Camino de Santiago - Self-Guided
8 days, Self-Guided for 2 people or more, Seasonal Daily Departures
Described by many as one of the world's greatest travel experiences, this is a journey of the soul and spirit, taking the traveller in the footsteps of millions who, over the centuries, have trekked to this green and misty spot in the north-west corner of Iberia to venerate the tomb of the Apostle St. James - Santiago.The 'French' Way, the most popular variant of the route, crosses the Pyrenees at Roncesvalles, descends to the fertile valleys of Navarre and La Rioja, and across the plains of Castile before entering the verdant hills of Galicia.
Your journey begins in Leon in western Castile and ensures that you walk the final 100km in order to qualify for an official pilgrim's certificate on arrival at the cathedral in Santiago. The route covers continually rolling terrain, following quiet country roads, old bridle paths and forest trails through beautiful, rural landscapes and ancient villages, past Romanesque chapels and magnificent churches. Along the way, you will find a profusion of art of all kinds created over the centuries in honour of St. James.
Every day, you will share the trail with fellow pilgrims from around Spain, Europe and even further afield, and inevitably, the traveller soon finds himself imbued with the unique and magical spirit that pervades the entire Pilgrim's Way experience.
Daily distances are designed to challenge, but completing the Pilgrim's Way is well within reach of anyone who maintains a moderate level of fitness. 10-day and longer itineraries are available on request along any section of the Pilgrim's Way in Spain, or starting in St. Jean Pied de Port, just on the French side of the Pyrenees.
- Day 1. Outbound to Leon
- Arrive in the city of Leon with hopefully time to visit the great cathedral, a marvel of light and glass, and the remarkable frescoes in the 'Pantheon of the Kings' - one of mankind's great Romanesque treasures. You will also go to the Pilgrim's Hostel to pick up your 'credentials' - the pilgrim's passbook required for the official pilgrim's certificate. It is possible to arrange an extra day in Leon before the start of the walk to have more time to explore the city and prepare for the walk.
- Days 2 to 5. From Western Castile to Galicia
- On your second day, after a visit to Astorga, with its superb cathedral, bishop's palace and Roman walls, a train journey takes you across the Leon-Galicia border to the noble town of Sarria, where your walk to Santiago - approximately 112km - will begin the following day. Over the next three days you pass through the important pilgrim's towns of Portomarin, Palas de Rei and Melide, where the 'French Way' merges with other 'Ways' from the North, and you will note an increase in the flow of pilgrims.
- Days 6 and 7. To Santiago
- The final two days of walking takes you through Arzua, Rua and then Lavacolla, before the final ascent to the top of Monte del Gozo (Mount of Joy), so named for the emotion felt by those who, on arriving there, were rewarded by the first view of Santiago de Compostela. From here it is all downhill into the city's ancient centre, declared in its entirety a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a magical moment when you enter the Plaza del Obradoiro, Santiago's grandiose square with its magnificent cathedral.
- Day 8. Homeward
- After spending the morning in Santiago you can fly direct back to the UK, or continue your travels. It is recommended you spend extra days in Santiago to fully explore this marvellous city and thus maximise your experience.
- Tour grade: B/C.
- Cost per person: From £925.
- Single supplement: On request.
- CO2 offset cost: £2.32.
- What is included: Flights, accommodation, baggage transfers on walking days, some meals, guidebook, route notes.
- Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses.
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Departure dates:
Daily, late March to early November.