So you’ve made it. You’ve got your Compostela certificate, you’ve celebrated your journey and your achievement, but don’t rush off just yet. Santiago is special, and after weeks of walking, you deserve time to enjoy it properly.
One of the things that makes the Camino really special are the donativo albergues. They can be a bit rough around the edges. Usually no reservations, and they probably won’t entertain you sending your bags ahead. They are old school, often simple and frugal, but full of love and generosity. They really capture the true spirit of the Camino.
The final 113 kilometres from Sarria to Santiago wind through shady woods, past stone-walled farms, and tiny Galician villages where cows often have more right to the road than you do.
Discover the Camino Aragonés. Starting at Somport, this route takes you through the Pyrenees, Jaca, and historic villages before joining the main Camino.
Planning to walk the Camino Francés?
Here are 10 top tips to help you avoid the bed race and enjoy more solitude and peace along the way.
Planning to walk the Camino Francés?
Here are 10 top tips to help you avoid the bed race and enjoy more solitude and peace along the way.
The last 100 kilometres of the Camino Francés are often much maligned. After nearly 700 kilometres of walking from Saint Jean Pied de Port, the sudden influx of new pilgrims starting in Sarria can feel very overwhelming.
The final 113 kilometres from Sarria to Santiago wind through shady woods, past stone-walled farms, and tiny Galician villages where cows often have more right to the road than you do.
From Ponferrada to Sarria is about 100 km. You’ll cross Bierzo’s vineyards, pass through Villafranca, and tackle the climb to O Cebreiro before descending into lush Galician hills.
From Astorga to Ponferrada is 53 km through mountain villages like Rabanal and Foncebadón. Highlights include the Cruz de Ferro, river swims in Molinaseca, and Ponferrada’s Templar castle.
The 48 km walk from León to Astorga is flat and peaceful. Take the Villar de Mazarife route, enjoy quiet villages, Hospital de Órbigo’s bridge, and Astorga’s Gaudí palace.
From Carrión to León is about 95 km through the Meseta. Pass the Camino halfway point near Sahagún and enjoy a stunning, remote walk along an old Roman road.
