Following in the footsteps of the pilgrims: Compostela from Ferrol

This second stage , shorter but punctuated by numerous changes in elevation , offers a beautiful immersion in the rural landscapes bordering the Betanzos estuary . The path winds between forests, meadows and hamlets , punctuated by architectural gems such as the Romanesque church of San Pantaleón das Viñas , dating from the 12th century , or the pazo de Montecelo , adorned with the coat of arms of the Andrade family .

As you approach Betanzos , the church of San Martiño de Tiobre , the remains of an ancient Swabian temple, marks the entrance to a place steeped in history. Nearby, the Casas de Tiobre , also known as O Betanzos Vello , bear witness to the medieval origins of the town , before its strategic relocation to the riverbank in the 13th century.

The stage ends in Betanzos , the former capital of the Kingdom of Galicia , renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval center , one of the most remarkable in the region.

This third stage , although shorter , is the most demanding of the English Way , due to its steep inclines and isolation . Crossing mainly rural areas , it offers few services: it is therefore essential to pack your backpack carefully. Between Betanzos and the hamlet of Kos , you will walk more than 7 km without any resupply points .

A welcome break can be taken in Presedo , one of the few villages along the route, before reaching the hospital in Bruma , the stage's endpoint. This now-vanished site was, in the Middle Ages, the only refuge for pilgrims on this stretch of the route. It was established to protect a region once infested with brigands , at the initiative of the Church of Compostela and local nobles . According to tradition, even King Charles I spent the night there in 1520 during his journey to Santiago de Compostela.

Despite the difficulty, this stage immerses you in an authentic journey , steeped in history and bucolic tranquility .

This fourth stage of the English Way is significantly more accessible than the previous one. It alternates between tarmac and dirt paths , with moderate slopes , and crosses the Ordes region , largely following the old Camino Real .

As you travel along the route, you will discover the church of San Paio de Buscás , a rural Romanesque building housing a striking representation of its patron saint, nicknamed the "decapitated saint" , one of the most striking images of the route.

Shortly before Sigüeiro , a fork appears at A Baxoia : either you follow the official route, close to the road, or you opt for a more peaceful variant , crossing a forest .

The arrival in Sigüeiro marks the end of the stage, with the crossing of the medieval bridge over the Tambre River , a witness to centuries past and adapted over time. This section combines heritage, nature, and ease , offering a welcome break before the final stretch to Santiago de Compostela.

This final stage of the English Way blends peaceful nature with lively urban life . The first few kilometers take you through beautiful rural and wooded areas , ideal for a final contemplative walk before reaching the city. As you approach Santiago de Compostela , the landscape changes: approximately 5 km of industrial and urban zone mark your entry through the neighborhoods of San Caetano and Basquiños .

Then comes the thrill of entering the old town , culminating in the majestic and historically significant cathedral . Specialized guides are available to explore this iconic monument, but don't miss the San Martiño Pinario monastery , the second largest in the country, the Hostal dos Reis Católicos , a Renaissance gem , or one of the oldest universities in Europe , its lively market , and many other treasures.

Congratulations : you have arrived in Santiago de Compostela . The emotion of the journey completed, the richness of the heritage and the unique atmosphere of the city mark the end of an unforgettable trip.

This final stage of the English Way blends peaceful nature with lively urban life . The first few kilometers take you through beautiful rural and wooded areas , ideal for a final contemplative walk before reaching the city. As you approach Santiago de Compostela , the landscape changes: approximately 5 km of industrial and urban zone mark your entry through the neighborhoods of San Caetano and Basquiños .

Then comes the thrill of entering the old town , culminating in the majestic and historically significant cathedral . Specialized guides are available to explore this iconic monument, but don't miss the San Martiño Pinario monastery , the second largest in the country, the Hostal dos Reis Católicos , a Renaissance gem , or one of the oldest universities in Europe , its lively market , and many other treasures.

Congratulations : you have arrived in Santiago de Compostela . The emotion of the journey completed, the richness of the heritage and the unique atmosphere of the city mark the end of an unforgettable trip.