Spain: Walk the Camino De Santiago

8 days, Sarria to Santiago De Compostela

If you’re looking to take on your own pilgrimage – along a route filled with beautiful countryside and rustic villages of Northern Spain – start here, at the Camino de Santiago. On this eight-day trip, complete the last 100 km of the pilgrimage route to Santiago and receive a "compostela" at the finish to prove your accomplishment. Refuel with tasty Spanish food and take the time to stop and smell the flowers – it’s active but at a slower, more picturesque pace.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Sarria

Arrive at any time. There are no planned activities until tonight's welcome meeting.

Day 2 - Sarria / Portomarín

Start hiking from Sarria to Portomarín, covering about 23km (14 mi) over the course of the day. Pass through many lovely towns along the way and choose to have a picnic in places such as Barbadelo, Renta or Ferreiros.

Spend the night in the riverside city of Portomarin.

Day 3 - Portomarín / Palas de Rei

Get those walking shoes back on! Leave Portomarin behind in the early light of the morning to make the most of the day. This stretch is a mix of ups and downs through beautiful scenery. The entire area has a rich history, especially during the Middle Ages.

Weary pilgrims can get a jolt of caffeine in one Palas de Rey's cafes or visit some of the local shops to grab some souvenirs.

Day 4 - Palas de Rei / Melide

Head west and continue the pilgrimage, passing through the lush green valleys of Galicia. Covering about 15 km today, the day again passes through many lovely villages and towns along the way, offering ample opportunity for rest stops and time to pick up any needed supplies before arriving to Melide.

Take a break in the lively market (454m), and try octopus, Galicia's most classic dish, in one of the many 'pulperías'.

Day 5 - Melide / Arzúa

Leaving Melide, the Camino crosses several streams and follows a forest track to the village of Boente with its church of Santiago. Next is the scenic medieval village of Ribadiso and finally the town of Arzúa (389m). In Arzúa, visit the churches of Santa María and A Magdalena.

Day 6 - Arzúa / Amenal

Walk through pretty woods, sleepy villages and across streams most of the day. The chapel of Santa Irene, with its unique statue of Santiago, is worth a visit. En-route, don't miss the lovely hamlet of Rúa (310m). The rest of the route to Amenal is along a mix of good and calm country roads and forest tracks.

Day 7 - Amenal / Santiago de Compostela

Leave early in order to reach Santiago de Compostela in time for the pilgrim's mass. Walk the last part of the pilgrimage and enjoy the scenery before the baroque, painted towers of the cathedral come into view. Later, explore this fascinating city and sip some wine in a café to celebrate the incredible journey.

Upon reaching our goal, the pilgrimage is not complete without a visit to the cathedral on the magnificent Praza do Obradoiro, which houses the supposed tomb of St. James the Apostle. It is widely believed that his remains were buried here in the 1st century AD; from then onwards he became the patron saint of the Christian Crusades.

Day 8 - Santiago de Compostela

Depart at any time. Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.