Best of the Camino
- Cross the Pyrenees on the first stage of the Camino to Roncesvalles
- Experience the bustling cities of Logrono, Pamplona and Leon
- Collect your Compostela in Santiago after completing the final 100k
- Enjoy wonderful camaraderie with fellow pilgrims
- Walk the best and most interesting sections of the Camino Frances
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in St. Jean Pied de Port & OvernightThe charming town of St-Jean-Pied-de-Port lies at the foot of the majestic Pyrenees – the starting point of the famous Way of St. James. Stroll through its narrow, cobbled streets, passing traditional stone houses and lively cafés. Soak up the special energy of this historic pilgrimage site, which has welcomed travellers from all over the world for centuries. Savour the excitement of setting off on your journey to Santiago de Compostela. Your unforgettable journey begins here.

The hotel stands out in the town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port with its pink sandstone façade from the Basque Country, on the banks of the Nive, in the town centre. Once through the door, you will be charmed by the recent renovations (dating back to 2015), modern equipment, contemporary-style decoration and old elements such as the monumental oak staircase and the floor of the hall in cement tiles.

The Ramuntcho Hotel has been welcoming guests since 1895. With a friendly and familiar atmosphere, the hotel is ideally located at the foot of the city walls and is easily accessible.

The guesthouse is the result of a family project. You will be welcomed in a house entirely designed by the family, where the welcome and the well-being of the guests is a priority. Each room is individually designed and furnished with great taste by the lady of the house.
The first major ascent of the Camino takes you through the majestic silence of the Pyrenees, offering a challenging yet deeply moving experience for body and mind. On the 'Ruta Imperial', you hike above the clouds, enjoying spectacular panoramic views and the sight of grazing horses, while experiencing a sense of boundless freedom. You then reach Spain, immersing yourself in the mystical atmosphere of Roncesvalles, which is dominated by the venerable collegiate church. Those who prefer a gentler start can follow the green Valcarlos Valley, where rushing streams and tranquil woodlands line the route. Whether you hike high up or take it easy through the valley, the Camino begins to change you.
Ruta Imperial: Ascent: 1,330m (4,364ft) / Descent: 543m (1,782ft)
Valcarlos Route: Ascent: 1,185m (3,888ft) / Descent: 409m (1,342ft)

This Hostal is recommended in the Michelin Guide. It is a 16th century mansion which has been completely renovated to accommodate pilgrims on their walk. The restaurant provides local Basque cuisine and can sit up to 130 people.

The building, now a hotel and apartments, was built in 1725 as the "house of the Beneficiaries", clerics who helped the canons in their ecclesiastical work. Its interior has recently been completely restored as a hotel, an ambitious project led by the Príncipe de Viana Institution, responsible for the conservation of Navarre's cultural heritage. As a result, Hotel Roncesvalles offers the highest levels of comfort in an architectural setting full of art, history and nature.

Warm rooms, some with balconies & mountain views, in an informal inn offering dining & a bar.
Once you have crossed the Pyrenees, the trail becomes gentler, offering a pleasant undulating route through the final foothills of the mountains. You will hike through tranquil beech and oak forests, accompanied by the sounds of trickling streams and the scent of damp earth. Gradually, the landscape opens up as you approach the fertile plains of Navarre. The path leads you through small villages and over ancient bridges to Akerreta, where your cosy rural accommodation awaits. It's a day to breathe deeply and enjoy.
Ascent: 446m (1,463ft) / Descent: 857m (2,812ft)

Hotel Akerreta is a small family run bed and breakfast. The stone walled house still has many of its original features with its bread ovens and enormous wooden oak beams.

This traditional house has three floors, two of which have been recently renovated. All rooms are spacious and bright, with wooden floors and stone walls, and have a private bathroom. There is a common area with a fireplace, TV and a fully equipped kitchen. There is also a private garden for guests.

Low-key rooms & dorms with a rustic vibe in a relaxed hostel with a casual restaurant & a lounge. Large and comfortable living room with fireplace, free Wi-Fi, and public garden at the back of the building. Table and billiard games & free parking outside.
Accompanied by the Arga River, the trail winds through green valleys, past old bridges, dense forests and picturesque villages. The landscape widens and civilisation becomes more noticeable, finally announcing the arrival of Pamplona with its towers and narrow streets. The capital of Navarre captivates visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse cuisine. Ernest Hemingway fell in love with the city and immortalised it in his novel The Sun Also Rises. After days spent in nature, Pamplona offers an exciting contrast, brimming with energy, culture and the spirit of the Camino.
Ascent: 94m (308ft) / Descent: 170m (558ft)

Charismatic hotel with more than 50 years of history in the historic centre of the city, next to the city walls. The hotel, which is characterised by its simplicity, offers modern and comfortable rooms.

Hotel Maisonnave is a comfortable 4 star hotel with a longstanding tradition in the city of Pamplona. Comfort, quality and a very personal style that has evolved in line with the trends of the sector are the hallmarks of the Maisonnave Hotel, which has succeeded in making its clients feel as if the rooms are their own.

Right on the edge of Taconera Gardens, this is a 4-star property with air-conditioned modern rooms.
After passing through the lively city of Pamplona, you will once again immerse yourself in the vastness and tranquillity of Navarre's rural landscape. The route winds through rolling hills, fields and small villages, providing the perfect opportunity to unwind and breathe in the fresh air. A worthwhile detour will take you to the magically situated Church of Santa María de Eunate, a Romanesque gem nestled in the heart of the fields. Finally, you will reach Puente de la Reina, named after the impressive medieval bridge spanning the Arga River with its six arches. This is a place where history, spirituality and scenic beauty converge.
Ascent: 403m (1,322ft) / Descent: 507m (1,663ft)

This old thirteenth century tower, completely refurbished and decorated with rural and modern elements, offers the chance to rest and discover the culture, history, and gastronomy of Navarre.

This modern building is spread over two levels. The brick building was renovated in the style of the 18th century palaces of Navarre. The accommodation offers spacious rooms.

This beautifully restored 17th century house offers comfortable accommodation for travellers. Care has been taken to retain the noble materials such as wood, stone and old bricks to create a rustic and personalised style.
Today's stage takes you through open farmland and wide fields of sun-drenched vineyards. Shade is scarce here, so remember to bring sunscreen. En route from Cirauqui to Lorca, you will walk over the well-preserved remains of Roman roads, bringing a piece of history to life beneath your feet. There are several short but steep climbs through traditional mountain villages, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. After that, the route descends into the charming town of Estella, which is steeped in history and pilgrimage tradition and has a lively atmosphere.
Ascent: 336m (1,102ft) / Descent: 237m (778ft)

A four-star accommodation that devotes care and attention to the small details to provide a unique artistic environment that give a classic look with a unique service that will meet your highest expectations.

Located in the beautiful city of Estella, and a stop on the Camino de Santiago and surrounded by a privileged natural and historical environment, at Hotel Yerri they offer a quality stay with personalised service.

A friendly, family run hotel on the outskirts of Estella has new facilities since 2006, directly next to the Camino de Santiago.
After Villamayor de Monjardín, the trail becomes quieter and you find yourself immersed in a lonely, expansive landscape with no villages or distractions. For around 12 kilometres, you are accompanied only by the sound of your footsteps crunching on the ground, the wind rustling through the bushes and the light dancing over the fields and hills. Olive groves, vineyards and dry earth now dominate the landscape, offering a glimpse of the heart of Spain. This vastness invites you to pause and walk mindfully. Finally, you reach the peaceful town of Los Arcos.
Ascent: 338m (1,109ft) / Descent: 314m (1,030ft)

Monaco Hotel is a small friendly family business. It has been catering for pilgrims for over 40 years and provides a lounge where you can swap stories with other pilgrims or just relax before the next days walking.

The Hostal Suetxe is a small hotel which offers rustic charm and clean, comfortable accommodation.

This property offers rooms with a flat-screen TV and fan. Some rooms have a balcony or terrace. All rooms have a private bathroom with free toiletries, bath or shower and hairdryer. Free WiFi is also offered throughout the property.
Wander through La Rioja, a traditional wine region surrounded by rolling hills, endless vineyards and fragrant fields. You will soon reach Logroño, a modern, lively city with strong links to the history of the Camino de Santiago. Here, pilgrim culture and joie de vivre converge, which is particularly noticeable in the charming old town, with its tapas bars and historic squares. With a population of around 120,000, Logroño offers an exciting contrast to the rural tranquillity of previous days. It's the perfect place to finish the first stage of your pilgrimage in style.
Ascent: 350m (1,148ft) / Descent: 418m (1,371ft)

The hotel was recently renovated and it is really close to the city centre. Its magnificent location means that that in a matter minutes you can reach the historical centre of the city, where its famous bars and restaurants are located, as well as the shopping area, and the main roads in and out of the city.

The hotel's location offers all the amenities you need: the train station, the bus station, the old town, the best shopping in the city and, of course, the famous Calle Laurel, which is just 700 metres away. The spacious rooms and the tranquillity of the park in front of the hotel will guarantee you a refreshing rest.

The four-star Husa Bracos hotel, is located in the heart of Logroño's old town, next to the city's shopping area and Logroño's most symbolic spot - its famous Calle Laurel, a must-visit street for savouring the region's tapas and wines.
Today, enjoy a private transfer from your starting point to Sarria, with a scenic stop in the historic city of León en route. You can then stretch your legs, enjoy lunch and explore León’s Gothic cathedral and stunning architecture before continuing your journey. The total journey time is around five hours, allowing plenty of time to relax and take in the sights. You will arrive in Sarria, the most popular starting point of the Camino Francés. From here, you’ll be just over 100 km from Santiago – the minimum distance required to earn your Compostela.

Hotel Roma is located in a peaceful location, just next to the railway station and close to the Camino Frances. The accommodation has 18 rooms, all of them with telephone, heating, private bathroom and TV. Furthermore, the hotel has a guests´ living room, parking area, terrace, bar and a restaurant which offers best of Galician gastronomy.

NH Alfonso IX Hotel is located in the heart of Camino de Santiago within the urban part of the town, in incomparable natural beauty, surrounded by gardens and bordering the river, it is very close to the monumental zone and the Roman route. You can also enjoy the famous street of the Anticuarios, (Antique dealers).

Located in Sarria, the Hotel Mar de Plata is much more than just a place to rest; it is the living testimony of a family history that has been cultivating Galician tradition since the 1970s.
As you leave Sarria, you will pass the ruins of a 15th-century castle and embark on the final 100 km of the Way of St. James. Your route will take you along shaded paths through the lush green valley of the River Miño. The famous stone marker will remind you how close you are to Santiago. Via Mercadoiro, you will finally reach Portomarín, a picturesque village boasting a charming market square. Finish the day in a relaxed atmosphere in one of the cosy cafés and celebrate reaching the final stage.
Ascent: 350m (1,148ft) / Descent: 447m (1,467ft)

Located right on the Camino de Santiago, the property is on the outskirts of Portomarin with impressive views of the hotel's natural surroundings. The Miño River is just a few meters from the hotel.

Opened in 2018, this accommodation with Spa is situated before reaching the portical buildings and 2-minute walk to the church and next to the communal gardens. Every room is equipped with air-conditioning, Wifi, TV and private bathroom with shower and free toiletries. It also has a cafeteria where the breakfast buffet is served. There are also outdoors common areas.

Located in a beautiful spot, this rural house offers a relaxing spot to stay. The house runs entirely on renewable energy. They cultivate a small vegetable garden that supplies their own restaurant. They have vines and a small wild fruit orchard which are used to make wine and homemade liqueurs.
The Way of St. James first takes you across the River Minho and up to the small village of Castromaior, home to the charming Romanesque Church of Santa Maria. You then continue along rural paths lined with vibrant broom and through pine and oak forests. After reaching the stage's highest point at 750 metres on the Sierra de Ligonde, the route descends to the tranquil village of Ligonde. Finally, via Eirexe, you arrive in Palas de Rei, where the impressive Church of San Tirso awaits.
Ascent: 493m (1,618ft) / Descent: 273m (896ft)

Located at the foot of the Camino de Santiago, the Hotel Mica offers its guests a comfortable and pleasant stay. The family-run accommodation ensures that you can enjoy your free time, just a step away from the city's best gastronomy, leisure and culture.

Casa Benilde is a local and welcoming hotel in Palas de Rei. Often spoken of as the friendliest accommodation on the route, you will be sure of a delightful stay here.

Pension As Hortas is located in the heart of Palas de Rei, only a stone's throw away from a variety of cafes, restaurants and shops, as well as some useful amenities you may need on your trip. It is also located nearby the San Tirso church, which is worth visiting while staying here.
Today, pleasant paths lead to Arzua, a 'cheese town' known for its culinary specialities. The route features gentle ascents and descents from one small village to the next, with only one steeper climb shortly before the end. The landscape changes, with oak and hazelnut trees giving way to eucalyptus and pine. The banks of the River Ribadiso offer a wonderful opportunity for a relaxing break. The route then continues uphill to the lively town of Arzua.
Ascent: 521m (1,710ft) / Descent: 687m (2,254ft)

All rooms are decorated differently to offer customers the greatest sense of comfort. All rooms are equipped with plasma TV, heating, wooden floors, toiletries, towels, hairdryer and WIFI.

The Casa Teodora Guesthouse has twenty-eight fully equipped and recently remodeled rooms with careful decoration. Its privileged location on the Camino de Santiago and in the heart of the town allows guests to have the main services and attractions of Arzua. Its family character, warm atmosphere, and welcoming treatment have made Casa Teodora recommended by specialized travel guides from different countries and especially by regular clients for many years.

Its privileged location on the Camino de Santiago and in the heart of the city of Arzúa allows guests to reach the main services and attractions of the city and its surroundings in a very short time.
Starting in the charming old town of Arzúa, the route takes you past mighty oak trees as the landscape gradually transforms into lush green meadows and pastures. Highlights include the medieval altar in Santa Irene, which is dedicated to a Portuguese martyr, and the Baroque fountain with its healing waters. En route, you will pass through several villages whose names are synonymous with the Way of St. James: Brea, Calzada, A Calle and, finally, Rua. Take in the peaceful atmosphere and varied natural surroundings of this stage as you gradually approach your destination.
Ascent: 249m (817ft) / Descent: 362m (1,188ft)

Located only 10 minutes away from the historic city of Santiago de Compostela, Pension Residencial Platas is a comfortable spot on your journey on the Camino de Santiago. Pension Platas is next door to two cafes, and Pub Che Copas nearby offers an opportunity for drinking and dancing.

The rural and rustic hotel provides 15 comfortable, well-tended and handsome decorated rooms each with its own indoor furnishing and special ambience. The Hotel offers its pilgrims a pleasant nights stay before the final section of their walk to Santiago de Compostela.

The rural pension has a modern touch that bumps with the natural surrounding in which it is situated. Each room has a different theme and a name which is linked to the Camino de Santiago or to the Galician culture. After your hike you can relax in the Garden of the pension or even enjoy the swimmingpool.
The final section of the Camino de Santiago is an especially emotional highlight of your journey. You will pass through San Paio and Lavacolla, where pilgrims traditionally washed themselves before reaching Santiago. From Monte del Gozo, you will enjoy your first impressive view of the cathedral and the rooftops of the city. Arriving in Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an unforgettable, atmospheric experience steeped in history. We recommend staying an extra night to explore the city at your leisure or attend the Pilgrims' Mass. You could also take a trip to Finisterre – please feel free to contact us for more information!
Ascent: 301m (988ft) / Descent: 315m (1,034ft)

The hotel is located in the heart of the city, just 800 meters from the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

In the heart of Santiago de Compostela, this hotel combines modernity with tradition, offering a cozy and comfortable stay. located next to La Alameda Gardens, hotel rooms are equipped with every comfort, the hotel also offers a 24-hour coffee shop.

The hotel is located in the centre of Santiago, between the train station and the old town. It is a modern accommodation with comfortable rooms.
Today, your journey on the Way of St James comes to an end, leaving you with many memories. Taxis and the airport bus to Santiago de Compostela Airport are available for your onward journey. If you would like to extend your stay and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this special city for a little longer, we will be happy to organise an additional night's accommodation for you. Take this opportunity to explore Santiago at your own pace or simply reflect on your experiences. Please feel free to contact us at any time if you need advice.
This trip has a carbon score of 15kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 15kg is equivalent to 4.5 cheeseburgers. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information on how we've carbon counted our trips.
Other Information
Is it for me?This itinerary is perfect for those who want to experience the highlights of one of the world’s greatest pilgrimages, but don’t have the time to do the full trail. With our first-hand knowledge and experience, we carefully designed this itinerary to ensure you make the most of two weeks on the trail whilst still qualifying for your Compostela certificate. Graded as moderate, expect the first few days to be the most strenuous as you walk over The Pyrenees. The trail then gradually climbs and falls over rolling hills before flattening out as you near Santiago. Overnight in a mix of rural hotels and hostels all private en-suite rooms.
Pilgrimages | For those looking to follow a path of self-discovery. Our Pilgrimage and Camino routes take you on a journey through diverse landscapes and local flavours, while meeting like-minded adventurers along the way.
Inn to Inn Walking | Walk from place-to-place changing accommodations each night. Generally staying in B&Bs, inns, and guesthouses.
Solo Travellers, Families with Teens
The minimum age for this tour is: 12 Years
This walk is graded moderate overall and includes daily walks of 15-28 km per day. The first section of the walk from St-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Akerreta would be graded more as moderate-strenuous as it involves some steep ascents through the Pyrenees. You can expect to walk for between five and eight hours each day. On the Camino you will follow a mixture of farm/dirt tracks, minor roads and footpaths.
Although the route mostly leads along wide, relatively easy-to-walk paths, the unpaved sections and the daily distances of between 9 and 30 kilometres require a good basic level of fitness and a certain amount of hiking experience. The first section from St Jean-Pied-de-Port with steep ascents and descents in the Pyrenees is the most difficult. The entire 40-day Way of St James naturally requires a great deal of stamina. But the longer you are on the road, the fitter you will become. Pamplona, Logroño, Burgos and León are fascinating cities that you must visit and the smaller towns are also very charming and often offer wonderful regional delicacies.
Our Camino Tours include small rural hotels and hostals (a word used to describe small Spanish hotels and guesthouses) close to the route of the Camino. You will always have a private room and en-suite (attached) bathroom. When staying in Leon, Pamplona, Sarria and Santiago, you will stay in 3* hotels, the other nights will be in a mixture of rural hotels and hostels.
Single Rooms
Single rooms are available, although a supplement is payable. The price for a single room is available on the included tab of this tour and in the booking engine.
Meals
A light continental breakfast is included each morning, which can sometimes just be coffee, bread and orange juice. Lunch and dinner are not included so you are free to choose from the available options. Every place you stop will have evening meals available, you can get a pilgrims menu for about 15 Euros which includes 3 courses, wine and water!
Extra Nights
We can add extra nights if you wish, allowing you to have rest days in between the longer walking days.
The Camino is very easy to follow. The route is marked with yellow painted arrows and a yellow shell on a blue background. The detailed travel pack we supply includes a detailed information pack for planning and preparing for your Camino, detailed instructions of how to find your overnight accommodation and everything you need for your Camino.
In addition to the printed route notes, you will receive in your travel pack, you will also have access to our Macs Adventure App, allowing you to follow the route on richly detailed mapping on your smartphone.
Recommended Reading
Although not essential, if you would like more information on the route please see our recommendation below:
- A Guidebook to the Camino de Santiago by John Brierly
- 14 Nights accommodation in small rural hotels and hostels
- 14 Breakfasts
- Baggage Transfers.
- Private transfer from Logrono to Sarria with a stop in Leon
- Pilgrim Passport and shell
- All your trip documents provided digitally through your online Macs “My Account”
- Access to maps, GPX tracks and daily route information with the Macs Adventure smartphone navigation app
- 24/7 emergency telephone support
- Travel to St-Jean-Pied-de-Port and from Santiago
- Lunches, dinners, snacks or drinks
- Travel Insurance
- Personal Equipment
- Taxi transfers or public transport should you need to skip a stage
- Additional nights’ accommodation
You can start the Best of the Camino on any day of your choosing between March and Mid-November.
The best time to walk the Camino depends on your personal preference!
Spring (April to June) is a fantastic choice. Expect pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds than summer. Be prepared for the potential of spring showers.
Summer (July and August) brings sweltering heat to much of Spain, but the northern regions remain refreshingly mild thanks to their coastal climates. If you're a social butterfly, this is your season! The trails are buzzing with fellow pilgrims, creating an unbeatable atmosphere for meeting people, local festivals, and sharing stories.
Autumn (September to early November) is another excellent time to go. You'll enjoy milder temperatures, stunning autumn colors, and quieter trails as the summer crowds dwindle. But, much like spring, there's still a chance of rain—because nature loves keeping us on our toes!
The best place to fly into to get to St Jean is Biarritz Airport. You can get here easily from London and Manchester Airports with Ryanair or if you are travelling internationally it is often a good idea to fly into Paris and either take the train down to Bayonne with SNCF, or to take an internal flight with Air France or Easyjet to get to Biarritz. From Biarritz, you simply take the bus from outside the airport to Bayonne rail station (20 mins) and then from there take the mountain railway up to St Jean (1.5 hours) which you can book in advance with SNCF.
We can also arrange private transfers from Biarittz Airport to St Jean if you want a hassle-free start to your journey!
Ryanair fly direct to London Stansted Airport in the UK from Santiago and Easyjet fly direct to London Gatwick. For destinations outside the UK, you can fly to Paris with Vueling or via Madrid with Ryanair.
From Santiago Airport to city centre and vice-versa
From Santiago you can arrange a private transfer through Macs Adventure, to ensure a smooth end to your Camino. Alternatively, a bus runs between the airport and Plaza de Galicia in Santiago, stopping at different points in the city (Pazo de Congresos, Capilla San Lázaro, the bus station, the railway station, Rúa da Rosa, and others). From the airport the bus departs from 00:00 to 23:30, every half hour (duration 20 mins). Please see the Santiago Airport website for current timetables.
From Santiago to Madrid by train
If you would prefer to travel by rail, you can take a train (fast trains are available, 6h30 duration approx.) from Santiago to Madrid with RENFE.
By Bus within Spain
There are good bus connections from Santiago to other cities within Spain – see http://www.alsa.es for bus schedules.
At Macs Adventure, we work in partnership with many luggage transfer providers who set a limit on how many bags/suitcases they will transfer per person, and also the weight of the bag/suitcase. Your booking includes transfer of 1 bag per person. It is very important that you read the luggage information specific to your tour before departure. If you do not adhere to these limits, there is a great possibility that you will be charged locally both for extra bags or if they are too heavy. This limitation can be a challenge, especially as airlines generally have limits that are higher. However, our luggage providers have reasons for these limits (usually due to the Health and Safety of their employees), which we must respect.
Baggage transfers are included (max 20kg per person). Your main bag will be transferred each day between your overnight accommodation so that you only need to walk with a day pack.
Extra Nights
There is so much to do and discover on the Way of St. James that many of our customers plan extra nights, either as rest days or to get to know the region even better.
Online Documents
At Macs Adventure we care about the environment! We’re taking action to minimize the impact we have by converting the majority of our tour documentation for online delivery.
On this tour, all your detailed tour information will be digitally delivered. You will have access to this documentation via “My Account” on our website.
Pilgrim Passport
Your Pilgrim Passport (Credencial del Peregrino) and scallop shell will be waiting at your first accommodation. The Passport isn’t just practical—it’s a beautiful record of your Camino journey, officially issued by the Church of St. James. Along the route, you'll collect stamps (sellos) from albergues, churches, cafes, and more. Each stamp is a colorful reminder of your journey. To earn your Compostela Certificate in Santiago, you must walk at least the final 100 km, with your stamps serving as proof of this accomplishment.
Local taxes
Local taxes may apply in some places. Where ever possible, we will pay there taxes in advance for you. It is not always possible to pay the taxes in advance and you will have to pay it directly at your accomodation.
Extra charge
On some days there may be some extra charges on the tour price due to public holiday.
The distances and ascent/descents are approximations of the recommended routes.
Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, lightweight clothes, waterproofs and a day pack.
We suggest you book as far in advance as possible as the Camino is extremely popular. Numbers can rise by up to 100,000 people. We will always try and accommodate late booking requests.
The average daily distance of our Camino tours are between 20 and 25 kilometres and you can expect to walk for between five and eight hours each day. You should do as much walking as possible prior to your walk as this will simply add to your enjoyment.
Yes, some people prefer to walk carrying their own bags as a true pilgrim would have. Please select the option for removing baggage transfers if you wish to do this.
Spring (April to June) is a fantastic choice with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds for a relaxing experience. The northern regions remain refreshingly mild in July and August thanks to their coastal climates, especially in comparison to central and southern Spain. The trails are buzzing with fellow pilgrims during the summer months. Autumn (September to early November) is another excellent time to go, with stunning autumn colors, and quieter trails. During the spring and autumn, it's more likely to experience a shower here or there. There's really no bad time to travel on the Camino.
Public transport and taxis are available if you are need of support contact us and we will be more that happy to help.
Yes, many of our guests travel solo. Although the nature of the Camino means that they soon join up with other pilgrims. There is a single room supplement payable for solo walkers.
No, we do not offer group trips as independent self-guided trips are a much better way to experience the Camino.
You can start on any day of your choosing, subject to availability.
Yes, although we find our standard itineraries are perfect for most walkers, we can add additional nights at many points of the Camino. Please speak to our team for recommendations of extra nights!
A mixture of farm/dirt tracks, minor roads and footpaths. The route is well marked and easy to follow.
Good news! Your Pilgrim Passport (“Credencial del Peregrino”) and shell will be waiting for you at your first accommodation on Day 1. Think of the Pilgrim Passport as a record of your incredible journey along the Camino, issued by the Church of St. James. The Scallop Shell (or "Concha de Vieira") is an iconic symbol of the Camino and is like a badge of honor. You'll see fellow pilgrims proudly displaying theirs on backpacks or hanging them from walking sticks as a sign of their trek to Santiago.
But here’s where it gets fun—you’ll collect stamps (called "sellos") on your Passport at albergues, churches, cafes, and other stops along the route. To receive your Compostela Certificate at the end of your pilgrimage in Santiago, you need to walk at least the final 100km of the Camino. For other sections of the trail, the Passport serves as a stunning keepsake featuring all the colorful stamps you collect along the way.
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CaminoKindness, community and camaraderie on the CaminoRead More1 Min Read27 February 2024
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Camino & PilgrimagesCamino de Santiago Shell Meaning & SymbolismRead More2 Min Read31 January 2025
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Camino & PilgrimagesCamino Portuguese Coastal vs Camino Portuguese Central RouteRead More3 Min Read09 April 2025
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The Ultimate Guide to the Camino de Santiago
Discover the ancient pilgrimage routes that lead to the shrine of the Apostle Saint James in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Each route offers unique charm, challenges, and unforgettable experiences. Decide for yourself which journey is right for you.
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Walking the Camino de Santiago
The Camino de Santiago in Spain is the heart of the modern pilgrimage world, and every year, thousands take to its various paths to trek to Santiago de Compostela. A deep spiritual sense accompanies this walk, whether you are looking for it or not. People undertake pilgrimages for a multitude of reasons and it is meeting these fellow pilgrims, hearing their stories and sharing your adventure with them that makes a Camino tour a life-changing event.
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Everything you need to know about the Camino de Santiago.
In this video, Rachel and Ewan talk through the main points of walking the Camino. While there are more detailed videos on most of the points covered, this is a great place to start to give you a general overview of what walking the Camino Frances is going to be like.
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What to pack for the Camino de Santiago
One of the most important things people think about when walking the Camino is what to pack. There are some essentials, but most people are trying to lighten their load and carry their backpacks with them as they go. This is amazing, but with Macs Adventure, we transfer your luggage for you (which is not cheating!!) so you can pack whatever you like.
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How to travel to the Camino de Santiago
How do you get to Sarria? How do you get back from Leon? There are so many start and endpoints on this massive spiritual journey, that we thought it would be helpful to make a video that told you exactly how to get to and from the various points along the route. No longer need you wonder about getting from Biarritz to St Jean Pied de Port, it is all laid out here for you.
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How many days to walk the Camino?
With a walk that stretches all the way across the north of Spain, you might imagine that there is a lot of different itineraries on this route. In this video we break down how many days it takes to walk the Camino de Santiago and all the different ways you can break it up.