Hiking to Compostela: the last 100 km from Sarria

This first stage of the Camino de Santiago from Sarria immerses you in the heart of rural Galicia , between small traditional villages , shaded paths , and verdant landscapes . You will walk along the typical corredoiras , paths lined with oak trees and local species , imbued with tranquility and conviviality . The route is very popular: an opportunity to meet many pilgrims from all over the world, and perhaps to forge some wonderful human connections .

As you approach Portomarín , you'll cross the Miño River , the longest in Galicia. This unique place is home to a town rebuilt in the 1960s after the old one was submerged by a reservoir. Iconic buildings, such as the fortified church of San Nicolás , were moved stone by stone, creating a striking blend of authenticity and modernity .

This new stage takes you from Portomarín to Palas de Rei , continuing your journey on the Camino de Santiago . After a climb towards Castro Maior , an ancient Celtic village , and then towards the Ligonde mountain range , the route descends gently through the hamlets of Eirexe and Ligonde , where rural traditions and soothing landscapes accompany every step.

Upon arrival, don't miss a visit to Pambre Castle , one of the few medieval buildings to have withstood the Irmandiño revolts in the 15th century. This monument, a witness to Galician history, offers an immersion into a fortified and turbulent past , in the heart of a preserved natural environment .

This fourth day marks the longest stage since Sarria, with nearly 29 km on the agenda. Many pilgrims choose to split it in two , taking a break in Melide , a charming town halfway along the route. Throughout the day, you will walk along beautiful country lanes and cross several medieval bridges , including the one leading to Melide.

It's impossible to stop here without trying the famous polbo á feira , an iconic Galician octopus dish and a must-try of the local cuisine. The path then continues through a typical agricultural landscape to the Iso River , before reaching Arzúa for a well-deserved end to the day's walk. If time and energy allow, a detour to the Sobrado dos Monxes Monastery is well worth it. Finally, don't leave Arzúa without savoring its Arzúa-Ulloa cheese , a flagship product of Galician culinary heritage .

This penultimate stage of the Camino de Santiago from Sarria immerses you once again in the Galician countryside , between lush forests and peaceful villages . Along the way, don't miss the hermitage of Santa Irene , a little gem nestled in the heart of nature, perfect for a spiritual or contemplative break.

The arrival point is O Pedrouzo , a town that has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by the passage of thousands of pilgrims. There you will find a warm atmosphere , numerous services, and genuine hospitality , ideal for enjoying a final night of rest before arriving in Santiago de Compostela.

Your final day on the Camino de Santiago begins with your goal in sight: the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela . Less than 20 km separate you from this long-awaited moment. After leaving O Pedrouzo , you climb through O Amenal before descending towards A Lavacolla , the iconic village that gives its name to Santiago's airport .

A final climb leads to Monte do Gozo , a place steeped in emotion where pilgrims catch their first glimpse of the cathedral towers . From this symbolic point, only four kilometers separate you from the historic center. You enter through the working-class neighborhoods of San Lázaro , Fontiñas , and San Pedro , until you reach the Porta do Camiño , the traditional gateway for pilgrims.

Your journey ends in the "zona vella" , the vibrant heart of Santiago de Compostela , where you can collect your Compostela and fully enjoy this sacred city , filled with emotion, pride and wonder.