We will travel together by train or bus to Leon, Spain for lunch, and then to Ponferrada. Explore this amazing Medieval Castle town and buy any last minute provisions for our journey. 

This morning we make our way out of Ponferrada, and delve into the countryside. We will walk approximately 24kms (14.6 miles) to Villafranca del Bierzo.

Today's morning intentions will prepare us for an epic walking day, culminating in an evening in a pastoral valley, nestled in the mountains. We will walk approximately 21.9kms (13.6 miles).

After a simple breakfast, we will begin our long climb up to one of the most ridiculously cute villages in the world. You will definitely agree that O'Cebreiro earns that title when we stop for caldo gallego (a hearty Galician soup that is famous in this village). We will continue on to our evening's accommodations, another evening in a remote village. Walking 22.3kms (13.85 miles).

As we get closer to the 100km mark of the Camino (the starting point for the majority of pilgrims) we will savor the peace and solitude of the countryside. Tonight will be an opportunity to explore a small city with plenty of restaurants and hiking/equipment stores, should we need anything. Walking 24.1 kms (15 miles).

We will be joined by new pilgrims as we pass through Sarria. Great opportunities to meet new people, and see new things. Today is the day that we will need to consciously ensure that we get two stamps a day in our pilgrim passports. Walking 21.2 kms (13.17 miles).

We will walk 21.4 kms (13.3 miles)

Melide is an excellent market town - very robust with lots of stores and market stalls. In addition, it is the octopus (pulpo) capital! If you love octopus, or want to try it, here is the place for you. There are lots of other culinary options if pulpo is not for you. Walking 20.6kms (12.8 miles).

As we get nearer to our destination, Santiago de Compostela, we will walk through beautiful villages, stop at lovely cafes, and enjoy the local foods. Walking 22.1 kms (13.75 miles).

Walking 22.3 kms (13.85 miles)

This morning we will begin with intentions on Mont Gozo, a small hill that affords pilgrims their very first view of the Cathedral de Santiago. Imagine that you have hiked 500 miles across northern Spain with nothing but a gourd for water, and a bowl for begging alms, and you see your destination for the first time. This will be a very emotional day with a short hike down into the medieval walled city. Walking 106. kms (6.6 miles).
We will go to the Pilgrim's Office in Santiago to get our certificates of completion (our Compostelas); explore this amazing city, laugh, cry, pray, attend pilgrim's mass and soak our feet.

We will leave our backpacks in our rooms, put on fresh clothes, and spend the day enjoying this magnificent city. We will attend Pilgrim's Mass in the morning; see the city and surrounding countryside from the rooftop of the cathedral; shop until you drop for souvenirs; visit the cloistered nunnery for outstanding sweets and treats.

This is where we say goodbye to everyone. There is a great airport in Santiago that flies directly to Madrid, along with other major European cities. In addition, trains and busses run regularly to all parts of Spain. Just ask, and we will help you arrange transportation to where ever you are heading on to.