el camino pilgrimage tours

Camino de Santiago Tours & Trips

Camino de Santiago is an ancient pilgrimage route in Northern Spain that leads to Santiago de Compostela where the remains of St James lay since the 9th-century. It is a popular route with a low level of difficulty , which makes it an easy option for any beginner who wishes to embark on a hiking adventure. Check out all the Caminos: Portugues , Frances and Primitivo.

74 Camino De Santiago tour packages with 206 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Walk the Camino de Santiago

I really enjoyed my trip! The weather was a bit mixed (sun and rain) but the scenery, food and company were excellent. Our guide was fantastic! Many thanks to our guide Ara for making this such a great holiday!

• In-depth Cultural

Portuguese Camino

Intrepid does an outstanding Portuguese Camino 10 day trip! Was well organized and conducted, kudos to the Tour leader, Margareta. Especially liked the accommodations and the added extras like wine tasting, oysters, and celebration dinner in Santiago❗️

Camino de Santiago Encompassed

Matched me with G tours. Everyone followed up, made changes as needed & worked well together.

• Walking Adventure
• Spiritual Walks

Walking the Camino de Santiago

Loved every step. Great experience with excellent guide, hotels, restaurants and of course, the spectacular Camino. I really appreciate the way the tour started before the last 100 km (where there are lots of people) because we trekked through beautiful quiet villages, long stretches of nature and it was a chance to feel like a real pilgrim with plenty of contemplative time, challenging hills to dig deep inside.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Christmas & New Year

"Camino de Santiago" (Way of St James): French Way from Sarria -100 km

Make sure you find out how many miles you have to walk to the next hotel. Ours was unreasonable and extremely long.

• €70 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

"Camino de Santiago" (Way of St James): Portuguese Way from Tui -100 km

Great hotels and service.

Cycle the Camino de Santiago

Fabulous trip cycling through beautiful countryside and villages. Alfonso and Miguel were highly organised and very helpful. Exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who likes to be challenged and feel connected to nature and history. The abundance of colourful wildflowers on our journey was truly remarkable.

Highlights of the Camino de Santiago Walk

Camino de Santiago Adventure

Camino - Leon to Santiago

I walked the Camino de Santiago from Leon to Santiago and it was amongst the most memorable travel experiences of my life. Lovely hotel accommodations, friendly staff and some of the most beautiful scenery that Spain has to offer made this truly special. For anyone who enjoys serious walks this should be on your short-list. I would absolutely look forward to doing it again.

Cycling the Camino de Santiago - Roncesvalles to Santiago

Amazing Trip. Excellent Organization. Great accommodations and meals. Friendly staff. The best bike trip I had so far and I've done many.

Best of the Spanish Camino

Great tour, excellent support. Fantastic tour leader and driver (Emilio) - very attentive to individual needs and both went beyond the call of duty to assist people in need. The itinerary allowed you to get a real feel for the Camino, without having to walk tedious distances through boring exposed countryside or industrial areas on the outskirts of towns. Accommodation was also varied, from 4 star in larger towns, to no star in a rural setting (but the views and atmosphere were sufficient to outweigh any perceived disadvantage and the room had all basic facilities, whilst the food was terrific). I don't know why the hotel in Santiago only has 2 stars: there may have been only basic body gel and shampoo, but the rooms were very spacious, it had a 24/7 dining area where you could get tea/coffee/juice/water and fruit, or make a sandwich, which was fantastic for early departures or just after a long day. The staff on reception were also very helpful.

Camino de Santiago Walking Experience 7D/6N (from Sarria)

Would definitely use again. They did everything they said they would do and baggage and rooms were handled very well. No problems

Camino De Santiago - The Way to Santiago (The last 115KM)

Camino de Santiago

What people love about camino de santiago tours.

Our guide got us safely to Santiago which was a big part of his job. We had a nice group of people on our tour. The leader had good recommendations for restaurants and city tours. However, the guide was very impatient with me when my backpack was missing, and I only found my pack due to my air tags. Gadventures was responsible for moving my pack during the day so I am not sure about the reason for the impatience.

Everything was amazing! Our group leader really took care of us,from making sure we were all ok to getting us to some of the greatest places to stop for break or lunch and supper. She made sure we all could keep up & she was always smiling . I would definitely do this tour again !

Matched me with G tours. Everyone followed up, made changes as needed & worked well together.

Camino de Santiago Destinations:

• Camino Frances (8)
• Camino Portugues (8)
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• 3 Week Tours (5)
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• Camino de Santiago: Routes, Hiking & Distance
• How to get to Camino de Santiago & Closest Airports
• Best time to walk the Camino de Santiago (Weather by Month)
• Camino de Santiago: Pilgrim Passport & Tips
• Do I Need a Guide to Walk Camino de Santiago?
• Camino de Santiago - Training Guide and Distance Planner
• Camino de Santiago Packing List: How to Pack Light

Travel Styles

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Camino de Santiago Pilgrimages

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El Camino Way

Welcome to the El Camino de Santiago: the sacred trail on which pilgrims have walked for over a millennium. Walk the 120km journey through the Spanish countryside and arrive with joy at the resting place of St James the Apostle. Obtain the Compostela certificate, a symbolic recognition of your pilgrimage that dates back to the Middle Ages.

IMPORTANT: Even though this is stated as a daily walking pilgrimage, the group will be supported with a bus to carry luggage and transport pilgrims who may require respite at times along the way.

Madrid (1 night) • Foncebadon • Iron Cross • O Cebreiro • Sarria (1) • Portomarin (1) • Palas de Rei (1) • Arzua (2) • Amenal (1) • Monte do Gozo • Santiago de Compostela (2)

• 10 Days / 9 Nights
• Madrid to Santiago De Compostela
• Optional Daily Mass

Meal Code: (B) = Breakfast (L) = Lunch (D) = Dinner

DAY 1 ARRIVE MADRID

Welcome to Madrid – a vibrant, atmospheric city, rich in cultural sights. In the afternoon we will walk to the Cathedral of Almudena to 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 our final stop is the Church of Saint James .

Madrid overnight (D)

DAY 2 MADRID - FONCEBADON - IRON CROSS - O CEBRERIO - SARRIA (WALKING DAY: 5 KM)

This morning we depart Madrid and travel to Foncebadon , a village popular in the 11th century with pilgrims on the Camino due to its hospitals and church. From here we continue by foot to view the ‘Iron Cross’ where traditionally pilgrims bring a stone from their places of origin and deposit it at the foot of the cross, to symbolise a sin or burden they are leaving behind.

We then rejoin our coach and continue to the ancient Sanctuary of O Cebreiro . Here we will celebrate our group Mass in the pre-Romanesque Church (9th-10th century) and see the renowned Paten of Santo Milagro (Eucharistic Miracle from the 13th century) and a precious Romanesque carving of Santa Maria la Real.

We then continue to Sarria . It was in this town that Alfonso IX died in 1230, while making the pilgrimage. Visit the old quarter which retains a strong medieval character. We will also see the Church of Salvador , with a Romanesque ground plan and Gothic façade; the small chapel of San Lazaro ; the hospital of San Antonio , which today houses a Court; and the remains of its old fortress, from the 14th century.

Sarria overnight (BD)

Day 3 SARRIA - PORTOMARIN (WALKING DAY: 23.5 KM)

Today’s section of the Camino is considered to be one of the most picturesque. Walk through rustic countryside, traversing enchanted forests and small patches of farmland to the banks of the Mino River. En route we will pass the 100km marker – a milestone for pilgrims who travel the Camino. Our walking trip for today will finish in Portomarín , picturesquely situated on a hilltop. The old Portomarín, which dates back to the Roman Age, was an important halt along the route in the Middle Ages and lies beneath the waters of the dam built in 1962.

Before flooding the town, many monuments were moved, stone by stone, to higher ground. Such was the case of the church-fortress of San Nicolás, built by the Knights of San Juan of Jerusalem, who once ran the old hospital that lays beneath the waters of the Miño River, along with the old Medieval and Roman bridges. The municipality also has the Romanesque portal of the church of San Pedro, from 1182; the Count’s House, from the 16th century, and the Palace of Berbetoros, from the 17th century.

Portamarin overnight (BD)

Day 4 PORTOMARIN - PALAS DE REI (WALKING DAY: 25 KM)

Passing through small villages decorated with cruceiros (carved stone crosses that mark the way to Santiago) and containing only a dozen houses, we will meet other peregrinos (pilgrims) on today’s hilly walk. Although we all share a special quest and a sense of camaraderie with fellow pilgrims from around the world, there are always moments of solitude to contemplate this special journey.

The undulating countryside is studded with meadows and forests of eucalyptus and pine as we approach Palas de Rei. This was once an important town in the Middle Ages as it had a Royal Hospital. The Church of San Tirso now stands on its lands, with a Romanesque portal.

Palas de Rei overnight (BD)

Day 5 PALAS DE REI - MELIDE - ARZUA (WALKING DAY: 29 KM)

Today we set off walking along quiet paths through hamlets and woodlands, crossing an occasional stone bridge along the way.

Stop to admire the tiny 12th century church dedicated to St Julian , one of the many Romanesque treasures along the Camino. Passing through San Juan de Furelos , we admire a very special crucifix in the Romanesque church. We also pass through Melide , geographical centre of Galicia, and admire the small town with a wonderful square and church. This town is crucial to the Route, because it is the place where the French and Oviedo Routes converge.

We are likely to see more peregrinos as we continue along our way. As we continue our walk through eucalyptus woods, before arriving to Arzua , we will walk over a medieval stone bridge in Ribadiso da Baixo where once was the old Hospital de Sant Antón and nowadays an albergue where you may find some refreshment before walking uphill to enter in Arzua.

Arzua overnight (BD)

Day 6 ARZUA (REST DAY)

Today following Mass we have the day to rest our feet. You can take this time to reflect on your journey so far.

Day 7 ARZUA - AMENAL (WALKING DAY: 22.8 KM)

Before departing Arzua we will celebrate Mass in Arzua Parish Church with its statue of St James and the chapel dedicated to St Lazarus just outside the village. Here we leave behind the last major centre of population on the Camino until Santiago.

Wander through the picturesque village of Calle , with its traditional stone houses. Onwards to Salceda where we see a monument to Guillermo Watt, a pilgrim who died at this spot only a day away from his earthly destination on pilgrimage.

Continuing on, we walk through magnificent eucalyptus woods en route to Amenal . As we pass through small villages, we notice joy etched on the faces of the fellow Camino pilgrims walking the pilgrim route. 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.

Amenal overnight (BD)

Day 8 AMENAL - MONTE DO GOZO - SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA (WALKING DAY: 17 KM)

‘This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad’ (Ps 118:24). Excitement mounts as the trail brings us closer to our destination. Walk through rolling terrain towards Lavacolla , where medieval pilgrims traditionally bathed in the river to purify themselves before arriving in the holy city of Santiago.

From here we will begin to ascend the Monte do Gozo , “Mount of Joy”, the point where pilgrims first catch sight of the spires of the Cathedral of Santiago, these days surrounded by the bustling, new city of Santiago de Compostela.

On approach to the centre, we will pass through the city’s walls and under the Arch of Obispo drawing us forward into the great Obradoiro Square . Here we have finally arrived at our destination, St James Cathedral , where the remains of the Saint are preserved and where tradition suggests us to hug St James statue behind the main altar, ready to receive a deserved grace and special blessing praying in front of the reliquiary.

Santiago de Compostela overnight (BD)

Day 9 SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

The city of the apostle is full of historical buildings and other attractions and is thus the ideal place for a quiet unhurried walk of discovery through streets, squares and nooks, to be taken as a reward for the effort of reaching this city of St James.

This morning we will visit and celebrate Mass at the Cathedral of St James , one of the finest examples of architecture in all of Europe.

As pilgrims we have the opportunity to climb the stairs behind the high altar to visit the crypt where the relics of St James are preserved, admire the central pillar and the Portico de La Gloria , recently restored and cleaned, view also the ‘botafumeiro’ and be fascinated by the elaborate medieval art inside the Cathedral, before visiting the cloister museum .

Afternoon at leisure.

Tonight, we celebrate our final night on pilgrimage with a special meal at a local Spanish restaurant.

Day 10 DEPART SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

After breakfast we will be transferred to the airport for homebound flight connections. (B)

 All tour inclusions and order of daily arrangements remain subject to change due to any unforeseen circumstances, which may arise, or at the discretion of the tour leadership.

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Dates & Prices

1 – 10 October 2024

Fr Bernie Thomas OFM

Single Room

AUD $1370 Supplement

AU- --> - --> Madrid

MadridSantiago De Compostela

Santiago De Compostela

• Prepaid Tipping

AUD $$15 PPPD** --> $15 PPPD**

1 – 10 May 2025

AU- --> - --> Start

StartSantiago De Compostela

1 – 10 October 2025

* Per person, twin share

Costs are indicative and must remain subject to possible change in the event of significant exchange rate variations, tax & hotel changes or minimum group size factors beyond Harvest’s control. Refer to Harvest Terms & Conditions.

• ACCOMODATION & MEALS: Based on reputable local 3-4 star superior hotels or pilgrim/religious houses as applicable • Meals as specified in Itinerary
• TOURING & TRANSPORTATION: Deluxe Air Conditioned Coach • Professional Pilgrimage Escort / Local Guides • Sightseeing and Entrance Fees
• OTHER: Fully Escorted by Pilgrimage Chaplain • Porterage at hotels (where available) • Harvest Backpack, Pilgrims Journal and Travel Wallet

Not included

• International Airfares
• Other meals not listed
• Passport and Visa Costs (if applicable)
• Items of a personal nature including phone calls, laundry, beverages, etc.
• Travel insurance

“Life-changing. To walk where Jesus walked, taught, suffered & died was beyond my wildest dreams. Deeply moving – a renewal of my spirit which I will never forget.”

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Camino de Santiago Tours

Based in Spain, we develop our Camino de Santiago Tours and their routes from our backyard with our firsthand knowledge of the land and the people. We take you off-the-beaten path and introduce you to our friends and favorite spots. Live an unforgettable experiencies with our Tours in the Camino de Santiago and Spain.

September 2024

Camino de santiago tour.

Become a Pampered Pilgrim on Our Way!

Become a pampered pilgrim on Our Way!

Our flagship journey where the idea for Fresco Tours was born in 1999! Join us and enjoy all the comforts of a Fresco Tours full-service tour: expert guides, support vehicle, fabulous accommodations and savory gourmet picnic lunches!

A Kinder (Gentler) Camino Tour

Similar to our standard full-service Camino de Santiago, our Kinder (Gentler) Camino means shorter days with all the full features of a Fresco Tour! As we will cover the last 112 km, A Kinder Camino also allows you to request the Compostela certificate in the Pilgrim's Office in Santiago.

Camino del Norte Tour: Basque in the Glory

Over 1,000 years ago, the original Way to Santiago wove along the Northern Coast, passing through the fabled Basque Country. Come with us and discover this mysterious corner of the Iberian Peninsula known for its proud people and marked contrasts. Enjoy views of the sea to our right and the foothills of the Pyrenees to our left!

Camino Horizons Tour

We understand that walking the entire 500-mile distance of the Camino de Santiago may not be feasible for everyone due to time constraints or physical limitations. That's why we have designed a special tour that allows you to experience the major cultural highlights of the Camino while traveling comfortably by private bus. You will also have the opportunity to walk some of the more scenic sections on the Camino, followed up by one of our famous gourmet picnics.

Camino of Gran Canary Island Tour

Spain's Canary Islands are famous for their beaches, palm trees, and volcanoes, but perhaps lesser known, is the officially recognized Camino de Santiago! On this new Fresco Tours adventure, we lace up our boots and leaving the southern sand dunes, we head north through stunning volcanic landscapes, pine forests and small oases as we cross the island of Gran Canary following our good friends, the yellow arrow and Fresco Tours!

A Fresco Start 115 km Tour

Starting from Sarria, you will cover the last 115 km of the Camino on foot, which will allow you to request de Compostela certificate in Santiago. Sarria is a market town that has all the conveniences for you to begin your journey!

A Fresco Start 200 km Tour

For the more hearty souls, the A Fresco Start 200 km walk begins from the Knights Templar town of Ponferrada and takes us along the mountain pass that has been used for the past millennium by pilgrims to enter the northwest corner of Spain - welcome to Galicia!

A Fresco Start Camino Portugués Tour

On this walk, you'll cover the last 118 km to Santiago. You begin your journey from the town of Tui (Spain), which sits on the banks of the River Miño and has wonderful views of it’s neighbors across the way in Portugal.

A Fresco Start Camino Portugués Coastal Tour

Stretch out your legs a bit more in Northern Portugal and follow the yellow arrows along the Atlantic Coast on this 15-day adventure! Feel the sea breeze in your face while you make your way to Santiago de Compostela.

A Fresco Start Chapter 1 Tour

Chapter 1 – The Beginning! Some of you have been to Santiago and even Finisterre, but would you like to see the starting point? Come with us as we take you to the launch pad of the Camino de Santiago, Roncesvalles and the Pyrenees.

Full-Service Guided Tours

Guided small group tours

Independent, Self-Walk Tours

Experience the Camino de Santiago on your own

Fresh Gourmet Picnics

Offered on all Camino Guided Tours

Camino de Santiago Tours Customer Reviews​

We take great pride in what we do and enjoy the relationships that we build with our clients. See what they are saying about Fresco Tours.​

Fresco Tours Guides could not have been better!

A very personalized experience!

Fresco Tours has never disappointed!

February 2024

How smoothly everything was organized

Margery, Travel 100 Group

December 2023

Amazing Experience!

October 2023

Seriously! a bit life changing!

Fresco tours, camino tours in spain, tours in spain.

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Home > Camino Tours > Camino de Santiago Guided Tours

Camino Guided Tours

Walk the camino with new friends and a certified camino de santiago guide.

Whether you simply prefer travelling with people or you are looking for a more connected pilgrimage journey, walking the Camino de Santiago as part of a guided tour is an excellent experience!

Enjoy in-depth local knowledge from your experienced, multilingual guide. They will look after you, get the latest interesting information from conversations with locals, and share personal stories that you wouldn’t hear anywhere else.

You can meet some of our incredible guides here .

Walking as part of a guided Camino group is adds another wonderful element to your Camino. Share the sense of achievement that comes with walking the Camino, and create special memories together. You’ll come to the end of your journey with new friends and memories that will last a lifetime.

Start planning your Guided Camino de Santiago tour today on one of our fantastic pilgrimage routes in Spain and Portugal!

For those who are short on time, but still want to experience the beauty of the Camino, you can walk from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela in 5 days. You will still receive your certificate of completion, or Compostela. Take an extra day or 2 to experience Santiago at the end.

The final stage of the famous Camino Frances (or French Way) is the most popular Camino package. It traverses the beautiful hilly landscapes of Galicia. Reward your efforts in Santiago de Compostela, the heart and hub of all pilgrimages on the Way of St James.

The Jacobean Way comes to an end in the city of Santiago. However, many of the pilgrims decide to extend their journey to the ”Costa da Morte”. This Guided Tour finishes the walk in Santiago the Compostela and takes the bus Tour to Finisterre, once considered the end of the world. You will find h illy villages along the way till you reach the cliffs of Spain’s western-most point. Beautiful scenery and amazing legends and history will compliment your walk.

Our fun and friendly guides speak Spanish and English, so they’ll make sure that all our services are rendered to the utmost satisfaction, as they are all Follow the Camino certified. They will ensure that your experience on this incredible journey is enhanced even more!

Add a Guide to Your Group Booking!

We can add a guide to any group booking! Get in touch with our Camino Planners for a quote!

Important:  Follow The Camino guided tours are guaranteed at a minimum of seven people. In case we do not reach this number, the tour will continue as  self-guided  and we will provide a partial refund equivalent to the amount paid for the guide.

Where to next?

If you have already walked the Camino and are looking for a guided walking or cycling tour in other parts of Europe then check out our guided tours on our sister website, One Foot Abroad!

There are plenty of options available all across Europe (and even into Morocco!) that are sure to ignite your wanderlust.

Could your next big challenge be the Tour du Mont Blanc , through France, Italy, and Switzerland?  

Get FREE Camino de Santiago tips

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Luxury Walking Tours of the Way of St. James

Join us on an extraordinary walking tour of the Camino de Santiago and enjoy the best of the food, wine, accommodations and culture of Spain on this magical path.

Over the centuries, people have walked by the millions from all over Europe to make their way to Santiago de Compostela, where it is believed that St. James is buried. Then, as now, they followed the well-trod path through some of Spain’s most beautiful terrain.

The Camino has something for everyone. It may bring you laughter. It may bring you strength. It may bring you new friendships. It may bring you a newfound appreciation for the beauty of nature. And almost always, it brings you what you need, even if you don’t know that you need it.

Choose your Tour

Juan Carlos is funny, knowledgeable and a fantastic guide. Alexandra Genova

Juan Carlos Duperier Your guide on the Camino

Wow! What a wonderful experience! I had the trip of a lifetime! Michael Goodin

Our goal is to support you in your journey, whatever that might be. We take care of everything so that you are free to just walk, to be, and to experience the Way of Saint James in the way that feels right to you.

Learn more about us View the photo gallery Why choose us

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Save $500 off selected tours when you book this spring.

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Madrid: Hidden secrets in the city

The first stop on our virtual tour of the Camino is in the largest city in Spain and its beautiful capital, Madrid. A hub for business, government, and industry, Madrid is also celebrated for its rich cultural, artistic, and gastronomic components.

On Tour in Andalusia

Cheeses along the Camino de Santiago

Specialty tours

Customized tours.

Learn more about our customized tours

Virtual Camino Tour

Virtual Camino​ is a Facebook group that we have created to take you on a virtual journey of the Camino de Santiago during the coronavirus pandemic. Join our 4,000+ members as we share memories and information about the 500-mile pilgrimage route.

Join us on the Virtual Camino

Hiking Ancient Trails and Paradors of Northern Spain

Pilgrim’s way: el camino de santiago.

From $5,195

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

Be part of a thousand-year-old pilgrimage—El Camino de Santiago—across a landscape alive with legends. Our perfectly designed journey showcases the very best landscapes and villages along this famous trail all the way to Finisterre, mythical Kilometer 0, where we make the traditional barefoot walk on the beach. Our paths wind through foothills and forests and past exquisite Romanesque and Gothic churches. Trails are marked with scallop shells, the symbol of St. James. One of the joys of this journey is sharing the trail with pilgrims from all over the world. Along the way, we are welcomed in our carefully selected hotels, including two nights at the acclaimed Parador dos Reis Católicos in Santiago. Our expert Trip Leaders bring the history and heritage of El Camino alive with every step, right down to introducing you to the delicious specialties of each region you travel through. Buen camino!

Arrive: Burgos, Spain

Depart: Santiago de Compostela, Spain

• With decades of experience on the Camino, we've honed this itinerary to perfection!
• Hike the most scenic portions of Spain's El Camino in nine well-paced days
• Complete the final stretch at Finisterre, walking the sands barefoot in true pilgrim tradition
• Enjoy Trip Leaders who ensure the traditions of the Camino are very much a part of your journey
• Stay in historic hotels, including the 5-star Parador dos Reis Católicos, a 15th century monastery in Santiago's central square

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

$600 due at time of reservation 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge! 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
• Accommodations in inns, manor houses, and paradors
• All meals included except 1 dinner as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• A glass of wine or beer with dinner
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Monasterio San Zoilo

Carrion de los Condes, Spain

Day 1 (1 night)

Hotel Spa Ciudad Astorga

Astorga, Spain

Day 2 (1 night)

Alternate Accomodation: Eurostars Vía de la Plata

Parador Villafranca del Bierzo

Villafranca del Bierzo, Spain

Day 3 (1 night)

Hotel Alfonso IX

Sarria, Spain

Day 4 (1 night)

Alternate Accomodation: Hotel Roma 1930

Hotel Ferramenteiro

Portomarin, Spain

Day 5 (1 night)

Pazo Santa María

Arzua, Spain

Day 6 (1 night)

Nestled in the countryside just outside Arzua, this restored historic manor house dates back to 1742. Guestrooms are well appointed, and there are beautiful gardens and a fountain—a lovely retreat. The restaurant serves traditional Galician dishes.

Alternate Accomodations: Hotel Lar da Mota , Pazo de Sedor

Parador de Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Days 7-8 (2 nights)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Patricia Raczkowski

David Atela

Santiago Bejarano

Haya Blanco

Marian Gibert

Sofia Jaldo

What the Trip is Like

• 1,000 feet gain/loss
• Day 5 - 14 miles, 8.5 hours, 900 feet gain, and 1,000 feet loss

We strongly urge you to train for your trip, as your enjoyment will be highly dependent on your level of fitness. The best training for a hike is to hike, especially over hills or rough terrain. Next best are running, swimming, bicycling, or other cardiovascular exercise. Stair climbing machines are excellent preparation for hiking uphill. Your feet should also be well prepared—make sure your hiking boots are sturdy, comfortable, and thoroughly broken-in.

Client Testimonials

"What a fabulous experience We loved the trip. The guides were well prepared and extremely knowledgeable."

Ann and John L.

Beaverton, OR

"Such a wonderful trip! We have recommended it to many friends already! The attention to detail, the provision of wonderful food, wines, snacks, and even happy hours at the end of most days hiking were just the best."

Seattle, WA

"If there was a rating above excellent, I would assign it to the components of this trip: guides, food, and itinerary design. Even the "van time" was well planned (and relatively brief) so that it was a break between walks, rather than dead time. Thank you!"

Kennebunkport, ME

"This trip was beyond wonderful. Every detail was planned perfectly, extraordinary guides, and beautiful hikes. We love Wilderness Travel—we will be planning trip number four with you, and we tell all our friends about how great your company is."

West Chester, PA

"I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and the Trip Leaders were a very positive part of the trip."

Portland, OR

"I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and the guides were a very positive part of the trip."

"Wilderness has once again delivered an amazing trip for all aboard. Great leaders, great guests, and a great experience. This is a complex intinerary—different hotels every night, all the meal arrangements along the way—and yet there was not a glitch the whole trip, including perfect weather! Everything was handled perfectly."

Fernandina Beach, FL

"Another well designed WT journey—from the itinerary, lodges, timing on the trail and at the historic sites. This was a spiritual journey for me, and it will stay in my heart forever."

"Excellent! This was my first experience with Wilderness Travel, and I was more than pleased."

"The trip was a fabulous experience—physically, socially,and spiritually. We're impressed with the entire organization and can't wait to travel with Wilderness Travel next year. I am already perusing the catalog!"

Houston, TX

"A fantastic experience! Our Trip Leaders were both wonderful—always on top of everything, with great personalities."

J. Robertson

"I had high expectations for this venture, but it was so much more than I had imagined. It was a fantastic experience that will stay in the forefront of my memories."

"I cannot say enough good things about this trip. Everything was expertly organized, every day was different, I felt extremely well looked after!"

Calgary, Alberta

"Thank you so much for a life changing adventure. It is one I will never forget."

Owen Sound, Ontario

"A very interesting hiking trip with lots of history and legend attached to it. Great guides and good food made for another memorable WT adventure."

La Jolla, CA

"This was just what I like in a trip; being out and about in the countryside and towns. The Trip Leaders were exceptional in having local cuisine and wines arranged at our meals. I really enjoyed the variety of hotel accommodations."

Montgomery, AL

"The trip was the perfect mix of culture, hiking and cuisine with a truly outstanding leader."

Campbell, PA

"It was a fascinating and inspiring trip. We would recommend it highly."

Chevy Chase, MD

"Best tour I've been on, and one of the best trips of my life!"

"Loved this trip! It was great, every minute of it. Wonderful hotels, and loved the picnics."

Little Rock, AK

"This was a trip of a lifetime! Couldn't imagine it could have turned out so well. From the Trip Leaders, my fellow travelers who started as strangers and ended up as friends, to the paths we hiked, the food we ate, the hotels we visited, the local guides we had along the way, it couldn't have been a better experience. Don't change a thing!"

Katherine B.

Santa Clara, CA

"Journey of a lifetime—great guides, fascinating cultural education, and wonderful food and wine."

Charlotte, NC

"An excellent trip: beautifully curated and expertly led."

Doylestown, PA

"Hiking the Pilgrim's Way was an awesome, humbling, spiritual experience."

Honeoye Falls, NY

"Would do it again!"

Gig Harbor, WA

"This was a most enjoyable experience! Everyone had a great time."

"Rob's sense of humor was contagious, and his knowledge of geology and history added to the overall experience."

New Bern, NC

"Starting in the flat cropland and moving through the heather, then the rolling hills and on through the Galacian forests was to us the perfect survey of the countryside."

"The Pilgrim's Way trip through northern Spain far exceeded our expectations in every way! It was our first time visiting the country, and we knew we would have a fantastic experience going with Wilderness Travel again. The daily choices of spectacular scenic hiking, unbelievably fabulous gourmet food and wine of the region, comfortable and charming hotels, and our delightful and outstanding leaders made it an OVER THE TOP nine days on the Camino De Santiago!"

Margaret T.

Holtville, CA

"Amazing experience! I can't imagine a better way to experience the Camino de Santiago! WT has really organized a great Camino experience for those of us without the time or endurance to tackle a 6-week strenuous walk. Our group was able to experience full walking days along the most varied and beautiful parts of the Camino, while also taking in the local art, architecture, cathedral tours, wonderful meals, and history along the way."

Margaret V.

Danville, CA

"This was my very first WT experience and it far exceeded my expectations. Exceptional value!"

Marjorie G.

"Wonderful accommodations and extraordinary food! I loved the variety of the hikes, the history and the culture, and the laughter and fun we shared on the trip. At the end of every day I would think, wow, this was the best day ever, yet the next day would prove to be just as wonderful, up until the very end."

"An unforgettable experience! I thought the itinerary was an excellent blend of culture, history, and hiking."

"Great trip, great company, great way to see northern Spain!"

El Dorado Hills, CA

"I so enjoyed this trip. Spain has romanced me. I will be coming back."

"Loved, loved, loved this trip! Everything was perfect—the hiking, the food, the hotels, the weather, the countryside, the villages, the churches, the larger cities, our guides, and the nicest group of people you could ever meet!"

"Our guides were amazing, always helpful, timely, respectful, and genuinely invested in our trip experience and safety. Perfect!"

Winston-Salem, NC

"This was a wonderful trip that more than met my expectations. The accomodations were more than adequate, the meals were delicious, and I couldn't have asked for better guides."

"On a scale from 1-10 this was a 15!!!!!"

Long Beach, CA

"Absolutely EVERYTHING about this trip was perfect:  itinerary, food, lodgings, trip leaders, educational opportunities.  A perfect example of why Wilderness Travel will always be our first choice when planning adventures."

Albuquerque, NM

"Our Pilgrim’s Way began with rain as we left the splendor of the Burgos Cathedral and ended with rain as we walked the shell-strewn sands of Finisterre. But in between? Well, in between, it was filled with joy, beauty, dancing, singing, dramatic readings, witches, history, camaraderie, delicious food, delectable wines, charming villages, vibrant cities, hidden restaurants, incredible trip leaders, friendly people, time for reflection, the hypnotic crunch of one’s boots on the path and, oh, yes, sunshine that had us peeling off layers of clothes as we walked through the exquisite and varied landscapes of the camino."

Virginia V.

"Everything about this trip was thoroughly enjoyable—the itinerary, the people, the food, and the leaders. Even the weather turned out to be exceptional. This is our second trip with WT, and we hope to do more!"

Yolanda (Yoli) S.

Miami Beach, FL

When is the Best Time to Hike the Camino de Santiago?

The Camino de Santiago can be done any time of year, however, the months of April-June and September-October are the best months to experience the trail. Read more about the differences between each month below.

Best Time to Hike the Camino de Santiago

Which is the Best Camino de Santiago Route for Me?

Most pilgrim trails funnel into a few main routes within Spain on their way to Santiago de Compostela, with the classic "Camino Frances" (French Way) being the most popular. This is the route that we recommend, and have selected the most beautiful hiking sections for our journey.

The Many Ways to Santiago

What is the History of the Camino de Santiago?

El Camino de Santiago — the Way of St. James — is the name for the hundreds of miles of collective pathways that have guided pilgrims to the holy city of Santiago de Compostela for more than 1,000 years. The reason for the great pilgrimage was (and still is, for many) a matter of faith in the miraculous power of St. James.

History of the Camino de Santiago

What is a Typical Day Like on the Camino de Santiago?

The trail follows everything from country roads to cow paths as we travel through rural regions that see few outsiders aside from pilgrims. Of course, all hiking days are a bit different, and the weather always has the final say, but the following is a sense of a typical day on the trail.

What to Expect on the Pilgrim's Way

What Makes our Camino de Santiago Journey Special?

• We have handcrafted a journey that in just nine days brings you to the best of the landscapes and villages, skipping areas that parallel highways or developed areas.
• Our expert Trip Leaders share phenomenal knowledge of the culture and history of the region and bring El Camino and its traditions to life.
• Our support van is available several times a day to provide refreshments or to give you a lift if you'd like to shorten the hiking day.
• You'll be welcomed each night in our carefully selected hotels and paradors, including two nights at the extraordinary Parador Dos Reis Católicos. No barebones hostels, we want you to rest in comfort as you make this historic pilgrimage!
• We bring you all the way to legendary Finisterre, with a grand finale at "the end of the earth," mythical Kilometer 0 on the pilgrim trail.

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Download Itin

Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

"Jacobean Year" - Holy Year of Compostela

The way of st. james – el camino – the french route, a walking pilgrimage, madrid · burgos · leon · villadongos del paramo · astorga · rabanal del camino · ponferrada · villafranca del bierzo · o cebreiro · triacastela · sarria · portomarin · palas de rei · arzua · arca do pino/rua · monte do gozo · santiago de compostela (st. james).

• What's Included
• Day-by-Day Itinerary
• Dates & Prices
• Destination Information

The Way of St. James – El Camino – Spain Pilgrimage (The French Route) Beginning in Leon and finishing in Santiago de Compostela, this route is a longer route in order to get a “Compostela” (El Camino Certificate). This will attract a more experienced Walker, or Pilgrims who have completed our Tour 70 and is up for a greater challenge. Referred to as the “French Route”, you will leave the plateau of Leon taking in the Leon mountains as you make your way to Astorga. This portion of your trip is charecterised by broom, heather, oak trees and conifer planta-tions. You will continue on towards Mount Irago before making your way down to the wealthy area of Bierzo. Make your way through the challenging steep climb to O‟Cebreiro as you stay the course into Sarria. From there you will enjoy the hilly lands of Galicia, which is known as one of the most beautiful parts of the Camino, and of course the most rewarding! There are numerous reminders of the pilgrims past who travelled the route including crosses, statues and grain silos. The gates of Galicia lead to the fabled Santiago de Compostela with its famous Cathedral, site of the tomb of St. James. “Tourists pass through places, places pass through Pilgrims”. 2021 is a  Jubilee year  in which Pilgrims will be able to receive a plenary indulgence – Jubilee years only occur fourteen times each century!

Any Questions? Contact Us:

800-206-Tour (8687) or

why travel with 206 Tours

Additional information, your trip includes.

• Round-trip airfare from your desired Airport * or book without airfare (land only option)
• All airport taxes & fuel surcharges
• Base Price: 2 Travellers in 1 Room: Queen or King Bed or 2 Twin beds
• Optional - Additional Cost: ◦ Solo Traveler: No Roomate ◦ Triple Room: Upon Request

• Breakfast daily
• Dinner Daily
• Professional local Catholic Tour Escort
• Guide Book of El Camino and Daily Maps
• Catholic Priest, Mass daily & Spiritual activities
• Sightseeing and admissions fees as per itinerary
• Transportation by air-conditioned motor coach
• Free WiFi & Water on bus
• Vehicle available to assist pilgrims who are unable to complete any leg of the journey
• Porterage service at Hotels throughout
• Hotel taxes and service charges

Centrally located hotels or similar

Catalonia Goya

AC Hotel by Marriott Leon San Antonio

Hotel Spa Ciudad de Astorga By PortBlue Boutique

AC San Ponferrada

Parador de Villafranca del Bierzo

Hotel Alfonso IX

Pousada de Portomarin

Pazo Marinao

Hotel Amenal

Hotel Compostela

Group Size may vary between 18 to maximum 33, always accompanied by a Catholic Priest and Tour Guide throughout.

El Camino Accommodations: Please be advised that we book you in the best available accommodations that are along the Camino trail. There are a limited number of places to stay along the Camino trail, without having to walk extra miles away from the Trail, and then back to the Trail to continue walking the route. These places range in Star Rating – simply because luxury hotels just do not exist.

Not Included

• Any meals not mentioned

Travel Protection

Providing you coverage for situations that may arise during your trip, including medical and dental emergencies, loss of luggage, trip delay, and so much more.

Cancel For Any Reason Waiver

A Cancellation Waiver – allowing you to cancel your trip and receive a refund anytime – up until 48 hours prior to departure.

While you will be removed from the routine of your everyday life, rest assured you will be taken care of with outstanding accommodations, meals and transportation with van / bus driving parallel to the path you walk each day. Should at any point you feel tired, need water, or any medical assistance, it will be readily available to you at check points that are set up along the way on your path. Tourists pass through places, places pass through Pilgrims.

*Important Notice:

This itinerary involves an average of 13 – 20 miles daily of walking/hiking. It is essential that participants be in fit condition in order to complete the journey. We will have assistance vehicles (motor coach) available to assist pilgrims who are unable to complete a particular leg of the journey.

Day 1: Depart USA

Board your overnight transatlantic flights from your hometown. Meals are served on board.

Day 2: Arrive in Madrid

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 walk to the Cathedral of Almudena. Following Mass, we visit the Cathedral. We will continue our walking tour of Madrid to include the exterior of the Royal Palace. Walk through the Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol and we make a stop at the Church of Saint James. Return to your hotel. We will enjoy a nice meal before having a restful overnight in Madrid before your walking tour begins!

Day 3: Madrid – Burgos - Leon

After breakfast in the hotel, we will depart towards Burgos. Burgos has been on the pilgrim route to Santiago from the very beginning. In the old part of the city, we will find the remains of the old castle looking down onto the Gothic Cathedral of Saint Mary, declared a World Heritage Site in 1984. The building of the cathedral was commissioned in the 11th Century by King Fernando III and his German wife Beatrice of Swabia. The building of the cathedral was overseen by the English born Bishop Don Mauricio. The towers which dominate the skyline were designed and built by Hans of Cologne, bearing more than a passing resemblance to the great cathedral in Cologne. The cathedral is vast with a number of different chapels but perhaps one of the most interesting is the Chapel of the Christ of Burgos. Directly opposite this chapel above the Chapel of Santa Tecla you will find the Papamoscas. This is an automaton above a clock which opens and closes its mouth and strikes a bell on the hour. Also within the cathedral are buried the remains of Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, better known worldwide as El Cid. Apart of the Cathedral we will find two very important monasteries in Burgos: The Monastery of Las Huelgas, a favourite place of retreat for the Castilian monarchs; and the Cartuja de Miraflores where now, a community of Carthusian monks live in silence. This afternoon, we will warm up our legs walking around 3 miles from Calzada del Coto to Bercianos del Real Camino or from Bercianos del Real Camino to El Burgo Ranero. At the end of the day, we will arrive in Leon. Lying on the banks of the Bernesga River, Leon is the last major city before we reach Santiago, and before we climb through the mountains of the Cordillera Cantabrica. The city was founded as a Roman fort in AD 68 to protect the roads leading west to the gold mines at El Bierzo. The town was home to the Legio Septima, or Seventh Legion of Imperial Rom,e from when the city is believed to get its name. Leon was Christianized in the 3rd century becoming the oldest Bishopric (diocese of a bishop) in Western Europe. Leon has impressive buildings like the Cathedral of Santa Maria, a gothic masterpiece. The building that stands here today was begun in the 13th century and built over the original Romanesque Cathedral. The Cathedral of Leon is well known worldwide due to its impressive stain glass windows, similar in quality to the ones in Chartres Cathedral. Other buildings we will find in Leon are: Casa Botines, built by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi, who designed the Sagrada Familia Basilica in Barcelona; the Royal Collegiate of San Isidoro; and the former pilgrim hospital and monastery of San Marcos. Dinner & overnight in Leon.

Day 4: Leon – Villadongos del Paramo

Breakfast in the hotel. After attending Mass in the Cathedral of Leon, we will stamp our pilgrim passport in the Cathedral to start our pilgrim walk towards Santiago de Compostela, following the scallop shells that pass by the Real Collegiate of San Isidoro and towards San Marcos. The first village we are going to find in our way is La Virgen del Camino (Our Lady of the Way). The Catholic tradition says that during the feast of the Visitation in July 1505, the Virgin Mary appeared to a local shepherd while he was taking care of his flock. She asked him to go to the city, to get the Bishop and to bring him to this place to build a shrine in her honor. He asked the Virgin Mary how was the Bishop to know that it was She that sent him. The Virgin Mary seeing that he had a slingshot in his hand asked him to pass it to her. She picked up a small stone and put it into the slingshot. She told the shepherd that wherever this stone landed that is where she wanted her shrine to be built. The shepherd set off to speak to the Bishop in Leon and told him of the apparition. He was unconvinced until the shepherd, using his slingshot, hurled a stone which promptly became a boulder when it struck the ground. Now convinced of the miracle, the Bishop built a hermitage dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The very modern church that stands in the place where the original hermitage had been is the Church of the Virgen del Camino which was built in 1961 and is managed by Dominican friars. After visiting the Virgen del Camino village, we will follow the old Roman road that linked Astorga with Leon. At the end of the stage, we will arrive at the village of Villadangos del Páramo, where we will find the Church of Saint James where at its entrance we will see a carving depicting the legendary battle at Clavijo in 844. It is at this battle that Santiago in his guise as Santiago Matamoros, is reputed to have helped the vastly outnumbered Christian army. Dinner and overnight in Leon.

Day 5: Villadongos del Paramo – Astorga (walking day, 16.6 Miles / 22 km)

Breakfast in the hotel. After attending Mass at Saint James Church in Villadongos del Paramo, we will continue our walking pilgrimage. The first large village we will find today is Hospital de Orbigo, and to get to this beautiful village we will have to cross the longest bridge on El Camino (670 feet) and there is a nice story related to it: El Paso Honroso (The honorable pass). The name was given due to a jousting tournament of sorts undertaken by Don Suero de Quiñones. Don Suero was in love with a lady by the name of Doña Leonor de Tobar, who unfortunately did not feel the same way. This 15th century knight, who considered himself a prisoner of her love, decided to wear an iron collar around his neck every Thursday as a symbol of being enslaved by his love for her. As a way to impress both the lady he loved and King John II of Castile, as well as a way of freeing himself from his enslavement, he decided to embark on a surprising joust in the style of the knights of old. Don Suero offered the tournament to Saint James saying that he and nine other knights would challenge those undertaking the pilgrimage to Santiago until 300 lances were broken. When the tournament was finished, all the participants went to Santiago de Compostela to offer the arms with which they fought to the Apostle. The tradition says that the iron collar (that it was turned in gold) worn by Don Suero, is hung around the neck of the image of the Apostle that is used in processions. We will find the Church of Saint John the Baptist on the other side of the bridge, which is what remains of the pilgrim hospital which had been built in the 12th Century by the Knights of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem. At the end of the stage, we will arrive to the walled city of, Astorga. This historical and religious city, called Asturica Augusta by the Romans, was one of the Roman strongholds in the Leon area. On it the French and the Plata Routes to Santiago converge. This extraordinary Gothic Cathedral from the 15th Century presides over the town; the Episcopal Palace or Gaudí Palace, houses the Museo de los Caminos, which displays pieces from all churches related to the Route to Santiago.; and the chocolate museum that celebrates Astorga chocolate industry which thrived during the 18th and 19th Centuries. Dinner and overnight in Astorga.

Day 6: Astorga – Rabanal del Camino (walking day, 12.3 Miles / 19.7 km)

After breakfast in the hotel, we will attend Mass at the Cathedral of Astorga. Today we will walk through the area called: la Maragateria, ending in the Bierzo region that borders with Galicia. We will walk through Murias de Rechivaldo, a lovely village with most of the stone buildings constructed in the traditional Maragato style, and where we will find the Church of Saint Stephen. With a carving of Our Lady of the Pillar above its door; “Santa Catalina de Somoza”, there we will see the Church of Saint Mary that houses a relic of Saint Blaise, the town patron saint, and El Ganso, with its thatched houses which are typical of the North-Western part of Leon and Galicia. Before arriving to Rabanal del Camino, we will pass the remains of the Roman gold mines of La Fucarona, one of the oldest gold mines which made a cliché of Astorga´s wealth in Roman times. In the Middle Ages, Rabanal del Camino was an important stop for pilgrims before they walked through the mountains. It was a large settlement of the Templar Knights who used to defend and protect the pilgrims from the robbers of the harsh areas of Focebadon. There is a community of Benedictine monks living in the San Salvador del Monte Irago Monastery who came from Santo Domingo de Silos in 2001, although, now the monastery is affiliated with the abbey at St Otilien in Germany. Board bus for your return to Hotel in Astorga for dinner and overnight.

Day 7: Rabanal del Camino – Ponferrada (walking day, 20.3 Miles / 32 km)

Breakfast in the hotel. After attending the Holy Mass at the Church of Saint Joseph (or at the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption), the bus will bring us to our departure point where we will continue our pilgrimage. After leaving Rabanal del Camino, the route continues across the region of Leon. The first village that appears is Foncebadon, the onetime important center in the Middle Ages that has been abandoned. Here took place a Council in the 10th Century, and a century later, the hermit Guacelmo founded a hostelry for pilgrims. Some kilometers off the municipality, surmounting a peak that the Romans dedicated to Mercury can be seen the Ferro Cross, on top of a stick fixed to a big heap of stones. Traditionally pilgrims bring a stone from their places of origin and deposit it on the heap. The end of our today’s journey is located in Ponferrada. This town, with Prehistoric and Roman antecedents, had two accesses in the Middle Ages. One was via the Roman bridge spanning the Boeza river, sunk in the 18th Century; the other was via the path of the Gallegos, and then crossing the river by the Medieval bridge of Mascarón. At the end of the 11th Century, the Bishop of Astorga, Osmundo, commissioned the building of a new bridge, “la Pons Ferrata”, a pass with iron banisters which gave name to the city. Later on, between the 11th and 14th Century, the Castle of the Knights Templar was built. In the 15th Century the Catholic Monarchs commissioned the construction of the Hospital de la Reina, next to the fortress. In this monumental town also stand the Basilica of Nuestra Señora de la Encina, built to commemorate the apparition of the Virgin in a grove of Holm oaks, and the Baroque church of San Andres, which is home to an outstanding retable: “The Christ of the Wonders”. Dinner and overnight in Ponferrada.

Day 8: Ponferrada – Villafranca del Bierzo (walking day, 12.6 Miles / 20.2 km)

Breakfast in the hotel. After attending the Mass, we continue on our walking pilgrimage. Today, part of our journey will follow the old Roman road that connected Ponferrada with the silver and gold mines located in Las Médulas. The first, and last, village we will see today is Cacabelos. Cacabelos as a village that first appeared in the 10th Century, but it can trace its origins to way back in the Bronze Age. In the Middle Ages, the town boasted few churches and some pilgrim hospitals, but nothing remains of these ancient buildings except the 18th Century the Quinta Angustia Shrine, where we will find a very unusual carving of the child Jesus playing cards with Saint Anthony of Padua, which was built on the site of one of the medieval hospitals. At the end of the stage, we will arrive to Villafranca del Bierzo, the last major town along the Camino de Santiago in Leon, with the Galician village of O Cebreiro only 17 miles away. Villafranca del Bierzo is believed to have been founded by French monks of the Cluny order. The town could be said to owe its existence to El Camino and the many monuments founded here that make Villafranca del Bierzo a natural tourist destination. There is plenty to see, but the most interesting buildings/monuments are: The Church of Saint James (that granted the privilege of providing absolution to the pilgrims who were too ill to continue along the Camino to Santiago), San Nicolas (founded as a religious school run by Jesuits until their expulsion in 1767), The Collegiate of Saint Mary ( which was built on the site of the original monastery of the Cluny order), The Agua Street (full of palaces and emblazoned houses), The San Francis Church, and the Castle of the Marquees of Villafranca. Board your bus for your return ride to your Hotel in Villafranca del Bierzo for dinner and overnight.

Day 9: Villafranca del Bierzo. Resting day

Breakfast in the hotel. We will dedicate our day to rest and enjoy this beautiful town. Dinner and overnight in Villafranca del Bierzo.

Day 10: Villafranca del Bierzo – O Cebreiro (walking day, 17.2 Miles / 27.6 km)

Breakfast in the hotel. After attending Holy Mass, we will continue our pilgrimage. During the morning, we will walk through the Ancares Valley area where we will be able to see the Castles of Sarracín (which some ruins can be seen), and Veiga; both castles are connected to Celtic legends. Half way through our walk, we will arrive to the village of Vega de Valcarce where we will find a great example of an “horreo” or grain store. As we enter in Galicia, we will see different horreo styles, usually made of granite or wood. The Camino, from this point until we get to O Cebreiro, will consist of climbing up through the mountains with the terrain starting off gently but progressively getting steeper. O Cebreiro, with an altitude of almost 4,000 feet, owes much of its existence to the Camino de Santiago, as well as to the many roman roads that passed this way. It is the first town we reach on the French Camino as we enter Galicia. The first pilgrim hospital to appear in the town was built in the 9th Century and was run from the late 11th Century by the monks of Saint Gérard De’Aurillac, a French religious order. Also in the 9th Century, the monastery of the Sanctuary of O Cebreiro was built, not much remains other than the Church of Saint Mary the Royal, considered to be the oldest intact church along the whole Camino. There is an Eucharist miracle related to this church. In the 14th Century there was a parishioner from a nearby village called Barxamaior, who climbed up to the church through heavy snow and a blizzard in order to hear Mass. As the priest was performing the Eucharist, he had a momentary lapse of faith and whilst he was consecrating the bread and wine he thought to himself, whilst looking at the parishioner sat in front of him “what is this man doing here in this cold weather, just to see a piece of bread and a little wine?”. It was at this point that the miracle occurred, the bread turned to flesh and the wine became blood. This became known locally as the Galician Holy Grail. The relics are kept in the church in a reliquary given to the church by the Catholic Monarchs whilst they were undertaking the Camino to Santiago in 1486, along with the chalice and paten used in that Mass. While we are here in O Cebreiro we will be able to take a look at the Pallozas, the traditional round stone houses with thatched roofs that the people of this area used as their homes. Board your bus for your transfer to your Hotel for dinner and overnight in Villafranca del Bierzo.

Day 11: O Cebreiro – Triacastela (walking day, 17.2 Miles / 27.6 km)

Breakfast in the hotel. After attending the Holy Mass at Saint Mary the Royal Church, the bus will transfer you to your departing point and we will continue our pilgrimage towards Santiago. In Galicia, we will pass through countless hamlets connected to one another by ancient dry-stone walls separating the trail from an endless patchwork quilt of worked fields and cow pastures. We’ll enjoy the hearty Galician fare – including leafy green soup, called “caldo gallego”, creamy cow’s milk cheeses, thick, round loaves of wheat, rye and corn meal bread, outstanding Galician veal and pork, seafood and greens – cabbage, broad beans, Swiss chard and leeks. Our halt today will be Triacastela. In the 13th Century, Alfonso XI tried unsuccessfully to convert this precious village into a big town. Triacastela once had a hospital and a prison, an unusual circumstance along the Route. Pilgrims can visit the Parish Church of Santiago, containing a façade from the 18th Century and a Romanesque apse. In its interior there is a processional cross from the 12th Century. As a penance, pilgrims used to carry in their packs a limestone from the mountains of Triacastela. Dinner and overnight in Sarria.

Day 12: Triacastela – Sarria (walking day, 13 Miles / 20.9 km)

Breakfast in the hotel. After attending the Holy Mass we will continue our pilgrimage. Today, on our halfway to Sarria, we will get to the town of Samos where we will find the impressive Benedictine Monastery of San Julian de Samos. It was founded in the 6th Century by San Martin Dumiense, and renovated by San Fructuoso in the 7th Century. Unfortunately, soon after the monastery was renovated, it was abandoned because of the Moorish invasion and it wasn’t until the Christian King Fruela I reconquered the area did the monks return. This important monastery is situated on the valley by the Ouribio River, surrounded by a scenery that enhances its beauty and provides a mysterious atmosphere. Its impressive Neoclassical façade is worthy of note, as well as the huge cloisters. The cloister of Nereidas, from the 16th Century contains a beautiful fountain. The Cipres chapel, from the 10th Century, is one of the oldest elements in the monastery. Back on the Route, we will pass through a picturesque scene full of oaks and chestnut trees. At the end of the stage, we will arrive to Sarria. Sarria has been inhabited for many thousands of years both by the Celts and the Romans but the town was founded at the end of the 12th Century by King Alfonso IX, the last King of Leon. He unfortunately died here in 1230 from a serious illness that he contracted as he was undertaking the pilgrimage to Santiago. Most of the buildings linked to El Camino can be found behind the main street on the hill where the old town used to be, like the Church of Salvador (with a Romanesque ground plan and Gothic façade), the small chapel of San Lazaro, the hospital of Saint Antony (which today houses a Court), the remains of its old fortress from the 14th Century, and the Monastery of La Magdalena (founded by a couple of Italian friars, belonged to the Penance of the Venerable Martyrs of Christ, who passed this way on their pilgrimage to Santiago, and that is now managed by the Religious Order of the Mercy of Christ). Dinner and overnight in Sarria.

Day 13: Sarria - Portomarin (Walking Day: 16 miles | 25.7 kilometers | 38,000 steps)

Day 14: Portomarin - Palas de Rei (Walking Day: 18 miles | 28.9 kilometers | 42,000 steps)

Day 15: Palas de Rei - Arzua (Walking Day: 19 miles | 30.5 kilometers | 44,500 steps)

Day 16: Arzua (Rest Day: 4.5 miles | 7.2 kilometers | 10,500 steps)

Today, you will take a break to rest your bodies and shake off any fatigue. After Mass, there will be time to reflect on the journey thus far and to spend at your own leisure. Dinner and overnight will be provided in Arzua.

Day 17: Arzua - Arca de O Pino (Walking Day: 16 miles | 25.7 kilometers | 37,700 steps)

Day 18: Arca de O Pino - Monte del Gozo - Santiago de Compostela (Walking Day: 16 miles | 25.7 kilometers | 37,700 steps)

Day 19: Santiago de Compostela

This morning you will awaken in the beautiful city of Santiago de Compostela! Formed by Galician granite, this 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 20: 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 your trip

About santiago de compostela:.

The history of El Camino, the Way of St. James or St. James’ Way, often known by its Spanish name, el Camino de Santiago, is the pilgrimage to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia in northwestern Spain, where legend has it that the remains of the apostle, Saint James the Great, are buried. The Way of St. James has existed for over a thousand years. It was one of the most important Christian pilgrimages during medieval times. It was considered one of three pilgrimages on which a plenary indulgence could be earned; the others are the Via Francigena to Rome and the pilgrimageto Jerusalem. Legend holds that St. James’s remains were carried by boat from Jerusalem to northern Spain, where they were buried on the site that is now the city of Santiago de Compostela. There are some, however, who claim that the bodily remains at Santiago belong to Priscillian, the fourth-century Galician leader of an ascetic Christian sect, Priscillianism, who was one of the first Christian heretics to be executed.

About Spain

Saint Teresa and Saint Ingatius both hailed from Spain. Saint Teresa of Ávila, also called Saint Teresa of Jesus, was a prominent Spanish mystic, Carmelite nun, and writer. Saint Ignatius of Loyola was a Spanish knight who became priest and found the Society of Jesus and became its first Superior General.

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