The Camino de Santiago is world-renowned, a Spanish tourist gem that leaves cherished experiences and memories for those who undertake it. The French Route is the most famous , with stages divided into sections. However, we will analyze which routes are authentic and how to complete them, given that they all ultimately lead to Santiago de Compostela.
It's important to remember that you don't have to complete the entire route , nor do you have to do it on foot, as there are various ways to do it. Each pilgrim must choose their own route, budget, purpose, and goal. All of these factors influence their experience and their ability to complete the journey.
How to do the Camino de Santiago?
To complete this route on foot, optimal physical fitness is essential, as the type of walking involved should not be underestimated. Many hikers choose to undertake it without any preparation, either physical or in terms of clothing. A sustained hike of many kilometers means carrying a heavy backpack, risking unexpected injuries, and especially damaging your feet if you don't wear appropriate footwear. Other alternatives for completing the route include cycling or driving.
- Footwear is essential, It is preferable to use good trekking boots that can last for miles, are generally comfortable and that you have used for a long time. If you are going to use them for the first time, you risk that there is a margin of adaptability and that they become annoying in the long run. Flip-flops are also important, to use in community showers and to rest your feet.
- The backpack must be comfortable to carry, with ample storage and practical pockets. That it adapts in size to the body and that its straps fit well to the arms.
- Try to wear the right clothes, with quick drying and light fabrics. It is also important to wear waterproof clothing to protect yourself from the rain, especially in the rainy seasons.
- A sleeping bag It is also important to ensure greater protection in low temperatures and if you are going to sleep in shelter beds.
- a wooden stick with a shell hanging at its end. It is a tradition to carry it, but these days it is much better to use a trekking pole, which is lighter.
- And above all, sun protection, a hat and glasses to protect your eyes. A small first aid kit is also important to treat possible injuries.
Routes on the Camino de Santiago
These routes converge between Spain, France, and Portugal. The most well-known is the Northern Way, a network of paths that culminate in Santiago de Compostela, in the area where the Apostle James is buried. These paths were laid out by his Christian followers, whose first recorded pilgrimage dates back to 825, undertaken by Alfonso II, starting from Oviedo and ending at the tomb. From this point, new routes began to open, influenced by the ideological and religious changes brought about by the French Revolution in the 20th century. At the end of that century, large-scale tourism began to flourish, attracting pilgrims from all over the world, and the term "Jacobean Routes" came to refer to everything related to the Apostle James.
Camino Francés
A grand route steeped in history, spanning 768 kilometers and 33 stages. It offers stunning landscapes and a wealth of monumental, social, cultural, and religious heritage. The route winds through vast fields of grain, Rioja vineyards, spectacular mountains, and verdant valleys in the Bierzo region. It also features monuments, castles, bridges, and towns along the Camino de Santiago.
Start from Saint Jean Pied de Port or Roncesvalles. If you start in Saint Jean Pied de Port, you can enjoy the border between France and Spain, crossing the Pyrenees and passing 24 kilometers from Roncesvalles (Orreaga).
The following routes that you can choose are: from Logroño, Burgos, León, O Cebreiro or Sarria, to Santiago de Compostela.
Camino del Norte
It starts in the Basque city of Irún and crosses the regions of the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia. It's a spectacular route, visiting beaches, cliffs, and iconic cities with the finest cuisine.
The route covers 820 kilometers, divided into 34 stages, with 36 days of pilgrimage. Other starting points along the route include Bilbao, Santander, Ribadesella, Ribadeo, and Vilalba.
Way of the Lighthouses
The Lighthouse Trail is a true poem, composed of unspoiled green nature, coastlines with soft sands, and the constant caress of the sea breeze. It's a 200-kilometer route divided into 8 stages, connecting the towns of Malpica de Bergantiños and Finisterre, from north to south , in the province of A Coruña.
Finisterre and Muxía road
Another fantastic route to enjoy the green heart of Galicia. It starts in Finisterre and ends in Santiago, covering 120 km in 5 stages. The route passes through villages like Ponte Maceira, listed as the Most Beautiful Village in Spain. You can also enjoy rural hamlets, traditional granaries (hórreos), manor houses (pazos), and lush forests shrouded in misty rain. Another highlight is the Costa da Morte (Coast of Death) , with its idyllic beaches, lighthouses, cliffs, and breathtaking sunsets.
Camino Portugués
It is the second most popular route, crossing Portugal from south to north. It begins in Lisbon and covers 600 km in 27 stages, taking about a month to complete. Along the way, you'll experience Portuguese culture in Santarém, Coimbra, Porto, Barcelos, Ponte de Lima, and Valença do Minho, before crossing the international bridge over the Minho River and reaching Galicia via the city of Tui.
Other routes also known
Winter Road
It is another route that starts from Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela . It is 120 km long and covers 5 stages.
Father Sarmiento Route
From Pontevedra to Santiago de Compostela , with 6 stages and 142 kilometers.
Camino Sanabrés
From La Granja de Moreruela to Santiago de Compostela. It's 265 km with 13 stages.
Camino Primitivo
It starts in Oviedo and ends in Santiago . It covers 268 km and has 11 stages.
Portuguese Way: spiritual variant
From Pontevedra to Padrón. This route commemorates the journey of the remains of the Apostle James after his death. It covers 81 km and is divided into 3 stages.
The Camino de Santiago can be challenging, but it always rewards enthusiasm, passion, and motivation. It's essential to approach each route with an open mind, remaining realistic about every situation and enjoying all the positive aspects that each one offers.
