Santiago de Compostela is expecting to receive pilgrim 50.000th anytime soon and in Galiwonders we couldn’t be more excited! A hopeful number that speaks for itself of the recovery of the Santiago Way after two years of a very unfavorable pandemic for the Galician tourism industry. In 2021 these numbers were not achieved until the end of July, which makes us think that a very busy summer awaits us in the ornate capital. The warmer weather and the lifting of travel restrictions set the perfect environment to embark on the Camino, the only thing missing is you! If you are still wondering which Way to choose, here are our favorite options and everything you need to know about them.
The French Way
Whether you are an adventurer ready to embark on the complete French Way or you decide to do the last 100km, this particular route is the ideal option to meet our pilgrim community. Much busier than the Portuguese way, this route will allow you to connect with your companions on the Camino and discover the different cultures and nationalities that travel it.
The Camino Francés offers much to discover, but here are our 10 favorite points of interest that you can visit along this route.
The Portuguese Way
The Portuguese route is the second favorite amongst our pilgrims, and we can understand why. It is a quiet route, which crosses forests, small villages and medieval bridges that cross narrow streams, giving a feeling of peace to everyone who walks it. You can choose between starting in Porto, crossing the lush Portuguese north, or doing the last 100km from Tui, where you can visit the historic Cathedral of Santa Maria.
In addition, you can decide if you want to do the Coast variant, which will allow you to see the spectacular views of the Ría de Vigo and enjoy its quiet beaches when you need a break.
Discover everything you can do while traveling this Jacobean route here.
A Orixe Way
An option not so well known , however it has been gaining followers in the last year and one of the last routes to be included in our catalogue is the A Orixe Way. Starting at the stunning Corrubedo lighthouse, this pace follows the coast of the Ría de Arousa, the largest Galician estuary, dotted with small islands that shape a unique landscape. Through its 120 km of route, you will enter the region of Galicia known as Barbanza, discovering the secrets of the coastal towns of Ribeira, Boiro, A Pobra do Caramiñal, Rianxo… Until you reach Pontecesures, a point where the route joins the Portuguese Way, continuing until you reach Santiago de Compostela.
Find out more about the itinerary of A Orixe here.
Finisterre Way
A very intriguing alternative, since it is the only route that has as its origin in… Santiago de Compostela! Yes, you have read correctly. We are aware of its oddity but this route has its own charm. Starting in the Galician capital, this route will take you to Finisterre -or to Muxía if you feel strong- and you will have the opportunity to learn the stories that surround this mystical and particular region.
And it is that Santiago does not have to be the end of the adventure, it can even be the beginning of a new path towards the sea if we continue along the Camino de Finisterre, a point of great importance in Galician tradition and history.
Learn more about this region and its Camino here.
Primitive Way
And we could not finish this article without mentioning the oldest route known to date, hence its name. With landscapes of great beauty, full of green nature throughout the year, it is the favorite for the most experienced pilgrims. Traveling through the regions of Asturias and Galicia, the history of the Primitive Way is as rich as the paths you can walk. Its origin dates back to the 9th century, when King Alfonso II of Asturias began his pilgrimage. Once the word that the grave of the Apostle had just been discovered, he decided to leave Oviedo to visit the tomb.
Whether you decide to do the complete route, or the last 100km and begin your journey in Lugo, do not miss the opportunity to get to know in depth the historical remains of Oviedo, Lugo and Santiago de Compostela, as well as their incredible gastronomy.
Discover everything that this immortal route can offer you in this article.
As we usually say… There are as many ways leading to Santiago as pilgrims walk their routes! Discover the best Way for you in our website!