Camino Stage 4 & 5 - Leon to Santiago
- Walking the final 300km of the French Way to Santiago
- See the historic town of León - with its cathedral with medieval stained-glass windows
- Walking over the highest point of the Camino Frances – Cruz de Ferro (4935ft)
- Collecting your Compostela from the pilgrim's office in Santiago
- Enjoying the community and camaraderie of other pilgrims walking beside you on this historical route
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in León & overnightWelcome to León, one of the most historic cities on the Camino Francés, and the perfect place to start your walking tour. Take a stroll through the lively old town, home to cosy tapas bars, and admire the impressive cathedral and its colourful stained glass windows. The Basilica of San Isidoro, home to the 'Sistine Chapel of Romanesque art', is also well worth a visit. León has a unique pilgrim atmosphere and is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Today's overnight stay will prepare you for the upcoming hike on the Way of St. James.

The Silken Luis de León perfectly combines its privileged central location with the comfort of its rooms and facilities, in an environment full of details, ideal for enjoying the city of León to the full. The Silken Luis de León has its own restaurant specialising in traditional León cuisine. The hotel is located opposite the El Corte Ingles shopping centre.

This hotel has 17 rooms, all of whice The are equipped with underfloor heating and air conditioning, desk, flat screen TV with atellite channels, internet connection and free WiFi, safe and minibar, among many other services. A breakfast buffet is served daily.

Located right in the historic center of León, the hotel is housed in two charming old Leonese buildings. They have been completely restored and offer attractive rooms, furnished in the original style of the house, but equipped with all modern facilities: TV, free WIFI, hairdryer, safe and direct dial telephone. The restaurant serves delicious traditional cuisine in a rustic and warm atmosphere.
After one last look at León's rooftops, you leave the city behind and immerse yourself once again in the quiet expanse of the Meseta. The route takes you through flat, open countryside, passing fields, wind turbines and small farmsteads. The solitude and tranquillity of this stage encourage reflection and mindful walking. You will only occasionally encounter another pilgrim or a farmer at work. Your destination is the peaceful village of Villar de Mazarife.
Ascent: 127m (417ft) / Descent: 64m (210ft)

It is located next to the church in a reformer manor house from 70 years ago, It has a Bar and offers pilgrim menu. It also has a terrace for the pilgrim´s rest.
As you travel through the vast plains of León, you will arrive in the historic town of Astorga, an important junction on the Way of St James. It is here that the Camino Francés and the Via de la Plata converge, lending the town its distinctive pilgrim atmosphere. Astorga delights visitors with its Roman heritage, Baroque squares, and vibrant culture. A particular highlight is the Bishop's Palace, designed by Antoni Gaudí and resembling a fairytale castle. It now houses the Museo de los Caminos.
Ascent: 136m (446ft) / Descent: 140m (459ft)

A boutique hotel in the town of Astorga, in the heart of the province of León, where the passion for art, architecture and design can be felt in every room of this modernised Art Nouveau villa from the early years of the 20th century. Present and past come together in this modernist city palace to create a stylish and comfortable retreat. The hotel also has a spa and relaxation area.

The hotel is located in the centre of Astorga, opposite Gaudí's Episcopal Palace. The accommodation is built in a neoclassical style.

The hotel Exe Astur Plaza is a modern hotel with all the modern amenities, it has a great location and the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing evening.
After Astorga, the climb begins into the unspoilt Maragatería region, which has a strong cultural heritage. The vast landscapes and small villages seem frozen in time, with old customs, traditional costumes and songs still being practised. The path winds its way through barren hills and stone walls, and the view becomes increasingly expansive. Your destination for today is Rabanal del Camino, a charming mountain village with a medieval atmosphere.
Ascent: 316m (1,037ft) / Descent: 29m (95ft)

Siblings Cristina, Antonio and Pilar are the second generation at El Refugio Hostería, proudly carrying on the inheritance left by their parents Antonio and Nieves with the help of their other two daughters, María José and María Cruz. The house used to be a haystack where the cattle (mainly sheep and cows) were kept, as well as the grass and leaves used to feed them. Nowadays, it is a rural inn, decorated respectfully with the environment and comfortable.

This beautiful stone house has been lovingly restored and renovated. La Posada de Gaspar has 11 rooms with bathroom, all of them inspired by a place along the St. James Way. They have satellite TV, piped music and telephone. The accommodation also has parking, a laundry service, garden - terrace, a café and a restaurant serving homemade meals.

La Posada El Tesin is a small, cosy accommodation with a family atmosphere in a quiet location directly on the Way of St James.
Today's route will take you to the highest point on the Way of St. James: the legendary Cruz de Ferro, which stands at an altitude of 1,515 metres. For centuries, pilgrims have been placing stones at the iron cross as a symbol of letting go and reflection. After this emotional experience, you will begin a long, sometimes steep descent through wild mountain landscapes and chestnut forests. Impressive views of the El Bierzo valley open up repeatedly. The day comes to a relaxed end in Molinaseca, a picturesque village with a medieval stone bridge.
Ascent: 418m (1,371ft) / Descent: 990m (3,248ft)

No-Mad Green Hotel is a 22-room boutique Eco-hotel located in Molinaseca. The design of the rooms and common areas is based on noble materials such as wood, glass, slate, and iron, complemented with rattan, wicker, and other ecological and sustainable products.

This accommodation is one of the oldest houses in Molinaseca. It has recently been renovated and has a total of six double rooms on two floors, all equipped with bathroom, TV, and heating. The accommodation also offers a dining room with a fireplace.

The Hotel Casa Ramón Molina Real, which opened its doors in 2016, offers comfortable and modern facilities. The traditional charm of stone and wood, typical of Molinaseca, has been preserved in the house.
Today's stage first takes you to Ponferrada, where the impressive 11th -century Templar castle dominates the skyline. From there, the route winds through vineyards and chestnut groves, passing small villages, before reaching the charming town of Villafranca del Bierzo. Villafranca del Bierzo is known as 'Little Santiago' because pilgrims could end their journey here if they were too unwell to continue. Finish the day with a regional stew and a glass of full-bodied red wine from the Bierzo Valley.
Ascent: 313m (1,027ft) / Descent: 401m (1,316ft)

Each room is a unique and exclusive space that combines the charm of the old restored building with a modern interior full of cosy details that will make your stay very comfortable.

This unique guest house offers 7 individually designed rooms; an ideal place for every pilgrim to relax after a long day of hiking.

This family-run property has been around for more than 70 years and offers comfortable rooms. The hotel is centrally located in town, directly on the Valcarce river.
Hike through one of the region's greenest valleys, surrounded by chestnut groves, quaint villages, and the gently flowing Valcarce River. Depending on your mood, you can choose from several routes, all of which are described in detail on your app. The main route winds leisurely through shady forests and along country lanes, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the scenery and take a deep breath. If you're looking for a more athletic challenge, you can opt for the alternative route, which features steep ascents and descents and offers spectacular views. The stage concludes in the peaceful and authentic village of Herrerías de Valcarce, providing the perfect start to the upcoming ascent to Galicia.
Ascent: 200m (656ft) / Descent: 42m (138ft)

This wonderful old butter factory is now a resting place for pilgrims. Family run and very cozy and offers great food after a days walking.

Casa Do Ferreiro is located directly on the Way of St. James and has 8 rooms which offer a relaxing place to stay after a long hike. The rooms offer a wardrobe and a flat-screen TV, and certain rooms come with a patio.

The hotel is located in the center of a medieval town, Las Herrerías de Valcarce, in the province of Léon. In addition to comfortable rooms, the accommodation also has its own restaurant with traditional cuisine.
On the way up to O'Cebreiro, a short but powerful climb awaits you. The stony and sometimes steep path requires stamina, but the magnificent views at the top are well worth the effort. Once you reach the summit, the mountain village seems like something from another time: mystical, windswept and full of stories. The traditional pallozas, round stone houses with thatched roofs that once served as dwellings for the Celts, are particularly striking. O'Cebreiro is also renowned for its unique cuisine – be sure to sample the famous hat-shaped cheese (‘queso en forma de gorro’), which is made from fresh milk.
Ascent: 666m (2,185ft) / Descent: 0m (0ft)

The hotel is located in a building that was renovated in 2002. It has 5 rooms with en suite bathrooms. The accommodation also has a café and restaurant services as well as a craft and souvenir shop.

This rural stone house is located next to the Camino. It offers 10 comfortable rooms and there is a restaurant with panoramic views and a menu with all traditional Galician ingredients.

This traditional stone house property offers simple yet comfortable rooms. The accommodation faces the 9th century church of Santa Maria la Real.
Welcome to the green heart of Galicia, where rolling hills, dense forests and unspoilt villages characterise the landscape. En route to Triacastela, you will experience a peaceful, natural and idyllic rural setting. Small hamlets along the way offer the perfect opportunity to take a break and sample local specialities such as cheese, honey and fresh bread. The landscape here is particularly varied, sometimes open and expansive, and at other times shady and mysterious. Triacastela itself is a charming village with a long tradition of pilgrimage.
Ascent: 269m (883ft) / Descent: 899m (2,950ft)

Triacastela is a town of three castles, none of which remain. It is an attractive stop and the guest house offers comfortable rooms.

Located in the small town of Triacastela, Pension Complexo Xacobeo with comfortable rooms and its own restaurant. Surrounded by a beautiful landscape between the mountains, this accommodation offers a good rest.

The hotel resembles a 20th-century building that has been renovated respecting the original materials. Located in the main square next to the Romanesque church of Triacastela, the accommodation offers rest and relaxation through its comfort.
There are two charming hiking routes to Sarria today. Choose the southern route via the historic monastery of Samos, or the northern route through the peaceful Galician countryside. The northern route features oak and chestnut forests, new forest paths, and a steep climb to Alto do Riocabo, which offers magnificent views. The southern route runs alongside the LU-633, combining impressive history with natural beauty. Both routes are described in detail in your travel documents and offer unique experiences. Upon reaching your destination, you will arrive in the lively town of Sarria, an important pilgrimage site on the Camino Francés.
Northern Route via San Xil: 18km/11mil, Ascent: 278m (912ft) / Descent: 495m (1,624ft)
Southern Route via Samos: 25km/15mil, Ascent: 258m (847ft) / Descent: 453m (1,486ft)

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.

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).

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.
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 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.

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 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.
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)

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.

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.
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)

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.

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.

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.
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)

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 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.

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 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)

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 Lux Santiago Hotel is located in the centre of the Galician capital. It has an exceptional location that allows you to explore the city in depth. The hotel is just 800 metres from the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.

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 10kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 10kg is equivalent to 18 lattes. 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 includes 14 days of continuous walking, averaging 20 km per day with a few days of distances of 28-30 km. The first section is hilly with a climb to the highest point on the Camino at just over 1500m. After this high point, the terrain evens out to allow for longer distances of walking each day. You will qualify for your ‘Compostela’ certificate on arrival in Santiago de Compostela and expect to feel a huge sense of accomplishment upon completing this itinerary!
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 itinerary is graded moderate and includes 14 days of walking 9-30 km per day. Expect to cover an average of 20 km per day, with a few 28-30 km days. You’ll be walking for 5-8 hours daily, and you will follow a mixture of dirt tracks, minor roads, and established 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
- Accommodation in small rural hotels and hostels, twin/double rooms with en-suite W/C
- Daily Breakfast
- Baggage Transfers
- Any transfer(s) listed in the standard itinerary (if applicable)
- Pilgrim Passport and shell
- Access to maps, GPX tracks and daily route information with the Macs Adventure smartphone navigation app
- All your trip documents provided digitally through your online Macs “My Account”
- 24/7 Emergency support
- Return travel to Leon/Santiago.
- Lunches, dinners (optional), 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 your Camino on any day of your choosing, between March and November subject to availability.
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!
By Air: Oviedo is the closest airport and is serviced by EasyJet from London. There are 8 buses a day from Oviedo to Leon which takes 1hr30. Timetables and fares at Alsa. Madrid airport is the best airport if travelling from outside Europe. Connect by train from Madrid. We can also arrange a private transfer from Oviedo Airport to Leon for a hassle-free start to your trip!
By Train: León is 2h45 by train from Madrid. Timetables and tickets at Renfe.
By Bus: León is 4h00 by bus from Madrid. Timetables and fares at Alsa.
You can fly directly from Santiago back to the UK with Ryanair who fly direct to Stansted and Easyjet who fly direct to Gatwick. Another good point to connect through to travel internationally is Paris. You can fly from Santiago to Paris with Vueling or from Madrid with Ryanair.
We can arrange private transfers to take you from your hotel directly to Santiago Airport.
PLEASE NOTE: Santiago Airport will be closed from 23rd April to 27 May 2026 due to runway renovation works. Other nearby airports include A Coruna and Vigo, and further away you also have Porto and Madrid. During this time bus connections between Santiago and other cities will be reinforced to make onward travel connections easier. Because of this we recommend you plan your travel in plenty of time and we can help should you require any additional private transfers.
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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Camino & PilgrimagesWhat is a Pilgrimage?Read More2 Min Read25 May 2023
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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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CaminoWalking the Camino del Norte: My first CaminoRead More3 Min Read22 November 2018
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Walking9 of the Best Wilderness MoviesRead More4 Min Read11 August 2017
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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.