Camino de Santiago
Burgos’ Gothic catedral
Ponferrada Templar castle
Ayegui wine fountain
Top Camino de Santiago Experiences
Arriving in Santiago de Compostela at the end of your trek and feeling the tremendous feeling of accomplishment among hundreds of other pilgrims
Meeting lifelong friends along the way
Passing through the remote towns and villages of Northern Spain along the historic route
Learning the many historical nuances about the trail
Enjoying a cocktail where Hemingway’s characters did at The Cafe Iruña in Pamplona
Taking in views of the majestic Pyrenees Mountains
Enjoying the fabulous cuisine in Pamplona
Photographing one of the Camino’s favorite sights, the octagonal Eunate church
Touring medieval churches and admiring the tremendous architecture
Winetasting at small local wineries serving up some famous Northern Spain varietals
Crossing the Pyrenees Mountains into Spain
Wine tasting in the Najera vineyards, a region of Rioja wine country
Visiting the lively Saturday market in Sahagun and its signature red-brick churches
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Things to do in Camino de Santiago - Expert’s guide
1. Burgos Cathedral
For a truly spectacular example of Gothic architecture, visit the Burgos Cathedral in the city of the same name. Dedicated to the worship of the Virgin Mary, its official name is Catedral Santa María. Visitors can gawk at the elaborate carvings on the exterior and the stained glass windows in over twelve chapels in the interior.
2. Palacio Episcopal
This palace-meets-castle is the creation of none other than Antoni Gaudí. The project was started by Gaudí in the late 1800’s and finished by Ricardo García Guereta in 1915 when Gaudí resigned. The building is now home to the Museum of Ways, dedicated to the Santiago de Compostela.
3. Santiago de Compostela
Named for its patron saint, St. James, this city is the culmination point of the pilgrimage, Camino de Santiago. Pilgrims finishing their journeys converge on Santiago de Compostela, visiting the cathedral where the saint’s remains are allegedly kept. This city offers visitors green spaces, restaurants, and an Old Town that is a UNESCO heritage sight.
4. Alto de Perdón
The climb to the top of this mount can be taxing, and the descent requires caution, but the panoramic view of the surrounding countryside is well worth the effort if you are able. Loosely translated as the Mount of Forgiveness, Alto de Perdón offers views clear to the Pyrenees. The iconic metal sculpture of pilgrims walking and on horseback can be seen here.
5. León
This city along the Camino de Santiago promises travelers architectural variety, including gothic cathedrals and modern glass structures. Visit the old town, where most of the city’s bars, pubs, and restaurants are located. Ordering tapas is a must here.
6. O Cebreiro
O Cebreiro is a tiny mountain village along the French Way of the Camino de Santiago. This Galician town is home to traditional stone and thatched-roof dwellings, called ‘pallozas,’ which date back to pre-Roman times. Today, there are nine ‘pallozas’ preserved and one serves as a museum.
7. Melide
Two of the paths of the Camino Santiago, the French Way and Camino Primitivo, meet in this small village. Many tours stop here as Melide is well-equipped to accommodate travelers on the Camino. If possible, look for Camino de Santiago tours that travel through Melide on a Sunday. Their Sunday market is beautiful.
8. Molinaseca
Blink and you might miss this tiny village along the French Way. With little over 800 inhabitants, Molinaseca is a surprise oasis for pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago. After climbing and descending the Bierzo mountains, walking tours cross the medieval bridge to arrive in Molinaseca. Rest your weary feet by the river before checking out the stone churches.
9. Cruz de Ferro
The Cruz de Ferro, or Iron Cross, is the highest point along the French Way of the Camino de Santiago. A tall pole topped with an iron cross marks this high point, where pilgrims traditionally leave a stone they have carried with them on the camino, and that symbolizes something they would like to let go. Many visitors name this as a highlight of the trip.
10. Monte de Gozo
Monte de Gozo, or Hill of Joy, is the point along the Camino where travelers get their first glimpse of their final destination. The spires on the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela are visible from this point, and reachable by another one hour walk or 20 minute bus ride. Traditionally, pilgrims will shout with joy as they get the cathedral comes into view, so don’t be alarmed by some celebratory cries.
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