Camino Primitivo

Welcome to Oviedo, the medieval capital of Asturias and a vibrant university city. Take a stroll through the old town to discover the historic monuments, churches and squares that bear witness to this royal city's rich heritage. There are numerous cafés and bars where you can stop for a snack or a glass of cider along the way. In the evening, we recommend an early dinner to prepare you for the upcoming days of hiking. Your Camino Primitivo thus begins with a touch of history and lively city flair.

Starting at the El Salvador Cathedral in Oviedo, you can leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the Camino Primitivo. First, the route takes you over gentle hills, then you cross the Nalón River and begin the ascent to Mount Escamplero. As you walk, you can find your own pace and enjoy the silence of nature. After descending, you will reach Grado, a small town known for its weekly market. You will then be picked up and transferred to your accommodation in Sama de Grado or Sestiello.

Ascent: 370m (1,214ft) / Descent: 557m (1,827ft)

In the morning, a short transfer will take you back to Grado, where the climb into the Cantabrian Mountains begins. On the way, you will pass the monastery of San Salvador, whose Romanesque and Baroque elements still bear witness to its former importance – this place has also been a World Heritage Site on the Way of St. James since 2015. The landscape alternates between green hills, small hamlets, and quiet paths. The trail finally descends into the medieval town of Salas. There, the collegiate church and mausoleum invite you to explore before you end the day.

Ascent: 659m (2,162ft) / Descent: 472m (1,549ft)

This stage offers a more challenging route, with an elevation gain of around 800 metres. The trail takes you from La Espina to Tineo, where you will notice a significant change in the architecture of the villages – the traditional roof tiles are increasingly being replaced by dark slate tiles. As you walk, you will experience the long tradition of the Way of St. James, which has shaped this region for centuries. La Espina is said to have once been home to the oldest pilgrim hostel, whose origins date back to 883. Finally, you will reach Tineo, a historic town with deep ties to the Camino.

Ascent: 689m (2,261ft) / Descent: 261m (856ft)

Today's hike will take you to Borres, where you can enjoy fantastic views of Tineo. You can also opt to take a short detour to the monastery of Santa María la Real de Obona, which King Alfonso II designated as an obligatory stop on the pilgrimage route. As you walk, you can enjoy the green landscape and small villages that characterise the route. Once you arrive in Borres, you can enjoy the tranquillity of this place. Afterwards, a transfer will take you back to Tineo in comfort.

Ascent: 349m (1,145ft) / Descent: 375m (1,230ft)

Today's stage follows the impressive Hospitales Route, a notable highlight of the Camino Primitivo, leading you through the mountains to Berducedo. As you hike steadily uphill, spectacular views await you along the way, and you will mostly be accompanied by horses and cows. You will also pass Monfreda, a historic Roman gold mining town, en route. The varied landscape and tranquillity of the mountains make this a particularly memorable day. At the end of the stage, you will be comfortably transferred to Pola de Allande.

Ascent: 896m (2,940ft) / Descent: 628m (2,060ft)

In the morning, a transfer will take you back to Berducedo, where your hike begins. You will enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the Grandas de Salime reservoir on quiet paths through old forests. The route steadily climbs, offering varied views of the surrounding landscape along the way. Finally, you will reach the small town of Grandas de Salime, where you can admire the impressive dam. Take in the blend of nature, water and historical significance that characterises this section of the Camino Primitivo.

Ascent: 746m (2,448ft) / Descent: 1068m (3,504ft)

After a short, steep climb, the route continues steadily uphill through Galicia's lush green landscape. It is worth taking a break at Chao Samartín to visit the Castro Museum, which showcases valuable finds from a Bronze Age village dating back to Roman times. As you walk, you can enjoy the peaceful, varied countryside with its rolling hills and sweeping views. The trail finally leads to A Fonsagrada, a historic place of special spiritual significance. Here, the 'fons sacrata' is associated with a miracle of St James, providing an impressive conclusion to the stage.

Ascent: 819m (2,687ft) / Descent: 411m (1,348ft)

The Camino winds its way through the Galician mountains and dense forests to Montouto, a village that appears to have been carved directly from the rock face. In Paradavella, you can marvel at the many traditional palozas. This varied route offers sweeping views and tranquil trails. After a steady descent, you will finally reach O Cádavo (Baleira). The stage ends here in peaceful surroundings, inviting you to relax.

Ascent: 691m (2,267ft) / Descent: 936m (3,071ft)

On your way to Lugo, you will first have to climb a short hill, after which a gentle descent will take you into the city. Lugo is renowned for its intact Roman city walls, which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. Take a stroll through the old town to discover historical monuments such as the Roman baths and the Bishop's Palace. The quiet streets are perfect for lingering and marvelling. In the evening, you can recharge your batteries by enjoying one of the region's traditional specialities as you relax and watch the day draw to a close.

Ascent: 428m (1,404ft) / Descent: 695m (2,280ft)

For this stage, you will follow quiet, rural roads through the peaceful Galician countryside to A Ponte Ferreira. En route, you will pass Santalla de Bóveda, home to an early Christian church adorned with late medieval murals that are well worth a visit. The route offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the peaceful surroundings at your own pace. Small villages and fields line the route, offering an authentic insight into rural Galicia. Finally, you will reach A Ponte Ferreira, where the stage will end in a peaceful setting.

Ascent: 498m (1,634ft) / Descent: 427m (1,401ft)

First, you will walk through the peaceful surroundings of the eucalyptus plantations before the Camino Primitivo joins the busier Camino Francés en route to Melide. As you walk, you can once again enjoy the solitude and silence of the Primitivo. As the landscape opens up, you will encounter more and more pilgrims. In Melide, historic sights such as the Church of Sancti Spiritus, which contains stately 15th-century tombs, await you. A 14th-century Gothic stone cross also testifies to the long history of this pilgrimage site.

Ascent: 293m (961ft) / Descent: 359m (1,178ft)

After leaving Melide, you will walk through small villages and along quiet paths towards Arzúa, also known as the 'cheese town' of Galicia. The route mostly follows dirt and stone paths, characterised by gentle ascents and descents. The steeper climb from Ribadiso to Arzúa requires a little more effort. As you walk, you will notice a change in the vegetation: oak and chestnut forests give way to eucalyptus and pine trees. Before the final climb, treat yourself to a relaxing break on the idyllic riverbank in Ribadiso.

Ascent: 283m (929ft) / Descent: 359m (1,178ft)

Starting in the charming old town of Arzúa, the route takes you past mighty oak trees as the landscape gradually transforms into lush green meadows and pastures. Highlights include the medieval altar in Santa Irene, which is dedicated to a Portuguese martyr, and the Baroque fountain with its healing waters. En route, you will pass through several villages whose names are synonymous with the Way of St. James: Brea, Calzada, A Calle and, finally, Rua. Take in the peaceful atmosphere and varied natural surroundings of this stage as you gradually approach your destination.

Ascent: 249m (817ft) / Descent: 362m (1,188ft)

The final section of the Camino de Santiago is an especially emotional highlight of your journey. You will pass through San Paio and Lavacolla, where pilgrims traditionally washed themselves before reaching Santiago. From Monte del Gozo, you will enjoy your first impressive view of the cathedral and the rooftops of the city. Arriving in Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an unforgettable, atmospheric experience steeped in history. We recommend staying an extra night to explore the city at your leisure or attend the Pilgrims' Mass. You could also take a trip to Finisterre – please feel free to contact us for more information!

Ascent: 301m (988ft) / Descent: 315m (1,034ft)

Today, your journey on the Way of St James comes to an end, leaving you with many memories. Taxis and the airport bus to Santiago de Compostela Airport are available for your onward journey. If you would like to extend your stay and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this special city for a little longer, we will be happy to organise an additional night's accommodation for you. Take this opportunity to explore Santiago at your own pace or simply reflect on your experiences. Please feel free to contact us at any time if you need advice.