as there is more elevation change (the French Way is fairly flat).  You don’t walk though as many historic towns, but if you are walking during the summer, you will appreciate the cooler temperatures.  The path usually begins in Irun or San Sebastian
• The “Primitive Way†, or original way from Oviedo, Spain has been walked since the 6th century.
• The Central European Way reopened after the fall of the Berlin Wall and goes through the Baltics

and description of the various paths

Note the shell draped on Janet’s backpack, indicating she is a “Pilgrimâ€

Janet hiked a ‘Half’ camino by walking the last 230 miles into Santiago.  You can listen to my interview with Janet about here Camino HERE .

You are considered a ‘ Pilgrim ‘ if you walk at least the last 100 km, or cycle the last 200 km.  When you complete this, you have earned your Compostela, a Certificate of Completion.

Who walks the El Camino de Santiago?

For more than 1000 years, people of all ages and backgrounds have walked the El Camino.  Traditionally a religious pilgrimage, many folks now camino for personal reasons, almost as a trail of self discovery , as you will have plenty of time for self reflection.  If you are unable to walk, or don’t have the time for a full walking camino, you can also bike or even horseback ride much of the Camino.

The El Camino is also a very sociable path, particularly the busy French Way.  You are likely to make life long friends,

Most pilgrims (you are called a pilgrim whether or not you are walking for religious reasons) tie a scallop shell to their day pack, which tells others that you, too are a pilgrim.  There are multiple theories of the scallop shell symbol.  Regardless of the reason, most tie a shell to their backpack if for no other reason than a souvenier.  The shell is also the symbol used on the El Camino sign posts.

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Is the El Camino de Santiago well marked?

Yes!  You will see the ‘shell’ emblem sign posts throughout your journey, indicating which way to go and when to turn.  You are not likely to get lost.

Where To Stay on the El Camino

In the cities and many towns, you can of course stay in traditional inns and hotels, but many pilgrims chose to stay in the ‘Alburques’ or pilgrim’s hostels that are available along the way.  These are of varying quality, available only to pilgrims, and are inexpensive.

While you don’t have to make a reservation, during the summer, it is wise to book at least a day or two in advance to make sure you’ll have a bed and not have to camp on the floor somewhere.  Most hostels, even if full, will try to find you a place to rest your head, but it may not be very comfortable.

Because the quality (cleanliness?) of some of the alburques and inns can vary widely, you may want to use the help of someone who intimately knows the ins and outs of the Way, and the best places to stay for your particular budget.  And if you don’t speak the language, you may find it helpful to have someone arrange your accommodations.

I recommend my affiliate, Follow The Camino , a company that specializes in helping pilgrims plan their journey.   After his own camino, founder Umberto di Venosa started the company because he couldn’t find any companies offering a planning service for this complicated multi-week adventure.   So whether you want to stay in the alburques or nicer inns, Follow the Camino can take care of the logistics of your pilgrimmage so all you have to worry about it walking (or biking).  If you’d rather hike with a guide, they also offer guided tours .

Plan Your Camino

You can plan your Camino on your own, but if you’d rather save the time and headaches, consider Follow The Camino , an expert Camino planning tour company that can help you experience the Camino of your dreams.  Experts on all things Camino, they can affordably custom cater to your time table and budget. 

Mention ATA5 at checkout to get a special Active Travel Adventures 5% discount on your Camino (or other walking holidays through their other company, One Foot Abroad (other European walking and cycling holidays).

PLAN YOUR TRIP : HELPFUL TOOLS!

Follow the Camino is a Camino tour company that has some great tools to help you plan your own Camino walk that I’ve asked them to share with us:

• Camino training plans that were designed by physiotherapists: one for walking and one for cycling – these have lovely infographic style printables too!
• a comprehensive packing list for walking and cycling
• a guide for choosing the best Camino shoes
• a guide for choosing the best backpack for you

and our Camino weather map which shows you the average weather at various times of the year for better planning!

When to Walk Your El Camino

The most popular time to walk the El Camino is during the summer time.  You will find the French Way especially busy and may not get your first choice in accommodations if you don’t book far in advance.  It can be VERY hot during the summer.

If you are able, it is better to walk your El Camino during the shoulder  seasons, in the spring and fall.

Note that many alburques and inns along the El Camino are closed from November through April.

Can Someone Transport My Luggage Each Day?

Yes!  There are several companies that can transfer your luggage for you each day.  You will need to know where you’ll be staying ahead of time and have your bag (usually one bag 40kg or less weight) ready by a specific time in the morning (around 8am).  They will send you a luggage tag that identifies your rucksack.  Stick it on your bag and place it where they tell you, and they’ll have at your next lodging by late afternoon!

Be Sure You Know if it’s a Jubilee Year!  2021 is next!

Naturally, because of the connection to St. James, whenever St. James’s Day, July 25th , falls on a Sunday, the cathedral declares a Holy or Jubilee Year . Leap years alter the recurrence, but Holy Years occur in 5, 6 or 11 year intervals.  2021 is the next Holy Year, followed by 2027 and 2032 . 

The El Camino is particularly popular during these Holy Years, as the ‘jubilee’ means a universal forgiveness of sins.  If you wish to walk the El Camino during a Jubilee Year, be SURE to book your accommodations well in advance, and expect things to be especially busy!

More Reading

• A popular book about hiking the El Camino and how it became a journey of self-discovery is by Brazilian author Paulo Coelho, called The Pilgrimage .  While popular, be forewarned that this book is a bit woo-woo, fyi.

The most popular guide book is Brierley’s, A Pilgrim’s Guide to Camino de Santiago.

Where Does the El Camino End?

All of the various routes of the El Camino end in Santiago de Compostela at the Catedral de Compostela ( pictured ).  Most years, you enter through the Plaza of Platerías, unless it is a Holy Year when you have to go through the Puerta Santa.

You’ll no doubt want to spend a few days in Santiago to relax and explore.  Since you are not allowed to bring your backpack into the cathedral, make sure to drop it off at your lodging before to get there.

Most pilgrims try to time their arrival to attend one of the Pilgrim’s Masses, which are celebrated daily at noon and 4:30pm.  In particular, Pilgrims try to arrive on Friday.

On Friday afternoons, you can watch the famous “ Botafumerio †ceremony.  In this ritual, the priests sway a massive thurible with thick ropes through the cathedral while the choir sings and the organ plays.  A thurible is a metal container with mesh holes that release the incense burning inside – see the short video to check it out.  The pulley system that rolls the rope was installed in 1604!  It’s a moving ceremony and fitting conclusion to your Camino.

Also, be sure to climb up to the rooftop to catch the beautiful views of the city!

Download my earlier interview on the El Camino with Janet Hanpeter aka Planet Janet Travels

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Along the Way to Santiago you can find a range of places to stay: private hostels, guest houses and hotels. We will do our best to provide you with an accommodation tailored to your needs. You only need to contact us via e-mail before you begin your Camino.

We believe that the Camino de Santiago is something more than just a trip or simple summer holidays. We want it to be a life experience for you, so you should not worry about anything more than walking and enjoying.

Why Choose us

We are a local agency. We both work and live in Santiago de Compostela – at the end of the Camino. We travel a lot around Galicia, Portugal and Spain and we have a constant control of the accommodation and services provided by our co-workers: hotels, rural houses owners, taxi drivers, etc. We meet and visit them frequently, and we always keep updating and upgrading our services.

We provide a telephone 24/7 attention. From Santiago we can immediately help you when you are already walking your Camino and you find difficulties or problems.

We are the direct and only intermediary between the pilgrims and the hotels and service providers. There are no other intermediaries. All bookings are direct and we know personally the staff that will attend you upon your arrival. We know that Óscar will drive you to your hotel where Eli will welcome you at the reception and María will serve your breakfast.

Being the only and direct intermediary helps us also to keep the best price-quality relation.

Upon your arrival to Santiago we will invite you for the best wine and tapas in Santiago. We know every corner of Santiago and we will be happy to share with you our local knowledge.

Wiktoria Grygierzec

Privacy Overview

Accommodation

• Camino Travel Packs
• The Official Credencial
• Get to the Camino
• Credencial and Compostela
• The Pilgrim Office
• Botafumeiro
• Walking Fitness
• Your Travel Documents
• Sustainable Tourism
• Traveller’s Info
• Traveller’s Info

Camino de Santiago on Horseback

• Start O Cebriero plus other locations in Spain and Portugal
• End Santiago de Compostela
• Date April to October. Private tours by request min 2 pax.
• Duration 5 nights to 3 weeks
• Distance From 115km to 500km
• Grade Moderate - 6 hours minimum riding per day - experience preferred

We offer riding tours of the Way of St James on the ‘Classic Camino’, the Camino Frances, as well as in the Portuguese Way, Ruta del Mar and other Caminos.

Our fully-supported Camino by Horseback tours includes airport pick-up, full board accommodation, horses and equipment, dedicated tour guide/host, support vehicle with staff, luggage transfer and insurance.

Choose between joining a programmed group or organising your own private tour (minimum group size of 2).

We also have tours for couples or friends where one rides and the other doesn’t – just ask us for details.

A special highlight of your horse riding tour will be entering your destination, Santiago de Compostela, clattering along the cobbled streets into the city centre.

Our most popular tours Horseback Camino Frances from O Cebreiro: 6 nights from £1,895 pp sharing twin/double accommodation

Horseback Coastal Ruta del Mar from Pontevedra: 5 nights £2160 pp. Full Board £190 single supplement Dates – 20th March / 25th May / 12th June / 3rd July / 11th September 2024

Horseback Camino Finisterre f rom Santiago: 5 nights £2060 pp. Full Board £175 single supplement Dates – 1st October 2024

Horseback Camino Frances from Astorga: 9 nights from £2,980 pp sharing twin/double accommodation

• £680 single supplement
• £410 single supplement
• Full Board £455 single supplement
• £385 single supplement
• £250 single supplement
• £210 single supplement
• £175 Single Supplement
• £150 single supplement

Price Includes

• From 5 Nights Full Board Accommodation
• Horse, equipment and guide
• Baggage transfers

Price Excludes

• Driver Service Fee
• Guide Service Fee
• Room Service Fees

The Horses The horses are a mixture of Hispano Arabe and Español, of various sizes and suitable for a wide range of riders.

The team will provide you with not only a wonderful horse but also equipment, riding hat, rain cape (in Galicia), clothing and water.

You can choose to ride in an English or Western Saddle. Although for trail riding we highly recommend you choose western – for improved comfort for both horse and rider.

The team consists of additional personnel to handle horses, assist on the rides and manage baggage transfers between accommodations. A support vehicle is used each day, so if you require an early finish or wish a day off, the team can look after you.

There is also a horse box for transporting any additional horses, feed and kit. The team is prepared for every eventuality.

Your Guide and Host Jesus will be your host and is also the lead guide on our Camino Frances horseback tours. Native of Galicia, Jesus has a range of wonderful horses which are all in tip-top condition, well schooled and accustomed to carrying riders on the Camino trails. He has a first-class knowledge of all the Camino routes and the hoteliers along the way, ensuring you enjoy the best service possible.

During the tour you have full board and lodgings including breakfast, lunch and dinner, with non-alcoholic beverages and snacks included.

Delicious Spanish Gastronomy and Wines With an abundance of small inns along the way, when you are on the Camino de Santiago de Compostela you will really enjoy the local food and wine. Jesus will guide you and we will do our best to cater for your dietary needs. Galicia is renowned internationally for its white wines such as Albarino and reds such as Ribeiros and Ribeiras. They make great light beers too – “Galicia Estrella” or Galicia Star – how appropriate!

Every town in the Camino has a variety of lively plazas with bars and restaurants, so there will be plenty of opportunities for you to enjoy the delicious Spanish gastronomy and the variety of world-famous Spanish wines.

Santiago de Compostela, UNESCO World Heritage A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, Santiago de Compostela is the destination of the Way of St James pilgrimage, one of the major themes of medieval history in Europe.

From nearly every corner of the planet, millions have travelled to Santiago for over 1000 years along many Caminos. Around the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a masterpiece of Romanesque art, the city boasts a magnificent old town worthy of one of Christianity’s greatest holy cities.

Food & Drink

Full board provided: breakfast, lunch on the trail and dinner usually at your hotel.

Does not include extra snacks or alcoholic drinks.

Our most popular horseback route is our 5 day / 6 night ride from O Cebreiro to Santiago de Compostela.

Follow the steps of kings and popes, knights and archbishops, saints and crusaders. Ride the Camino as the medieval nobility did, on horseback.

You will be met with the rest of your group at the local airport of Santiago de Compostela, by your guide and transferred to O Cebriero, where you enjoy a welcome dinner.

The ride starts out from the hilltop village of O Cebreiro, an ethnographic time capsule which is characteristic of NW Spain. A hamlet of circular stone built and thatched-roofed buildings, it is a place of great charm which has long been a significant place on the Camino Frances.

Your horseback expedition sets off through the impressive mountainous terrain of the Sierras Os Ancares with the highest altitude on the French Route in Galicia at 1337m. You’ll enjoy beautiful green panoramas all the way into the green valleys. Onwards through old villages which all have Saint James traditions, through native woodland and river crossings before a timely stop at the famous Monastery of Samos. From Sarria riders cross the Aspera bridge, then on through woods, meadows and arable lands.

In the middle of an enchanting forested landscape, the Camino makes its way down to cross the mighty Miño River to arrive into Portomarin by Belesaru dam. Then winding through the hamlets to Melide, the geographic center of Galicia, where you will be able to taste the delicious classic dish of Galician octopus. Here the French Route meets the Primitive Route from the north.

In Arzua , the pilgrims of the French Route mingles with the pilgrims making their way to Santiago from the North. Stands of eucalyptus and oaks pepper a landscape of meadows and little villages before arriving at the outskirts of Santiago de Compostela.

Just outside Santiago the riders reach the village of Lavacolla for the final night, near Monte do Gozo. This is a significant hilltop landmark – for your first view of Santiago Cathedral towers in the distance.

On the final morning, you have an early ride into the famed City and its magnificent Cathedral. We have special dispensation to enter the Cathedral Plaza early in the morning. It is a memorable experience to arrive here before the city is fully awake and the main body of pilgrim travellers arrive on foot.

At the end of the journey the guides will wish you a fond farewell and buen viaje for your homeward voyage.

Please note that your final night in Santiago is not included in the price.

We can arrange additional nights in Santiago and beyond by request.

What to Expect on the Camino Once you start out on the Camino Trail, you will be riding 30-35 miles a day for 6-7 hours – at a moderate pace. You are expected to have a degree of experience, fitness and stamina as you will be in the saddle for a minimum of 6 hours each day.

If you do need a break then you can travel part of the way in the backup vehicle.

You should at least be able to walk and trot comfortably. On most trails, there will be the chance to canter and gallop. Bear in mind you are sharing the Camino with others on foot and cycle.

You will set out as a group each morning after breakfast, with the horse already prepared for you. You stop each day for a sit-down lunch on the Camino, which is also a chance for riders and horses to take a well-earned rest. The backup team rendezvous with the riding group at lunch and the end of the ride, to care for the horses.

Once you arrive at your destination you have free time to relax, take a siesta or look around the area, before the group come together for dinner.

On the final day, you have a short ride into the Plaza Obradoiro at Santiago de Compostela Cathedral from approximately 7 to 9 am.

After bidding farewell to the horses, you will all collect your Compostela certificates at the Pilgrim Office, in time for the Pilgrim Mass at 12 am which signals the end of Jesus’ services.

We will require details of your age, height, weight and level of ability in order to assist with matching you with the correct mount. We also provide you with a list of recommended clothing for riding tour.

Join a horse riding tour on the Camino Frances from O Cebreiro: £1,775 – 6 nights from Astorga: £2,745 – 9 nights from Logroño: £5,910 – 20 nights

Join a horse riding tour on the Camino Portugues from Tui: £1,845 for 5 nights Traditional Portugues from Porto: £2,885 for 9 nights Coastal Portugues from Porto: £2,980 for 9 nights

From Santiago to Cape Finisterre and the Atlantic coast 4 days from Santigo de Compostela: £1,420 *We also organise private horseback tours, for minimum groups of 2 riders – subject to availability. Simply contact us for a quote and to check your preferred dates. We also offer tours for couples where one rides and the other doesn’t. Please ask us for details.

This map shows our longest horseback route from La Rioja (20 days) to Santiago de Compostela. You can also start the same route in Astorga (9 days) or O Cebriero (6 days).

Fly either to Madrid or Santiago depending on where your itinerary begins. Rail connections and private transfers to various points on the route are available.

Hand-picked comfortable establishments with high standards of personal service We believe that our high level of personal service and customer care offers the best in the Camino food, culture and history.

Your accommodation will include a variety of traditional farmhouses, historic homes, and hotels on the Camino de Santiago. Often these are chosen for proximity to loose boxes and pasture for the horses.

All rooms have en-suite facilities, usually with in-house restaurants, but sometimes you will dine out.

The team move your baggage from one accommodation to the next as you ride. Your luggage will be awaiting you on arrival at your new lodgings each day.

Your hotel accommodations will be confirmed about one month before departure date.

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Cycle along dedicated bike paths and quiet back roads, visiting medieval castles and historic port cities lined with rows of colourful terrace houses

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Home > About Us > Our Tour Guides

Our Tour Guides

After travelling around the world and experiencing the Himalayas, Aconcagua and other high mountains, our guides fell in love with the Camino de Santiago, so they decided to come back home to Spain and make this passion their way of life!

Discover more about their journey:

Follow the Camino Guides

Francisco Álvarez, Follow the Camino Tour Guide

Fran, as he preferred to be called, has lived in California, India, Philippines, Thailand, Laos, etc., where he discovered his great talent as a tour guide. When he decided to come back to Spain he was very clear about what he wanted to do, he wanted to show people the Camino as a tour guide, and he has been doing it for the last 7 years.

If you’re lucky enough to have him as a tour guide, don’t be surprised if he starts playing the guitar at dinner!

Walking the Camino is a unique experience that you don’t get anywhere else. The walking, the nature, the culture, how we get together as a group and you make friends for a lifetime. Fran Alvarez

Customer Experience

“My wife & I thoroughly enjoyed the walk. Our guide, Francisco, was great! The group that we joined were awesome and from all parts of the world. Excellent rooms, food, and journey.” Jack from Texas

“We were warmly greeted at the airport by our guide,Francisco. Each part of our trip was explained in detail. The hotels, meals and the walk was amazing. Great job!” Mary from Texas

Silvia Santos, Follow the Camino Tour Guide

Born and raised in Bilbao, before starting to work on the Camino as a tour guide, Silvia was a mountain guide in places like the Himalayas, Aconcagua, etc., and it was not until she has the opportunity to go on the Camino for the first time that she understood the reason why so many people travel every year from places like Australia, New Zealand, United States, etc., to walk the Camino de Santiago.

When she first walked the full French Way it took her 3 months, she was so passionate about it that she wanted to know all the legends and stories about the Camino. She went into almost every bar along her way and seized all the opportunities to talk to local people and pilgrims.

She currently lives in Galicia and has being working as a Follow the Camino guide for the last 6 years.

“The Camino is my path now!”

Making an effort together always unite us, it’s a good bond and that’s the big part because it is a mystery for me why people would fly from Australia or other areas of the world to walk the Camino and come back over and over again, and I think it is the people, the other pilgrims, the experience of going through it together doing it with joy, doing it laughing, doing it with freedom, that creates a good bond. Silvia Santos

“Silvia gave us invaluable information about the Camino and made my time on the Camino beyond memorable.”

Pedro Caro, Follow the Camino Tour Guide

He’s very keen to discover the world, he never misses the opportunity to meet a new city, a new book or a new person.

In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks. John Muir. Nature Wisdom More Far He.

Paloma T., Follow the Camino Tour Guide

Born and raised in a fishing town near Finisterre, the most westerly point of Spain, Paloma describes herself as an outdoor person, she not only likes to travel but to experience the trip more in-depth, inmersing herself in the local culture and working with locals. That’s why she decided to be a guide, so she obtained a Galician guide licence in 2010.

For Paloma, to be a guide is a very rewarding profession. As this job gives her the opportunity to work outdoors, escaping the routine., inmersing herself in the local culture and working with locals.

After living in different countries like Ireland, French Britanny and Cuba, Paloma decided to move to Santiago de Compostela where she works as a tour guide of her beloved Camino de Santiago. She also loves languages, animals, music, history and supports environmental causes.

Your grief path is yours alone, and no one else can walk it, and no one else can understand it. Terri Irwin

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