Many people have heard of the Way of Saint James or El Camino de Santiago, a renowned pilgrimage across Europe, particularly in Spain. It is an adventure that has captured the imagination of walkers, cyclists, and spiritual seekers alike for centuries. But what is it really about?
Since the release of The Way, a the popular film starring Martin Sheen about people hiking the Way of Saint James, interest in this pilgrimage has been resurgent. The movie gave people a glimpse of the beauty, challenges, and unique camaraderie that develops along the route. But does the reality match this portrayal? Do you meet such interesting characters on the way? Let’s dive deeper into the history of the Camino and experience of this iconic pilgrimage.
What is the Way of Saint James and Why Do People Walk this Pilgrimage?
At its core, the Way of Saint James is a network of pilgrimage routes that lead to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. Here lies the shrine of Saint James the Great, one of Jesus’s apostles. For more than 1,000 years since the early Middle Ages, pilgrims have travelled these routes to pay homage, seek spiritual renewal, or just enjoy the adventure.
There are many ways to experience the Way of Saint James. You can choose to walk, bike, or even horse ride your way to Santiago. The most popular route is the Camino Frances, but there are several other routes like the Camino Portugués and Via de la Plata, each with its own unique landscapes, challenges, and history.
Choosing Your Route on the Way of Saint James
With multiple routes to Santiago, choosing the best one for you depends on your interests, time, and fitness level. The Camino Francés is the most well-known and is filled with historical landmarks, while the Camino del Norte follows the northern coast of Spain and offers stunning ocean views.
The Way of Saint James Route Map
How Long is the Way of Saint James?
The length of the Way of Saint James varies depending on the route you take. The Camino Francés, starting in St. Jean Pied de Port in France, covers about 780 kilometers (around 500 miles). If you start from other points, like Sarria (the minimum distance to receive the official certificate), the route is much shorter.
For those looking to plan their journey, understanding how many miles is the Way of Saint James can help with preparation. You can find all this information on the Camino de Santiago routes on our specific route pages.
Where Do You Start and Where Does the Way of Saint James End?
The Way of Saint James traditionally starts in various locations across Europe, with the most popular starting point being in St. Jean Pied de Port in France. However, many other routes begin in Spain, Portugal, and even further afield.
But the Way of Saint James always ends in the same place: Santiago de Compostela, where pilgrims celebrate their journey and visit the tomb of Saint James in the stunning cathedral.
Your experience of walking the Way of Saint James can be much simpler if you use a trusted supplier like Follow the Camino. Our team can create a custom itinerary for your dream walking holiday. Have a free 5-minute chat with our experts today!