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Camino Primitivo Stages
Camino Primitivo Stages
The Camino Primitivo (Original Way) runs from Oviedo through the Cantabrian mountains into Galicia, finishing in Santiago de Compostela. At Follow the Camino, we divide it into 2 main stages so planning is simple—or you can walk both together for the full Oviedo to Santiago journey. If you’re unsure what suits you best, our Camino specialists can advise one-to-one.
How many stages are there on the Camino Primitivo and which stage is the hardest?
There are 2 stages:
- Stage 1: Oviedo → Lugo — Mountain panoramas across Asturias, climbs to high passes and a dramatic descent by the Salime reservoir; quieter rural paths with classic villages. This is generally the tougher section due to steep ups and downs.
- Stage 2: Lugo → Santiago — Forested Galicia, Roman-era roads and bridges, joining the French Way in Melide before the final approach to Santiago. Typically easier than Stage 1.
Can you combine or split stages of the Camino Primitivo?
Yes. Walk either stage on its own or combine both for the full route. We can also shorten or lengthen daily distances to match your pace, fitness, and time.
What’s the minimum you must walk to get the Compostela on the Primitivo?
You need to complete at least the last 100 km into Santiago and collect two stamps per day in your Pilgrim Passport. The Lugo → Santiago section meets this requirement.
Choose From Camino Primitivo Stages
Oviedo to Lugo
Step into Spain’s hidden gems, from Oviedo’s charm to Lugo’s history
€1387
This explores the first section of the Camino Primitivo, or Original Way. Here, you embark from the capital of the Asturias province, Oviedo, and cross the Cantabrian Mountain range. With some steep sections up and down you need to fit for this. But with this great effort comes spectacular views and panoramas over the mountains before descending into the Galician countryside and finishing in the town of Lugo.
Lugo to Santiago
From Lugo’s Roman fortifications to Santiago’s spiritual heart
Starting from
€785
Beginning in the walled Galician city of Lugo, this section of the Camino Primitivo meets the Camino Frances in Melide, where both routes then finishes in Santiago de Compostela. You will walk through heavily forested rural Galicia, witnessing the Roman influence on Spain’s roads and bridges. You will also experience the culture typical in the north-west of Spain, before finishing your trip in the iconic city of Santiago.
Full Camino Primitivo
Challenge yourself on the original Camino, a true pilgrimage adventure
Starting from
€1981
The Camino Primitivo, or Original Way, is a pilgrimage from Oviedo through the Cantabrian Mountains to Santiago de Compostela and the tomb of St James. Passing through famous Spanish towns and cities such as Oviedo, Lugo, and Melide the Full Camino Primitivo gives you ample opportunity to experience the best of Cantabrian and Galician culture. The walk is one of the most beautiful but also challenging as you pass through a mountain range that is 1,100m above sea level to descend to the hilly countryside of Galicia and on to the city of Santiago.
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Camino Primitivo Important Information
