Guide to Walking Camino Ingles

Guide to Walking the Camino Inglés

The Camino Inglés (the "English Way") is one of the shortest official Camino de Santiago routes - but don't let its length fool you. Rich in history, coastal scenery and Galician charm, this compact pilgrimage packs a powerful punch.

Traditionally used by pilgrims arriving by sea from Britain, Ireland and Scandinavia, the Camino Inglés begins in Ferrol (for the full 116km route) or A Coruña (a shorter option). From there, it winds south through rural Galicia to the magnificent cathedral city of Santiago de Compostela.

Ideal for those short on time or seeking a quieter alternative to the Camino Francés, the Camino Inglés offers an authentic Camino experience in around a week.

street name sign-Camino De Santiago Inglés, English Saint James' Way

Best Time to Walk the Camino Inglés

The best time to walk the Camino Inglés is April to June and September to October. These shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds and vibrant landscapes.

Spring (March–June): Wildflowers line the paths, the countryside feels fresh and green, and temperatures are ideal for steady walking.
Fall (September–October): Cooler air and golden tones make for comfortable hiking conditions.

July and August are popular but can be warmer and busier. While winter walking is possible, Macs Adventure doesn't offer trips during this season due to accommodations and businesses closing for the season and adverse weather.

Optimal Weather for Hiking

Galicia has a maritime climate, meaning mild temperatures year-round but a higher chance of rain than some other Camino routes.

Spring and the fall: approx. 54–72°F (12–22°C)
Summer: approx. 64–82°F (18–28°C)

Difficulty and Terrain

The Camino Inglés is considered moderate.

Daily distances: typically 15–25km
Terrain: rolling countryside, woodland paths, small villages and occasional road sections
Elevation: steady ascents and descents, particularly in the first few days from Ferrol

While shorter than other routes, the regular ups and downs mean a reasonable level of fitness is helpful. It's achievable for most walkers who are comfortable walking several consecutive days with gentle climbs. For more guidance on how fit you need to be, read our Camino FAQs.

Pilgrims walking along a quiet rural road at sunrise on the English Way of St. James, Galicia, Spain, surrounded by fields and soft morning light

Accommodations on the Camino Inglés

Accommodations along the Camino Inglés range from traditional pilgrim hostels to charming rural guesthouses and small hotels.

Albergues (pilgrim hostels): Simple, communal and budget-friendly
Pensiones and guesthouses: Comfortable rooms, often family-run
Small hotels and rural casas: Private rooms with added comfort and character

While the route is quieter than some other Caminos, accommodations can still fill up in peak season. Booking in advance provides peace of mind - especially if you prefer private rooms and en-suite facilities.

On a self-guided trip with Macs Adventure, we hand-pick welcoming, well-located accommodation with en suite rooms, so you can enjoy authentic charm alongside comfort after each day's walk.

How to Get to the Camino Inglés

Most walkers start in Ferrol, easily reached via A Coruña or Santiago de Compostela. Santiago Airport (SCQ) has good connections across Spain and Europe, while A Coruña Airport (LCG) offers additional options. From there, trains and buses connect to Ferrol.

At the end of your walk, Santiago is extremely well connected by air, rail and bus.

For a detailed breakdown of flights, train routes and transfer options, check out our Camino Travel Guide, which explains exactly how to get to the start and return from the end of the Camino Inglés.

What to Pack

Packing smartly can make all the difference on the Camino Inglés. Given Galicia's changeable weather, layers and waterproofs are essential.

Your core packing list should include:

Lightweight walking boots or trail shoes
Breathable clothing layers
Waterproof jacket
Small daypack
Refillable water bottle
Basic first aid kit

For a complete breakdown - including seasonal advice and route-specific recommendations - read our guide on What to Pack for a Camino Walking Vacation.

Things to Do Along the Camino Inglés

Although shorter in distance, the Camino Inglés offers plenty to see and experience:

Historic naval town of Ferrol
Explore the historic centre of Betanzos, once the capital of Galicia
Visit local churches and small rural chapels
Sample traditional markets and cafés in Galician towns
The emotional arrival in to Santiago de Compostela
Spend time soaking up the atmosphere in Santiago's Old Town after completing your pilgrimage
Peaceful Galician forests and farmland
Stone villages and Romanesque churches

The Camino Inglés feels intimate and authentic, offering quiet trails and warm local hospitality. Many walkers choose to add an extra night in Santiago to attend the Pilgrim's Mass and fully enjoy the city.

Ferrol

What to Eat and Drink

Galicia is known for its outstanding cuisine, particularly seafood. Along the Camino Inglés, look out for:

Pulpo a la Gallega - Galician-style octopus with paprika and olive oil
Empanada Gallega - savory pastry filled with tuna or meat
Tarta de Santiago - almond cake dusted with the Camino cross
Fresh local bread and cheeses

To drink, try:

Albariño wine - crisp and refreshing
Ribeiro wine - another regional favorite
Local craft beers
A celebratory glass of orujo (Galician spirit) at the end

Meals are hearty, simple and perfect after a day's walking. Read more about Camino food culture in our FAQs.

birds eye view of plates of food

Helpful Phrases to Learn

You don't need fluent Spanish to walk the Camino Inglés, but a few key phrases go a long way - especially in smaller Galician towns.

Buen Camino - The traditional Camino greeting
Hola / Buenos días - Hello / Good morning
Gracias - Thank you
¿Dónde está…? - Where is…?
Una cerveza, por favor - A beer, please

In Galicia, you may also hear Galician spoken alongside Spanish. A simple "Grazas" (thank you in Galician) is always appreciated.

To learn more useful expressions - including region-specific phrases and practical tips - read our full guide to Essential Phrases for the Camino de Santiago.

Reasons to Book the Camino Inglés with Macs Adventure

The Camino Inglés may be one of the shorter Camino routes, but it delivers a complete pilgrimage experience - history, scenery, culture and the unforgettable arrival into Santiago. For walkers looking for a manageable timeframe, quieter trails and authentic Galician character, the Camino Inglés is an excellent choice.

At Macs Adventure, we specialize in self-guided Camino walking vacations designed to give you independence with expert support. When you book with us, you'll benefit from: