1. What is the Camino Primitivo and why is it considered the first pilgrimage to Santiago?
The Camino Primitivo, or Original Way, is the earliest known pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. In 814 AD, King Alfonso II walked from Oviedo to Santiago after the tomb of St. James was discovered—making this the first official pilgrimage path in northern Spain.
2. What are the route highlights?
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Embalse de Salime & River Navia: Climb to around 1,100 m for panoramic views of the reservoir, river, and dramatic Cantabrian mountain scenery.
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Walled city of Lugo: Wander around its UNESCO-listed Roman walls and enjoy traditional tapas in a city filled with cultural charm
3. How long is this Camino Primitivo, and where does it begin?
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Total distance: 328 km, typically walked in 16 days.
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Start options:
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Oviedo → Santiago (313 km / 14–16 days): Full pilgrim route through mountains and valleys.
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Lugo → Santiago (98 km / ~7 days): Perfect for completing the last 100 km to receive the Compostela certificate
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4. Where should I fly into to start the Camino Primitivo?
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For full route: Fly into Santander or Asturias (Oviedo) Airport (OVD). Ryanair connects Santander from London Stansted, Dublin, Frankfurt, Milan, and more. From there, it’s a 2–3 hr bus to Oviedo. Asturias Airport has direct flights to/from major European cities and a shuttle bus option to Oviedo centre
- For the last 100 km: Fly into Santiago de Compostela (SCQ), then take a 1 hr 45 min bus to Lugo—your pilgrimage starting point
5. What’s the weather like, and when is the best time to walk the Camino Primitivo?
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Best Months (May–June & September): Mild, comfortable temperatures (15–25°C), less crowded trails, ideal walking conditions.
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Summer (July–August): Warm (20–30°C), longer days, peak pilgrim season—booking ahead is advised.
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Winter (November–March): Cold (5–12°C), rainy, fewer services open.
For detailed weather info, see our Camino Weather Map to plan your perfect walking conditions.
6. What accommodation options are available?
You’ll find a full range of lodging types:
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Municipal & private albergues – communal hostels catering to pilgrims.
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Guesthouses & hotels – comfortable, private rooms or 4-star amenities for a relaxing stay.
We offer curated accommodation options—mixing communal charm with private comfort, want to know more, schedule a free virtual appointment with us!
7. Are transfers or luggage services available?
Yes—through Follow the Camino you can arrange seamless airport-to-start transfers (e.g., Santander to Oviedo, Santiago to Lugo) and daily luggage transport to lighten your load.
Ready to Start Planning the Camino Primitivo?
Follow in historic footsteps, experience spectacular landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and comfortable accommodations. Book this month (June 2025) to enjoy an exclusive 10% discount.
Have questions? Contact our team at info@followthecamino.com.
Buen Camino!
