Camino - Leon to Santiago

Depart from Leon and journey through the town to Virgen del Camino, where legend tells of a miraculous appearance by the Virgin Mary. Continue your trek across the Paramo, a vast desert-like landscape, before reaching the quaint village of Villadangos del Paramo. Here, explore the Parish Church, which houses an 18th-century image of the Apostle Santiago. Conclude your day in the peaceful village of Villar de Mazarife, where you will spend the night at a local guesthouse (or similar).

Embark on a scenic walk from Villar de Mazarife to Puente de Orbigo, where you'll cross a stunning stone bridge, one of the most iconic structures along the route. As you continue, the landscape transforms with mountains emerging on the horizon. Pass by the Santo Toribio stone cross near San Justo de la Vega before arriving in the charming city of Astorga, nestled in a distant valley. Spend the night in Astorga at a cozy hotel (or similar), where you can relax and recharge.

Set out early from Astorga for a steady climb to Rabanal Del Camino, a picturesque mountain village. Traverse through the village of Murias de Rechivaldo and continue through Santa Catalina de Somoza and El Ganso. As you ascend 'Los Montes de Leon,' the landscape shifts to dense oak forests, heather, and conifers. Arrive in Rabanal Del Camino, where you'll stay overnight in a charming mountain inn (or similar), surrounded by nature's tranquility.

Embark on one of the most beautiful and challenging days of your journey. Traverse through woodlands of chestnuts, conifers, and oaks, and pass through the narrow valley of the River Valcarce. Tackle the ascent to O Cebreiro, a village perched between the ranges of Los Ancares and La Sierra do Courel. Spend the night in O Cebreiro at a rustic guesthouse (or similar), where the breathtaking views will leave you in awe.

Begin your day with an ascent through the pine-covered slopes of Monte Poso e Areas. Follow the trail through forested areas to Padornelo, where you can refill your water bottles at the fountain. Continue through the village of Fonfria and pass through a birch forest to Biduedo, before descending to Triacastela. Conclude your day in Samos, home to one of Spain's oldest monasteries. Spend the night in Samos at a welcoming hotel (or similar), where you can explore the impressive monastery.

Enjoy a shorter day today, allowing ample time to visit the Samos Monastery. In the afternoon, continue towards Sarria, a town perched on a hilltop with rivers on either side. Explore the Convento de la Magdalena and the local church before settling in for the night at a comfortable hotel (or similar) in Sarria. Take in the stunning views of the region and prepare for the next leg of your journey.

Venture over the 'Meseta lucense,' the Lugo Plateau, passing through numerous hamlets nestled among cultivated lands, grazing pastures, and woodlands. Witness the first 'horreos,' traditional raised grain silos, along the way. Enjoy a relatively easy walk until your descent, crossing the Dam of Portomarin, where you can glimpse the ruins of the ancient flooded village. Arrive in Portomarin for your overnight stay at a local hotel (or similar).

Journey through the fragrant brooms and charming hamlets along the path. Refill your water bottles at Ventas de Naron and traverse the gentle Sierra de Ligonde. Descend through Previsa, Lameiros, and Ligonde, where you'll find a church dedicated to the Apostle St. James. Spend the night in Ligonde at a cozy guesthouse (or similar), where you can reflect on the day's journey.

Experience easier terrain today as you walk through the villages of Carballal, San Xuilan do Camino, and Lebereiro, passing by Eucalyptus trees. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the many villages along the way. Cross the River Seco on the Magdalena Bridge and continue to Furelos, before reaching Arzúa in the province of La Coruña. Spend the night in Arzúa at a welcoming hotel (or similar).

Embark on your final day of walking, passing through ancient sites, monuments, chapels, and bridges, each with its own story to tell. Follow country lanes and forest paths through increasingly populated countryside. The descent into Santiago de Compostela marks the end of your journey, where you can explore the vibrant city or simply relax and celebrate your accomplishment. Spend the night in Santiago de Compostela at a comfortable hotel (or similar).