This final section of the Camino del Norte Coastal from Villalba to Santiago takes you from northern Galicia through rolling countryside.
This final section of the Camino del Norte Coastal from Vilalba to Santiago takes you from northern Galicia through rolling countryside into the ultimate destination of all Camino pilgrimage routes, the Cathedral de Santiago. This final leg can be completed in 6 walking days, and gives pilgrims a new perspective on Galicia away from the busier trails on other Camino routes.
Vilalba
Vilalba is a truly old town, with evidence of a great many palaeolithic and megalithic sites, as well as a Roman presence and rich mediaeval history. Must-see places include the Church of San Roque, the Square of Santa María, and the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology (housed in what was once the municipal prison). The famous San Simón cheese, which is shaped like a spinning top and smoked, is also made here.
Monte de Gozo
Just before arriving into Santiago you will pass the Hill of Joy (Monte de Gozo). Here, take time to get a stamp at the small church but also left to visit the Pilgrim Statues pointing at the city. It is here that you will get your first glimpse of the cathedral in the distance and be able to enjoy a moment of quiet contemplation before your final descent to Santiago. Here you will also see the monument erected to commemorate the visit by Pope John Paul II to celebrate World Youth Day in August 1989.
Santiago de Compostela
The ultimate destination for the many thousands of kilometres along Camino de Santiago routes, the city of Santiago is a breath-taking sight for weary pilgrims. Arriving in the square outside the city’s cathedral is a memory never to be forgotten, and strolling through the city’s glorious Old Town afterwards and picking out a nice restaurant full of Galician speciality foods is the main way many pilgrims celebrate their milestone achievement,
VILALBA
SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
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Included in this package
Add-On
Not included: Flights/trains, Insurance, Drinks/Lunch
Itinerary
Day
km
VILALBA
Before you begin your walk, try to experience what Vilalba has to offer, including seeing the Church of Santa María and learning about regional history in the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology. For cheese lovers, you must try the famous San Simón smoked cheese!
Day
19.6 km
VILALBA BAAMONDE
As you leave Vilalba, you will pass the famous Church of Santa Maria and cross onto a dirt track. From there, you will cross highways, alternating between dirt tracks and minor roads, before getting to San Xaon de Alba and its 14th Century church. Going along more dirt tracks and minor roads, you will pass Ferreira before reaching the town of Baamonde.
Day
km
BAAMONDE MIRAZ
Today’s walk is short, and while not the most spectacular, is emblematic of typical quiet Galician countryside. At Raposeira (a well-known pilgrim stop) you can get a mid-morning coffee or snack, though this is one of the only places to get supplies before reaching Miraz. Miraz offers accommodation run by the British Confraternity of St James organisation.
Day
25.4 km
MIRAZ SOBRADO DOS MONXES
The first 4km out of Miraz offers some of the most scenic parts of the Camino del Norte. You will also climb to a steady 710m, the Northern Way’s highest point, in this time. Your stop for the night is the town of Sobrado dos Monxes and its stunning monastery of the same name.
Day
22.2 km
SOBRADO DOS MONXES ARZUA
By the end of the day, the Camino del Norte links with the Camino Frances in Arzua. To start, you will depart Sobrado dos Monxes and follow minor paved roads through small towns such as Vilarchao and Castro. From there, you will pass from gravel to paved roads and back as you make your way south west, passing Boimil and Boimorto, before a slight ascent as you make your way into Arzua. Prepare to meet many more pilgrims than you’ve seen so far!
Day
17.8 km
ARZUA RUA
This shaded section of the Camino will pass through woods, along streams, and through sleepy villages. Take your time and visit the chapel of Santa Irena, with its unique statues of Santiago. The rest of the way to Rua-O Pino is on a quiet country road. Rua (at an elevation of 310m) is one of the less crowded stopping points before Santiago de Compostela.
Day
20.6 km
RUA SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
You’re nearly there! The next stage will be Lavacolla, where pilgrims traditionally washed in the river before reaching Santiago de Compostela. Tall eucalyptus trees line your way to Monte del Gozo, or Mount of Joy. From here, you can see your goal – the Cathedral of Santiago! After a descent to the city you’ll be able to witness this UNESCO World Heritage Site up-close. Marvel at the architecture and relish the wonderful atmosphere in this cultural and spiritual mecca, and contemplate all you’ve experienced on your amazing journey.
Day
km
SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
After breakfast, we bid you farewell.
If you wish to stay in the area, we recommend that you:
– Take your time and visit the magnificent historic centre of Santiago.
– Continue with us along the wild Camino Fisterra (Finisterre Way), and stay overnight at the hotel in the lighthouse!
– Or take a bus to Fisterra to visit the unspoilt sandy coves and beaches of the west coast. With very few tourists, you are guaranteed a very special experience. Buses depart from Santiago Bus Station at 9am and 10am. Buses return to Santiago at 4:45pm and 7pm. The journey takes 3 hours.
Getting to Vilalba, Spain
It is best to fly into the airport at Santiago de Compostela to get to Vilalba.
Fly into Santiago
Getting home from Santiago, Spain
To get home from Santiago, you can travel to the airport at Santiago de Compostela.
Fly from Santiago
Start Planning your Adventure Now
Walk the Camino to experience what is set to be the biggest Camino experience of the
century so far. Embrace your freedom to explore and challenge yourself to walk the Camino.
