Walk the Camino de Santiago

Welcome to Spain! Your adventure begins in Sarria in the Galicia region of northwest Spain. This autonomous corner of the country has its own language, cuisine and culture, distinct from the rest of Spain, but is perhaps most famous for being the home of Santiago de Compostela, the finishing point of the Camino de Santiago. Over the next week you will be walking the final 100km of this iconic and world-renowned pilgrimage. A meeting will take place at 6pm this evening where you’ll meet up with your local leader and small group of fellow travellers joining you on your journey. After your meeting collect your 'Pilgrim's Passport' then perhaps head out to a local restaurant for your first foray into the exciting world of Galician cuisine.

Today is a gentle introduction to the Camino de Santiago – it’s all about finding your feet, so be sure to take your time and pause to enjoy your scenic surroundings. Have your pilgrim passport handy as you will be getting this stamped at least twice a day throughout your journey. Kicking off from Sarria, walk a mostly asphalt path through beautiful countryside, passing forests of chestnut and oak trees, small farms, villages and wheat fields. You may like to stop for a breather at the Santiago de Barbadelo or the church of San Fiz de Reimondez – your leader will be on hand to share historical facts and interesting tidbits about the highlights you pass on your journey. Some of the little farms you pass will be selling lovely fresh produce like jams, bread and cheeses – perfect snacks to keep you going! After around 4.5 hours of walking (excluding stops) finish up for the day in the delightful town of Portomarin. An excellent spot to recharge your batteries, the town features an inviting array of restaurants and lovely views of the Embalse de Belesar lake. When the town was flooded by the creation of the Belesar reservoir, they dismantled the town’s historic buildings and rebuilt them on higher ground, so they can still be admired today.

Starting from Portomarin, much of today’s route is along a gravel path alongside the road with little traffic, often cutting through gorgeous Galician forests and fields. Walk through the rural Monterroso region and pass by the little villages of Gonzar, Ligonde and Castromaior – a slight detour from the latter will take you to the impressive Roman ruins of Castro de Castromaior. There will be stalls along the way selling fruit, snacks and cold drinks, plus plenty of places to stop for a sit-down meal or a coffee. Around halfway, climb a gradual hill to Sierra de Ligonde, followed by a gentle descent. Today’s walk wraps up in Palas de Rei, an interesting town dotted with historical buildings and Romanesque architecture. This evening, prepare for a real treat as you get up close and personal with one of Galicia’s most mystical and celebrated specialties. The Queimada, or “fire drink” has its roots in Galicia’s Celtic past, and is made with the liqueur oruju, lemon, and coffee beans, which is then set alight and said to ward off evil spirits. Not only is the result delicious, watching it come together is quite the show! Your leader will make this exciting drink for the group tonight, ensuring you won’t be bothered by any evil spirits for the rest of your journey!