Camino Ingles: Ferrol to Santiago de Compostela

Arrive in Ferrol, a coastal Spanish city where a rich maritime history blends seamlessly with a vibrant modern culture. After checking into your hotel, explore the Madalena district with its unique grid layout. Admire the Cathedral of San Julian, the Fortress of San Felipe, and the 17th century La Cortina walls. Don't miss the lively and colourful Canido neighbourhood, known for its annual street art festival 'Las Meninas de Canido'. With its mix of heritage, architecture, and creativity, Ferrol offers visitors a unique and memorable starting point.

YOUR ACCOMMODATION

To reflect the spirit of the Pilgrimage, we carefully select welcoming, simple accommodation along the route. We offer stays in hotels and guest houses. While these stays may not offer the same level of luxury as our classic Headwater holidays, they provide genuine hospitality and a warm, friendly atmosphere.

You will enjoy private rooms and private bathrooms wherever possible, ensuring a restful night after a full day of walking. On the rare occasions when this cannot be arranged, we will let you know in advance.

Most of the properties we work with are small and family-run, and availability varies depending on how early you book. Full details of your stays will be provided closer to your departure date.

Your journey begins at the scenic Curuzeiras quays near the port, tracing the shoreline of the Ferrol estuary. Along the way, you'll encounter historic sites like the Monastery of Saint Martin de Xubia before reaching the small town of Neda. Known for it's historic sites like the Church of Santa Maria, and the beautiful Fervenza do Rio Belelle waterfall, it offers an authentic, tranquil experience.

You will leave Neda and pass through the town of Fene, before reaching the River Eume. Crossing one of Europe's longest medieval bridges brings you into Pontedeume, ending your day. This charming town reflects the legacy of the 14th Century Andrade era, with landmarks such as the Torreon dos Andrade and the majestic Castelo dos Andrade.

This stage leads you through peaceful forests and timeless medieval villages before reaching the seaside town of Mino. The route then continues toward Betanzos, offering magnificent views of the estuary and its marshlands. Entering the town across a historic stone bridge, you'll find yourself in the former provincial capital and home to the Andrade family. Here, you'll be amazed by the striking Gothic buildings and medieval charm. Be sure to try to the towns famed delicacy, the tortilla de Batanzos an take time to stroll along the scenic banks of the estuary.

Prepare for the week's most demanding stretch as you depart the city across the As Cascas bridge. The route gradually turns inland, trading the coastline for forest paths and country roads. You will climb to the highest point of the Camino Ingles at As Travesas, just before Hospital de Bruma, where you'll meet pilgrims from A Coruna. This small but historic town preserves the ruins of an old medieval pilgrims' hospital. A transfer will take you to your accommodation for the night.

Starting with a brief transfer to the chapel of Hospital de Bruma to the start of your walk, the trail leads you into the picturesque Ordes region. Traditional stone crosses mark the way for you and takes you through wooded mountains and countryside, passing impressive landmarks such as the Malla de Ardemil. Be sure to visit the charming churches of San Paio de Buscas and San Xiao de Poulo along the way, each adding to the journey's character. The stage concludes in Sigueiro, the capital of Oroso, a town with medieval origins dating back to the 12th century.

Leaving Sigueiro by crossing the bridge of the Tambre River, you will enjoy a final stretch of natural beauty in the so called 'enchanted grove'. Whilst passing through the Tambre area, you can savour the sight of the Galician capital. Soon you'll be walking among the city's ancient stones, meandering down narrow lanes and past centuries old landmarks, each step building anticipation. The journey culminates at the magnificent Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, the ultimate destination for pilgrims and a powerful symbol of history, faith, and achievement.

Leave Santiago de Compostela and onward travels.

Enjoy exploring the town and consider an extra night before heading home.