Discover the rural beauty of Northern Spain on this 7-day self-guided pilgrimage
This mesmerizing 7-day self-guided pilgrimage of the last 100 km of the Camino de Santiago is a life-changing experience waiting to be discovered.
The stunning historic trail known as the St James' Way unfolds in a series of five stages ranging from 18km to 29km a day. Setting out from Sarria and ending in Santiago de Compostela, you’ll breathe in the fresh air of the countryside, meld with history and revel in the rolling green hills of Galicia. Wander around tiny, enchanted villages, stop in at splendid historical monuments and reflect at silent chapels. At the end of each day, replenish your energy with scrumptious local dishes and get caught up in the excitement of a centuries-old journey shared by millions from all over the world.
If you’re looking for a unique adventure and to travel with a sense of purpose, the Walking the last 100 km of Way of St. James Tour won’t disappoint!
Highlights of the Camino Frances: Sarria to Santiago
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Camino Frances: Sarria to Santiago Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Sarria
Start your Camino adventure with a public bus ride or pre-arranged private transfer to Sarria, ‘gateway’ to Compostela and start of the requisite final 100km for the official pilgrimage certificate. If you have not obtained your Pilgrims Passport in advance, you can collect one here.
Arrive early to visit nearby Samos, a 6th-century monastery that has welcomed pilgrims since the Camino’s very inception. Or book an extra night pre-tour and enjoy the beautiful 14km walk from Samos Monastery back to Sarria.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Sarria
Distance: (optional walk) 15,2 km, 4,5-5 hrs, 150m ascent, 350m descent
Meals: None
Day 2 Country Roads from Sarria to Portomarin
Your first Camino walk is easier than it looks on the route profile and you'll immediately get into a rhythm on the peaceful country roads and quiet paths. Tree-lined sections provide welcome shade on sunny days and tiny hamlets are strung close together, it seems you have just left one as you enter the next. You'll find plenty of places to pause for snacks and swap stories with other pilgrims along the way.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Portomarin
Distance: 23 km, 7 hrs, 375m ascent, 400m descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Walk from Portomarín to Palas de Rei and Viewpoint on Monte San Antonio
Saunter down the steep high street out of Portomarín this morning then ‘switch gears’ on a gentle uphill track alongside the main road. Crossing the N-540 at Hospital de la Cruz, you can take a breather at today's highest point, Monte San Antonio. The rest of the day offers nothing but easy walking through gently rolling countryside with a pleasant 10km section on the tarmac. The final 3 kilometres veers off onto a dirt track again, as you approach the humming pilgrims’ town of Palas de Rei.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Palas de Rei
Distance: 25.3 km, 7,5-8 hrs, 500m ascent, 290m descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Historic Crossroads From Palas del Rei to Arzua
From Palas de Rei you embark on a long but technically easy route, free of steep prolonged ascents or descents. Join the traditional pilgrim countdown as stone markers sprout up showing the distance left to reach Santiago Cathedral. Encountering cool shady stretches, you amble along to Melide, historic crossroads where the Original Way or ‘Camino Primitivo’ meets the popular French Route or ‘Camino Francés’. Just past this point, you’re treated to an aromatic section through eucalyptus trees and oak groves, trekking toward Arzúa and a well-earned coffee . . . or glass of local wine!
This longer stage can be shortened by arranging a morning transfer to O Coto, saving 8km on a busy road.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Arzua
Distance: 28.8 km, 7,5-8 hrs, 250m ascent, 400m descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 5 Join Other Pilgrims on the Walk from Arzúa to A Rua
At first glance, this stage seems to provide little interest with its monotonous movement alongside the main road. Yet today ends up being one of the most exciting of the whole week as you feel the collective energy grow, joining hordes of fellow pilgrims all excited to be nearly there! It’s a relatively short day, leaving time to relax at your hotel and meld with the peaceful surroundings.
Overnight Location: Hotel in A Rua
Distance: 18km, 6 hrs, 360m ascent, 460m descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 6 Final Push to Santiago de Compostela
Burst back into modern life as you rush along past the regional airport and cross the highway, railway and ring-road drawn by an immense, irresistible magnet: Plaza Obradoiro. The urban hustle and bustle will not deter you and it’s still easy to imagine ancient pilgrims weeping with joy as they glimpsed the distant spires. Historically, pilgrims pause at Monte does Gozo to set their sights then make one last stop at the spring in Lavacolla, to cleanse their face and feet before meeting their beloved saint.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Santiago de Compostela
Distance: 22.4 km, 7 hrs, 440m ascent, 475m descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 End of tour
Your self-guided pilgrimage comes to an end this morning after breakfast. Extra nights can be booked to allow time to explore the beautiful city of Santiago.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
The departure is available on any day of the week. Prices below are per person:
Basic Hotels
Departure on April 1st – October 31st, 2024:
- Single room: $775 USD
- Sharing a double/twin/triple room: $550 USD
Select hotels
Departure on April 1st – October 31st, 2024:
- Solo traveller: $1,075 USD
- Single room (group of 2+): $1,025 USD
- Sharing a double/twin room: $725 USD
- Sharing a triple room: $725 USD
Accommodation on Camino Frances: Sarria to Santiago Tour
You have an option to choose whether you prefer staying in a basic accommodation, of if you'd like to stay in select hotels. Basic accommodation provides stays in simple pensions, while 'select' option gives a combination of nicer cozy hotels.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
Standard rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel where possible. Solo travellers may be required to pay a supplement.
Select Hotels
Roma Hotel in Sarriá
Guests will enjoy the laidback vibe and great restaurant and bar at the Roma Hotel in Sarria.
Pousada de Portomarín Hotel in Portomarín ★★★
Enjoy scenic views of the Miño River and several nearby historical sights at this comfortable hotel in Portamarin that features an outdoor swimming pool, perfect for a dip following a day on the trail.
A Parada das Bestas Hotel in Palas de Rei
A Parada das Bestas Hotel welcomes all guests with its warm atmosphere in a picture-perfect rural setting, Guests can enjoy superb amenities like an outdoor pool and a charming restaurant.
Pazo de Santa María Hotel in Arzúa
This rustic hotel set in a beautiful stone building dates back to 1742 and is brimming with authentic charm.
O Acivro Hotel in O Pino
An updated hotel featuring a bar and restaurant and top-tier amenities like laundry service and a pool.
Hotel Bonaval in Santiago de Compostela ★★
Soak up the magic of Santiago’s old town at this cozy hotel set on a cobbled street just a short walk from the famous Santiago de Compostela (7-minutes).
Basic hotels
Albergue la Casona de Sarria in Sarria ★★★
This hotel is conveniently located for those looking to trek the famous Camino de Santiago route. The house is built in an old Galician style and offers cozy rooms.
Pension Portomiño in Portomarin
This pension is basic, but adequate. Located in a quiet part of the town, but in a very close proximity to the center.
Pension Palas in Palas de Rei
This pension just off the Camino route provides nice breakfast, clean rooms and welcoming staff.
A Fonda do Norte in Arzúa
Stay in a clean hotel with good amenities and ensuite rooms.
Pension Platas in O Pino
Conveniently located at the entrance of the town, this pension provides simple yet comfortable and clean rooms.
Hospedería San Martín Pinario in Santiago de Compostela
Perfectly located near Praza do Obradoiro and other notable attractions, as well as a host of restaurants, enjoy your stay in this historic building.
What’s Included in Camino Frances: Sarria to Santiago Tour?
Meals
6 breakfasts and 2 dinners are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 6 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour are not included but can be added as a supplement.
Transportation during the Tour
During this tour, you will be walking from one location to another, and all the luggage transfers are included. However, you will be responsible for any other transportation outside of the tour itinerary. Those who book select accommodation will also have a transfer from Palas de Rei to their accommodation on day 4 included.
Also Included
- Detailed route description and maps
- 24-hour telephone assistance
- Routes in digital format (.gpx) for GPS or mobile devices
Not included
- Any personal transport
- Travel insurance
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Flights
- Guide services
- Tourist Tax
- Personal expenses such as drinks, phone calls, tips, extra transfers, etc.
Optional Extras
- Optional transfer Sarriá-Samos
- Extra nights can be booked in Sarria or Santiago de Compostela
Frequently Asked Questions about Camino Frances: Sarria to Santiago
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